Catholic Life by Catholic Diocese of Sale

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Catholic Life

Publication of the Diocese of Sale

Last chance for jubilee ball tickets Page 3

ISSUE 160

April 2012

Sale priests gather for Chrism Mass Page 3

Pilgrims return from Holy Land tour - Page 5

Mixed response on marriage By Colin Coomber

THERE has been a mixed response to the call by the Victorian Catholic Bishops for people to support their stance in defence of traditional marriage. Many people from a wide cross-section of the community have voiced their support for the bishops’ pastoral letter. However, there have also

been negative responses, mainly from spokespeople for gay groups and those identifying themselves at gay. Bishop of Sale Christopher Prowse, who wrote the first draft of the statement, fronted national media to explain the reasons why the Church was opposing moves to change the traditional one man one woman concept of marriage. Over two days he gave 24 interviews on radio, television

and in the press. Virtually every news bulletin in the nation covered the story. On top of the strong showing of support, there were also many people who felt that the Catholic Church was attacking homosexuals. In most instances it appeared they had not read the pastoral letter but were relying on comments from others. In the letter (published in full on page 4) the bishops point out

that they are opposing the attempts to change the definition of marriage. “The Church believes that marriage is founded on the wonderful fact of sexual difference and potential for new life. Without this there would be no human beings and no future.” The letter states no lack of respect for people who identify themselves as “gay” but points out that “gay-marriage” is impossible because it attempts

to cut loose marriage from its grounding in biological life. The bishops have asked people to respond to the on-line survey on two Private Member’s Bills which are currently before the Federal Parliament. Other churches have since supported the Victorian bishops’ sentiments. The survey closes this Friday April 20 and can only be accessed once by each email address.

Sion House move closer WORKS on refurbishment and extensions to the new diocesan headquarters in Warragul are progressing steadily. Sion House is due to be completed on May 18 and staff from across the diocese will move in during June. Diocesan properties in Sale including the Bishop’s Office, Catholic Development Fund, three units and an old home have been offered for sale. When the move is completed, all diocesan staff will be located in the one building for the first time. Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto has agreed to officially open Sion House and bless the premises on September 12. Many diocesan staff had their first look at the renovations during a staff reflection afternoon led by Bishop Prowse.

Your gift will go on giving

PICTURED outside Sion House, Warragul, are (from left) Sr Liz Roberts MFIC, Zinta Turner, Fr Brian O’Connor, Colin Coomber, Anne Taylor, Bishop Christopher Prowse, Jess Denehy, Karen Boyce, Pat Smart and Cathy Dougan.

When you donate to the Bishop’s Family Foundation you can be assured that the money will be assisting families in need for many years to come. Donated funds are held in a trust account to go on earning interest year after year. It is the income from these investments which have led to more than $700,000 being given to organisations running programs to assist families.

Send tax deductible donations to Bishop’s Family Foundation, PO Box 508, Sale, 3853 Phone 5144 6132 for more information

Page 2 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Easter testimonies promoting vocations M

y dear People, the peace and joy of Easter be with you and your families! Here are some of my favorite Gospel texts of the Risen Lord encountering His disciples and friends, all from the Gospel of John: • “Mary … Rabbouni” John 20:16 • “Peace be with you.” John 20:19 • “Do not doubt but believe.” John 20:27 • “Come and have breakfast.” John 21:12 • “Do you love me?” John 21:15 • “Tend my sheep.” John 21:16 • “Follow me.” John 21:22 Notice the depth and the brevity of the Risen Lord calling His disciples. The depth of the Love and Mercy of Jesus can be experienced even now in our hearts as we repeat these words of the Master gently in our hearts. The brevity of this call to a vocation in Christ seems tailor made to each of the disciples. We can read in the New Testament how some called by the Lord led heroic vocations and began preaching “Jesus is Lord!” to the nations.

To God’s People in the Catholic Diocese of Sale Some gave ultimate testimony to their vocation in the blood of martyrdom. I am convinced that the Risen Lord continues to call suitable candidates to the priesthood and religious life. Let us continue to pray that those called will listen and be given the grace of the Easter Christ to say ‘yes’. It was a joy to be with two new seminarians for the Diocese of Sale as they began their seminary training in recent times at Corpus Christi Seminary. I could see clearly in their eyes a sense of being “captured” by Christ. Then it was so gratifying to have four of our five seminarians recently gather with me, their bishop, for the days of the Easter Triduum together in prayer at Sale. May I make a plea that more effort be made for family prayer in our homes. It is a breed-

ing ground for vocations to the priesthood. On reading reflections on the lives of two of our bishops, I noticed that prayers in the family home were pivotal in them becoming priests. I recall Archbishop Frank Little, R.I.P., reflecting that as a young boy he accidentally witnessed his father deep in personal prayer at their Essendon home. Our own Bishop Coffey stated years ago in answer to the question “Why did you become a priest?” the following: “Because I saw my parents praying.” On the fourth Sunday of Easter (April 29) we will celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday. Some seminarians will be sharing their Easter testimonies of vocations at Masses in the diocese. I urge all priests to do the same. Let us pray for vocations. As your Bishop, I consider pro-

moting vocations to the priesthood as one of the top pastoral priorities in the diocese. Young people today are really searching for a life choice that transcends that which merely satisfies material gain or even the concerns of this life alone. A vocation to the priesthood or religious life satisfies such deep transcendent desires. Silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, especially, helps such deep spiritual hungers to grow and mature. So let us pray for more vocations to the priesthood, especially on Good Shepherd Sunday. Parents, please encourage vocations in your families. Let your children see you at prayer. Promote family prayer. It is surely a heartfelt prayer petition that our Easter Lord and Saviour could not refuse. May the Divine Mercy of our Risen Saviour, Jesus the Lord, watch over you and your families always. + Bishop Christopher Prowse Catholic Bishop of Sale

May appeal for foundation THE Annual May appeal for the Bishop’s Family Foundation will take place next month with donation envelopes being provided in all parishes. The May appeal is the only drive made by the foundation to increase its funds. All parishes, schools and church groups are also urged to hold one event for the foundation each year. All money raised goes into the trust fund where it is invested to earn funds for the annual DIOCESE OF SALE

distribution to registered charities providing programs for families in the areas covered by the Diocese of Sale. In the 10 years since the foundation was established it has distributed more than $750,000. Donations over $2 are tax deductible and may be placed in the envelopes provided at the various parishes and put with the normal collection. To ensure that a receipt can be issued, donors should write their name and address on the

Catholic Life

PO Box 183, Sale. Vic. 3853 Phone: (03) 5144 6132 Fax: (03) 5144 3855 catholiclife@sale.catholic.org.au www.sale.catholic.org.au

envelope. Alternatively donations can be sent to Bishop’s Family Foundation, Diocese of Sale, PO Box 508 Sale, 3853. Calls to charities to apply for funding from the 2012 disbursement will be made in July and funds are expected to be available for successful applicants by late October. The amount available depends on the return on the foundation’s investments and can vary year to year. BISHOP Christopher Prowse and Fr Michael Willemsen (left) from Corpus Christi Seminary with four of the five seminarians for Sale Diocese pictured at the trustee’s dinner at the seminary. The seminarians are (standing, from left) Siju Xavier and Avinash George, and (seated) Heip Nguyen and Vin Mannes. Missing is Tao Pham who is still in hospital in Melbourne where he is slowly recovering from major organ failure caused by septicaemia.

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Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 3

Priests gather in Cathedral for Chrism Mass SALE - Most of the priests and deacons of the Diocese of Sale gathered at St Mary’s Cathedral for the annual Chrism Mass. They were joined by Bishop Emeritus Jeremiah Coffey who was making one of his first public appearances following his slow recovery from surgery and a stroke. Four of the five seminarians for the diocese also took part in the Mass. At the Mass, the Holy Oils that will be used in the coming year were blessed by Bishop Christopher Prowse In his homily, the bishop said that given the fact that our diocese continued to ponder and reflect on the voice of the Holy Spirit in our midst as we slowly give birth to a Pastoral Plan for the diocese, the biblical sentiments of the daily readings had a particular resonance for us. Based on mission, he reflected on two priests who modelled the missionary identity that the Scriptures described. He said the first priest came from an unexpected time and place. In recent days he had come across the humble and brief reflection on the priesthood by a grade six boy from St Joseph’s Trafalgar, written in 1960 when he was 11 years old. The boy wrote “When I grow up I would like to help people from other countries by preaching to them about Our Lord and saying Mass and giving them the Sacraments. “The only way I could help Our Lord, would be to receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders… “When or if I go to another country, I would teach the people to my utmost and if I fail I would pray to Our Lord and he would help me to convert them. Then they will come to the Sacrifice of Mass and I will take the place of Jesus Christ using

the power of Consecration, and changing Bread and Wine into Our Lord’s Body and Blood.” Bishop Prowse said this young boy was infused with faith to write such profound thoughts on the priesthood and eventually became Oblate of Mary Immaculate priest Fr John Maher, who served as an outstanding priest in Australia and beyond until last year when he unexpectedly succumbed to cancer. The second priestly model of the missionary identity of the priesthood was a most remarkable bishop with an equally remarkable story of near martyrdom. His process towards canonisation had already begun. The bishop said that when he was living in Rome as a student he had the privilege of attending a retreat led by Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan, who was Archbishop of Saigon during the Communist takeover of Vietnam. Much of his priesthood was spent in prison and for nine years he was in solitary confinement where he celebrated the Eucharist simply with his hands. “There was no chalice or paten in the prison where he was. In one palm of his hand he placed a drop of wine that had been smuggled in a small bottle. And on the other hand he placed a small piece of bread. His hands became the chalice and the paten for his Masses.” The priest’s identity with Christ and the re-presentation of the Death and Resurrection of Christ in the Eucharist was so central to the life of Cardinal Thuan when he celebrated Mass. “We can only humbly try to imitate his profound faith.” He said these two priests showed us the Face of Jesus, priest and victim. They highlighted the missionary dimen-

