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0 Perth: September 14 2000 Price: $1
Cathedral Dean clocks up 25 years
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Third Catholic Ilni planned A new Catholic university Australia's third - is being planned for the New South Wales central coast in or near Sydney. Karl Schmude, former chief librarian at University of New England in north-eastern NSW told The Record last week that James Power snr, a well-known Brisbane entrepreneur, was "deeply involved" in the project along with Mr Schmude. The university - likely to named Campion College - is planned to open its doors in 2004 at the earliest. Australia's two existing Catholic universities are the east coast's Australian Catholic University and WM own University of Notre Dame Australia at Fremantle. St Edmund Campion was a famous English Jesuit martyred under Queen Elizabeth I during Counter-Reformation England in 1581, he said. Its curriculum would, in its early years, centre on the liberal arts and include literature, language, history, philosophy and theology as well as science studies. The planners have yet to acquire a site or buildings and the university "is very much in the proposal stage," Mr Schmude said. An initial intake of 5010 100 students was likely, and the degrees will be recognised in Australia.
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Serious injury avoided as Beagle Bay bell tower collapses at night By Peter Rosengren The quiet life of the Beagle Bal, community, a former Catholic mission on the shore of Dampier peninsula in WM far north, was shattered last week when the bell tower and front entrance to its historic Church collapsed. If the damage is not repaired before the wet season, the rest of the church could be damaged by monsoonal rains. The accident occurred during the night of 7-8 September, just one day after builders contracted to try and save the front of Sacred The collapsed bell tower at Beagle Bay. The extensive damage extended to Heart Church had inspected it the sanctuary of the church, below. together with the parish priest. Fr Eugene San. a Pallottine missionary. nappist missionaries built the church - known as a tourist landmark Australia-wide - in 1917 Beagle Bay is about 150Iuns north-east of Broome. Fr San told The Record last Friday, 8 September, the whole tower had collapsed, taking away the front entrance of the Church in the process. He said the ground-level archway of the bell tower had first collapsed on 13 August and bits and pieces had been falling to the ground since then. The Beagle Bay Church is best known for the extensive motherwell. The Church has always been of-pearl interior decoration colimportant for the community's life lected from local pearl shells and at Beagle Bay, she said: her granddraws many tourists to the isolatparents were the first couple to be ed spot each year. married in the building. Fr San said that the two builders "When you're out fishing and contracted to remove the bells returning home the tower is the from the tower and to stabilise it first thing you see as you get near," had inspected the structure the she said, adding that the visibility day before the collapse while he of the Church helped give Beagle stood at its base and held the ladBay a sense of community. der for them. "It'll never be the same, we After inspection, the builders understand that, but it'll always had decided the tower was too far be in our hearts," she said. gone to save, he said. Fr San said something would The trio had been lucky not to F r San and the tower in 1997. have to be done before the wet be killed, he said, as the tower could have collapsed at any time. the new roof to the Church, which season sets in around about OctoWhile the collapse was a blow was installed in 1999 as part of an ber or November if further severe to the community of Beagle Bay-, extensive and ongoing renovation damage to the Church was to be avoided. "If the water gets in, it'll the upside was that it had avoid- process. ed a disaster, Fr San pointed out. Leonie Cox, who was born and do a lot of damage," he said, A funeral was set for 3pm on Sat- raised at Beagle Bay said the col- adding "those bricks are like urday 9 September if the tower lapse had hit the community hard. sponges and soak the water right "We're all very sad at the up - they'd be ruined." The bricks had collapsed then, people could easily have been killed, he said. moment. It was a remarkable were made from local clay, while He had only discovered the dam- monument and a remarkable lime used in the building process age when he went to the Church work that our people did and now had been extracted form burning on Friday morning to celebrate it's collapsed. Still, she noted, the local oyster shells. He said the Church received building had stood for a very long his regular 6.30am Mass. The fall also took away part of time and served its community heritage listing in May 1998.
Mr Schmude, who was chief librarian at UNE for 18 years and is a well-known lay Catholic intellectual on the east coast, said the planned institution would be completely independent. Campion would be "a private university In the Catholic tradition," he said. The current challenge was to secure a viable funding base. Campion College would be feepaying but, he said, "a significant scholarship structure will underpin access." Campion would try to address both an educational and a religious need in its life and curriculum. Nor was the planned university trying to compete with other institutions, he said, It aimed to meet a basic educational need, "the reanimation of the liberal arts tradition, based on [Cardinal] Newman's idea of the university, but updated and modified for a different era." Mr Schmude said the two English figures - Newman and Campion - had been chosen for their obvious links with tertiary education. At the age of 1Z Campion had delivered a famous oration on the occasion of Queen Elizabeth's visit with 'her court to Oxford University, where he was a promising young scholar. Among Newman's works are the famous Idea of a University, a discussion of the ideals for which a university should strive. "IguessIsee Campion and Newman as the 'Peter and Paul' of a university," Mr Schmude said.
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Pope performs exorcism on possessed woman By John Norton VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II performed an impromptu exorcism on a teenage girl who flew into a possessed rage at the end of an audience in St Peter's Square, said the chief exorcist for the Diocese of Rome. The Rome exorcist, Pauline Father Gabriele Amorth, told Catholic News Service on 11 September that the Pope spent more than half an hour praying over the girl and ordering a demon to leave her, but failed to fully cure her. The girl, identified as a 19-yearold Italian with a history of pos-
session, was in the front row at the Pope's weekly general audience on 6 September. As the Pope prepared to leave, she began screaming incomprehensibly and speaking in a "cavernous voice," Father Amorth said. As security personnel struggled to restrain her "superhuman" efforts to break free, Bishop Gianni Danzi, a top Vatican City official, alerted the Pope. In an area away from the square, the pope "hugged this poor little girl, tried to console her, and promised that the next day, Thursday morning, he would celebrate his Mass for her," Father Amorth
said. Father Amorth was not present at the papal exorcism, but said he had performed an exorcism on the girl the previous day. Father Amorth said that after the girl met with the Pope, Bishop Danzi and he performed another exorcism that lasted for two hours. During that exorcism, the priest said, the demon mocked the pope, saying, "Not even your (Church) head can send me away." "This is a case where the possession is very, very strong," said Father Amorth, founder and president of the International Association of Exorcists. "From what can be foreseen by
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MEN OF HOSPITALITY LIVING AND PROCLAIMING GOD'S HOSPITABLE LOVE. "...the suffering ofmy neighbour breaks my heart..." (St. John ofGod. 154o) As lived out by St. John of God over five centuries ago, our vocation is to give of ourselves completely and freely; to be a Brotherly presence; a symbol of hope for our world; proclaiming God's Hospitable love to all. We are called to a charism of Hospitality and love that promotes healing, advocacy and reconciliation for those most marginalised by our society.
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us exorcists, it will take years of exorcisms" for the girl to be fully cured, he said. The Pope did not perform a full ritual exorcism, but Father Amorth said that ritual elements make only "the slightest difference" to an exorcism's effectiveness. "Many, many exorcists don't do the ritual exorcism, but limit themselves to praying and to ordering the demon to go," he said. Father Amorth said the girl has been possessed since she was 12 years old and was sent to him for consultation by the exorcist of the Archdiocese of Milan, who had
Christ is the one true teacher, academics told By Benedicta Cipolla VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Appealing to university communities to cast aside relativism, Pope John Paul II linked academic study to the search for absolute truth. A large part of today's culture has fallen prey to relativism, the Pope said. He urged the world's academics to focus on creating a more genuinely humanistic culture. In a 9 September audience and 10 September Mass to mark the Jubilee for Universities, the Pope urged thousands of professors, administrators, chaplains and students to reconcile reason and faith by looking to Christ as the one true teacher. "Freedom of research has nothing to fear from this encounter with Christ," he said on 10 September in St Peter's Square to a 30.000-strong crowd dotted throughout with academic robes and caps. "Nor does this encounter compromise dialogue and respect for individuals, since Christian truth by its nature is to be proposed, never imposed," the 80-year-old Pope, speaking slowly but clearly, said with particular emphasis. But even while engaging in open discussion, university faculty and staff must never forget their commitment to the development of the human person, he said. "The humanistic character of culture sometimes seems relegated to the periphery," said the Pope, . 'while there is an increased tendency to reduce the horizon of knowledge to what can be measured and to ignore any question touching on the ultimate meaning of reality." Although not all subjects taught and studied on college campuses may "touch directly on the problem of the ultimate meaning of life," he said, "this problem abides as the larger context of every thought." The previous day, the Pope met with about
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never dealt with such a severe case. Bishop Danzi was unavailable on 11 September to conunent, his secretary told CNS. The Vatican's press office also declined comment. Pope John Paul reportedly has carried out at least two other exorcisms in the Vatican: one in 1978 and one in 1982. In the 1982 case, according to the late Cardinal Jacques Martin, who was head of the papal household at that time, the demon left an Italian woman, identified as Francesca F, as soon as the Pope said he would celebrate Mass for her.
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10,000 Jubilee for Universities attendees in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall to underscore the event's theme, 'The University for a New Humanism." Praising participants for reaffirming "the need for a university culture which is genuinely humanistic," he called on them to "overcome the temptation to a knowledge which yields to pragmatism or which loses itself in the endless meanderings of erudition." The "logical connection between freedom of research and recognition of truth" must occupy a primary place on university campuses, said the Pope, "lest we succumb to the climate of relativism to which a large part of today's culture falls prey." "What is needed is a humanism in which the perspectives of science and faith no longer seem to be in conflict.- he said, touching on a theme he often has explored in the past, most notably in the 1998 encyclical Fides et Ratio. Scientific progress brings "magnificent and frightening" possibilities, said the Pope, and thus a "recognition of the limits of science, in the consideration of moral demands, is not obscurantism but is the guarantee that research will be worthy of the human person and put at the service of life." Syntheses of 59 conferences rounded up the conferences' four categories - the human person, the city of man, the vision of science, and creativity and memory - and were presented to the Pope on 9 September. In one of Holy Year 2000's most diverse events, the conferences, held in Italy. the Holy Land and Lebanon, brought together academics, chaplains, students and university administrators of different religions from almost 300 universities and some 100 countries. Professor Martian S— unjic of the university of Zagreb, Croatia, said many of the conferences dedicated to science focused on the field's "dehumanisation," noting that participants of all faiths and "even non-believers" recognised the need to find a "broader, philosophical framework for purely technical scientific results." Margaret Melady, head of the American University of Rome and the wife of Thomas Melady, former US ambassador to the Holy See, said the series focusing on the human person concluded that "the lack of interaction among the various branches of science has limited research."
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Franciscan spirit alive Claim to defend and well at Olympics workplace ethos an 'Australian right' The Federal Government's Employment Services Minister has defended the right of Churches and all other employers to employ workers who support the ethos of their workplace. Tony Abbott last Monday attacked a draft set of guidelines from the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission on religious criteria in employment for organisations that provide community services on behalf of the Commonwealth. 'fraditionally, Australian discrimination laws had acknowledged that Church agencies had a right to uphold their ethos as did everyone else, Mr Abbott said on the Dam Bartlett program on Perth ABC's 720 Radio. But, he added, "I think that the Commission's guidelines seek to fairly dramatically extend the current legislative system, and seek to make it much tougher for these organisations to maintain their ethos and I just don't think that's a good thing. The HREOC guidelines, he said. were "about freedom from religion. not freedom of religion and that is their problem."
"If I'm a militant homophobe, for argument's sake, and I go along to apply to a gay organisation for a job, I think they'd be perfectly entitled to say, 'Well, we don't think that you really would fit in.' Mr Abbott said he was "supporting the right of all job network members to run themselves without unreasonable interference and I'm supporting the right of all organisations to maintain their own ethos and this has certainly been the traditional position in Australia. "I think, in principle, these agencies are entitled to say to everyone who wants to work for them 'Can you uphold our ethos? Can you work in sympathy with our overall objectives?' and if the person in question is living a lifestyle which is quite out of sympathy and sync with those ethics and values, well. yeah. I think they're entitled to say 'Well, we don't think you'd fit in.' "That's a perfectly reasonable thing for people to do." In recent years, following the privatisation of the Commonwealth Employment Service, many of the social welfare agencies of the Catholic Church and
other Christian churches in Australia have sought government contracts to provide job-seeking services for the unemployed. The Catholic Church's job search agency is Centrecare Australia. The HREOC guidelines, releases last month, rule out, among other things, job advertisements that include "requirements for empathy with or sympathy for a particular faith's ethos, values and ideals, such as its Christian philosophy and values or its Christian mission. They also rule out requirements for "commitment or demonstrated commitment to a particular faith or denomination, such as for 'committed Christians'." Mr Abbott, who is a Catholic, described some aspects of the guidelines as absurd. "They're trying to say that you can't even ask people on an employment application form what your Christian name is," he said. "This is absurd. It's as silly as saying that pre-schools can't sing Christmas Carols." He said the guidelines were "political correctness run amok"
Jobs-for-disadvantaged plan launched Centacare Australia launched a national campaign this 14eek to challenge employers to think of jobs creation as an investment and a responsibility, not merely as a cost. Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference president Archbishop Francis Carroll and Federal Minister for Employment Services Tony Abbott launched the Jubilee Jobs for the Future program in Canberra last Wednesday for the social welfare services representative body. Centacare Australia executive secretary Toby O'Connor said in a press release that unemployment meant "negative stress, ill-health, family break-
down and a loss of human dignity." 'But we also recognise the problems faced by employers." Mr O'Connor said. "That's why Centacare Employment pledges that if employers take on eligible disadvantaged job seekers, not only will it look at negotiating an attractive package including wage subsidies and training, it will also provide at no charge full back-up and close consultation to sort out any possible teething troubles.' The launch is planned to be the springboard for a series of regional campaigns over the coming months.
Brothers Ken Cafe, Andrew Granc and Kevin Good in their official Olympic Photo: CNS/Dan Mc- •,)11 uniforms.
By Dan McAloon of The Catholic Weekly Three Franciscan friars are part of a 40,000-strong army of volunteers helping at Sydney's Olympic Games. Franciscan Brothers Ken Cafe, Andrew Granc and Kevin Goode have received training and will wear the colourful print shirts of official Olympic volunteers. Br Kevin, a former Franciscan provincial leader who will be manning an information booth at the archery venue, said he welcomed the opportunity to do something for the community and to join in the Olympic celebrations in a Christian spirit of giving. "So often the news is about People in conflict, but this is a wonderful chance to do something where people are working together," he said. "We Franciscans need to be with people where their ordinary lives are happening," he said. -This is one event where people are enjoying themselves and becoming an international community. Of course we want to be a part of that."
Br Ken Cafe will be one of the drivers for the Olympic teams. "An event like this is a tremendous thing, it will bring the whole town alive. There is a special sense of belonging that comes with this fantastic mix of people from all over the world," he said. Br Andrew will be an interpreter for the Polish hockey and volleyball teams. Born in Germany, he speaks several languages, including Polish and Russian. • Australia's Catholic Bishops this week welcomed athletes and visitors to the nation. They said Pope John Paul II had said in May that sport was a "vehicle of human and moral stimuli and values" that could assist towards making the world more fraternal and united in solidarity. "We borrow the Pope's words as our greeting: May solidarity and peace be above all, the winners in this heartwarming competition. From the Olympic Stadium, may your message of hope be transmitted: Sport too can contribute to building peace'.
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Migrants' pilgrimage could be the biggest Pilgrimages were a way-oflife for many migrants in their European homelands. It comes as no surprise that what might be one of the biggest pilgrimages in Western Australia for the Jubilee Year is the one for Migrant Groups to New Norcia on the 2 October long weekend. About 1000 or more people from Burmese, Chinese, Croatian, Filipino, Indonesian, ItalKorean, ian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Ukrainian and Vietnamese groups have already indicated their participation in an event that they are used to in their countries of origin. About 20 buses have already been booked by the migrant chaplains, migrant associations and some parishes. Balcatta, Highgate, Midland, Morley, Osborne Park, Fremantle and West Perth parish- • es have committed numbers to the pilgrimage. Other pilgrims will travel by car. The pilgrimage has been organised by Fr Adrian Pittarello, Vicar for Migration and Co-ordinator of the Multicultural Apostolate, together with the migrant chaplains and migrant pastoral workers. %yelling by bus will enable the pilgrims to join in communal prayer, sing hymns, watch religious videotapes, and participate in other devotions. Fr Pittarello told The Record Mass will be held in the open air; pilgrims are asked to bring their own chairs and picnic lunch. They are asked to arrive by 10am for Mass at 10.30am. a BYO picnic lunch at noon, a procession at 2pm. Solemn Eucharistic Benediction at 4pm and departure at 4.30pm. Interested migrants who want more information should contact the migrant chaplains, the parish priests of the parishes listed above and/or Fr Pittarello on 9221 1727.
Reconciiiation help sought The Council for Reconciliation in WA is seeking volunteers to help with WAs own bridge walk for Reconciliation on 3 December. The council said recently the bridge walk - following on similar successes on the east coast - will mark the "passing of the baton" from the Council of Aboriginal Reconciliation to the people and will be a chance for all to show support for reconciliation and justice. Legislative Council Opposition Leader Tom Stephens said last week the route of the walk had yet to be determined, through consultation with Nyoongar elders and leaders, as well as the police, local councils and other key players. The day will be a commitment to justice and a celebration of hope, according to Australians for Reconciliation, a project of the
Council for Aboriginal Reconcilf- workshop will be run for those ation. who wish to become facilitators The group hopes Western Aus- of reconciliation learning circles tralians will create reconciliation on Tuesday, 26 September, from banners for the walk, 90cm by at 730pm - 9.30pm at a venue to be least four metres and no more decided. than six metres long, from a piece Contact Tim Muirhead or Kathy of calico, or even an old sheet, and Al-Kaisi at Australians for Reconsix long ties of cloth ribbons, one- ciliation on (freecall) 1800 060 269 metre long, at each end. or 9325 3377 if you have any A choice of images, symbols, queries. colours or words that say some• The Australian Catholic Social thing about reconciliation, should Justice Council and the National be painted on the banner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait acrylic paint. Islander Catholic Council have If the materials can't be pur- produced a leaflet suggesting ten chased locally, Australian for Rec- steps towards reconciliation for onciliation can send them to individuals and small groups. people in remote areas and it will The two groups believe it will be pay for postage to arrange pre- a useful tool to team up with the sentation of the banner at the 3 ACSIC's popular reconciliation December ceremony if represen- prayer card. tatives can't be sent to present it. NATSICC chairman Peter Smith Reconciliation learning circles and Bishop William Brennan, are also being established. A ACSJC chairman, say that "Rec-
onciliation cannot be left to governments, leaders and officials. "It is a movement that needs the support of all of us [and] requires many actions large and small." The 10 practical actions that people can take as steps towards reconciliation are based on ideas developed by the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry of the Melbourne Archdiocese. They are: learn about the land; place an acknowledgment plaque; recognition; fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island flag; write a reconciliation statement; use the ACSJC prayer card for reconciliation prayer; celebrate Aboriginal Sunday; listen to the "Stories of the Heart, Sounds of the Rock" CD; thoughts for homilies and reflection; and practical solidarity. Copies of the leaflet can be obtained free from the ACSIC. Ph: (02) 9956 5811.
Fr Patrick Lim inducted as Bindoon now has a parish priest of Thomlie 'Benedictine' house
Members of the Sacred Heart Church, Thornlie, parish pastoral council at formally introduced to new parish priest Father Patrick Um, right, by Auxiliary Bishop Robert Healy at Fr Urn's induction ceremony last Saturday night Before about 500 people at Mass, Fr Um, 49, made an oath of service to lead the parish to Christ. A reception was held afterwards at the parish's Foley Centre and parishioners brought dishes along to share in a light supper. Fr Um is going to London in two week's time to officiate at his nephew's wedding there.
Benedict House, a recentlyrefurbished accommodation wing at Catholic Agricultural College Bindoon, was officially opened and blessed last Monday. The boarding house has been named in honour of the Benedictine monks and nuns from New Norcia who assisted the Christian Brothers during the establishment of the College. Benedict House will provide accommodation for 19 male students and is located upstairs in the main building, which was designed by architect priest Fr Urbano Perez, from New Norcia. Head of residential care at the College, Br Bernard White, and tradespeople, were responsible for the refurbishment. Fr David Barry, representing the New Norcia Benedictine Community led a short dedication and blessing service at the opening attended by College Board members, senior students, staff and various tradespeople involved in the refurbishment. Fr Barry presented the College with a framed picture of St Benedict to hang in the boarding house. Catholic Agricultural Col-
Benedictine Fr David Barr,, second from right, presents Bindoon Principal Peter Bothe and Year 11 students James Lyon, left, of Bindoon, and Sean Jarrett, of Belmont, with an icon of St Benedict after the blessing and dedication of Benedict House.
lege Bindoon can now accommodate a total of 106 students. Catherine House houses 38 female students. Joseph House, named after St Joseph - the Patron Saint of the College and in honour of the work of the original students of St Joseph's Farm and 11-ade School provides accommodation for 19 male students. A further 38 male students are accommodated at Edmund House, which is named after the founder of the Christian Brothers, Blessed Edmund Rice.
Mothers 'inherit' from children, husband: professor MILAN, SEPTEMBER 5 (ZENIT) - Moth"Such information serves to adapt the and can make messages pass that the ers undergo permanent changes during mother's organism to the presence of the maternal nervous system understands." pregnancy, in which they 'inherit" some new being. He added. "An astonishing area of characteristics of the child they carry and. 'Moreover, it has also been discovered research is opening up. This is informathrough the child, also receive some char- that the embryo sends stem cells that, tion of enormous importance on the first acteristics of the father. thanks to the mother's immune system tol- phases of life.' This is but one of the surprising discov- erance, colonise the maternal medulla. When asked whether it was difficult to eries to be presented at the congress enti- and adhere to it. make rigid divisions of the phases of the tled "At the Dawn of Human Life,' "What is more, lymphocytes are born embryo's development, Mancuso said, 'It organised by the Institute of Gynaecology from here and remain with the woman for Is a grave error to make distinctions and Obstetrics of the Catholic University the rest of her life." between the embryo and pre-embryo.' of Rome. Mancuso continued: *From the fifth week 'It is such an initial phase - one cannot The congress begins on 6 September in there is clearly a passing of cells, but mes- of course speak of a central nervous systhe Vatican, as part of the jubilee of Uni- sages begin at conception.' tem - but the messages the embryo sends versity Professors. "Even during the first phase of cellular to the mother express manifestations that The child inherits half of his genetic pat- subdivision, when the embryo is moving are proper to the human species. rimony from the mother. in the fallopian tubes, there are transmis"The instruments used are highly speHe also "hears' the outside world while sions through contact with tissues touched cialised chemical substances and cells, in the womb, through the mother's body, by the moving embryo. such as stem cells. a fact which substantially conditions the "Later, after implantation in the uterus, "It should be remembered that if comunborn child's life. the dialogue is more intense through the munication was lacking, the maternal Now, research indicates that the mother blood and cells, and chemical substances organ would reject the embryo. also undergoes long-term changes caused enter the mother's bloodstream. 'The dialogue makes possible the perby the 'person' of the child and, indirect'Finally, the child's stem cells pass to the fect acceptance of an organism that is 50 ly, also from her husband. mother in great quantity, both at the per cent foreign to the mother's genetic Professor Salvatore Mancuso, head of moment of birth, whether spontaneous or patrimony. the gynaecology institute, said: "We have Caesarean, as well as at the time of abor"In fact, these chemical substances, proofs that beginning in the fifth week of tion, whether spontaneous or voluntary. which express nutritional and metabolic gestation, in other words, when a woman "These cells are implanted in the moth- needs of the embryo to the mother, cause realises she is pregnant, an infinite num- er's medulla and produce lymphocytes, an immune depression in her that faciliber of messages pass from the embryo to which have a common origin with the tates the acceptance of the new being." the mother, through chemical substances cells of the central nervous system; they When asked how long the fetus' influlike hormones, neurotransmitters. etc. have receptors for the neurotransmitters ence on the mother lasts, the professor The Record, September 14 2000 Page 4
answered: 'Stem cells have been found in the mother even 30 years after the birth." 'It could be said, therefore, the pregnancy does not last the 40 canonical weeks. but the woman's entire life. 'This should be cause for reflection also in regard to the hypothesis of 'renting' a womb: In this case, the mother who carries the embryo accepts a being whose genetic patrimony is 100 per cent foreign, and who will 'modify' her for the rest of her life. "We have no idea of the long-term consequences of such operations." Regarding the transfer of the father's characteristics to the mother via the unborn child, Mancuso said. "These are areas that am yet to be explored." "Of course it calls for reflection on a new way of understanding pregnancy. "Also, a very close tie is undoubtedly created between man and woman, because the child has 50 per cent of the father's genetic characteristics. 'Moreover, the hematopoietic [bloodproducing] stem cells go to the medulla and produce offspring cells, lymphocytes and neurotransmitters with the capacity to dialogue with the maternal central nervous system. 'It is somewhat as though the 'thoughts' of the child pass to the mother, even many years after his birth.'
Passages centre demand up •
in demand, as is clothing, and other services frequently requested include counselling, drug services, job training, Records over the first six months show that the majority of Passages legal and aid and a safe place. Common problems faced by young Resource Centre's clients are young people are trouble with parents, homepeople seeking accommodation and lessness, physical abuse, police harassfood. ment, sexual abuse and robbery. Passages is a joint initiative of the Drugs used [in order of frequency] Rotary Club of Perth, St Vincent de Paul, include cannabis, alcohol, speed, prethe St John of God Foundation and the scription pills, heroin, hallucinogens, Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem. ecstasy, cocaine and inhalants. It has the support of several leading The Centre opened its doors just six community organisations, including months ago but already the demand on the Catholic and Anglican Churches, its staff and resources is almost overas well as many prominent Perth busi- whelming. ness people. The Centre in Aberdeen Street also Laundry and bathroom services are provides a safe environment, laundry, By Glynnis Grainger
shower and kitchen facilities, computer and office support and the advice of trained community workers. People can feel secure, relaxed and able to talk there and the number of new contacts has risen to about 60 a month, but more than 200 young people have come back to Passages twice or more. We are not duplicating other services available in Perth," Passages' chairman David Reed said. "Kids on the street have no idea where to go for help with the situation they find themselves in. "Passages can help by getting them to talk about their problems and referring them on to the appropriate agency."
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Bishop Robert Healy, right, enjoys the company of Rotary International president James Lacy on the verandah of the new centre in May last year.
Day for movements set for Aquinas Chapel chaplain appointed A special Jubilee Year celebration focussing on the wide variety of movements and organisations which are active within the Church in Perth is being planned for Saturday 28 October. Archbishop Barry Hickey is Inviting all interested Catholics to participate in the event, which will be held at Aquinas College In Manning and begin at lOam. The meeting, being held under the theme of 'Come and Build up the Body of Christ: Jubilee Movements and Organisations', follows on from the Pentecost conference held over the previ-
ous three years in Perth. After last year's conference the Archbishop expressed a desire to hold a similar Archdiocesan event in 2000, but on a date other than Pentecost. The format of the one-day conference will Include celebration of the Eucharist, witnessing from groups, a shared lunchtime, displays and talks. The Archbishop has already written to various organisations urging them to encourage their members' attendance. Not only would the grounds of Aquinas be conducive to a celebration but, he wrote, "I would
envisage the lunch time for example as being a valuable opportunity for relaxing in intermingled groupings and for growth in unity: The Archbishop will be the keynote speaker on the day. The meeting should be of special interest to Catholics who may be interested in some organisation or form of spirituality to develop their personal growth or perhaps that of their families: organisers say there will be time for prayer, song and sharing of gifts and charisms as well as static displays and a lunchtime sausage sizzle.
Father Kevin Cronin has been appointed chaplain to the Robert Healy Centre and Holy Spirit Chapel, Joondalup, from last Thursday, 7 September. Fr Noel Tobin has been acting chaplain for the past few weeks and the midday Mass has attracted quite a following among those who live, work or shop in Joondalup. As the centre is within the Ocean Reef parish, Fr Richard Rutkauskas will help out when Fr Cronin needs
PRINCIPAL
Warlawurru Catholic School
Boys win Minds' tourney prize Stuci 'its from Aquinas College Junior School demonstrated their skills at Edith Cowan University on 2 and 3 September by winning the Western Australian competition in the prestigious Tournament of Minds' Maths/Engineering division. It is the second time in three years that Aquinas Junior School has enjoyed success in the WA final. The Tournament of Minds is run annually in every State and Territory, culminating in an Australian final on the last weekend in October. This year's problem asked students to design a commemorative plaque to be unveiled at the first International Convention of the Society of Cartographers. Oceanographers and Geographers. The plaque was to be on a large rotating wheel, on which
New chair elected for NATSICC The new National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council chair is Ms Vicki Walker from Victoria. Ms Walker and new State councillors for NATSICC were commissioned by Archbishop Leonard Faulkner of Adelaide in thar city's St Francis Xavier Cathedral on Sunday 28 August. The commissioning was included in a Mass for National Reconciliation. The new NATSICC is elected for a three-year term. Robyn Albert was elected interim Councillor for Western AusKimberley tralia's region. During Mass, Esther Bevan, outgoing NATSICC Councillor for WA sang a hymn in Aboriginal language.
RED HILL, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Aquinas boys with their winning. . . . er, whirling society plaque.
was designed a logo to reflect the purpose of theliconvention. A ribbon was to be cut to set the wheel in motion, which had to stop turning after exactly 15 seconds and exactly three rota-
lions. The students had six weeks to work on the problem. The School was also honoured with an award and a $1000 prize in the National Literacy Week Awards.