Last chance for tickets to jubilee cabaret ball EVERYTHING is set for a great night of fun and entertainment at the diocese’s 125th anniversary jubilee ball at Kernot Hall, Morwell on April 27. The old-stytle cabaret ball features entertainment from leading Australian performer Rhonda Burchmore and dance music will be provided by a 16 piece big band. The event is virtually a sellout but there are still a limited number of tickets available. To snare one of these, people must contact Cathy Dougan as soon as possible by phoning 5144 6132 or emailing pa@ sale.catholic.org.au. Tickets are $125 a head which includes all food and drinks. During the night there will be a series of silent and loud auctions for various items including a gold fob watch and chain once owned by Bishop Noel Daly, a Louis Vuitton bag, website development pack-

BARBARA Durand, Drouin, presents the Oil of Catechumens to Bishop Prowse during the Chrism Mass. Looking on (from left) are Deacon Mark Kelly, Deacon Tony Aspinall, seminarian Heip Nguyen and Fr Peter Bickley, Bairnsdale. sion of the priesthood. Cardinal Thuan often said “I cannot wait, I must live each day fully, filling it to the brim with love.” Bishop Prowse said he believed that God too cannot wait. “He has sent His Son amongst us. Now God is active towards

us in love and mercy. His Death and Resurrection anchored in history and re-presented every time we celebrate the Eucharist, is certainly the centrepiece of our entire lives as human and indeed of the entire universe. “It is the very engine-room and fulcrum of all missionary

activity that the Church animates. Animating this missionary zeal comes in a most particular way from the sustenance of the Eucharist.” • See full text for homily at www.sale.catholic.org.au

It’s not all about the money! Can you help us fulfil the mission the Church in this way? Have you got money invested elsewhere that you could consider investing with the CDF? If you are able to help why not give the CDF a call or email and see how easy it is. You will be rewarded with: • A competitive rate of return on your investment; • The security of investing with the Catholic Church; and, • Most importantly you are making a contribution to furthering the Catholic faith and education in our diocese.

So you see it’s not just about the money Phone 5144 4311 Rhonda Burchmore age, paintings, wine and much more. Any proceeds from the evening will aid the St Mary’s Cathedral restoration appeal.

cdf@sale.catholic.org.au

The Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale is not subject to the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. Deposits with the Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a company established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. We welcome your investment with the Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale rather than with a profit orientated commercial organisation as a conscious commitment by you to support the Charitable, Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church. Neither the Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for the Diocese of Sale are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority; contributions to the Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; the Catholic Development Fund, Diocese of Sale is designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the Catholic Diocese of Sale.

Page 4 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Pastoral Letter on the True Meaning of Marriage

Media star AMAZING response to the statement by Victorian bishops on the true meaning of marriage, for which our Bishop Prowse was the spokesman. He was flooded with requests for radio, TV and newspaper interviews, which I think he managed to squeeze in about 20. Front page article in the Herald Sun, ABC radio’s AM program and making all the nightly TV news bulletins gave the bishops’ pastoral letter huge promotion. We fielded a flood of calls, most is support of the statement, and that includes people from outside Catholic circles. One West Gippsland nonCatholic asked us to pass on to “Cardinal” Prowse his full support for speaking out on the need to preserve marriage as we know it, and he wished his denomination had the guts to do the same. To have your say on the House of Representatives online survey regarding the two Private Member Bills before parliament, click on the Quick Link at www.sale.catholic.org. au and take the survey.

Heaven bound

READERS may have seen the appropriately named Prof. Patrick Heaven be appointed as Dean of Research at Australian Catholic University. The unusual surname has medieval Welsh origins which equates with Evan or Evans.

March 30, 2012

Pulling our weight

TOO early to know how much money was collected for the annual Good Friday collection for the Holy Land this year. But we can tell you that Sale Diocese excelled during the 2011 collections, gathering more funds than most other country dioceses. The $26,948 sent in by Sale was 11th overall, behind Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, CanberraGoulburn, Parramatta, Broken Bay, Wollongong and Maitland-Newcastle - all much bigger places.

It had to come

IT was only last issue we talking about deliberate spelling errors and we lamented that unfortunately some errors can occur no matter how careful one can be. A few pages later in the column by Director of Catholic Education Peter Ryan, we muffed the heading. We referred to the ‘Gronski report’ when the author’s name should have been Gonski. Apologies to Peter and Mr Gonski.

Dear Brothers & Sisters We Australians live in a democracy which rightly places great value on human rights and protecting others from unjust discrimination. We Catholics also believe deeply that God loves human beings very much. He especially loves those who are wounded and suffering. God loves each of us so much despite the fact that we are all sinners, make mistakes and often do not live up to our responsibilities. The Church takes seriously that we must live the Gospel itself to be a credible witness to others. Deeply aware of Christ’s mission of compassion and justice - the Church cannot ignore the responsibility to speak the truth in love. Sometimes reminding people about the truth of the human person is one such task for all of us. Some now seek to alter the very nature of the human person through legislation. Our Australian society is now at a critical turning point where truth is at stake. We speak of current debates about the nature of marriage in our public life. Often it seems as if this matter is simply about human rights and the removal of discrimination. But in addition to ‘human rights’ there are also ‘human responsibilities’. We are all blessed by God with

Of all the decisions we make in our lifetime, making a valid will is among the most important.

This final testament speaks loudly of the values, causes and possessions we hold most dear. We bequest personal treasures and mementos to special friends and loved ones and ask them to care for them after our passing. If you hold the Church dear, you may consider leaving a percentage of your estate or a specific amount to the Diocese of Sale. The Diocese is grateful for the support of its benefactors, who have enabled the Church to grow in its service of its people, and invite you to share in this rich heritage.

the gift of our sexuality. The design itself comes from the Creator of Life. We all have a responsibility to follow that design. The Church firmly believes that marriage is founded on the wonderful fact of sexual difference and its potential for new life. Without this there would be no human beings and no future. Bringing new human life into the world is founded on the loving union in difference of male and female. Children are best nurtured by a mother and father. As one theologian has put it eloquently: “The God of love can be present in every true love. But ‘gay marriage’ is impossible because it attempts to cut loose marriage from its grounding in our biological life. If we do that, we deny our humanity.” This will be a ’hard saying’ for some. It in no way implies that the Church accepts discrimination against other’s human rights. Nor does it mean we fail to understand the complex nature of human sexual identity and desire. It implies no lack of respect for people who identify as ‘gay’ and ‘lesbian’. As Cardinal Francis George of Chicago recently pointed out: ‘… we all have friends or family members who are gay and lesbian… these are people we know and love and are part of our families.’ However as fellow citizens our concern is for the future of our whole society. We ask you to seriously reflect and pray about the ramifications for current and future generations, of legislation which completely redefines marriage. A grave mistake will be made if such legislation is enacted. The Government cannot redefine the natural institution of marriage, a union between a man and a woman. The Government can regulate marriage, but this natural institution existed long before there were any governments. It cannot be changed at will. The argument that same sex marriage supports marriage is wrong. The natural institution will not only be changed, it will be redefined absolutely. It will become something different. Such a re-definition will undermine rather than support marriage. Catholics, as responsible citi-

zens of the Commonwealth of Australia, have a duty to remind their political representatives that much is at stake for the common good in this debate. We urge you to exercise that right and make direct representation to your Members of Parliament. We encourage you to respond to the on-line survey set up by the Federal Government at their website: www.aph.gov.au/marriage. The closing date for responses is Friday, April 20, 2012. The survey contains three statements with which you can agree or disagree. It then asks if you support the proposed changes to the two separate Bills, to which you answer yes or no. If you choose you can simply answer these few questions in less than one minute. The survey also provides space (maximum of 250 words) for you to explain your views. Some points that you might like to consider including are set out at www.cam. org.au/lifemarriagefamily/ Our Australian society will flourish only if the true meaning of marriage is preserved for future generations. With every blessing. + Most Rev. Denis Hart DD, Archbishop of Melbourne; + Most Rev. Peter Connors DD, Bishop of Ballarat; + Most Rev. Christopher Prowse DD , Bishop of Sale; + Most Rev. Leslie Tomlinson DD, Bishop of Sandhurst; + Most Rev. Peter Elliott DD, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Melbourne + Most Rev. Vincent Long DD, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Melbourne.

To advertise in Catholic Life phone 5144 6132

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 5

Pilgrim group returns from the Holy Land visit A GROUP of 31 pilgrims from Gippsland accompanied Lakes Entrance and Orbost parish priest Fr Bernard Buckley on a pre-Easter pilgrimage of the Holy Land. It was the second successive year that Fr Buckley has led such a pilgrimage. Pilgrims came mainly from Lakes Entrance and Sale but also included people from Benambra, Traralgon, Bunyip and one person from Geelong. Fr Buckley said a highlight for many was spending the Holy Hour in the Garden of Gethsemane, walking and praying in the same grounds as Jesus had before his capture and crucifixion. The tour group visited Egypt, Jordan and Israel visiting many sites mentioned in the Bible. For many of the Christian minorities living in these countries, having foreign pilgrims visit is an honor and an opportunity for them to act as guides and earn a few dollars. Another highlight for those able to make the walk was the visit to Mt Sinai where Moses was given the Ten Commandments. Enduring freezing conditions they were woken at 1am for a 2am start to make the 8km climb to the top of the mountain. Some went part of the way by camel but for many this was a frightening experience as they had to trust on the surefootedness of the beasts in the