Leave a legacy... for generations to come THE UNIVERSITY OF
NOTRE DAME A USTRALIA
Notre Dame, Australia's first Catholic university has the potential to be a vital contributor to the work of the Church in Western Australia and the region in the future. The University is already a major force in the education of our future priests and Catholic school teachers. Your legacy will assist in providing young people with an excellent academic and professional education that promotes Christian faith and values. We will allocate your gift for whatever purpose you specify. This might be support for a needy student, a contribution to the education of a seminarian, assistance to the library for book purchases, or support for special programs. The names of all benefactors who offer assistance to Notre Dame through a memorial gift are placed in our Book of Remembrance and prayed for whenever Mass is offered in the University's chapel. If you would like further information on the Notre Dame Bequest Program, please contact the Development Office at Notre Dame on 9239 5692
Please remember Notre Dame in your Will
Please send me further information on the Notre Dame Bequest Program Name Address Telephone Mouat Street (PO Box 1225), Fremantle WA 6959 Tel (08) 9239 5555 • Fax (08) 9239 5544 enquiriesqind.edu.au • www.nd.edu.au
assistance. Two Mercy Sisters - Sr Agnes Ferrie, from the Girrawheen house, and Sr Catherine O'Connor, from Leedeiville - have been helping out with hospitality, sacristy work and cleaning. • Fr Tom Smith, parish priest of Guildford parish, has been appointed parish priest at Bassendean from Wednesday, 27 September, replacing the late Fr Alexius Morahan. - Glynnis Grainger
Catholic Education Commission of It'estcrn .4 mar-alley
Warlawurru Catholic School is coeducational and caters for 60 students from Kindergarten to Year 7. The school is situated in the Lunja Aboriginal Community which is 2.5 lans from the town of Halls Creek Warlawurru School strives to foster, through the Two Way learning process, an appreciation and understanding of the Jaru language and traditions, ‘vhilst providing instruction in Standard Australian English and western culture and technology. The concept of Two Way learning is one which acknowledges both a western and Aboriginal curriculum. The school population is predominantly Aboriginal and the Aboriginal Teaching Assistants in each classroom are key members of the teaching teams. Primary school teaching experience would be an expectation for this position. A rent-free, three bedroom house in Halls Creek is provided for the Principal. The successful applicant will take up the position on 1 January 2001. 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, educational, pastoral and administrative competencies, together with an appropriate four year minimum tertiary qualification and will have completed Accreditation B or its equivalent. A current Australian Federal Police Clearance must accompany the application. Official application forms are available from Sr Clare &tiert). Consultant, Leadership Team, on 1081 9212 9268 or Email: c.rafiemOceowa.perth.catholic.edu.au 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 Thursday 28 September 2000. Website: www.ceowa.perth.catholic.edu.ati
PRINCIPAL
Birlirr Ngawiyiwu Catholic School RINGER SOAK. WESTERN AUSTRALIA (RE-ADVERTISED)
Birlirr \gawiyiwn Catholic School is an Aboriginal Kindergarten to VIr 7 primary school catering for 32 students. Situated 165 kms south-east of Halls Creek in the Kundat Djaru Community of Yaruman, the school is committed to the concept of Two Way learning aspects and fosters traditional Jam language and Aboriginal culture, whilst providing instruction in Standard Australian English and western culture and technology. As the Principal teaches full-time, primary teaching experience would be an expectation. A rent-free, three bedroom house is provided for the Principal. The successful applicant will take up the position on 1 January 2001. 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, educational, pastoral and administrative competencies, together with an appropriate four year minimum tertiary qualification and will have completed Accreditation B or its equivalent. A current Australian Federal Police clearance must accompany the application. Official application forms are available from Sr Clare Rafferty, Consultant, Leadership Team, on (081 9212 9268 or Email: cmfferty('ceowaperth.catholic.edu.au Official application forms should be addressed to The Director, Catholic Education Office of WA. K) Box 198, Leederville WA 6903 and be lodged no later than Thursday 28 September 2000 Website: www.ceowa.perth.catholic.edu.au The Record. September 14 2000 Page 5
Suffering, for benefit of others Peter Dwan continues with his meditations on the readings for Sunday Mass. This week the twenty fourth Sundat Year B
T
liturgy presents Our Lord as the suffering Messiah. In the oday's first reading (Isaiah 50:5-9) we have a prophesy that the Messiah would welcome trials, because He would see it as a way to personal freedom and a way of redemption for His brothers. The reading says: "For my part,Imade no resistance, neither did I turn away. I offered my back to those who struck me, my cheeks to those who tore at my beard; I did not cover my face against insult and spittle." There are times when we must endure suffering. It has been aptly said that nothing can be achieved without suffering, if it is going to be worthwhile and of benefit to others. The founders and foundresses of religious orders have done a great deal of good, but they were all people who suffered greatly. For example, St Francis of Assisi, who founded the Franciscans, suffered the pains of the stigmata for years, and was almost blind during the last years of his life. Australia's own Blessed Mary of the Cross MacKillop experienced many problems in founding the Iosephites.
Layman 's Meditation These included difficulties with the co-founder, Fr Julian Tenison Woods, who wouldn't have anything to do with the order after the Roman authorities demanded changes to the rule. Not only did Blessed Mary MacKillop have difficulties with nuns whom a sterner novitiate would have weeded out, she had problems with some Australian Bishops, besides health problems, with high blood pressure leading to her having a stroke. Today's Gospel (Mark 8:27-35) consists of two parts. The first part records when Christ asked His disciples: "Who do people say Iam?" they told him "John the Baptist," they said "Others Elijah, others again, one of the prophets." "But you," he asked, "who do you say Iam?" St Peter said: "You are the Christ." From St Matthew's Gospel, we know that this was a profession of faith in Our Lord's divinity. In the second part of the Gospel passage, Christ made a prophesy about His Passion, saying that "the Son of Man was destined to suffer grievously, to be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and to be put to death, and after three days to rise again."
In other words, Christ was saying that He was the suffering Messiah. When St Peter started to remonstrate with Jesus, trying to dissuade him from undergoing his Passion, Our Lord rebuked him, saying: "Get behind me Satan! Because the way you think is not God's work but man's." Christ was telling St Peter that it is satanic to want to do God's work without suffering. Unfortunately, it is all too easy for us to fall into that way of thinking. For example, we may tell ourselves that we would like to help the missions, but when the crunch comes, all too often we won't deny ourselves such luxuries a dining out and entertainments in order that we may enable missionaries to provide the poor whom they serve with such basic necessities as food, shelter, clothing and education. This theme is taken up in the second reading (fames 3:14-18) in which St James says: " If one of the brothers or one of the sisters is in need of clothes and has not enough food to live on, and one of you says to them, 'I wish you well; keep yourself warm and eat plenty,' without giving them the bare necessities of life, then what good is that? Faith is like that; if good works do not go with it, it is quite dead." If we are unprepared to suffer in order to help others in need, not only are we lacking in charity, our faith is dead as well.
To Jesus through Mary . . . . a column of Marian devotion
M
onsignor Thomas McD- individuals taking part. Mgr onald, right, received a McDonald said in his homily that rose from Montana this year was the 12th year for the McCann and the scroll from Rosary Bouquet, and the third year Therese Haydon at the Offertory that all Catholic primary schools procession at a special Mass for had been invited to take part. Our Lady's Birthday last Friday at He said there has been an St Mary's Cathedral. Increase in parishes taking part all Beautiful singing by the Cathe- over the State, from Albany, to dral choir and the 400-strong con- Broome, to Kalgoorlie. "WA has a wonderful spirit of gregation at the midday Mass made the day memorable for those Marian devotion." Mgr McDonald attending and for Our Lady herself. said, and added, "You can never get The scroll represented the 48- out of Our Lady's debt." WA Rosary Bouquet co-ordinator Hour Perpetual Rosary Bouquet a gift from WA Catholics to the Margaret Bowen said the bouquet Blessed Virgin Mary for Her birth- was getting bigger and better each year. day. "We have seen a bigger increase The Bouquet started at 6pm on Tuesday, 5 September, and ended in parishes doing it for 48 hours," at 6pm on Thursday, 7 September. Mrs Bowen said. "People ring and ask if there are The Rosary was recited continually throughout WA during this any difficult times - nothing is too time, free of intentions, as a gift to much for Our Lady." Mrs Bowen said the bouquet of Our Lady for her birthday on 8 Seprosaries touched a Marian 'nerve' tember. The scroll divided the 48 hours in the Church that inspired people Into hourly segments, with the to be part of the birthday gift. names of parishes, schools and - Glynnis Grainger
Carabinieri help make it great day for the Italians By Glynnis Grainger
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our former members of the Italian National Police, or Carabinieri, in uniform, along with children in Sicilian national costume, were all part of the mainly-Italian crowd taking part in the procession for Our Lady of Tindari at Fremantle last Sunday afternoon. The fifth Feast of Maria Santissima del Tindari, or dark Our Lady, in Fremantle was marked by a Thduum from Thursday, 7 September, to Saturday, 9 September at 7.45pm, celebrated by Servile Father Christopher Ross. Concelebrated Solemn Mass was held last Sunday at 9.45am with Archbishop Barry Hickey as principal celebrant. The 3,500-strong procession through the streets of Fremantle started from St Patrick's Basilica at 2pm with the releasing of white doves from boxes behind Our Lady's statue. Ursuline Sister Clara lead the rosary in Italian from the leading loud-hailer van and the City of Belmont Brass Band provided music for the marchers. St John Ambulance workers were also In the procession to hand out water to thirsty walkers. Various Italian associations from
The Frecaid, September 14 2000' ...•••••••
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Doves of peace fly from behind Our Lady's statue outside St Patrick's last Sunday.
around the metropolitan area proudly carried their banners in the procession. Every five minutes, Jim Cardile let off a cracker with a loud bang on the Esplanade Reserve as part of the festivities. When the procession reached the Reserve in Marine Terrace, there was a noisy fireworks display for about five minutes as the marchers stood still. The procession then returned to the Basilica for Benediction and soft drinks, pizza and Sicilian sweets - paste secche. Association Maria S S Del Tindari secretary Joe Franchina said that according
to the popular legend the Black Madonna arrived in the small Sicilian town of Tindari through miraculous circumstances in the year AD726. "It was through the tenacity, determination and the faith of our community, and the effort of the president of the Association, Mr Andrea Pellegrino, that another statue arrived in Fremantle in 1996, exactly 1270 years later," Mr Franchina said. The statue of the Black Madonna was placed in the Basilica of St Patrick and a procession has been held every year on the second Sunday of September.
Protestants speak with conviction: can the same be said of us?
With Paul Gray
A
m ngry Catholics, hold your horses. Last week's much-reported Vatican stateent on the relationship between the Catholic Church and other faiths is not some sinister conservative ploy. That seems to be the fear among some Australian Catholics. But it's a misplaced fear. Among the critics fearful of the intention behind "Dominus Jesus" have been some good, pastorally-minded priests and others who work hard "at the coalface" of interchurch co-operation and dialogue. Their concern seems to be that the clock is somehow being turned back on all the genuinely good work they've done. The villains in this act are presumably the Pope, Cardinal Ftatzinger and other unnamed "Vatican conservatives." But it's very much a secular media perspective on Church events. Much of what we hear and learn about the Church these days comes from the secular media - so why shouldn't Catholics react to a document like "Dominus Jesus" with the same perspective of people who aren't Catholics? However, there's a major problem with this: if we want others to take our faith seriously, we have to he able to show we believe in it ourselves. Last week's document was intended as a timely reminder to theologians and others that the Church is not a secular, political power structure. The Church is, in the words of the Second Vatican Council. the "universal sacrament of salvation." Though not new teaching, this is in fact a liberating message which too many people including too many Catholics - seem not to have heard or understood. Authentic Vatican teaching documents such as the documents of Vatican II, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and now Dominus Jesus are a rich resource for Catholics and others to use in rediscovering this good news. Sadly, many seem completely uninterested. Rather, a reverse attitude of "anti-Vaticanism" seems to have taken hold of many in today's Church, notably in Australia. Ironically, most Australian "anti-Vaticanists" today would not consider themselves as antiVatican II. Yet that is clearly the attitude critics adopt when they attack a document like "Dominus Jesus," a restatement of Vatican II's teachings. A simple way to appreciate the teaching is to reflect on what occurs in the sacrifice of the Mass. At the moment of Consecration, even trial, tentive Mass-goers in the humblest suburban church kneel in communion with the whole Church, living and dead, before the altar of heaven - a moment of incomprehensible mystery and grace. This is a mighty doctrine, and gives some flavour of why so many over two thousand years have given their lives to and for the Church. These human gifts of personal self-sacrifice have been made because Catholics have believed in the joyful, liberating but mysterious doctrine of the Church. If, as modern Australian Catholics, we jump up and down in protest every time the Church's legitimate teaching authority seeks to remind us of what a precious jewel we've been given in this teaching, then our communities are in a sad way. The first people to see this,I suspect, will be our non-Catholic Christian brothers and sisters, with whom most Catholics, from Pope John Paul II down, are today thankfully enjoying better relations than perhaps any time in history. Most Protestants I know believe their own doctrines with conviction and passion.I wonder - are they able to say the same of us? "Dominus Jesus" can he read or downloaded through the Vatican website: http://www.vatican.va
Looking beyond Olympic euphoria to God I
The Record
f there was ever a test for discovering what is best and good in purely human society, without any reference to God and his prerogatives, then it has to be the Olympic Games. Christians have a duty to interpret the 'signs of the times' and find the good fruits that human endeavour has produced from God's creation. In the Olympics the physical goods of health and fitness are pursued to find the best talent in the world in various sports. If there were such things as physical gods, they would be found here. Hopefully, moral virtues will be brought to the fore as athletes strive to display their God-given talent to the fullest. Inevitably, graciousness in both victory and disappointment will inspire participants and spectators alike. For Australians, who could forget the Image from the 1950s of the great middle distance runner John Landy stopping during a race for a second to help the future long distance champion Ron Clarke recover from a stumble. Or the legendary British Christian runner of the 1920s, Eric Liddell, immortalised in Chariots of Fire, who gave up Olympic glory in the 100 metres to keep holy the Sabbath? In Sydney during the next two weeks, all these human virtues will be on show and combine to make the games of the 27th Olympiad a spectacle of human friendliness and solidarity. This solidarity will find its peak celebration in the opening and closing cere-
monies. If there is to be a human liturgy retired immediately from swimming and of celebration, thanksgiving and worship sought fulfilment in marriage and mothdevoid of politics and economics, then it erhood on a farm in the south-west of will be found there. Western Australia. Twenty-eight years ago, a young AusThe reason, of course, for this lack of sattralian women's swimmer, Shane Gould, isfaction is that solely human goods are was looking forward to Olympic glory and limited goods that can never satisfy unless celebration in Munich. they are ordered to God and find their end And she got her opportunity: she won in Him. three individual gold medals at the Health, fitness are only of use if they Games. help us do our small bit in helping the But what did she find, according to her Holy spirit bring about the Kingdom of own testimony, apart from the initial God here on earth as much as it can be euphoria of victory? Very little. this side of Heaven. The same emptiness is exposed in the Champion athletic talent is probably eyes and voices of sporting champions only of use to true civilisation if it is used who are asked for the second or third time by the athlete to witness to higher goods by some poor hack of a journalist urged such as the fact salvation rests in Jesus on by a news director to keep asking: How Christ and His true Church. does it feel? In the end, the 'signs of the times' only The poor winner is left trying to find dif- have value as a standard of judgment of ferent ways of repeating 'I feel great!' what is worth pursuing if they lead to the Shane Gould wondered and came to the one Good that integrates and completes conclusion that all sporting victories, no all the lesser, created goods of human matter how glorious in the eyes of a world nature and society. separated from God, bring little true satisThat is another way of saying that the faction. real 'sign of the times' is Jesus Christ himAny satisfaction is passing and the hol- self and not whatever limited human good lowness of human greatness for its own is honoured at the Sydney Olympics. sake is uncovered. We could keep this in mind over the next Shane, whose career could have extend- two weeks and pray for the poor hack ed to one, even two more, Olympics, Journalist and his cornered champion as
• The opinions expressed in this editorial, and any other Record editorial, are not necessarily those of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Perth.
T Aro1112o
7aae
Leilers
Testimony to life in death
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have been a community palliative care nurse working with Silver Chain for 17 years and have also cared for my father and daughter who died from cancer. As a family, the loving care that we gave to our dying loved ones brought us all closer together and demonstrated the beauty of the "higher" qualities of human nature. These qualities include sharing. caring, nurturing, loving, giving, cherishing and strength that come to the foreground in such times of adversity and which allow us to grow into even better human beings. We also involved the young children in our family care of those dying. Even though exposed to death and dying, they were also exposed to the love and caring, and we feel that this can only strengthen them and help them in future encounters they may have with death. Yes, we learnt a lot about each other, and ourselves and shared some very precious moments during our loved ones dying process, moments we would never have experienced if we had "killed" them. The care we gave and the sharing we experienced as a family has also helped us with our grieving process. Isay it is euthanasia - taking the easy way out - that robs us of our dignity and humanity. Di Asphar Gwelup
Level playing fields
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s a practicing Catholic having been involved in Church activities and associations, I believe the word "ethos" is used without concern or convic-
Emelie Heynsmen of Canada dives from the 10m plafform during training in Sydney on 8 Pncto CNS Re,,:ers September.
they try to come to terms with the fleeting euphoria of human victory. Hopefully, like St Paul, we will think of the imperishable and all-satisfying prize of eternal life that we can all win with God's help.
lion. My immediate family have all been chases were made, it might wake up some guage', women's ordination, etc, in the pubeducated within the Catholic school sys- who use the word 'ethos' without meaning. lic hearings and written submissions, these tem.Ipersonally have been rewarded with I am proudly Catholic and don't hesitate figures have never been revealed by the authors. a Catholic college life membership for ser- to stand up and be counted. We have no way of knowing, from vice andI was co-founder of an association I pray that our fellow members of our still operating within the Church. Church would at least give Catholic busi- Woman and Man, how many people were Being involved also with other associa- nesses a chance to supply and provide ser- for or against anything. This is not what most people understand tions within the Church where it is a vices on a level playing field. by research 'professionally conducted'. responsibility to look after each other, the Graham Piftaway The research to be conducted by the new Church leaves me bewildered as to who Merle; Office for Australian Catholic Women will understands "Catholic Ethos" or let alone be the same kind of non-research, the same practices it. kind of unbalanced opinion-promotion as I see these words inserted in job adverhe Australian Catholic Bishop's 2000 Woman and Man. tisements within the Church and its affilisocial justice statement announces There is to be research on inclusive lanated bodies but know from experience that their intention to set up an Office for guage at Mass, though the Catholic Church it really doesn't matter, but we must adverAustralian Catholic Women, to perpetuate Life Survey showed that only 3 per cent of tise it. the inquiry on women in the Church which women are bothered by this obsession. many employees in the Church are How Must we now brace ourselves for anothnon-Catholics and, of those who are, how has been going on for the past few years. That inquiry produced the report Woman er round of restless, amateurish. illiterate many are practicing? I have experienced as a business person and Man. Of that report, the Australian tinkering with the Mass? There is to be research on married clerthat our 'ethos' system uses, on a regular Catholic Bishops Conference says: "We basis, business establishments that are not acknowledge that not all women believe gy and women deacons. What form could associated or even interested in our teach- their views are adequately represented in this research take? And what could be the point of such ings to the extent that they don't even the report", but go on to say: "We neverbelieve in the Almighty Father, or are anoth- theless wish to respond as well as we can research, if not to promote unfounded er denomination that in some circum- to those women whose views are report- expectations, and then discontent when those expectations are disappointed? ed." stances belittles the Catholic Church. The enquiry on women in the Church Why? If Woman and Man is a one-sided It is difficult to understand that those who contributed financially over their whole and unrepresentative report, reflecting the was a response by the Australian Catholic life to education and Church activities then opinions of only one group of women - Bishops Conference to a small but in group, many of them nuns. find that 'Catholic ethos' doesn't give them those who agree with the authors - why The enquiry absorbed far more time and should the conference pay any attention to a chance. Every time I contribute each weekIwon- It, and ignore the opinions of all other money than it was worth, and produced, in Woman and Man, an unrepresentative der if it will be passed onto a real Catholic women? The conference says the research report- summary of clerico-feminist obsessions. business or just someone convenient. That should have been the end of it. If every future purchase by any Catholic ed in Woman and Man was "professionalInstead, the conference has again given in organisation or parish gave consideration ly conducted." to a "fellow" member of the Church maybe * But anyone who has waded trough to this unrepresentative group, agreeing to Woman and Man will see that it consis- set up, at considerable expense, a new I would understand what 'ethos' meant. I am appreciative of the minority who do tently minimises support for opinions dif- office which will never be abolished since, seek out a brother or sister within our reli- ferent from those of the authors of the If it were ever to stop digging up and pubreport, dismissing them as "a minority," etc. licising grievances, would have no reason gious belief. But despite repeated requests that the to exist. If a questionnaire was forwarded to our organisations within the Church to obtain authors publish the numbers of women Ted Watt information with whom and where pur- who supported or opposed 'inclusive Ian- Claremont
Why pay attention?
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Iona facilities go on show at new wing opening The contribution of the Presentation Sisters to the development of Catholic education in Western Australia was recognised recently at the official opening and blessing of the new Sacre Coeur wing at Iona Presentation College, Mosman Park. College Principal, Margaret Herley, explained the choice of name for the new wing was of special significance to the Presentation Sisters. Their founder, Bishop Bianchini and lona principal Margaret Holey, Nano Nagle, "was motivated by the Sacred Heart of Jesus." Turning her left, and school representatives at the opening.
attention to the new and refurbished God is constantly present in everything Science, Languages and Boarding facil- we do and that we are continually ities, Ms Herley then acknowledged the blessed by His divine presence. vital contributions of all those associat'Just knowing that God is with us is a ed with making them a reality. great strength upon which we can draw Bishop Justin Bianchini of Geraldton in order to develop the gifts and qualiexplained the significance of the bless- ties which we require for our own pering ceremony. sonal development and our service of 'Through this blessing, we call upon others,' he added. God's presence over these buildings The new wing was officially opened and, more importantly, those who study, by Sr Kathleen Laffan, the Congregawork and reside within them,' he said. tional Leader of the Presentation Sisters "The blessing also acts to remind us that of WA. - Phil Bayne, CEO media • — The Record, September 14 2000 Page 7
Features
Features
For better for worse, for richer for Byzantine Catholics reveal the beauty of their liturgy poorer, a priest of Jesus E Christ for twenty-five years By Peter Rosengren
Mgr McDonald in his element - among the friends, family and the parishioners of the Cathedral parish.
Photos Peter Rosengrer
By Peter Rosengren
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riends. family and former parishioners of Monsignor Thomas McDonald, Dean of St Mary's Cathedral, gathered in the Cathedral last Wednesday week to compliment the Monsignor on 25 years of priesthood and join in celebrating his milestone. Archbishop Barry Hickey, one of nearly 20 priests present for last week's ceremony, which coincided with the regular Wednesday evening devotion to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, praised the Monsignor's fidelity to his vocation during his homily. More young men should follow Monsignor's McDonald's example and ask if Jesus is calling them too, he said. For his part, Mgr McDonald told the congregation at Mass's end the most vivid memory he had was the day 25 years ago when the-then Archbishop, Launcelot Goody, ordained him. "It was," he told the congregation, "the happiest day of my life." His vocation, he said, had been sown in a faith-filled family in which there were really two faiths: Catholicism and football. Saturday would be football, Saturday evening would see the McDonalds off to Church for devotions in their parish of Christ the King in Beaconsfield. Sunday morning would be Mass; Sunday afternoon would be more football, he explained. But while he was all set as a teenager to join the religious order of priests known as the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who at that time ran Beaconsfield parish, God had other things planned for him. The Oblates withdrew from the parish before he finished his schooling and a diocesan priest, Fr Joseph, took over and made a big impression on the young McDonald. Fr Joseph, he said, was a gentle pastor in the model of Jesus the Good Shepherd. One day the priest took young Thomas McDonald aside and asked him if he had ever considered the diocesan priesthood. "I was still very young, butIwas 'the full bottle' on religious orders," Mgr McDonald said. "Isaid: 'Oh, I've never heard of them before. Who was their founder?'" "So that was it," he added, "and here I am now, for better for worse, for richer or poor." But, he added, "Never once did I doubt my calling, never once." As for the years since then, he said, he had treasured his priesthood as a precious gift. In his homily the Archbishop said priesthood was not something anyone could do. "It's a call, a vocation, a call from God, from Jesus in one's heart: [saying] I want you for my priest," the Archbishop said. The priesthood was also therefore a call from the Church, he added. As such, there was a spiritual link through the Sacrament of Holy Orders between the priest and the priesthood of Jesus Christ, and a special identification with Jesus in the ministerial priesthood. In fact, Pope John Paul II calls the
The Record, September 14 2000 Page 8
ast well and truly met West last Sunday evening when some regular Mass-goers attending the 5pm Mass in St Mary's Cathedral got a considerable surprise to find the Cathedral transformed and prayers being said in Greek and Arabic by an unfamiliar priest. What was going on - a takeover of the Church? No, but what was happening was definitely history in the making. Two large icons of Jesus and Mary stood in front of the altar and, while Archbishop Barry Hickey presided over the evening's events - accompanied by several archcliocesan clergy the Melkite priest dressed in strange but striking vestments celebrated a completely different liturgy facing away from the congregation. But most of those attending had been prepared beforehand and already knew what the occasion was: rather than the Mass of the Latin-rite celebrated in Latin Catholic Churches throughout the world, a Byzantine, or Eastern, Liturgy according to the Melkite Arabic tradition was offered. The two icons therefore substituted for the inconostasis, the icon-covered screen which traditionally separates congregations from the priest's celebration of the liturgy in Eastern churches. Meanwhile, the visual splendour, the Incense, the deacons, the vestments. and the choir - which sounded to uneducated western ears strangely redolent of the deserts of the Arab world all contributed to a fascinating experience for the congregation. It was the first of two planned jubilee celebrations involving Eastern and Western Catholicism in the archdiocese. The second, planned for 15 October, will see the only Ukrainian Catholic parish in Perth present a Ukrainian Catholic liturgy. Archbishop Hickey's Committee for the Great Jubilee sponsored and planned the two celebrations. Last Sunday night's event was both a Jubilee Year celebration and a show of unity between the Latin Catholic Church in Perth, headed by Archbishop Hickey, and the Melkite Catholic Church in Australia, headed by Bishop Issam Darwish of Sydney. There is only one Melkite parish in
Archbishop Hickey, assisted by Deacon Pierre, administers Communion.
The deacon holds tit_ Gospel aloft shortly before it is proclaimed during Sunday evening's Liturgy.
Perth, St Andraous, based in Glendower Street, Highgate. The liturgy of St John Chrysostom celebrated by Fr Andre Nahhas in the Cathedral on Sunday evening was the standard liturgy celebrated In Byzantine-rite Catholic churches throughout the world, as well as the world's Orthodox churches. It is named for its author, St John Chrysostom, who was a Patriarch of the other major centre of Christianity to Rome, Constantinople. in the early 5th century. This liturgy is venerated for the beauty of its prayers, matching the name of Its author which roughly translates from the Greek as 'Golden-tongued.' Like Sunday's liturgy, the Ukrainian Mass in October will also be a Liturgy of St John Chrysostom. but celebrated in Ukrainian. The Melkite Catholic Church dates its origins and traditions back to the earliest days of the Church and emerged out of Christianity in the Arab world. Archdiocesan liturgy co-ordinator
Sister Kerry Willison, who organised the event on behalf of the jubilee Committee, told The Record she believes it was the first time a Byzantine liturgy had been celebrated in St Mary's with a Catholic Archbishop present. For Perth's Melkites it was undoubtedly a proud moment as the occasion gave them an opportunity to share the famed richness of their liturgy and spirituality with their Latin-rite brothers and sisters in the faith, and many were present for the occasion. But hundreds more of the congregation were members of the Cathedral parish and visitors witnessing, for probably the first time in their lives, the Catholic Church's eastern half or 'lung' in action. The Melkites were not the only eastern Christians present. Also assisting at the altar was the Ukrainian Catholic Church's Fr Vladimir Kalinecki, while the choir of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St John the Baptist in Maylands sang the responses to the prayers of the liturgy throughout the almost two hours that
Deacon Pierre Nahas bears the bread, which will be soon consecrated, in procession through the Cathedral.
it lasted. When communicants finally came forward to receive Communion they were not surprised to find that they received it under both species -
the traditional practice of the Eastern churches - with the Body of Jesus having been prepared from what looked more like miniature loaves of unleavened bread, rather than the usual wafer which is offered in Latin churches. The feeling of togetherness between East and West was also underscored by Fr Andre, who told the congregation that the Liturgy was being offered for their intentions, as well as for Archbishop Hickey and the clergy and people of the archdiocese. The Liturgy was also being offered in honour of the Theotokos, he said, using a term not widely familiar to Roman Catholics, but which is most commonly used for Our Lady in eastern Christianity. Archbishop Hickey told the congregation he was glad the coming-together in St Mary's had taken place in the Jubilee Year because "it shows the unity of one Catholic Church comprising East and West." Christianity had begun in the East, he explained, but the unfortunate split of the 11th Century had sundered the eastern and western halves of the Church. However, he said, down through the
centuries some of the eastern churches had remained loyal to Rome and two of them were represented in the cathedral that evening. He pointed out that he was not the Bishop of the Melkite or Ukrainian churches: Bishop Issam Darwish heads the Melkite eparchy in Australia while Bishop Peter Stasiuk of Melbourne heads the Ukrainian eparc.hy. The key to understanding the liturgy of St John Chrysostom, he said, lay, among other things, in the beauty of the chants, the incense and the vestments, which were all "designed to bring us in to the very centre of the divine life so that we can share in the divine life of the Holy llinity." Sr Willison said later she was delighted with how everything went. "It was actually quite an emotional moment for me because I have wanted so much for us to be seen to be unified." she said. "These are truly our 'sister' churches and Sunday evening proved that beautifully." The evening had also helped to educate Latin Catholics, she said, who were often not aware that Eastern Catholics were also members of the same Catholic Church.