dark rather than be guided by “To be there is to understand, torchlight. experience and live the life and At Mt Nebo, where Moses suffering of our Saviour. Simdied looking out over the prom- ply remarkable.” – Mike Ankeised land after 40 years wander- tell, Lakes Entrance. ing after the escape from Egypt, “As we pass through this unMass was celebrated in a small familiar land, let us close our church run by the Franciscans eyes – Now open them and including several Australians. see with eyes of pilgrims. As Here Fr Buckley was able to we look at the desert – let us wear the vestments and use the see God’s land, as we look at chalice donated by John Paul the dust – let us see an oasis, II after his visit to the archaeo- ….When we look at ourselves logical site. – let us see Hope, a strengthOther parts of the tour took in ening of our faith and a deeper sites such as the traditional bap- understanding of God’s love.” – tism site of Jesus in the River Dianne Allen, Lakes Entrance. Jordan, a boat trip on the Sea “As a pilgrim I heard, saw, of Galilee, Mt Tabor where the walked and was touched spirTransfiguration occurred, Naz- itually, travelling through deareth the childhood town of Je- serts, hills, plains, valleys and sus, Cana where He performed holy places. The Bible read- FR Bernard Buckley with the vestments and chalice donated by his first miracle, Mount of Beat- ings have taken on a whole new Pope John Paul II with Franciscan priest Fr Fabian, an Australian itudes, the place of the sermon meaning to me.” - Louise Anke- who has been at Mt Nebo for more than 30 years. on the mount, and Bethlehem tell, Lakes Entrance. the town of His birth. Comments from some of the pilgrims: “What I associate with Egypt is the strength of faith and the courage of the Christian people.” – Arthur Allen, Lakes Entrance “I did enjoy our time with the entrepreneurial Fr Raed from Taybeh and Gabrield from Jericho and to know that by being there we were supporting their valuable work with Christians in the Holy Land.” – Carmel Park, Benambra. “For me it was a memorable SOME of the pilgrims take time for a photo opportunity during their busy schedule in three countries and unforgettable experience.” of the Holy Land. – Theo Smolenaars, Sale.

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Easter re-enactment celebrates Holy Week NEWBOROUGH - St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Newborough recently celebrated Holy Week. Grade six students planned and led the school and parish community in prayer by presenting the events of Holy Week. The liturgy began with Palm Sunday where Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem. It also included Holy Thursday where Jesus shared his last super with the apostles, His betrayal in

the garden of Gethsemane and Good Friday where Jesus was crucified on the cross. “The children were honored and in fact privileged to lead the community in prayer at Easter,” St Mary’s Grade six teacher, Megan Tomasetti said. “We hoped that through our dramatization people would be able to realise the significance of this important story and be able to relate it to their lives today.” Mrs Tomasetti said the children presented a series of still

human photographs and the impact was both dramatic and reverent. St Mary’s religious education leader Trish Mulqueen

said “The mission of the Catholic school is to help the children know the person of Jesus Christ”. Mrs Mulqueen said the grade six children were able

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It gives us heart to see time and again some quite remarkable feats of generosity or courage or commitment to others. In our own lives we meet some remarkable people, many are unsung heroes, generous, committed, giving over and above what is required. Sometimes life has not been easy for them but they persevere with such good humour and generosity that they make us feel very humble. We sometimes hear these people referred to as ‘saints’ in an attempt to describe their inspiring commitment and motivation. While we usually associate saints with “being holy”, these people are sometimes far from what we might imagine a holy person to be. St Paul addressed his first letter to the Christians at Corinth to the “saints at Corinth”. Then he reprimanded many of them for what could only be described as very unsaintly behaviour. So how can they be saints? What’s it mean to be holy? Are you holy? Jesus preached holiness of life for all. “Be holy, as your heavenly Father is holy,” he said, In baptism we become holy because we ‘put on Christ’, we become children of God and sharers in the divine nature. Through Baptism Jesus provided the means whereby we might be holy. Jesus sent the Spirit, who pours love into our hearts. But love of its nature is giving, outgoing – we show our love for God by loving each other as Jesus showed us, as Jesus loves us. The apostle John taught that being a saint has much to do with our recognition that God loves us, quite unconditionally – because of that, we then show our love for God by loving others: ‘Let us love then, because God first loved us (1 John 4 19)’. It is in realizing that we are so loved by God and acting on it that we become whole, or as it is generally called, holy. That is open to

Reflections by Jim Quillinan all of us. It is a matter, according to Paul, of allowing God to be the God of love and compassion in us and through us (Galatians 2.20). That is why, in another place Paul prays that we might be filled with the utter fullness of God (Eph 3 16 – 19). Saints are people who have understood this marvellous gift and have acted accordingly! For example, Mother Teresa had a very healthy sense of just how much God loved her. In turn she knew that her mission in life was to show God’s love for those whom society had abandoned, particularly those in their last hours. In recent times the Church has declared more people to be ‘saints’ than at any other time in the history of the Church. Some have been controversial, some very prominent figures in their time – others declared saints have not been at all famous, even almost unknown. They have come from different countries, different nationalities, different ethnic groups. Putting before us such example and faithful commitment is obviously a very high priority for the Church at this time. But it is easy to be blinded, perhaps overwhelmed by the ‘spectacular achievements’ of these great women and men, the “I could never do that” type of response. Most of us will never be asked to be as heroic or as dramatic as those being declared “saints”. But holiness is not only open to all but we are all called to holiness. Such a call is about recognizing this wonderful gift – that God loves us. It is a recognition that God also loves others unconditionally. The call to holiness is a call to enable others to see just how much God does love them, we are called to

show the God of love and compassion in our own lives to those in our care, to those whom we serve or meet in our daily life. That is easy enough when we are dealing with people we like, people who share our faith, our ideals, our beliefs, our way of life. But often we are dealing with people who are still struggling with the question “Is there a God?” Some are even quite hostile to such a belief. Others do not share similar values or lifestyle. We will never convince them intellectually - they will discover faith if they experience faith-filled people, who treat them in such a way that they see and experience something of the God of love and compassion. Do I see my role as helping others to become saints, helping others know that they are loved – that they are precious in God’s eyes? We can talk about that as much as we like but unless others see it and experience it, that profound message will not mean much to them. How do we show others that we love them? Are we generous with our gifts and talents, our wealth and possessions? Do others see us working for a fairer and more just society? Do we work with or acknowledge only the high achievers, the wealthy, the powerful, the famous sports people or do we recognize those whom Jesus singled out – the humble, the meek, those who empathise with others, those who do not aspire to possess the wealth, power and influence so prized by our modern world. There are many unsung heroes in our lives – we owe them so much. Who are those who have shown us the love and generosity of God. How have we thanked them?

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 7

Relive the experience of great wartime entertainers TALENTED Scottish performer Marion Martin will bring her musical production Hips, Harmony and Hitler to Sale on May 10. Her show features songs that

won the Second World War from entertainers Gracie Fields, Marlene Dietrich and Carmen Miranda She will be playing at the Wellington Entertainment Cen-

Free tickets to concert CATHOLIC Life is giving away two tickets to the Hips Harmony and Hitler performance by Marion Martin. One lucky reader will win the double pass to her Sale performance on May 10. And as consolation prizes, two other readers will each win a Marion Martin CD. To be in the running, send us on the back on an envelope, the names of the three World War 2 performers who Martin

features in Hips, Harmony and Hitler. Remember to include your name, address and a daytime phone number. Post the entry to Marion Martin Competition, c/- Catholic Life, PO Box 183, Sale, 3853 by the end of April. Entries containing all the above information can be emailed to catholiclife@sale. catholic.org.au. Please put the “Marion Martin” in the subject line.

International duo at Marian Conference

tre Sale, on Thursday May 10 at 2pm. Executive producer Peter Hartin said “This period piece takes the audience back to a theatre in London during the Blitz where three famous entertainers of the day are performing. “The combination of archival World War 2 footage and magnificent stirring songs ensures the audience experience’s the exciting atmosphere of all being in it together. “They will find themselves and everyone around them singing along, having a laugh and perhaps shedding a tear. “It is an experience of how people survived those dark days by being together and singing songs. Songs that brought them to the light of victory at the end of a long black tunnel.” Created by legendary Scottish recording star Marion Martin, Hips, Harmony and Hitler is a stirring spectacle driven by unforgettable songs and glamor, together with colorful costuming and the unique talents and distinctive personalities of Gracie Fields, Marlene Dietrich and Carmen Miranda, all brought to life onstage by Martin in a brilliant performance. The show pays homage to the people of the time and to the vital contribution made by three female entertainers in uplifting public morale during the dark-

MARION Martin as Carmen Miranda with “Corporal Jones”. est days of World War 2. Martin said, “They were three remarkable women who lifted everybody’s spirits and took their minds away from the war and it gives me great pleasure to portray them”. Martin brings the personalities, the glamour, the excitement, the humor and the voices of the three wartime performers brilliantly to life sweeping you away to a time nostalgically remembered by millions. Audiences have hailed the

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SCOTTISH religious painter Tommy Canning with some of his works. TRARALGON - Two International speakers will talk at the annual Marian Conference at St Michael’s Church Traralgon on May 12. The theme for the conference is “Mary Mother of Mercy” Tony Murnane is from the Apostolate for Mary’s Messages and lives in Melbourne and Tommy Canning a painter of Religious Art is from Scotland. Mr Murnane’s speaking engagements have taken him to hundreds of venues all over Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the United Kingdom and United States. He has been involved in evangelising on Our Blessed Mother’s apparitions for 21 years on a full time basis. He is a man truly committed to spreading Our Lady’s messages for these times to the world. Canning’s Art of Divine Mercy studio is located in Argyll and Bute, a beautiful and peaceful Scottish landscape that provides great inspiration. Canning’s art, reminiscent of the Great Masters such as Michaelangelo, Raphael and Caravaggio, draws on their leg-

acy to create a bridge between the old and the new. Taking to heart the words of Pope John Paul II: “It is up to you, men and women who have given your lives to art, to declare with all the wealth of your ingenuity that in Christ the world is redeemed…” (Letter to Artists, 1999) A variety of beautiful sacred images is available from The Art of Divine Mercy painted by Canning. His images have been featured in Catholic media worldwide, and his inspirational paintings have touched the hearts of many spiritual people. Some of his paintings have been featured on the back of the Divine Mercy calendar for the past three years but a selection will be available for purchase for the very first time. The program for then Marian Conference is: 9am, Holy Rosary followed by Eucharistic Adoration; 10.30am, morning tea; 11am, first speaker; noon, procession of Our Lady’s Statue and Mass; 1pm, lunch; 2pm, second speaker; 3pm, Divine Mercy Chaplet and Benediction; 3.15pm, close.