Suai: mourning continues Aid agency retreat leaves refugees Mgr McDonald and his mother, Margaret McDonald and Kate Johnson, his grandniece, at the reception after Mass.
priesthood a sacramental representation of Jesus Christ, he said. During the last 25 years Mgr McDonald had celebrated the Mass and the sacraments with all his heart, tried to understand and communicatd the Good News of the Gospel, and had been a Good Shepherd to his people, he said. In so doing he had tried to live up to "the sublime and fearsome call" of his vocation. Archbishop Hickey said that priests today were found in a wide variety of ministries, yet some were always essential •the holy sacrifice of the Mass, offered in this age and every age for the redemption of humanity and the other sacraments which continue the work of redemption. They must also preach the Good News of the Gospel. "In fact, the documents of the Church say that's the 'Number One' priority," the Archbishop said. And priests also had to be like Jesus the Good Shepherd, drawing close to the people and being with them in their good times and the bad. He said Dean McDonald had spent 25 years accepting the will of God, the highs and the lows, and working hard to build up the Church. But, he added, "We need more to follow him." "We need more young men to ask themselves whether they hear the call of Jesus Christ in their lives. "We need more to ask if God is calling them - and if so, to have the generosity to follow," he said.
following a 30 August, 1999, UN By Stephen Steele sponsored referendum in which month of mourning con- the people voted for indepentinued in East Timor, with dence. Most of East Timor's infraChurch commemorations structure was destroyed by honouring those who died in last paramilitaries and retreating Indonesian troops. year's post-election violence. In Suai, Bishop Belo urged the In Maliana, near the border with West Timor, about 2,500 people people to remember their "obliggathered outside the former ation of building an independent Indonesian police station last Sat- East Timor." "The only way we can honour urday, 9 September, one year after a massacre of Timorese men, our martyrs is by rebuilding East women and children occurred Timor," he said. "We feel sad and we cry because we lost our loved there. In southwest Suai, some 10,000 ones. But remember that Jesus people gathered for Mass on has prepared a place for them.Wednesday, 7 September, cele- - In front of the outdoor altar prebrated by Bishop Carlos Filipe pared for the Mass was a monuXimenes Belo of Dili, East Timor, ment containing the names of 151 at the site of one of the most hor- people killed in the church comrific massacres in the country's pound last year. history. Church officials stressed that Father Sancho Amaral, who cel- these were only the victims idenebrated the Mass in Wilma, said tified: The death toll is believed to those who were murdered in last be much higher, with many of the year's violence resembled Christ victims remaining unaccounted on the cross. for. "The people who died here are Among those killed were the martyrs. They prepared the way pastor, Father Hilario Madeira, for us, for our independence, just and two assistants, Father Franthe way Christ died on the cross cisco Soares. and Jesuit Father for our freedom," he said. Tarcistus Dewanto. Father ArnarEast Timor descended into vio- al's sister was killed at Suai. lence and anarchy in the weeks The shadow of the facade of the
A
in West Timor in starvation danger
MALIAN& East Timor (CNS) stocks are definitely there," he - The 120,000 refugees in said. Meanwhile, UN staff and squalid refugee camps in West Timor were in danger of star- humanitarian aid agencies vation and serious illness after were girding for the possibility all humanitarian aid organisa- of a mass influx of refugees tions suspended operations fol- back into East Timor in the lowing the killings of three UN wake of recent violence. In Maliana, near West aid workers, Catholic aid agenTimor's border, an emergency cies said. "Everyone has suspended meeting was held last Saturoperations. There are no relief day, 9 September, to discuss operations in West Timor," said what one aid worker called a Michael Frank, Catholic Relief "logistical nightmare." CRS evacuated its three interServices country representanational staff members from tive for Indonesia. CRS is the US bishops' inter- Kupang, West Timor, on national relief and develop- Wednesday, 6 September, the day three UN staff were killed ment agency. going to i n a mob attack in Atambua. definitely is "There Children are among the 8,000 displaced East Moorese held at the Atapukan Another 27 CRS local staff be a food problem there," he Photo: CNS/Reuters refugee camp in West Timor. members in Atambua were said. unfinished new church, where and daughters, dressed in black, Mr Frank said there had been evacuated by convoy to Batuthe majority of victims were shot clutched photos of their loved no food distribution in the gade in East Timor, where they and hacked with machetes, cast ones and wailed as Bishop Belo refugee camps for more than were flown to Dili, East Timor, down upon the mourners. Signs paused in prayer before offering six weeks as threats against in a UN helicopter, Mr Frank marked where the priests and his blessing. humanitarian aid workers by said. The bishop then walked to the pro-Indonesia militia groups others were killed, where their He said threats had been bodies were burned, and where a site where the priests were intensified. made against CRS staff in the pile of victims' clothes were gunned down. "There are food stocks avail- days leading to the evacuation, found. Most of the church compound, able. But whether the Indone- with militias gathering outside A makeshift memorial was set including several school build- sian military is capable or the CRS office in Atambua on up at the site where the bodies ings, was destroyed by militias. willing to get them out is any- the Wednesday. Continued on Page 15 were burned. Widows, mothers body's guess. But the food "The militias were going
door-to-door asking where the leaders of the NGOs (non-government organisations) were. They were looking for international staff, no matter where they could find them. They then started looking for top national staff. We evacuated any national staff who felt threatened," he said. CRS had been providing food for about 60,000 people residing in more than 100 refugee camps in West Timor. Jesuit Refugee Services, which provided non-food aid and pastoral care in refugee camps in Atambua, Betun and Kupang, had also suspended operations, said Vanessa Von Schoon, Jesuit Refugee Services human rights officer. "Right now the refugees have very little support," she said. "It's in our best interests to return to the camps as soon as possible and find the long-term solution so that those who want to return to East Timor can do so safely, and those who wish to repatriate to Indonesia can do so safely."
The Record, September 14 2000 Page 9
Features and Book Review
A case for the defence With Mary Busher, Perth Catholic Church Archives volunteer
Excerpts from the WA Catholic Record 15 September, 1900.
Gaelic brethren A big farewell dinner was held to honour Mr M Clifford on his retirement from the Australia Hotel, of Murray Street. Perth. Tribute was paid to Irishborn Mr Clifford for his generosity to all appeals for aid for Ireland. Speakers included Mr j P Doheny. Responding to a toast to Ireland he said: "an Irishman had an ineradicable love for his native land. "There was a great similarity between the emigration of the Scotch and the Irish. "It arose from the same source - from the harshness of the landlord. "The Englishman left home under different circumstances and did not have the same affection for his native place."
Northam church Catholics at Northam are raising funds to build a new church to accommodate large numbers of the faithful. The Record report noted that tile small existing church, built during the time Canon Martel11 was resident at Northam, was venerated In memory of its illustrious founder, but was no longer adequate for the needs of the area.
A priest's sulky At a special function at the Malcolm Hotel, Malcolm, Rev Father O'Malley was presented with a horse and sulky. The Record's report noted all denominations attended and the Rev. Mr Nesbit of the Anglican Church was chairman. Presenting a cheque for 60 pounds. the cost of the horse and sulky. Mr Nesbit praised Fr O'Malley for his efforts to be at the bedside of the sick and dying and other calls on his priestly duties. Thanking his benefactors, Fr O'Malley said the invaluable gift would always remind him of the abundant gratitude of the people of Mount Malcolm. Leonora and Sons of Gwalia.
When financial disaster strikes her f amily, what future does she face?
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A Meddling Priest: Joseph John Therry By John McSweeney PE RRP: $19.95 Reviewed by Anthony Barich
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Meddling Priest is a positive insight into the life of the priest credited with having laid the foundations of the Catholic Church in Australia. The writer reels the reader in with stories of Therry's amazing acts of compassion in being the only friend of the first convicts headed for Australia. Therry's compassion for convicts was first seen when he was doing an errand in Cork city as secretary for the Bishop of Cork and people's attention was drawn to a group of British soldiers leading a large number of men in chains. Upon being told they were to be transported to Botany Bay, Therry rushed to the nearest store and bought all the medals and prayer books he could find, and threw them to the men with the promise that he would follow them to the Antipodes. In the words of Fr McSweeney, Therry "combined strength of character with a total commitment to justice and fair play" in a colony where the vision of Christianity was blurred by politics. The Governor of the day, Lachlan Macquarie. seemed intent on keeping Anglicanism the main religion simply because it was the familiar system from England. Convicts went to great pains to contact Therry at desperate times. day, once in Sydney Town and the Including when they were des- other 25 kilometres away, either tined for the executioner's block. In Parramatta or Liverpool. at least Fr McSweeney keeps the reader a two-hour trek on a good horse. entertained with stories about the Mass was always followed by priest spending the majority of religious instruction for adults each day on the saddle. and children. fie said Mass twice every SunTo visit jails, hospitals, convict
17';gr
ohn Joseph Therrytin°' road gangs and dying convicts, he covered a radius of over 300Iun. According to Fr McSweeney, Christianity spread throughout colonial Australia simply from Fr Therry's reputation and example. On one occasion, escaped convicts who had become
bushrangers intercepted one of Fr Therry's many expeditions south of Campbelltown. As soon as his identity was discovered, they released him at once, with expressions of regret for having delayed him. Subsequently in his journey through the bush, it became a tradition that Fr Therry should not be touched, but treated with courtesy and respect. "Primitive though it was, the 'Bush Telegraph' carried far and wide his reputation as 'the friend of the convicts'," Fr McSweeney writes. In tales of Therry building churches throughout the colony, including building what was to be St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney, the author builds a fair case for the priest's acquittal as a trouble maker as, Fr McSweeney says, many historians have alleged, and even advocates that he be considered for canonisation. Fr Therry's confrontations with bishops are told in fairness to both parties, albeit on occasion patronisingly as far as the understandably "stressed out" Church leaders are concerned. In doing so the author admits that there were bound to be strained relations between clergymen when first establishing a Church community. "In the rather unique and difficult circumstances then obtaining in New Holland and Van Diemen's Land .... when dealing with strong-minded priests like Therry, hitherto-unnoticed episcopal weaknesses can be exposed," Fr McSweeney observes. He admits to being biased in Fr Therry's favour, but this factor does not detract from the fact that this is a read well worth the while for anyone interested in the adventures of a pioneering priest in New Holland.
Flight from marriage to unusual sanctity Lye bri e4list 2000 J
ohn of God was born John Ciudad, in Portugal in 1495. He felt the pull of religious I e very early, leaving home at the age of eight because he Perth historian Dr Jennifer Skerritt sheds believed that works of charity some light on Catholic history to mark 2000 awaited him in Madrid. years of Christianity. This week: He had only gone about 96 'ans. which is a lot further than most St John of God 1495-1550 eight-years-olds running away from home get, when he fainted had joined the Franciscans. support of Bishop Sebastian and was found by a local farmer. From this time, he completely Ramirez, wealthy patrons The farmer took him in and devoted himself to a religious life. enabled him to establish a propemployed him as a shepherd. He was inspired by some of the er hospital. As he grew older, his employer. sermons of the Spanish mystic, Bishop Ramirez named him who had come to trust him, made St John of Avila, and sought him John of God, and gave him and him manager of the entire farm. out. John of Avila became his his followers their habit. and then offered him his daugh- spiritual adviser. They formed the basis of the ter in marriage. John of God wandered around Order of Charity, an organisation At this prospect, John took Spain, selling religious images, of nursing brothers. flight, and enlisted in the army to in order to make conversions. When John of God died in 1550. fight the French. By the time he reached Granahe was succeeded by one of his Despite his very promising start da in Southern Spain, everything companions, Antonio Matino. in childhood, military life had become a bit much and he The rule for his order, which destroyed his piety. went mad. He was imprisoned and was posthumously drafted, was Following some serious which seems to have approved in 1586 by Sixtus V. as flogged, offences. and narrowly escaping the Brothers of St John of God, or hanging, he was discharged from been effective (nevertheless, flogthe Hospitaller Order of St John as a ging is no practised longer the army. of God. He attributed his reprieve from part of psychiatric treatment!). It spread rapidly through Spain. After his recovery, in 1537 he the hangman to the Virgin's interbecome his as subsequent houses were richbegan what was to vention and resolved to return to ly endowed by the King, Philip II life's work in Granada. his former faithfulness. He collected and cared for the - an early form of State-subThus inspired, he went to Hun- abandoned sick of the town in sidised health-care. gary to fight the Turks. Pope Alexander VIII canonised his own hovel. When his regiment was disHe was encouraged by appari- John of God in 1690; he was banded. he decided to return to tions of Jesus and aided by the declared patron of Hospitals and his parents' village, where he dis- appearance of angels, who gave the sick in 1886. covered that his mother had died him practical assistance. His symbol, a pomegranate, is shortly after his departure, and He gradually attracted helpers used at St John of God hospitals his father, who was also dead, of the human kind, and with the in Western Australia.
The Record, September 14 2000- Pagel°
A stained glass representation of St John of God.
On the Unicity and Salvific Universality of Jesus Christ and the Church
Despite reaction, latest Problems posed for Asians. document 'is a service' bishop By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The recent Vatican document on salvation and interreligious dialogue drew yet another boundary line across an area of troubled theological and pastoral terrain in the Church. This particular demarcation set aside a so-called "ideology of dialogue" found in certain theological circles and among Catholics In general, which in the Vatican's view tries too hard to find interreligious common ground and does too little to proclaim the unique and universal salvation offered through the Church. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which issued the latest declaration in early September, has published a number of similar documents in recent years, on such topics as papal primacy, the authority of bishops' conferences, women's ordination and the limits of dissent. Other Vatican agencies have offered
texts clarifying Church positions on divorced and remarried Catholics, liturgical questions and procreation issues. Most of these documents have offered no new teaching, but emphasised existing positions as "definitive" and therefore no longer open to argument. The texts share a strongly corrective tone. In the view of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the three other doctrinal congregation officials who joined him at a press conference on 5 September, these teachings are not reformable. Putting that fact into clearer focus, they say, is simply an act of "service" necessary for the universal Church to stay on its true course. Is the aim to cut off theological discussion of these topics? Not exactly, say the officials. 'The theological debate remains open. The roads that were leading to
work in the field of interreligious dialogue, and among pastors in places like Asia where the Church's missionary goals are already treated with suspicion. Although some of the strongest initial criticism of the document came from other Christian churches in Europe, the Vatican text was aimed more at the Far East. In recent synods covering Asia and Oceania, Vatican officials have suggested evangelisation in these continents is proceeding too slowly, in part because of interreCa'hohc A Lutheran pastor and a Catholic nun ligious sensitivity. The roots of the latest document lead an ecumenical prayer service at the Christ Pavilion at Expo 2000 in go back to 1996, when Cardinal Hanover, Germany, recently. Ratzinger's congregation held a blind alleys have been closed," special meeting with India's bishsaid Salesian Father Angelo ops. One big agenda item was the Amato, a theologian who helped Vatican's complaint that Indian prepare the latest Vatican decla- theologians and pastors were ration. The effect of the latest doc- watering down Catholic beliefs in ument is likely to be felt most order not to offend the non-Chrisstrongly among theologians who tian majority.
Confusion is reason for letter: Archbishop By John Norton
wyricAN CITY (CNS) - Theological confusion. midue emphasis on social justice and a "live and let live" attitude among some minority Catholic communities prompted a Vatican document stressing the universal validity of Christ and the Church, a top missionary official said. Archbishop Marcell° Zago, secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, said the Vatican was concerned that some theologians - "especially in certain sectors of Asia" - had cast doubt on evangelisation and seeking converts from other religions. In an interview with Fides, the congregation's news service, the Archbishop said "one cannot deny Christ's command to go to all peoples," even in environments of serious religious tension. The Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith issued a document on 5 Septem-
her condemning the notion that "one religion Some theologians "have fallen into the danis as good as another." ger" of watering down Christianity's claims The 36-page declaration. titled "Dominus about Christ and his Church in the interest of lesus: On the Unicity and Salvific Universali- living peacefully alongside other religious ty of Jesus Christ and the Church," said folbelievers, he said. lowers of other religions were "in a gravely deficient situation" with regard to achieving Others have focused instead on social justice salvation. concerns, losing the "balance to see that the Archbishop Zago, a missionary in Laos in centre of all action is to live the Gospel of the 1970s, acknowledged that the Catholic Church's defence of universal truth proved a Jesus Christ and announce Him to others," he challenge in Asia, where "there is an undeni- said. able religious pluralism." He said that while Catholic theological rela"In addition, this constant comparison tivism was of special concern in India, "these between religions leads to an exacerbated fundamentalism, because the religions see ideas are by now found just about everywhere, (the Catholic Church) as the propagator of a even in the United States and Europe." message, see conversions and this is not The intention of the Vatican document, he accepted," he said. said, was to not only recall certain theological "In India. Indonesia, in countries with a Muslim majority," there is an attempt "to prevent principles "forgotten" in particular regions, the Church from proclaiming the Gospel and "but to go to the heart of the faith and of what it means to be Christians anywhere." he said. producing conversions." he said.
WCC warns Doors opened, not closed: Jesuit of damage GENEVA (CNS) - The World Council of Churches warned of potential damage to ecumenical dialogue following the release of a Vatican document emphasising the Catholic Church's pre-eminent status among Christian denominations. "What a tragedy" if the witness of joint Christian cooperation "were obscured by the churches' dialogues about their relative authority and status - however important they may be," the world council said in a statement. The WCC said it would have hoped for "an acknowledgment of the many positive developments" in ecumenical dialogue and cooperation over the past 100 years. The group said the Catholic Church is a "recent entry" to the ecumenical movement, and the Vatican statement could potentially damage ongoing "sensitive conversations" about the relationships of the churches to one another.
HONG KONG (UCAN) - Theologians in Asia must do more research on how people of all religions are saved through Jesus Christ, an issue raised in the recently issued Vatican declaration "Dominus lesus," an official of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences Office said. Jesuit Father Thomas Michel of the FABC Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs told UCA News on 7 September that the document seems to tell the Church in Asia to continue their efforts on interreligious dialogue. The "Declaration Dominus lesus: On the Unicity and the
Salvific Universality of Jesus life-relationship with God." This, Christ and the Church" seems to he said, recognises that the myscall for more theological research tery of salvation expressed in on the subject, said Father Michel, other religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and TaoOEIA ecumenical secretary. Father Michel said it contains ism, is somehow connected with many good points that encourage the mystery of Christ. "But how can this be? The docdialogue with other Christian faiths and other religions, ument never answers," observed although some negative interpre- the Jesuit priest, an expert on tations might surface if the docu- Islam who served as a missioner in Indonesia and elsewhere in ment is read superficially. He noted that the document says Asia. The text, he added, calls for the "inspired values of the sacred more reflection but does not prewritings of other religions" may tend to have resolved this probbe "de facto instruments" by lem. In Father Michel's view, the which countless people are able Church is not closing but opening "to nourish and maintain their the door for more study.
British Christian leaders disappointed MANCHESIER, England (CNS) - Christian leaders in Britain expressed disappointment at the Vatican document stressing the necessity of the Catholic Church for salvation, but said their commitment to ecumenical efforts remains unchanged. Anglican Archbishop George Carey of Canterbury, head of the worldwide Anglican Communion, said the document "breaks no new ground." but added that it
failed to reflect fully the deeper understanding that had been achieved through ecumenical dialogue and cooperation during the past 30 years. For the Methodist Church, ecumenical officer the Reverend Peter Sulston told CNS on 5 September that there was "nothing surprising" in the new document. "We were not surprised because we knew what Catholic teaching was, we were, however,.Et
disappointed by the tone of the document. "We do not feel that relationships between Methodists and the Roman Catholic Church will be damaged by this and it will not affect the work that has been going on over the last 20 to 30 years," he said. Catholic Archbishop Cormac Murphy-O'Connor of Westminster said the document does not attempt to change Church teaching regarding ocumenism.
MANILA (UCAN) - A Philippine bishop and priest who were at the Synod for Asia say the recent Vatican declaration on Jesus' role as Saviour presents tensions and problems while reminding Catholics of the basics of their faith. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines presented "Dominus lesus: On the Unicity and the Salvific Universality of Jesus Christ and the Church" at a 5 September press conference in Manila around the time it was issued at the Vatican by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF). Jesuit Bishop Francisco Claver of Bontoc-Lagawe told UC.A News that reading through the declaration evoked memories of the AprilMay 1998 Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for Asia at the Vatican. "Most of us Asian bishops were concerned not about the 'what' but about the 'how' of preaching the Gospel in Asia to Asians. 'Dominus lesus' (Lord Jesus), I'm afraid, is too concerned with the former." Bishop Claver said on 7 September. He said the document "reminds us forcefully of what we are to believe as Christians and as Catholics." but also poses problems for Catholics in Asia. "It seems to resuscitate something that we associate with the pre-Vatican II Church and that we have tried to avoid in our preaching: a triumphalism that we thought was a thing of the past." the Bishop wrote in his statement. "Among the proud religious traditions and ancient civilisations as we have in Asia, this approach is deadly," Bishop Claver said. He added that he suspects triumphalism "is one reason for the Church's failure to get a real toehold in Asia" and is behind Asian bishops' concern with how to make Christ acceptable to Asians. Father Luis Antonio Tagle, a member of the Vatican's International Theological CORWINsion, told reporters in Manila that the CDF published "Dominus lesus" amid a "very lively debate" regarding the relationship of Christianity to other religions. Father Tagle said, "In the process of trying to respond to debate, some people even within the Church tend to argue that all religions can be considered equally valid ways to salvation." He said some theories have also "relativised" Jesus in order to respond to the issue of religious pluralism. In the context of "new issues and a lively debate," he explained. the CDF wanted to return to the basic question: "What should a Catholic hold on to?" Bishop Claver called the hulk of current theological exploration among scholars in Asia "honest efforts at bringing about a more inculturated faith." Such faith is "a must for us in Asia." the bishop stressed.
• The Recoed.Septernbet 14 2000 Page 11
International News
US churches urge sharing Jerusalem WASHINGTON (CNS) - Leaders of US Christian churches, including the head of the Catholic bishops' conference, have urged President Clinton to promote a sharing of Jerusalem between Israelis and Palestinians and among the Jews, Muslims and Christians who consider the city sacred. In a joint letter on 6 September, the 15 leaders wrote: "The churches' campaign to promote the principle of sharing Jerusalem between the two peoples and three religions is based on our steadfast commitment to an equitable solution for Jerusalem that respects the human and political rights of Israelis and Palestinians as well as the three religious communities. The churches' interest extends to the living communities of believers as well as to the holy sites." The leaders sent the letter to the White House just hours before the US President met in New York with Ehud Barak, Israeli Prime Minister, and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat during the UN's millennium summit of world leaders. However, the Clinton meetings, intended to save the progress
made recently during Middle East peace talks at Camp David, achieved "no breakthrough," according to a White House spokesman. Catholic signers of the letter were Bishop Joseph Fiorenza of Galveston-Houston, president of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Marianist Brother Stephen Glodek, president of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men. In the letter, the church leaders said they remained committed to certain perspectives and principles. They said "Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem is illegal according to international law;" any enduring solution must be endorsed by Israel, the PLO and the international community. They said US congressional efforts to move the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem before an agreement is finalised are "destructive" and "extremely provocative." The current closure of Jerusalem to Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza, unless they get a permit from Israel, is "totally unacceptable and discriminato-
Care for environment helps religious life: Berry By Tracy Early
NEW YORK (CNS) - Passionist Father Thomas Berry told leaders of the world's religions gathered in New York that they must care for the environment not only for the sake of the physical welfare of human beings but also for their religious life. "The outer world and the inner world are a single world," he said. Human souls depend for their development on the outer world, and damage to the outer means damage to the inner, he said. He also observed that "humans have not treated the planet Earth with proper consideration or with proper tenderness." Father Berry, ordained in 1942 and now living in retirement in Bishop Joseph Fiorenza Greensboro, North Carolina, is ry," they said. They also said the widely recognised as a pioneer expansion of Israeli settlements among those who have sought to on Palestinian lands in and near connect ecology with spirituality. Jerusalem remains distressing. He was the first speaker at the • Christian leaders met with final session of the Millennium Israeli Minister of Internal Secu- World Peace Summit for Relirity Shlomo Ben Ami to voice their gious and Spiritual Leaders. The concerns over the future of the event was held from 28-29 August holy places in Jerusalem, main- at the United Nations and then taining freedom of access to them moved to the Waldorf-Astoria and freedom of worship. Hotel for two concluding days. The leaders felt it was necessary Among other Catholics heard to reiterate their position, said a during the four days was Cardinal spokesman for the Latin Patriar- Francis Arinze, president of the chate of the 11 September meet- Pontifical Council for Interreliing. gious Dialogue, who also read a
message from Pope John Paul 11. The primary focus of the summit, which brought distinguished leaders from all the major religious traditions from around the world, was on peace, and particularly efforts to avoid giving religious sanction to violence. But speakers also dealt with many other issues they saw related to the primary theme, including such causes as poverty and rights of indigenous peoples as well as the environment. Father Berry told the religious leaders that "our sense of the divine depends on images from the outer world." He compared the religious sense to the poetic, which he noted also depends on using images from the natural world to express emotion. Drawing another connection of ecology and spirituality, Father Berry spoke of the value and beauty of the different forms of life, and said there was similarly positive value in the differences in religious life. During the four days of the summit, participants heard speakers ranging from Billy Graham's daughter, Anne Graham Lotz, to the high priest of a Shinto shrine to a granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi. Hindu, Jew and Muslim representatives also participated.
A sian Catholic News
Hundreds pay respects Moluccas: 'outside manipulation' on Mother's anniversary CALCUTTA, India (CNS) Hundreds of people paid their respects at Mother Teresa's tomb in Calcutta on 5 September, the third anniversary of her death. Nuns, priests and visitors crowded the long room and packed even the cement courtyard outside the tomb during the 5 September religious services which began with a 6am Mass, reported UCA News, an Asian church news agency based in Thailand. The Missionaries of Charity nuns organised prayer services for the occasion that was to continue until 13 September. Visitors included elderly, young, blind and lame people. Hindus, Muslims and Christians prayed at the tomb for peace and harmony, and read from their respective scriptures. Archbishop Henry D'Souza of Calcutta, who celebrated the Mass, said the late rum had two
messages. the first of which was to bring love to the home, then family, neighbourhood. country and world. The second was that holiness is doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways, he said. Sister Nirmala Josh', successor of Mother Teresa as superior of the Missionaries of Charity. urged those assembled to keep Mother Teresa's memory alive by practicing values she taught. "Help the needy with the spirit of service and love of Mother Teresa, especially toward suffering, unloved people and poorest of the poor." she said. Sister Nirmala denied that fewer people are joining the congregation now. "We have many vocations but (want) more," she said, adding that their first house in Jerusalem, the 52nd after Mother Teresa's death. was opened on 5 September. Asked if they would open a home in China as Mother Teresa had wished, Sister Nirmala said, "That's Mother's job." MC sources said there are 4,000 nuns, including contemplative nuns, 19 priests, 370 brothers and hundreds of volunteers working in 646 MC houses in 124 countries. • The chief minister of the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has called on Hindu fundamentalists to imitate Mother Teresa and to stop attacking Christians. Jyoti Base, a Communist who has been the state's chief minister since 197Z told a gathering to honour the late nun in Calcutta. imotc civs PP Missionaries of Charily pray on 5 the state capital, that the counSeptember during a special Mass try's progress will come to a stop on the third anniversary of Mother if attacks on Christians continTeresa's death in Calcutta. ue. The Record, September 14 2000 Page 12
MAUMERE, Indonesia (UCAN) - Outside manipulation and partiality among Indonesia's military have prolonged the ChristianMuslim conflict in the Maluku islands, Church observers say. Speaking before some 2,000 participants at a seminar, Father Agus Ulahaiyanan of Amboina diocese said the protracted conflict in Maluku is not purely a sectarian conflict and has been mated by certain groups for their political interests. "There is strong indication that the mastermind of the conflict is a professional who lives outside Maluku but has accomplices spread in Maluku and other regions," said the head of the Amboina diocese Crisis Centre. The seminar was held from 2526 August in Maumere, some 1,685 kilometres east of Jakarta.
Jakarta-based Lembaga Lintas Timur (Go East Institute), East
Nusa Tenggara provincial govern- tity, the youth are unknowingly ment, and Ledalero's School of provoked, and led to express their Philosophy and Theology jointly anger by burning buildings and organised the seminar on the attacking and killing perceived theme "Defence and Peace Con- enemies in violent ways, Father solidation for Eastern Indonesia." Ulahaiyanan noted. Father Ulahaiyanan said in his Aside from youths. "there are presentation that the mastermind indications that some military was using the army in particular. personnel, especially from the and Muslim and Christian mili- army, are involved," he added. tants. Retired army Major General Theo "Such an engineered and well- Syafei said he agrees that the conorganised conflict is a big crime flict in Maluku has been worsthat must be handled in a legal ened by the partiality of some way," said the Malukan priest. members of the military. He lamented the involvement of "In this country, once the miliyouth in the conflict which has tary is involved, a small case will claimed thousands of lives and become terribly big," he added. led to losses worth billions of rupiSyafei, a Protestant and House ah since 19 January 1999. member from Partai Demokrasi "The youth are the ones mostly Indonesia Perjuangan (PDIP, involved. Most of them live under Indonesian democratic party of pressure and frustration, and struggle), also said the conflict in rebel against their parents, teach- Maluku was triggered by the ers and government," the priest interference of parties outside said. In their search for self-iden- Maluku.
Staines suspects' trial set
BERHAMPUR, India (UCAN) - Manoharpur tribals, and his two A court in the eastern Indian state sons were burned to death inside of Orissa has set a date to try 14 their vehicle in January 1999. people accused of killing an AusAt the court session on 4 Septralian missioner and his two sons tember in Orissa's Khurda town, some 20 months ago. the judge rejected the defence Sessions Judge Mohendro Nath counsel's plea that Singh and his Patnaik charged Ravindra Kumar associate Umakanta Bhoi were Pal, known among Orissa state's not involved in the crime and tribals as Dare Singh, and others should be set free. The CBI told the court that sevon 4 September for murder, conspiracy and arson, and fixed 1 eral witnesses implicated the two December as opening date for the men in the incident that hit intertrial. national headlines, forcing the According to the Central Bureau federal government to send a minof Investigation (CBI), Singh mas- isterial team and a Supreme terminded the torching of Gra- Court judge to probe the case. The federal probe teams exonham Stuart Staines, 58, an Evangelical missioner, and his erated Hindu right-wing groups sons, 9 and 7, at Manoharpur vil- of the crime, but indicated Singh's lage in Orissa's Keonjhar district. involvement. Police blame Singh Staines, who ran a leprosy hos- for torching a Muslim trader and pital in Orissa's Mayurbhanj dis- killing Father Arul Doss of Balatrict and worked among sore diocese in 1999.