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Page 8 - Catholic Life, April 2012

School funding remains a problem to be solved IN last month’s Catholic Life, I wrote an initial response to the Australian government’s review into school funding (the Gonski Report). Since then, further analysis has been carried out and some of the implications have become clearer. Indeed, these implications are so important for Catholic schools throughout Australia, that I have decided to outline some of them in this month’s column. The Federal Government’s initial intention in launching the review some years ago is commendable. The funding structure of the huge enterprise that is education throughout the country is complex and convoluted. It is difficult to understand and lends itself to the production of half truths that serve

only to cloud discussion. The Gonski review has produced a theoretical model for funding with some positive elements. There has been, for example, an effort to end the “us versus them” debate in school funding, thus putting an end to the half truths that are pedalled by the Australian Education Union and others about levels of funding. Further, the question of uneven support offered to students with disabilities has been addressed, too. The report has made strong recommendations that students with disabilities be equally funded, regardless of the school attended. (At present, students with disabilities receive up to three times as much funding in a government school as they do

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with Talking Peter Catholic Ryan Education in one of ours.) It must be pointed out, too, that supporters of public education and of the more affluent independent schools, seem quite accepting of the report. However, it presents major problems for low fee schools such as our Catholic schools. The issue is, fundamentally, that the report has recommended the establishment of a Capital National Capital Resource Standard which they argue is necessary to spend on every student in every school in order for schools to be “effective”. Unfortunately, the report does not suggest what this resource standard will be. It does propose a method for calculating it, but that method is very questionable in itself and no figures are available to see what it might be. The report recommends that public schools be funded to the full extent of this standard, and that non-government schools should meet the standard through a mix of State and Federal government funding and parent fees. It suggests that parent fees should be set at the level of the

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community’s capacity to pay. Of course, it is very difficult to determine that level but the report suggests a formula that is filled with problems. It would mean that schools serving the poorest of our communities would still be required to meet that National Resource Standard but in order to do that it is likely that they will have to at least double their fees. In fact, virtually all of our low fee Catholic schools will be required to double their fees or more. It would also be very difficult to maintain the concept of a family fee. Clearly, this will impact very badly on families. It will impact in a most serious way on the mission of the Catholic school to provide a preferential option for the poor. Indeed, it will impact very seriously on the ability of the Catholic school to fulfil its basic mission. Equally clearly, we cannot allow this to happen. The government has promised to legislate a new funding mechanism before the end of 2012, to come into effect in 2014. It should be noted that we are only guaranteed funding up until the end of 2013, so it will be necessary for some new mechanism to be developed before then. We sincerely hope it is not the one proposed by Gonski. Fortunately, it is difficult to see how the Gonski recommendations can be implemented.

The report suggests that a massive injection of funds will be necessary for its objectives to be fulfilled. It further suggests that, in some undefined way, this injection of funds will be shared between State and Federal governments. Now, it seems highly unlikely that Canberra will be in a position to meet the financial demands of the report and most of the states, (including Victoria) have indicated that they cannot afford to meet those demands, even if they wanted to (which most of them don’t.) There does remain the possibility that the Federal government may bite the bullet and fund these changes without State support. For a number of reasons, this would be most unfortunate. It would impact very negatively on our schools and would certainly represent a rush through of a very complex set of arrangements that need to be calculated and put into place beforehand. It is sincerely to be hoped that government will see common sense in this. It is to be hoped that they will recognise the value of Catholic schools and the pressure already on parents to meet fee demands. It may be necessary in the not too distant future to involve all of us in some very active political work to ensure that our schools are able to meet their mission and that parents are not unduly pressured by extraordinary fee increases. At the moment, though, it is a case of “watch this space” – but we need to watch it very carefully.

High praise for brave student BEACONSFIELD - A Year 12 student from St Francis Xavier College has been recommended for a bravery award following his heroic rescue of a girl believed to have been attempting suicide. Daniel Grulke, 17, from Narre Warren South, pushed the girl from the railway track at Beaconsfield station just seconds before the train arrived. He had been sitting on the platform waiting for the train when he saw the girl walking along the city-bound track about 4.30pm. Seeing the train was getting

closer and the girl showed no indication of moving from the track, he sprung into action. putting his own safety in jeopardy. He jumped from his seat, ran to her and pushed her away with seconds to spare. When interviewed about the incident, Daniel played down his role, saying he was not a hero but just someone doing what anyone else would have done. His school and local police are believed to be considering recommending him for a bravery award from the Royal Humane Society. The society recognises acts of bravery within Australia, by people who risk their own lives in saving or attempting to save the lives of others. Daniel represented Sale Diocese at the World Youth Day in Madrid last year. • Those considering self harm should visit beyondblue.org.au, call Suicide Helpline Victoria on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131 114 if you are in need of immediate assistance or talk to someone you trust.

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 9

Good Shepherd Sunday time to reflect on our vocations THERE are many different stories about our heroes. When they found themselves as brave enough and have done great things, they said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt like doing thisâ&#x20AC;?. For example, recently one of our World Youth Day pilgrims, Daniel Grulke, saved a teenage girl by pushing her aside only seconds before she would have been hit by a train. These are the moments that somehow we know what to do, and we do it right. Thanks Dan! Every year, on the fourth Sunday of Easter, the Church traditionally celebrates Good Shepherd Sunday. Why? Because the Gospel reading on that day tells us about Jesus who is the Good Shepherd (John 10:1118). We take it as an opportunity to reflect on our vocation, and in particular â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a call to be a priest or a nun. I think each time when a single person wants to consider this kind of vocation, a paralysing fear overtakes any further thoughts. A question arises: why? Because to do the right thing once off is much easier and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require any commitment. When you see a man who is drowning in the lake, the only thing you double check is, if you can really swim â&#x20AC;&#x201C; soon after you are

in the water rescuing that man. If we see a tragedy that happened somewhere in the world or to our neighbors, you always find some spare money to support them in this way. In this light, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not 100 percent sure, if Daniel Grulke would like to rescue people from trains on daily basis. I would like to raise a question: How about to commit oneself to some particular job and treat it seriously? I think the answer might be: yes, but how much would I get for it? And here: looking into priesthood or religious life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face the facts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they are not the best paid â&#x20AC;&#x153;jobsâ&#x20AC;? in Australia. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m writing these few words from the position of an assistant priest in Cranbourne and a vocations director for our diocese. When you flick the Bibleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pages and look how Jesus treats his disciples, you may think that he is somehow out of his mind. How can a carpenter teach fishermen how to catch the fish? (and he is telling his disciples to go fishing at noon). How can a carpenter be an authority in health and moral life? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how Jesus was towards his disciples and friends. Today he is not much different to those who think that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth taking a risk. But most of all, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about speculation or waiting to see if the things are

worth going for or not. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a matter of a call, of listening to this inner voice to that call, of being sensitive on the needs of the society/the Church. On April 28-29 six seminarians of Corpus Christi College will be present at the Masses in Narre Warren, Cranbourne, Iona-Koo Wee Rup, Moe, Newborough and Traralgon. During that time they will share with the parishioners stories of their vocation and will be more than happy to have a chat with anyone who will approach them. In the next issue of Catholic Life we hope to share few stories of some of the seminarians together with some photos taken at that time. As a vocations director Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m always happy to assist anyone who reflects of his or hers vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Over the next few months I will also go visit some of the secondary colleges within our diocese with a hope to increase awareness about a call that everyone is receiving as a life-long commitment. Anyone who would like to talk to me about vocations can call me on 5996 7426 or email vocations@sale.catholic.org. au.

SUSMITHA just about to throw her discus. BERWICK - Laughter, smiles teered to help out on the day. of success, achievements and The children were supported a sense of community were the with an audience of parents, theme on the day for St Mi- friends and family who gathchaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Primary School in its ered on the outskirts of Edwin sports day. Flack Reserve to rally on and From Preps to Grade Six, all cheer for the children. students were able to particiAt the end of the day, parents pate in various events includ- commented â&#x20AC;&#x153;that the day had ing track and field, ball games, gone smoothly, the five minutes track relays and novelty events of rain didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dampen the day with the school staff and the and it was wonderful to watch wonderful support of the St the children competeâ&#x20AC;?. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s families who volun-

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Page 10 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Visiting priest leads healing rallies across diocese By Regina Abraham AMERICAN priest Fr Mike Barry visited Australia in March and his visit was great blessing to many in the Diocese of Sale. Fr Barryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s travel and stay in Australia were sponsored by his friends. Ordained in 1964, Fr Mike Barry belongs to the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. St Damian of Molokai renowned for giving his life in the care for sufferers of leprosy, was a priest of this same order. Fr Barry has served as provincial for his Congregationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western province, in the USA, taught in schools and worked tirelessly for the poor for many years.