Cardinal to visit China VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The Vatican announced that a top Vatican official would visit China in mid-September. but stressed that the visit was strictly personal and not diplomatic. Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, president of the Vatican's jubilee committee, was to attend a 14-16 September Beijing symposium on "religions and peace" hosted by the government's Academy for Social Sciences and organised by a Chinese-Italian cultural association. The Vatican said that "the cardinal participates in a personal, not diplomatic, capacitY•
International News
Church backs parents on Siamese twins By Paulinus Barnes MANCHESI ER, England (CNS) - The Catholic parents of Siamese twins, not a court of law, should determine whether they should be separated in an attempt to save at least one of their lives, said British Church officials. The parents were awaiting a ruling from Britain's Court of Appeal on the fate of their daughters, who were born on 8 August in Manchester. The parents hoped that the appeal court would overturn a 25 August High Court ruling which gave doctors permission to operate and separate the twins in an operation that would let one twin live but almost certainly kill her sister. The appeal court asked on 5 September for another medical opinion on the girls' condition. In their submission to the initial court hearing, the girls' parents said they could not contemplate
the death of one of their babies. The girls - named as Jodie and Mary to protect their real identities - are joined at the lower abdomen and have only one working heart and pair of lungs between them. "We have very strong feelings that neither of our children should receive any medical treatment. We certainly do not want separation surgery to go ahead, as we know and have been told very clearly that it will result in the death of our daughter, Mary," they said. In a radio interview on 4 September, Archbishop Cormac Murphy-O'Connor of Westminster, said, 'The parents have made it clear that they love both their children equally and cannot consent to one of them being killed to help the other. I believe this moral instinct is right." The Archbishop said that he supported the decision which the parents had made, against any
medical treatment for the twins, in a "tragic and heartrending" case. It would only be right for the court to overrule the rights of parents, he said, when there was clear evidence that the parents were not acting in their children's best interests and wished them harm. "In this case the parents have
simply adopted the position they felt was consistent with their conscience and with their love for both children," said the archbishop. Bishop Terence Brain of Salford, whose diocese covers St Mary's Hospital where the twins were born, said: "The parents are the ones responsible for these children, not the court. In the law we recognise that the primary responsibility for children lies with the parents." The Guild of Catholic Doctors said in a statement that the High Court's decision was flawed. "We believe that the parental bond, expressing truly altruistic love, is better at discerning the best interests of these babies, and we feel that in these circumstances it was wrong for the medical team to seek court approval to override the parents' wishes," it said. The family came to England for specialist medical help with the birth of the twins.
mitment are an invitation to courage and generosity for all of society, in order that this gift be ever greater valued, promoted and legally supported," he said. The jubilee was organised by the Missionaries of Charity on the third anniversary of the death of their founder, Mother Teresa. Most of the participating families were Italian and had adopted children from India and Romania. The Pope said adoptive families provide a valuable witness in the face of self-centred "contradictions" found in modern society.
He noted that some couples decide not to have children for selfish reasons or are discouraged by economic, social or bureaucratic obstacles. Meanwhile, he said, other couples want a biological child so badly that they turn to "morally reprehensible practices" in medical science, an apparent reference to artificial insemination. The Pope said that adopting children and treating them as one's own "means recognising that the relationship between parents and children is not measured solely by genetic parameters."
Based on gift of self, the relationship between adopted children and parents "is so intimate and lasting that it is not at all inferior" to the relationship between biological children and their parents, he said. The Pope said Mother Teresa lived her religious title with "a special intensity," becoming a true mother to the poor whom she ministered. "A mother is recognised by the capacity to give of self," he said. "She never tired of 'adopting' her poor as children."
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CNS/Reuters
Archbishop Cormac Murphy-O'Connor
Pontiff praises the courage of adopting parents By John Norton VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II praised the adoption of children as a courageous "work of love" and said adoptive families offer a valuable witness to society. "The existence itself of so many children without families suggests adoption as a concrete way of love." he told some 7.000 participants of the Jubilee for Adoptive Families in St Peter's Basilica on 5 September. "Your decision and your corn-
Believers: Freed Bishop Misago thanks Pope and all no war call who prayed for him during jail hell By Cindy Wooden \ ;WIGAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II said it is "bitterly ironic" that some of the world's worst conflicts pit worshippers of the same God Christians, Muslims and Jews - against one another. True believers must "agree once and for all that recourse to violence in the name of religion is completely unacceptable," the Pope told Egypt's new ambassador to the Vatican, Farouk Hussein Raafat. In a message marking the ambassador's official arrival on 7 September, Pope John Paul praised Egyptians for their commitment to interreligious harmony and the Egyptian government for its efforts to promote peace in the Middle East. Although some progress has been made in the peace talks. the Pope said, "these are arduous days in the long and difficult path toward a solution of the many still unresolved problems affecting that deeply unsettled region." The formal peace process broke down in July following US-brokered talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders on the status of Jerusalem and other key Issues.
By John Norton
VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II met with Rwandan Bishop Augustin Misago of Gikongoro, who was acquitted in June of involvement in his country's 1994 genocide. The Vatican's press office provided no details of the 8 September meeting, but the Bishop had said he intended to visit and personally thank the pontiff for his moral support. Fides, the Vatican's missionary news service, said Bishop Misago had been in Europe seeking medical treatment and met with the Pope before returning to his diocese. The 57-year-old Bishop has a heart condition which he said worsened during his 14-month Imprisonment in Rwanda. He told Fides that "many friends here in Europe" have tried to convince him not to rettum to his diocese because of continuing danger. "ButImu,st go back," he told the news service on 1 September. "I did not run away when they accused me of being a criminal; how could I keep away now that I have been declared innocent?" Pope John Paul sent a telegram of support in May, while the Bishop was still in prison, promising prayers from the whole Church for his freedom. Bishop Misago told Fides he was
They are currently appealing the sentences. More than 500,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus died between April and July 1994 in a killing spree, led by an extremist Hutu government, that erupted after a plane carrying Rwanda's Hutu president was shot down. In his interview the Bishop said he was hoping to return to Rwanda on 16 September. He said he would still face danger after his return. "Difficulties lie ahead certainly but I am ready to face them. The Bishop Augustin Misago arrest, prison, the request for the very grateful to the Pope for death penalty show that someone universal wants to be rid of me." the "mobilising" Meanwhile, he added, "Some Church on his behalf. He said the worst moment in might begin to question my innoprison came when he fell seri- cence if! fail to return." Most importantly, he said. ously ill. "At the beginning of Holy Week! had a heart attack and was "There are my people. The peounable to breath properly," he ple of Gikongoro have always given me support and they are said. "I imagined I would die alone, waiting for me now. He said that among the "terrible unassisted there in prison." But he said he was treated rela- moments" of his ordeal were tively well, compared to many of when "the President accused me publicly and unjustly of genocide the other prisoners. "If they did this to a Bishop, I [in 19991. His accusations threw dread to think what will happen me at the mercy of the angry peoto all the others who are unknown ple." to the general public," he said. "Another bad moment was Bishop Misago was the highest- when I was arrested, it was so ranking Catholic cleric to be unexpected.Iwas afraid too when accused of participating in the the trial began:Ihad no idea what genocide. to say or how to behave.I had no Two priests have already been experience of law courts and the convicted and sentenced to death. procedure was frightening."
In Brief Helpers are being felt BROOKLYN, N.Y. (CNS) There are now more than 70 bishops who have held prayer services outside abortion clinics around the world, says Mgr Philip Reilly, founder of the Helpers of God's Precious Infants, who pray at the sites of abortion in Brooklyn and Queens. Just back from a tour of Europe. where he helped establish Helpers groups, Mgr Reilly said. "We are having an impact around the world." Among the bishops who have held vigils at abortion clinics in recent weeks were Cardinal William Keeler in Baltimore, Archbishop Elden Curtiss in Omaha. Nebraska, and Bishop Gerald Barbarito in Ogdensburg, New York. Mgr Reilly spoke after accompanying Brooklyn Bishop Thomas Daily on 26 August at a prayer service outside the Brooklyn Ambulatory Services in Sunset Park Most of the taunting was aimed personally at Bishop Daily, who did not acknowledge the protest but kept his head bowed in prayer as he led the Rosary.
New Benedictine ROME (CNS) - Benedictines meeting in Rome elected German Abbot Notker Wolf as the new Abbot Primate of the Benedictine Confederation. Until his election on 7 September, Abbot Notker, 60, served as the head of the Benedictine Congregation of St Ottilien, Germany. He succeeds US Abbot Marcel Rooney. who stepped down for health reasons 4 September, midway through his eight-year term. About 260 abbots from around the world gathered at the St Anselm Benedictine community in Rome for the 412 September Benedictine Confederation congress, held every four years. Pope John Paul II met with participants on 8 September and praised them for dedicating themselves to the "primacy of the inner being." Calling Benedictines "eloquent signs" of.the validity of monastic life for contemporary society, the Pope thanked outgoing Abbot Marcel for his work Prior to Abbot Notker's post as head of the Ottilien Congregation, where he oversaw more than 1,100 monks In 20 monasteries worldwide, he taught philosophy at St Anselm's.
Freedom danger WASHINGTON (CNS)-. Religious freedoms are in grave danger in several countries around the world, according to a US State Department report released on 5 September naming Sudan and China as among the world's worst offenders. "Much of the world's population lives in countries in which the right to religious freedom is restricted or prohibited," said the second annual report commissioned by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
The Record, September 14 2000 Page 13
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'Proclaim the Gospel to the whole world' The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith's Declaration "Dominus Jesus' on the Unicity and Salvific Universality of Jesus Christ and the Church' was made public on Tuesday, September 5. The 36-page document was published in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Polish and Latin. It bears the signatures of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and Archbishop Tarcisio Bertone SOB, respectively prefect and secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the faith. I n coming weeks, The Record will serialise the official Vatican English translation so "all the Catholic faithfur, to whom the declaration is addressed as well as bishops and theologians, may read the saving and liberating teaching for themselves.
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he Lord Jesus, before ascending into heaven, commanded his disciples to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world and to baptise all nations: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; he who does not believe will be condemned" (Mk 16:15-16); "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold,! am with you always, until the end of the world" (Mt 28:18-20; cf. Lk 24:46-48; in 17:18,20,21; Acts 1:8). The Church's universal mission is born from the command of Jesus Christ and is fulfilled in the course of the centuries in the proclamation of the mystery of God, Father. Son. and Holy Spirit, and the mystery of the incarnation of the Son, as saving event for all humanity. The fundamental contents of the profession of the Christian faith are expressed thus: Ibelieve in one God the Father. Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen." I " believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. "Through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. "For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. "On the third day he rose again In accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. "He will come again in glory to Judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. I " believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father. "With the Father and the Son he Is worshipped and glorified. "He has spoken through the prophets. I " believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I " acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I " look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. (1) n the course of the centuries, the Church has proclaimed and witnessed with fidelity to the Gospel of Jesus. At the close of the second mil-
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lennium, however, this mission is still far from complete. (2) For that reason, Saint Paul's words are now more relevant than ever. "Preaching the Gospel is not a reason for me to boast; it is a necessity laid on me: woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!" (1 Cor 9:16). This explains the Magisterium's particular attention to giving reasons for and supporting the evangelising mission of the Church, above all in connection with the religious traditions of the world. (3) In considering the values which these religions witness to and offer humanity, with an open and positive approach, the Second Vatican Council's Declaration on the relation of the Church to nonChristian religions states: "The Catholic Church rejects nothing of what is true and holy in these religions." "She has a high regard for the manner of life and conduct, the precepts and teachings, which, although differing in many ways from her own teaching, nonetheless often reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men". (4) Continuing in this line of thought, the Church's proclamation of Jesus Christ, "the way, the truth, and the life" On 14:8), today also makes use of the practice of inter-religious dialogue. Such dialogue certainly does not replace, but rather accompanies the missio ad gentes, directed toward that "mystery of unity", , ' nor° C,NSTne Natrona/ c,ariery or A rt samtpet II Kress ( from which "it follows that all men and women who are saved share. "The Lord Jesus, before ascending into heaven, commanded his disciples to though differently, in the same proclaim the Gospel to the whole world and to baptise all nations," the decmystery of salvation in Jesus laration teaches. Here, the Ascension of the Lord is depicted by 15th-century German artist Johann Koerbecke. Christ through his Spirit". (5) Inter-religious dialogue, which in order to reiterate certain truths tality the East; the of subjectivism is part of the Church's evangelis- that are part of the Church's faith. which, by regarding reason as the ing mission. (6) requires an attihe Church's constant mis- only source of knowledge, tude of understanding and a sionary proclamation is becomes incapable of raising its relationship of mutual knowledge endangered today by rela- "gaze to the heights, not daring to and reciprocal enrichment, in tivistic theories which seek to jus- rise to the truth of being"; (8) the obedience to the truth and with tify religious pluralism, not only difficulty in understanding and respect for freedom. (7) de facto but also de lure (or in accepting the presence of definin the practice of dialogue principle). tive and eschatological events in between the Christian faith the metaphysical emptyhistory; As a consequence, it is held that and other religious traditions, certain truths have been super- ing of the historical incarnation of as well as in seeking to under- seded; for example, the definitive the Eternal Logos, reduced to a stand its theoretical basis more mere appearing of God in histodeeply, new questions arise that and complete character of the rev- ry; the eclecticism of those who. elation of Jesus Christ, the nature need to be addressed through in theological research, uncritipursuing new paths of research, of Christian faith as compared cally absorb ideas from a variety advancing proposals, and sug- with that of belief in other reli- of philosophical and theological gesting ways of acting that call for gions, the inspired nature of the contexts without regard for conbooks of Sacred Scripture, the sistency, systematic connection, attentive discernment. In this task, the present Declara- personal unity between the Eter- or compatibility with Christian tion seeks to recall to Bishops, the- nal Word and Jesus of Nazareth, truth; finally, the tendency to read ologians, and all the Catholic the unity of the economy of the and to interpret Sacred Scripture faithful, certain indispensable ele- Incarnate Word and the Holy outside the nadition and Magisments of Christian doctrine, Spirit, the unicity and salvific uni- terium of the Church. which may help theological versality of the mystery of Jesus On the basis of such presupporeflection in developing solutions Christ, the universal salvific medi- sitions, which may evince differconsistent with the contents of the ation of the Church, the insepara- ent nuances, certain theological faith and responsive to the press- bility - while recognising the proposals are developed - at ing needs of contemporary cul- distinction - of the kingdom of times presented as assertions, and ture. God, the kingdom of Christ, and at times as hypotheses - in which The expository language of the the Church, and the subsistence Christian revelation and the mysDeclaration corresponds to its of the one Church of Christ in the tery of Jesus Christ and the Church lose their character of purpose, which is not to treat in a Catholic Church. systematic manner the question The roots of these problems are absolute truth and salvific uniof the unicity and salvific univer- to be found in certain presuppo- versality, or at least shadows of sality of the mystery of Jesus sitions of both a philosophical doubt and uncertainty are cast Christ and the Church, nor to pro- and theological nature, which hin- upon them. pose solutions to questions that der the understanding and accep- Next week: The fullness and definitiveness of the revelaare matters of free theological tance of the revealed truth. tion of Jesus Christ. debate, but rather to set forth Some of these can be menagain the doctrine of the Catholic tioned: the conviction of the eluFootnotes: faith in these areas, pointing out siveness and inexpressibility of (I) First Council of Constantinople, some fundamental questions that divine truth, even by Christian Symbolum Constantinopolitanum: DS remain open to further develop- revelation; relativistic attitudes 150. (2) Cf John Paul II, Encyclical Letter ment, and refuting specific posi- toward truth itself, according to tions that are erroneous or which what is true for some Redemptoris missio, 1: AAS 83 (1991). ambiguous. would not be true for others; the 249-340. (3) Cf Second Vatican Council, Decree For this reason, the Declaration radical opposition posited Adgentes andDeclaration Nostra aetate: takes up what has been taught in between the logical mentality of cf also Paul VI Apostolic Exhortation previous Magisterial documents, the West and the symbolic men- Evangelii nuntiandi: AAS 88 (1978), 5-76:
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The. Record, September 14 200G Page.14
'Some presuppositions of both a philosophical and theological nature, which hinder the understanding and acceptance of the revealed truth: • the conviction of the elusiveness and inexpressibility of divine truth, even by Christian revelation; • relativistic attitudes toward truth itself, according to which what is true for some would not be true for others; • the radical opposition posited between the logical mentality of the West and the symbolic mentality of the East • the subjectivism which, by regarding reason as the only source of knowledge, becomes incapable of raising its *gaze to the heights, not daring to rise to the truth of being'; (8) • the difficulty in understanding and accepting the presence of definitive and eschatological events in history; • the metaphysical emptying of the historical incarnation of the Eternal Logos, reduced to a mere appearing of God in history; • the eclecticism of those in who, theological research, uncritically absorb ideas from a variety of philosophical and theological contexts without regard for consistency, systematic connection, or compatibility with Christian truth; • finally, the tendency to read and to interpret Sacred Scripture outside the Tradition andMagisterium of the Church.' John Paul II, Encyclical Letter RedemptoHs missio. (5) Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue and the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, Instruction Dialogue and Proclamation, 29: AAS 84 (1992), 424: cf Second Vatican Council, Pastoral Constitution Gaudium et spas. 22.