He is the former Director of Evangelisation and Healing Ministries, for the San Bernardino Diocese. Fr Barry is founder of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tableâ&#x20AC;? a ministry to feed the poor and homeless, that serves meals once a day, for six days of the week, which amounts to about 8000 meals a month. He also opened a home for single mothers and mothers in vulnerable situations, called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Veronicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home of Mercyâ&#x20AC;? which at present is home to 25 women and 34 children. Fr Barry said many of these women were seeking safety to have their child against the pressure on them to have an abortion. He was the liaison priest for the Charismatic Renewal for the Diocese of San Bernardino,

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California for many years. He has conducted numerous retreats and workshops. He is renowned for his prayer for emotional wounds, spiritual direction and for celebrating healing masses. He held a teaching day at Narre Warren, where he spoke about the setting up of Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mercy Centre. This work of mercy had its beginning within the local charismatic prayer group who were looking for a way of extending the love of Jesus to those in need. He also spoke about the power of the Mass to heal and break patterns of sin. He spoke of the harm that continues in families from one generation to the next that causes breakdowns in relationships, excessive anger, financial problems, diseases and many other bondages of sin that are prevalent in many families today. He held healing Masses at Narre Warren, Traralgon, Pakenham and Cranbourne. These had a focus on praying for the family members both for the living and the deceased. Fr Barry emphasised on the power of the Mass to be the greatest prayer for healing and that at every Mass healing happens, as it is Jesus Christ who heals. At every venue I noted the hunger of people to receive personalised prayer; and Fr Barry

FR Michael Barry preaches at Cranbourne, watched by parish priest Fr Denis Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan (left) had an amazing stamina in individually laying hands and praying for everyone who waited, sometimes for 2-3 hours after the healing Mass. During his stay in Victoria Fr Barry met with Bishop Chris-

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Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 11

Youth ministry begins in Morwell and Churchill

FR Francis Otobo (centre) with members of the newly formed youth group

The effect of exchange rates THE value of the Australian dollar was recently near its highest point since it was floated in 1983. We see the figure quoted in the press, on TV and in all investment areas. The exchange rate has in integral effect on all parts of the Australian economy. It’s blamed for a multitude of things and used as an excuse for others, but sometimes it pays to step back and have a look at the reality. Our dollar is the fifth or sixth most traded international currency in the world. It’s used as an exposure to resources and Asia. It’s also used as a exposure to high interest rates with lower sovereign and economic risk. All these factors ensure that our dollar is in high demand, and we all know that high demand leads to higher prices. We travelled in July/August 2008 and managed to get a rate of up to 97c US which made the trip not quite so expensive. My then business partner travelled in October and the rate was as low as 63 which made her trip far more expensive. The point of this is that the value of our dollar against the US Dollar dropped 50 percent in three months. Since then the value has increased steadily but not constantly to, as I write, around $1.03. This means that for every one dollar Australian, we can buy $1.03 US dollars. Using the above example in October 2008 we could only buy 63 US cents.

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The true effect of the exchange rate is manifested in our dealings with other countries and economies. When we import and export, the relative value of these transactions may change as the rate changes. If it’s high then exports become more expensive and imports cheaper. If it’s lower imports are more expensive and our exports are cheaper and more competitive internationally. In the 1990’s our exchange rate was kept low to encourage exports and help our economic recovery, as a matter of government policy. Today we have a high exchange rate, not only against the US but most of the rest of the world, too. It’s not as high as a little while ago. It has fallen on the market because people think that China and the world economy is slowing a little and that makes our resource based economy leas attractive. Also there is some thought that we may have another interest rate cut, which discourages the traders, too. However, should the economy improve our exchange rate could go as high as $1.30. A high exchange rate is good for travellers and generally poor for businesses. Some businesses which import most of

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their basic materials may welcome a lower rate. We’re seeing, in other press, how our manufacturing industries are being challenged, and how the internet is taking over from our non-web friendly shops. It is cheaper to buy overseas than it ever has been. However, the negatives when the dollar is high are many. Our exports, which were recently running at record international prices are far more expensive. They are usually priced in US dollars so effectively the prices to our overseas buyers have risen by 50 percent or our exporters have been forced to lower their prices in Australian dollars to keep the business. This is one reason why our industrial companies are suffering. Even our milk exporters are facing headwinds with the high Australian dollar. In US terms it has risen much more than the New Zealand dollar so New Zealand milk products are cheaper again. As well, international commodities which are also priced in US dollars have been affected. The high price for gold in October 2008 was $936. In Australian dollars that was around $1500. Currently the gold price is about US$1640. That’s $1575 in Aus dollar terms. So when we talk huge rises in the gold price they don’t apply here. This is also one of the reasons I don’t like investing overseas – the changes in exchange rates can and most times, do take most of the profits. As far as commodities go, nearly all are priced in US Dollars – the only one where contracts are denominated in Australian dollars are mineral sands, such as rutile, ilmenite and zircon.

MORWELL - It has been the desire and prayer of the parish priest Fr Hugh Brown and his assistant, Fr Francis Otobo to have the youth come together under the umbrella of the Catholic Youth Ministry. Since they assumed duties in the parishes of Morwell and Churchill, they have been looking for ways of making this dream come true. They have asked questions, sought advice and listened to suggestions. Finally, the dream has become a reality. The youth came together for their first meeting on March 25. It was a very interesting meeting, as those present expressed their desire and wish to have this meeting and ministry a long time ago. They were full of zeal and enthusiasm. In all, there were about 25 youth in attendance at this inaugural meeting with about six apologies. At the start of the meeting, the Fr Brown gave us the opening prayer and welcomed everybody. After this, he excused himself and left us to be. All those present tried to say something about themselves so as to enable the next person know something about him or her. That was very interesting as it helped us to know each other and cleared the way for discussion. After these initial formalities, Fr Francis highlighted the purpose of the gathering and the need to be together as youth. He said, “A society without a formidable and active youth is heading for annihilation, for the youth is the strength and the future of every society.” He encouraged all those present to be personally committed to the project, as personal commitment is the backbone of every venture. Those who were present pledged their commitment and willingness to make the project work. A couple of action plans were itemised which will be due for discussion by the next meeting. A general decision for a fortnightly meeting was arrived at, with the venue of meeting rotating between Morwell and

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Page 12 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Nagle College receives official accreditation BAIRNSDALE - Nagle College received official accreditation as a school with a performance and development culture. Last month Director of staff Sharon Buurman, and the personal assistant to the principal Sharon McAuliffe, travelled to Melbourne to attend the Performance and Development Culture Accreditation Ceremony and receive the award on behalf of the College. Former principal Robert Brennan was also in attendance as a guest of the college. This ceremony marked the formal accreditation of schools that have achieved a performance and development culture accreditation status. In total nine Catholic schools achieved accreditation status. Only two of these schools came from outside the Archdiocese of Melbourne, both from the Diocese of Sale. This was the first time schools from the Diocese of Sale had attained this status. The awards were presented by the Victorian Minister for Education Martin Dixon, and the Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale Peter Ryan. To reach this status Nagle College needed to submit a comprehensive report which addressed the five key elements of a performance and development culture: Induction for teachers new to the school; use of multiple sources of feedback on teacher effectiveness for individual teachers and teams of teachers; customised individual teacher professional learning plans based on individual development needs, student learning and school priorities; quality professional development to meet the individual development needs; and belief by teachers that the school has a performance and development culture. This report was verified by external auditors from the University of Melbourne. A key and distinctive feature of the performance and development culture at Nagle Col-

lege is that it is inclusive of all staff. This recognises that to be truly effective as a learning community we must develop the capacity of every staff member as we all work together to improve the quality of the education provided at Nagle College. A number of keynote speakers including those from the CEO Melbourne, Mr Ryan, and John Marks from the University of Melbourne remarked on the wonderful achievement of schools in achieving this status and how this supports the research from notable educational researchers such as Michael Fullan, John Hattie, Louise Stoll and Ben Jensen from the Grattan Institute regarding the importance of schools as effective sustainable professional learning communities. This was highlighted recently on the Four Corners Report – ‘The revolution in our classrooms’ - and in research from the Grattan Institute such as ‘Better Teacher Appraisal and Feedback: Improving Performance’ and ‘Catching up: learning from the best school systems in East Asia’. The latter report stated that ‘… Success in these systems is not determined by culture – by Confucianism, rote learning, Tiger Mothers and so on – nor is it always the result of spending more money. Instead, these systems focus on the things that are known to matter in the classroom, including a relentless, practical focus on learning and the creation of a strong culture of teacher education, collaboration, mentoring, feedback and sustained professional development …’. Nagle College is the only Catholic secondary college outside of the Archdiocese of Melbourne to receive certification. This achievement is testament to the commitment of the college to introducing strategies and processes informed by sound educational research and the work of Nagle College staff in striving to improve their practice through collaboration, multiple sources of feed-

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AT the accreditation awards ceremony held in Melbourne are (from left) Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Peter Ryan, Education Minister Martin Dixon, Nagle College director of staff Sharon Buurman, and Nagle College personal assistant to the principal Sharon McAuliffe.

Helping children with penance WE LEARN THE RITE OF PENANCE by Lesley Maher and Gerard Moore, illustrations by Dorothy Woodward RSJ, published and distributed by St Paul’s Publications, paperback, 40 pages, rrp $9.95. THIS little booklet is designed to help children aged 5 to 9 years learn about the celebration of the Rite of Penance. It would be ideal for parents and catechists to use with children preparing for their first reconciliation.. The book helps children prepare for the event by encouraging them to become familiar with their church, particularly about the confessionals and other places priests may sit for reconciliation. Children are shown how too search their hearts, by thinking about Jesus’ words and actions, and examining their conscience. Each stage of the rite is explained: The priest’s welcome; confessing your sins; saying sorry; sharing God’s Word, your act of penance; receiving God’s forgiveness. There is great joy in being forgiven which will make you want to praise God and live more fully as Jesus wants us to live. Lots of activities for children and lots of helpful suggestions for parents and other educators. CANDLE PRAYERS FOR TODDLERS AND CANDLE BIBLE FOR TODDLERS, published by Candle Books, distributed by Rainbow Books, hardback, boxed set, rrp $24.99 MANY parents find it hard to start youngsters on developing regular prayer habits. Often prayer books are more suited to older primary aged children or to adults, rather than the toddlers. These two books which come

Talking about Books in a boxed set would make a good starting place. The prayers are a few lines long and as magnificently illustrated. The prayers cover a variety of times during the day from waking to mealtimes and bed and cover many of the ups and downs on family life in a busy household. The toddler Bible carries some well loved Old and New Testament stories, again illustrated in colorful cartoon style. Traditionalists may feel uneasy by the depiction of Jesus with a bushy goatee but all the men are illustrated with such facial hair. Overall a good set of books which would be at home on the bookshelf of any toddler and would make an ideal gift. BABY’S LITTLE BIBLE, published by Lion Hudson, distributed by Rainbow Books, hardback, 158 pages, rrp $19.99. THIS children’s Bible is one of many produced by Lion Hudson and while it is wellillustrated, one can’t help buy feel that the illustrations would be better suited to something aimed at older children. The has nine Old Testament stories and 11 from the New Testament, all well-presented in simple language. A beginner reader could handle most of the text and that is why it is puzzling that this Bible has been marketed at “babies.” It is certainly a worthwhile book and is extremely well made.

TWELVE COLORFUL THINGS, by Heather Tietz, illustrated by Nancy Miller, published by Ambassador Children’s Books, distributed by Rainbow Books, hardback with dust jacket, 26 pages, rrp $18.95. CHILDREN love books which help to teach them colors, numbers, and even months. In this simple book they have all three as two children set about giving gifts to an elderly lady down the road and are rewarded at the end of the book with gifts themselves. It is a story of kindness told through 12 months of the year, 12 different colors and 12 numbers, much in the style of the Twelve Days of Christmas. The book is all about finding joy in giving and is based on 2 Corinthians 9:7 “For God loves a cheerful giver.” MY LOOK AND POINT BIBLE, by Christina Goodings, illustrated by Annabel Hudson published by Lion Hudson, distributed by Rainbow Books, hardback, 222 pages, rrp $19.95. THIS Bible is another offering from Lion Children’s Books but is somewhat different in that it gives children things to locate and name on every page. As each page is read children are encouraged to find and name the various things in the illustrations. We imagine they will want to revisit the stories over and over so they can show their ability to find and name the animals and various characters.

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 13

Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teaching day focus on Grace and Faith WARRAGUL - Bishop Christopher Prowse conducted the first part of his annual teaching day at the Marist Sion College in Warragul on March 31. He spoke about Grace and Faith, giving detail about the Year of Grace announced by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and the Year of Faith announced by Pope Benedict VI. The Year of Grace he told us was an initiative of the ACBC who were thinking in terms of a national year of retreat, on the theme of how Grace is working in Australia. The day was divided into three sessions; with the first talk on Grace, the next session on how Grace and Faith work together and finally concluded with a Mass and homily on the Year of Faith. Bishop Prowse called on Fr Francis Otobo, Morwell, and Br Jagath Nanayakkara of the Community of the Risen Lord to share their testimony to bring home this message. The Year of Grace starts on Pentecost Sunday this year. Bishop Prowse spoke about his personal experiences of Grace, drawing from the Scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. He quoted Catechism 2005 where Grace was likened to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;air we breatheâ&#x20AC;?. Grace he said spurs us on to an attitude of trustful poverty. He quoted the words of St Joan of Arc who answered the Bishops who questioned her while on trial with trustful poverty when asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;How do you know that you are in the Grace of God?â&#x20AC;? She replied, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I am not, let it please Him to put me there, if I am may it please Him to keep me there!â&#x20AC;? He called upon all the leaders of the various prayer groups to get off the stage and put Jesus on the stage, giving their halos back to God. He quoted the example of the two faces of a prayer group leader that we can often see today, one face while preaching and another in actual practice. Bishop called on all the prayer group leaders to interpret the Scriptures and impart all teachings in accordance with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. He recommended the latest version of the Catechism, published for the youth, (Youcat) to be a simple and good version to use. Bishop Prowse compared the clear vision one receives after the removal of a cataract from our eyes to the Grace received in trustful poverty which enables us to see all things clearly (especially ourselves) in the light of Christ. Fr Oboto said that looking back on his life as a whole it was a reflection of the amazing Grace of God. The Grace of God first touched his life when he was 14 years old through the Catholic Sschool he attended and he got baptised. He was not a born Christian, his father had five wives and he

Grace and Faith still work powerfully in his life. His friend still has the motor neuron disease but Jagath is able to care for him, while also working with the Community of The day concluded at St Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with last Mass of the Lenten season. Bishop Prowse said that Pope Benedict had declared a Year of Faith starting in October 2012 to commemorate 50 years since Vatican Council II. In his homily he compared Christianity to the other world religions and said that the suffering principle of Jesus is the Cross and Christians worship a crucified Christ. Only after Good Friday comes the Glory of Easter, all those with Jesus deserted Him at Calvary because they could not cope with a suffering God. Perseverance is what characterises a Saint. Jesus our Lord died to gather together the scattered children of God; the loneliness of the Cross brings unity and birth to the Church. When we hang in there in our suffering, we will give birth to what God wants. The Community of the Risen Lord conducted the worship for the day and the hymns for the Mass. Bishop Prowseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next teaching day will be on November 17.

TEACHING Day participants gather for a photograph at Marist Sion College, Warragul. was one of 15 siblings and they wrong things and attracted to sence of 18 years. In the condid not practise any religion in all wrong relationships. Deep fessional the priest laid hands particular. inside he knew he had no values on him and he started sobbing Joining a seminary was un- and was living a life, bringing uncontrollably, after a long heard of, as a man without chil- down his family, but he could time he was able to confess his dren was considered an abomi- not come out of this situation. sins and when the priest said all nation in his country. One day his friend became your sins are forgiven you, the His father did not approve of sick with motor neuron disease happiness that filled his heart this idea as well, so he had to and trying to get a cure for his was like a open flood gate. run away from the house. Even- friend he went in hope to the God gave him the courage tually his father too wanted to Divine Retreat Centre in Kera- to face the friends and speak become a Christian but he died la, India. with them about the error of just before that. During one of the sessions a their ways. He was ridiculed When he looks back at all the preacher spoke about exactly and told that he would soon struggles he has had to become what was going on in his life come back to his old ways. The a priest, he said Grace far cov- and through the preacher the Grace of God and Faith in his ered the absence of one earthly Lord spoke directly into his life prompted him to give up his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support; instead he had heart. Initially he thought it full time job and take the step many others loving and father- a coincidence, when a totally to work full time for the Lord. ing him. different preacher came up in With Faith he set out to hand After coming to Australia, another session and said same in his resignation and found Grace was also abounding in things. that the airline he worked for his Priesthood. Being a priest in He became repentant and had come up with a retirement Nigeria was very lively and ani- went for confession after an ab- scheme, thus providing for him. mated but reaching Morwell he left his liveliness, far away and was becoming dry and far from the Grace of God. He called out for help to God, singing often, â&#x20AC;&#x153;give me the Grace to follow, your Grace is enough for meâ&#x20AC;?. God opened up ways for him to meet prayer groups and like minded people which then, connected him back into His Grace again. He was thankful for the opportunity that Bishop Prowse gave him to share his testimony with us which has enlivened him even more. In the second session Bishop Prowse said that true Grace is always about an onâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;going conversion and our response to this Grace is also by Grace. Bishop Prowse mentioned that prayer and settling down are a prereq+VĹ?U VJG RGTUQPCNKUGF ECTG VJCV OCMGU WU FKHHGTGPV uisite to allow Grace to abound in our lives. #V 5V ,QJP QH )QF *QURKVCN $GTYKEM Bishop quoted Luke 1:26 and Hebrews 11 as teachings YG ECTG CDQWV RGQRNG on Faith, talking about Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faith and also Abraham, our 5GTXKEGU KPENWFG x 0GWTQNQI[ Father in Faith. Abraham took up a journey without knowx $CTKCVTKE x 1DUVGVTKEU )[PCGEQNQI[ ing where he was going, that x %CTFKQNQI[ x 1RJVJCNOQNQI[ is Faith while trusting in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s x %QNQTGEVCN x 1TVJQRCGFKEU message â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will be with you, be not x 'PFQETKPQNQI[ x 2CKP /CPCIGOGPV afraidâ&#x20AC;?. In more modern times x '06 x 2NCUVKE 4GEQPUVTWEVKXG he quoted the example of St x )CUVTQGPVGTQNQI[ x 4GURKTCVQT[ OGFKEKPG Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Br Jagath Nanayakkara said x )GPGTCN UWTIGT[ x 7TQNQI[ he grew up in Sri Lanka and x 0GRJTQNQI[ x 8CUEWNCT because of his dark skin grew up facing color prejudice, as his 9KPPGT QH VJG /GFKDCPM 5VCVG 5KNXGT #YCTF HQT RCVKGPV UCVKUHCEVKQP CU family were of a fairer skin. He faced a lot of ridicule on XQVGF D[ /GFKDCPM 2TKXCVG RCVKGPVU KP CPF account of this and hence was always hesitant in going for )KDD 5VTGGV $GTYKEM 8+% ward, he would tell his parents (TQPV 4GEGRVKQP 2J only the things he was success(CZ ful at and grew up with very low self esteem. YYY ULQI QTI CW DGTYKEM He was attracted to all the

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Page 14 - Catholic Life, April 2012

The Rev. George Cox - an early Gippsland historian THE first historian of Gippsland was George Dunderdale, whose The Book of the Bush recounted the story of the province’s settling. Dunderdale’s book was a series of recollections of the early days based on his time as a public servant at Port Albert. The next person to cover early Gippsland history comprehensively was the Rev. George Cox, an Anglican minister. While he was minister at Yarram from 1910 to 1915 he collected material and published extensively on the region. Both early historians were, significantly, based in the Port Albert area where European settlement began in Gippsland. Port Albert was the administrative capital of Gippsland in the early decades, before Commissioner Tyers moved to the more central location of Sale. George Cox was born in 1871, and trained for the Church of England ministry in Melbourne. In 1898 he was appointed a stipendiary reader at Thorpdale. Soon after he was ordained a minister and became rector at Mirboo North. There he wrote articles for the local paper on China and other topics. Cox was a naturally curious person who always maintained a wide range of interests. At Mirboo North he also provided relief after the great bushfires of 1898. After leaving Mirboo North he served as Anglican minister at Caulfield (1905-8) and Neerim South (1908-10). In 1910 he was appointed to Yarram, and commenced the great work of his life. There