(8) Cf John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Redemptaris missio, 55: AAS 83 (1991). 302-304. (7) Cf Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue and the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples. Instruction Dialogue and Proclamation. 9: AAS 84 (1992). 417ff (8) John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Fides et ratio, 5: AAS 91 (1999), 5-88.
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Record
Official Engagements SEPTEMBER 15
Confirmation, Greenmount - Bishop Healy Confirmation, Kwinana - Monsignor Michael Keating Confirmation, Palmyra - Monsignor Peter McCrann
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Confirmation, Port Kennedy - Archbishop Hickey Confirmation. Redcliffe - Bishop Healy Confirmation, Northam - Fr Tim Corcoran
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KEVIN Martin 19-7-2000 at Mercy Restorative Unit ,Mt. Lawley. Peacefully in his sleep. His grieving family Cecilia, Stephen and Antony wish to thank Fr Trevor Simons, the nuns from Our Lady of the Missions, Highgate and our many friends who supported and consoled us during this sad time. The numerous tributes to our dearly loved husband and father are deeply appreciated. May God bless you all.
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PROPERTY MAINTENANCE HOME and property maintenance. yard clean-ups and general handyman work. Call Chris for an obligation free quote 0438 180355 or 9271 9616.
GARDENING CONTINUOUS garden edging/kerbing, phone Chris for an obligation-free quote 0438 180355 or 9271 9616
BRICK re-pointing. Phone Nigel 9242 2952
IN MEMORIAM
HOME IMPROVEMENTS Free quote. Terry 9399 5778
LEE (Francis) 129 1999. Loving husband and dad. heaven may have given you angels wings but we have the memories to cherish. Forever in our hearts. Teresa, Ann, Bill and Joe
LIC. PLUMBER/gas fitter, Contact John on 9457 7771, Mobile 0412 185 209.
HEALING I WILL pray with you for healing of the body. mind or spirit. Phone Michelle 9276 2637.
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NEW NORCIA GUEST HOUSE RETREAT from the everyday pressures of life and experience Benedictine hospitality at the Monastery Guest-house. Situated 132 kms north of Perth in the historic town of New Norcia. Twin rooms with ensuites or single rooms. Join the monks for daily prayer and Mass. Directed retreats by arrangement. Tariff by donation, suggested donation $45 full board. Inquiries: Guesthouse sec. phone (08) 9654 8002. fax (08) 9654 8097. Please quote ref. R3
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Confirmation, Osborne Park - Fr G Holohan Mass to Celebrate Jubilee for the Elderly, Little Sisters of the Poor - Archbishop Hickey St Vincent de Paul's State President Induction Mass. St Mary's Cathedral - Archbishop Hickey
HOUDAY ACCOMMODATION WILDFLOWER TIME, Kalbarri, 2 b/r, s/c home. Ring Pat (08) 9572 3297
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Mass for Feast of Maria Santissima Addolorata. Dianella Bishop Healy 19
Catholic Primary Principals' Association Conference Dinner Bishop Healy
22
Mercedes College Mass (Mercy Day). St Mary's Cathedral A rchbishop Hickey
24
Adult Confirmation, St Mary's Cathedral - Archbishop Hickey Blessing and Opening of Parish Centre. Floreat/Wembley Archbishop Hickey
25 ALL areas. Mike Murphy 1800 016 310 (free call).
HOUSE WANTED FOR RENT URGENT. Wanted house to rent, short term. South of River. Ocotober to midDecember. References available. Contact Jim 0418 947 261.
Mass for 10th Anniversary of Girrawheen Prayer Group. Girrawheen - Archbishop Hickey
MONSTRANCE WANTED CITY parish would like to purchase monstrance for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Please ring 9310 1747
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For an advertisement of this size we charge S39.60. Discounts apply for repeat advertising. Ring Eugen on 9227 7080 info.
Archdiocesan Panorama LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINAR The Gosnells Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group invites you to the Seminar on Friday evenings f rom 22/9 to 10/10 at Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 175 Corfield St, Gosnells. from 7.30-9pm. All people 16 years and over are welcome.The first evening is an information night. Information: Angela 9398 7347 or Dan (9360 7400 work; 9398 4973 home).
Dame Student Executive. Contact for more details: Rex Vines 9239 5587. VIRGIN OF THE REVELATION CHURCH CHITTERING ROAD. BULLSBROOK Holy Mass 9am every Sunday. followed by Exposition. Rosary and Benediction (except for last Sunday of the month). Mass. Exposition and R osary on Tuesdays at 11am. A Plenary Indulgence may be gained by visiting the shrine.
LUNCHTIME MASS AT JOONDALUP Monday to Friday. 12.10pm at the Holy Spirit Chapel. Robert Healy Centre. Boas Ave (opposite Library). All are welcome. SCHOENSTATT PILGRIMAGE DAY For all who have a Schoenstatt Pilgrim Mother Shrine visiting their family. Sun 24 Sept. 11am Holy mass followed by lunch and Jubilee Program. Please BYO lunch, afternoon tea, chair and f riends. Inquiries: Schoenstatt Sisters 9399 2349. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS A Mass in honour of Our Lady of Sorrows will be celebrated on Sun 17 Sept, 2.30pm at St Denis Church, Roberts St, Joondanna. Mass will be followed by a procession around the Church. Inquiries: 9242 2812. ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Immaculate Heart of Mary Prayer Group invites all to the celebration of our fourth anniversary on Sun 8 October at 2.30pm at SS John and Paul Church, Pinetree Gully Rd. Willetton. The afternoon consists of Thanksgiving Mass, crowning of Our Lady. homily, procession and Rosary. Please bring a plate. Inquiries: 9310 1789 (Anna/Peter). NOTRE DAME BINGO NIGHT Thurs 21 Sept. ND3 Notre Dame University. Opens 7.30pm. Bingo begins 8pm. Licensed. Prizes include sky-diving, meal vouchers and many more. Proceeds to Edmund Rice Centre and Notre
CHRISTIAN LIFE GROUPS All welcome to a Day of Reflection on Sat 7 October with the theme: Act Justly, Love Tenderly. Walk Humbly with Your God. Facilitator: Mr Brian MoyIan. Sisters of Mercy. 117 Tyler St.Tuart Hill. Begins at 9.30am and finishes with Mass, dinner 5.45pm. REFLECTING THE WORD A four-week course reflecting and praying with the Scriptures. 16 October to 6 November (Mondays 9.30am - 12 noon). Catholic Education Centre. Leederville. Information: Jenny 9212 9257. Facilitator: Sr Margaret Anne Beech SJA. BULLSBROOK PILGRIMAGE The next pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering Rd. Bullsbrook will be on Sunday. 24 September at 2pm. There will be Holy Rosary. homily, Benedection of the Blessed Sacrament and the blessing of the sick. Reconciliation at 11.30am. followed by Midday Mass. with a luncheon break before the Pilgrimage. Parish groups wishing to make a Jubilee Year pilgrimage are very welcome to join. Ring 9277 5378 for bus bookings from Perth, Highgate and Midland. For further information cantact SACRI on 9447 3292. HOLY FACE OF JESUS PRAYER GROUP We are meeting on Tuesday 19 September at Holy Trinity Church, 8 Burnett St. Embleton, beginning with Adoration at 7.30pm, followed by a prayer meeting. Please bring a plate to share 'a cuppa'.
Mariana, Suai: the mourning continues in East Timor Continued from Page 9 Schools were rebuilt by a local non-government organization. Parishioners constructed an open-air community center with a traditional Tirnorese thatch roof. At the center, community members are offered trauma and psychological counseling by a team led by Maryknoll Sister CharIto Torrefranca. Father Rene Manubag, who was installed as pastor of the Suai parish in November, said it was essential that the school and parish community be rebuilt in order for the community to regain some sense of normalcy.
"When you consider the amount of trouble that's been here, their recovery is quite remarkable. This community is resilient," Father Manubag said. "The people are tired. They say, 'Please no more violence, no more tears and no more blood. We only want peace," the priest said. "Peace is very important, but we need justice also - not just for the people of Suai, but for all of East Timor," Fr Manubag said. Suai residents, weary from last year's violence, spoke of "forgetting the past." Saturnino Amaral. a 50-year-old catechist, said, "If autonomy leaders want to come back and work for East Timor's improve-
ment, it's OK" Saturnino Amaral said he fled to the Suai church prior to last year's UN-sponsored referendum. He remained there until 3 September, when he was chased away by Father Madeira. The priest "was carrying a stick and hitting us. He said 'Leave, leave. Go away. You don't belong here," Amaral said. Amaral fled to the mountains, but many others stayed behind. He said Fr Madeira was angry. "We thought he had lost his mind. Later we understood he was trying to save our lives. Many people are alive today" because of Father Madeira, he said. By March 1999, some 1,000 refugees had
already fled to the church compound in Suai. By the August referendum, more than 4,000 people were there. After an April attack at a Catholic Church in Liquisa, many priests persuaded people to flee to the mountains because the churches, the traditional place of sanctuary for the Timorese, could no longer offer protection. Amaral said Fr Madeira told the people if they did not flee to the mountains "me and all of you will be killed by the militias." Fr Madeira "was not afraid to die because he used to tell us that one day we will live again," Amaral said.
The Re.cord:geiitember 14 2000 Pe 15
41.1b
St Benedict's Primary, Applecross
Where the kids are champs and mums and dads pitch in S
tudents in pyjamas! A sleepover at St Benedict's? No, just another of the activities that these youngsters have enjoyed as part of the Book Week celebrations in 2000. They are indeed a fortunate lot of children to attend such a caring, energetic and innovative school in which the individuality of each and every student is fostered and catered for in a positive, friendly manner. From its beginnings, on 2 February 1953 when the new school was opened by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions and dedicated to the founder of the Benedictine Order of monks, it has provided academic and spiritual guidance to many, many young West Australians. Although the sisters have long since left, the ideals of the school motto of "I Hope,I Believe,ILove" are strongly in evidence. The Principal, Mrs Barbara Ingram, along with all members of the staff are committed to developing the potential of each and every student in their care, and work tirelessly to achieve this aim. The teachers regularly attend Professional Development sessions to ensure that they keep abreast of current educational practices, in particular, those that deal with Curriculum Framework which is in the process of being implemented throughout the
school. The parish priest, Fr John O'Reilly, plays an equally important role and his love for the children can be appreciated as they flock to speak to him on his way to his regular Friday morning tea appointment in the staffroom. As part of the school's policy to develop a sense of community and civic pride, all students of the Year Seven class are part of the Student Council and the responsibilities of pastoral care, sport, health and safety, communications and peacekeepers are rotated throughout the year. The Year Six children are currently planning their end-of-year leadership camp when the necessary qualities will be encouraged and developed in preparation for their prospective duties in 2001. Among the many excursions in which students regularly participate are visits to a submarine, Scitech. World of Energy Museum, Constitutional Centre and the Perth Zoo - all designed to broaden their knowledge and stimulate interest. From the excited reactions of the classes it is obvious that the students view these as a most enjoyable break from the routine of the classroom while the staff regularly receive compliments concerning their students - true ambassadors of their school. St Benedict's has been blessed with
Talented specialists means students are getting a reputation for musical excellence at a growing number of venues, including the Performing Arts Festival.
Not a sieepover but one of the many activities students of St Benedict's participated in for Book Week 2000.
having the support and vigour of a loyal band of parents and friends who generously hold regular fund-raising events to provide much-needed resources. This community involvement is no more clearly evident than at the annual Family Fun Night, a highlight of the school calendar, when the playground is filled to capacity with the happy sounds of families and friends enjoying each other's company. In recent years monies raised from such events have paid for computer software, classroom books and shady verandahs for the Junior school. Presently the P&F is busy preparing for next summer with the installation of air-conditioning in the classrooms. One of the strengths of the St Benedict's has always been in its sporting achievements. Whether it may be in swimming, athletics, soccer, netball or crosscountry, the other schools in the Melville District know that they will have a fight on their hands when they meet up with the kids from Saint Benny's. They are the current athletics champions and runners-up in cross-country and swimming and regularly bring home individual champions' trophies. In addition, the younger members of the school are fast becoming the gymnasts of the future as they somersault, leap and balance with the aplomb of veterans. Another area in which St Benedict's is gaining a reputation for excellence is in Music. Diligent and talented specialists prepare their charges for presentations at a variety of venues including the Performing Arts Festival. They enthusiastically impart
The school today. Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions opened it in 1953.
their knowledge and enthusiasm to the band members and individual musicians playing various woodwind, brass, string and percussion instruments, as well as the piano. The promotion of computer technology is integral in equipping students in the new millennium. To that end, the school has
At a Glance
Learning bike safety is one example of the total approach to learning.
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Principal: Mrs Barbara Ingram Address: Alness Street, Applecross WA 6153 Telephone: (08) 9364 5836 Fax (08) 9316 2695 Enrolment 244 boys & girls email: admin@stbenschool.wa.edu
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recently added many new computers to the classrooms and all have access to the Internet. In fact, computer education doesn't stop with the children Mr Peter Baldry regularly runs after-school lessons for interested parents trying to keep pace with their offspring. As one teacher recently noted. "Judging by the number of ex-students who are sending their children here we must be doing something right at Saint B's."
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