Gippsland History with Patrick Morgan he sought out the records, day books and other documents of the founding squatters, merchants and administrators of the district. Material from the bond store of Turnbull, Orr and Co. on the Port Albert wharf, and from the Palmerston Court House, was particularly important. These papers and documents form the basis of the wonderful collection of primary source material the Port Albert Maritime Museum has today. Cox also sourced material on early Gippsland history from the Public Library of Victoria, which then held much of the government archives. He also searched for old books, early newspapers, government reports and other material relevant to his interests. Cox founded the Yarram Historical Society in 1911. At that stage it was a sub branch of the recently founded (Royal) Historical Society of Victoria. He was the first secretary of the Yarram branch and gave talks at the society’s meetings. The society was interested in preserving knowledge of early buildings, and of the old Alberton cemetery. The society aimed to collect ‘reminiscences, old letters, diaries and memoranda, old drawings, prints and photographs, postage stamps, medals and

coins’, and to publish a journal and to set up a pioneer register. The Rev. Cox published his findings in a long series of articles in the Gippsland Standard from 1911 to 1915, and from 1921 to 1930. The articles consist of the reproduction of priceless primary source documents, interspersed with extensive commentary and explanation by Cox. The trade in cattle and other goods from Port Albert to Tasmania and Melbourne was one important aspect of early economic activity covered in these articles. Also featured were documents on the early exploration of Bass Strait, and contemporary newspaper articles on the journeys of McMillan and Strzelecki into Gippsland. Cox’s articles covered the founding of Port Albert and the expansion of the initial settlement into south Gippsland and up the track towards Sale, and the development of squatting on the central plain. A lot of material on early churches and schools was included. Cox’s writings are indispensable for historians of early Gippsland. Beginning in 1988, John Irving of Woodside, then president of the Yarram and District Historical Society, organized for these series of articles to be published in book

Bishop attends interfaith dialogue in Indonesia REGIONAL Inter-Faith Dialogues in South-East Asia and parts of Oceania have become a regular feature participated by religious leaders, scholars and civil society and media practitioners from over 15 countries. The list of these countries include Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar/Burma, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam. The sixth Regional InterFaith Dialogue took place from March 11-15 in Semarang, Indonesia. Bishop Christopher Prowse, Catholic Bishop of Sale, was one of the 10 participants from the Australian delegation that participated. The delegation was lead by Tim Fischer, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and up and until recently the Ambassador of Australia to the Holy See. The main theme of this year’s dialogue was “Strengthening Collaborative Communities to promote regional peace and security: Inter-Faith in Action.”

In an intervention towards the end of the gathering Bishop Prowse had the following comments to make. “Surely the new name for the Regional Inter-Faith Dialogue is Friendship between the Regions of our part of the world. But this is not any kind of friendship. Friendship today is often seen in superficial and self-centred ways. But we are religious people. Friendship among religions centres around God- both loving and merciful. “To be filled in our hearts with the Almighty Love of God can only mean that we want to follow the golden rule that unites so many world religions together. That is, do unto others what you would want them to do to you. “Here is the corner-stone to promoting peace and security in the world. Here is the social responsibility in summary of so many religions. “We are representatives of religious leaders in this part of the world, We are the ones who champion ‘building bridges’, and strengthening collaboration amongst religions. We are the ones who champion tearing

down walls of hate in our hearts and actions. “We are the ones who condemn those who use religious slogans and power to terrorise peoples and communities. We have all experienced much genuine and mature dialogue in these days. We thank all those who have organised such a splendid dialogue conference at Semarang, especially the people of Semarang, Indonesia. “I have marvelled at all the practical suggestions for the good that have arisen in these days. I am amazed at the genuine friendship that has grown as we have become vulnerable to each other in love and compassion. “I conclude my intervention with an expression which summarises my few thoughts: “When power meets power there is a power struggle. “When power meets vulnerability there is alienation. “But when vulnerability meets vulnerability there begins true friendship amongst peoples of the world.”

THE Rev. George Cox in his World War 1 uniform. In retirement in Morningform in five volumes, edited by John Adams, who himself had ton from 1919 onwards Cox written the history of the Shire became active with the local Mornington Historical and Disof Alberton. Cox left Yarram in 1915 to trict Society, publishing a monserve as an NCO in the Austral- ograph and numerous historical ian Army Medical Corps, see- articles on the area. He was also active in the Vicing action in the Great War in France. He returned in 1918, torian Field Naturalists Club, and in 1919 became temporary assembling his own natural hisminister at Coburg. But owing tory collection, and publishing to his wife’s ill health he had to articles in the Victorian Naturetire from the ministry, and the ralist. George Cox died at MornCoxes lived at Mornington for the rest of their lives. He con- ington in 1946 at the age of 75, tinued his interest in writing on survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter. A year later the Gippsland’s history. Cox returned briefly to the Rev. Albert Clark, Anglican South Gippsland region in May rector at Warragul, published 1925 when he was involved The Church of Our Fathers, a with others in opening a reserve history of the Church of Engand monument dedicated to land in Gippsland. Cox had Angus McMillan at Tom’s Cap helped him in this work. The Rev. Clark wrote in his in the eastern Strzelecki ranges. Tom’s Cap was the location Preface: ‘It is with deep regret where in February 1841 Mc- that I record here the passing Millan first saw the stretch of of my old friend, Rev. George Ninety Mile Beach which leads Cox, to whom I am indebted for much of the material in to Port Albert. He then knew he had suc- this book, and for a great deal ceeded at last in crossing the of personal encouragement. It region and finding a southern would have given him much pleasure to have seen the finoutlet. George Cox had been one of ished work’. the founders of the Royal Historical Society of Victoria in Melbourne in 1909. When he moved to Mornington in 1919 he took a very active role in the society, being a council member from 1919 to 1935. READERS are reminded that He deposited documents, the commemorative postmark maps and archives he had col- celebrating 125 years of the Dilected over the years with the ocese of Sale will be available RHSV and the Public Library at Sale Post Office from May 4 of Victoria. He was also in- to May 31. terested in collecting material Sale is the first diocese in on the history of the Anglican Australia to have such a postChurch in Gippsland. mark.

Commemorative post mark for 125th anniversary

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 15

Hawthorn footballers clinic TRARALGON - Conditions were hot and humid for Hawthorn Football Clinic which was held on Thursday at the Traralgon Football Ground. St Michael’s Primary School’s grade 3 and 4 students were privileged to attend and participate with many of the Hawthorn Football Club Players and students from the SEDA group. Skill stations were set up around the ground and were manned by both Hawthorn football players and SEDA students. The students were split into two groups and moved around the stations for a designated time frame. During that time the children were shown some of the skills vital to the game of Aussie Rules. They were then able to demonstrate these skills which included marking, hand-balling and kicking. At the end of each ST Michael’s student, Campbell session the students were able Mitchell. A definite highlight for the to ask questions and get memorabilia signed by their Hawks students was being able to interact with some of Hawthorn’s idols. superstars including Buddy

Quick calendar

What’s on & when April 16 – Second term begins 18 – Catholic Life published 24 – Central region meeting, St Joseph’s, Warragul, 7.30pm 24 – Diocesan Pastoral Council meeting, St Michael’s, Traralgon, 10am 25 – Anzac Day 27 – Grand cabaret for Cathedral Appeal featuring Rhonda Burchmore, Kernot Hall, Morwell 29- Collection for Education of Seminarians Bursary Fund 29 – Good Shepherd Sunday 30 – Australian Catholic Media Congress, Sydney

May

was lucky enough to meet Sam Franklin, Josh Gibson, Jarrod Roughead, Sam Mitchell and Cyril Rioli, just to name a few.

Rice for Project Compassion MORWELL - As a part of their Lent program Grade Three / Four at Sacred Heart Primary School in Morwell organised a Rice Day for the whole school. This involved asking all children in the school to bring a gold coin donation in exchange for a simple bowl of rice. The children were asked to think of other children in the world who would consider a bowl of fluffy white rice to be a luxury. The day was a great success with over $180 raised for Project Compassion. RIGHT: Shanayia and Zipporah eating their rice

Bishop’s Family Foundation Appeal month 1-2 - Australian Catholic Media Congress, Sydney 3-10 – Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference plenary session, Sydney 7 – Deadline for May Catholic Life 8 – East region meeting, Lakes Entrance, 10.30pm 11-18 – Bishop Prowse leading Catholic Education Office retreat to Rome 12 – Annual Marian Conference, Traralgon, 9am start 13 – Mother’s Day 14-20 – National Volunteer Week 15 – Heart region meeting, Sale Chapter House, 4pm (tbc) 16 – Catholic Life published 20 – Ascension of the Lord 24 – Solemnity of Our Lady Help of Christians 26 – National Sorry Day 27 – Pentecost Sunday 28-31 – Bishop Prowse at Federation of Catholic Bishops’ Conferences of Oceania meeting, New Caledonia 31- Feast of the Visitation of BVM

June

Bishop’s Diary April 16-20 - Clergy retreat, Pallotti College, Millgrove. April 21-22 - Masses in Cathedral. April 24 - Diocesan pastoral council meeting, MacKillop Room, Traralgon, 10am April 24 - Confirmation visits to children at St Vincent’s and St Gabriel’s schools, Traralgon. April 24 - Diocesan Finance Council meeting, Sale. April 26 - Talk to Year 11 students at Catholic College Sale on the interaction between religious traditions and wider society in Australia. April 26 - Annual Peace Mass at Bishop Phelan

Stadium, Sale. April 26 - Mass and dinner with Catholic Education Office leadership group, Pakenham. April 27 - Confirmation visit to students at St Mary’s Primary, Sale. April 27 - Jubilee cabaret ball, Morwell. April 28-29 - Confirmations at Wonthaggi. May 1 - Diocesan Student’s Mass for Catholic Education Week, Sale. May 2 - Attend meeting of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Commission, Sydney. May 3-10 - Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference plenary meeting, Sydney.

May 3 - World Youth Day briefing, Sydney. May 10 - Meeting with Jewish leaders, Sydney. May 10 - Fly to Rome. May 10-18 - Lead retreat for Catholic Education Office leaders, Rome. May 18- 24 - In Marseille, France. May 26 - Arrives back in Australia. May 27 - Launch Year of Grace at St Mary’s Cathedral, Sale, 9.30am.

3 – Trinity Sunday 3 - Centenary celebration of first St Ita’s Church, Drouin, Mass 10.30am followed by lunch 4 – Deadline for June Catholic Life 5 – World Environment Day 10 – Solemnity of Corpus Christi 11 – Queen’s Birthday public holiday 13 – Catholic Life published 15 – Solemnity of Sacred Heart of Jesus 16-17 – St Vincent de Paul Appeal for the Poor 16 - Memorial of Immaculate Heart of Mary 24 – Solemnity of Nativity of John the Baptist 26 – Central region meeting, St Ita’s, Drouin, 7.30pm 29 – Second term holidays begin

July Peter’s Pence Collection month 1-6 – Bishop Prowse’s personal retreat 4 – South region meeting, Leongatha, 11.15am

9 – Deadline for July Catholic Life 16 – Term three begins 18 – Catholic Life published 27 – Schools Tree Day 29 – National Tree Day

August Centacare Gippsland collection month 6 – Feast of the Transfiguration 6 – Deadline for August Catholic Life 7 – East region meeting, Bairnsdale, 10.30am 8 – Solemnity of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop 9-11 – Bishop Prowse at Bishops’ Commission for Mission and Faith Formation meeting, Sydney 15 – Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 15 – Catholic Life published 16 – Valley region meeting, St Mary’s, Newborough, noon 18 – Diocesan Pastoral Council meeting, Sion House, Warragul, 10am 20-26 – Keep Australia Beautiful Week 21 – Central region meeting, St John’s, Trafalgar, 7.30pm 22 – Queenship of Mary

September 1 – National Wattle Day 2 – Father’s Day 2 – Annual Father’s Day Appeal for Priests Welfare Foundation 5-7 – Australasian Catholic Press Association conference, Wellington , NZ 7-9 – Australasian Religious Press Association Conference, Wellington, NZ 8 – Feast of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary 10 – Deadline for September Catholic Life 12 – Official opening of Sion House diocesan headquarters by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto 14 – Feast of the Triumph of the Cross 17-21 – Sale Diocese clergy in-service, Corpus Christi, Carlton 19 – Catholic Life published 21 – National Walk to Work Day 21 – Third term holidays begin 21-23 – Bishop Prowse at National Youth Conference, Wollongong 27 – Memorial of St Vincent de Paul

October 1-5 – National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’s Catholic Commission conference, Melbourne 2 – Memorial of the Guardian Angels 4 – Memorial of St Francis of Assisi 4 – World Animal Day 8 – Fourth term begins 8 – Deadline for October Catholic Life 8-28 – Bishop Prowse representing Australian bishops at Synod of Bishops in Rome

Page 16 - Catholic Life, April 2012

A Page for Youth ‘Always be joyful in the Lord’

A fun and games weekend LOOKING for an exciting, fun, faithfilled weekend for your youth group? Check out the upcoming State Youth Games. State Youth Games is an actionpacked weekend of sports and activities for young people. Approximately 3000 people camp out together, play sports all day and celebrate at night. It is organised by Youth Vision Victoria – the youth ministry arm of Churches of Christ in Victoria. Youth Groups from all over the State travel for the event. State Youth Games aims to bring young people together in a community of fun and involvement where they can enjoy sporting pursuits in a Christian context. State Youth Games assists the local church youth groups to reach out to young people in their communities and involve them in an activity which is non-threatening, fun, relevant, energetic and challenging. State Youth Games is held each year over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend near Warragul. The base camp is located at Lardner Park and activities take place in Warragul, Drouin, Trafalgar and Lardner

Park. An $80 registration fee per person covers use of the campsite and facilities, all sports participation, including use of venues, facilities, umpiring and trophies. Spectators are charged $50. Extra costs (typically around $30-$40) for transport and meals are usually charged by each of the participating groups. State Youth Games is open to anyone in year 7 or above. The upper age limit for individual sports is 30, but youth leaders over 30 may participate in any of the team sports with their young people. People of any age may attend the weekend and enjoy the exciting atmosphere of the event. Aside from the fun of cheering for your team, there are many opportunities to assist by umpiring, scoring, setting up, participating in things like the disco, worship, coffee lounge, or doing other organisational tasks. Although State Youth Games is organised by Churches of Christ, youth groups from many denominations attend.

PCLIS

Project Compassion donations accepted until 30 June.

• Reflection • Youth Ministry • Inspiration The winner of each category will be awarded a $30 voucher to the Catholic Bookshop. The winning clips will be announced and screened at Cultured Café May 10. Competition opened on April 5 and closes on May 5. Remember you don’t have to create the clip yourself just find a great one on YouTube and INBOX it to the AOY Facebook account and they will post it on their wall.

Participant reflects on CSYMA retreat By Kevin Woodhouse

‘If I couldn’t speak to Jesus, I would not have got through the challenges of grief and pain that I have faced in my life. To me Jesus always listens to me and gives me the strength and courage to face life.’

Your donation to Project Compassion – Caritas Australia’s major annual appeal – alleviates poverty and brings hope to vulnerable communities in more than 35 countries worldwide.

Photo: Marden Dean

HAS something inspired you on YouTube? Are you one of those people always posting on your friends Facebook wall? Well the Faith Flicks competition is for you! The Melbourne Archdiocesan Office for Youth (AOY), through their Facebook page, is launching a promotional competition Faith Flicks to find the best Christian/Catholic based video clips. The Faith Flicks competition is simple: Inbox a Christian based clip on the AOY Facebook Page on one of these categories:

‘I discovered God as a source of joy. I can talk to God anywhere and anytime.’

FOR SUPPORTING

www.caritas.org.au 1800 024 413

A You-Tube competition

‘Reconciliation to me was a joke, but when I went, I found that it was worthwhile. You should consider going to Reconciliation today.’

THANK YOU

(Phil 4:4)

IT is very difficult to find the words to describe the experience of the Year 10 CSYMA Retreat at Forest Edge, perhaps only through the special moments that occurred over the course of the 27 hours. Was it the language that our young people used to talk about God? Was it the drama, re-enacting the Parable of the Prodigal Son, showing parents forgiving their children for the bad choices they had made when they honestly told them the confronting things they had done? Was it the hour long Reconciliation where most of the students present sat with one of the 11 priests present? Or when one of the students who had kept staff up late was the first to volunteer to tell the group what she could take back to school? Was it the resultant glow in the hearts of the priests, who experienced the yearning of our young people for God, and the openness to forgiveness? Or the final prayer where students volunteered their prayers to the 200 strong gathering? In today’s Church people of my generation wonder where the Church will be in 20 or 30 years. The lack of young people in our pews can lead to lots of questions. Will the young take our place? How will our priests connect with the young people in our communities? Who will even be there? Maybe a clue comes from a discussion with one of the priests after Reconcilia-

tion. Fr Tom came from Ireland in 1956, and he remembered my family from Maffra fondly, and my mother’s family from Bairnsdale as well. He reeled off my parent’s names, and my uncles and aunties, and he reflected how privileged he was to be able to be part of the lives of people in town after town over his ministry. He spoke with such respect and gratefulness, and it warmed his heart to be reminded of the interactions he had with his people, and it sparked in me new hope. So now I reflect on the interactions between the young people and their peers and their teachers on this retreat. CSYMA gives the framework for our young people to express their faith, whether through testimonies, drama, prayer and ritual, or music. The process facilitates the development of the language needed to discern and share faith. Many of my colleagues no longer have this language, and now it is our young people showing us the way. Often staff leave from a CSYMA event with the amazement expressed in Luke’s Gospel, when an interaction with Jesus leads to the response of wonder and awe. Is this the sign that Jesus is among us? I believe so, and the fresh innocence of our 15 and 16 year olds who grasp the life-giving and relevant Gospel message through their words, actions and yearning is a sure sign of hope. God’s love, care and memory of each and every one of us was expressed through Fr Tom’s gratefulness. The young people who placed their faith in front of their peers as their most precious gift was inspiring. The Spirit is active at all levels, the silence in the pews not deafening, and the energy and empowerment for an unknown future is taking shape.

Fine tune deliveries

SCHOOLS and parishes are invited to fine-tune the number of copies of Catholic Life they receive each month. Deliveries can be made in multiples of 25. If you need more of less copies just send an email naming your school and how many copies you require so adjustments can be made.

Catholic Life, April 2012- Page 17

For the Young and Young at Heart Time for a Laugh

There was an old lady ... ...

ONE day, Bill and Tom went to a restaurant for dinner. As soon as the waiter took out two steaks, Bill quickly picked out the bigger steak for himself. Tom wasn’t happy about that: “When are you going to learn to be polite?” Bill: “If you had the chance to pick first, which one would you pick?” Tom: “The smaller piece, of course.” Bill: “What are you whining about then? The smaller piece is what you want, right?”

food?” “No, I don’t waste time shopping,” the homeless woman said. “I need to spend all my time trying to stay alive.” “Will you spend this in a beauty salon instead of food?” “Are you NUTS!” replied the homeless woman. “I haven’t had my hair done in 20 years!” “Well, I’m not going to give you the money. Instead, I’m going to take you out for dinner with my husband and me tonight.” The homeless woman was shocked. “Won’t your husTHINK about it... I had amnesia once - or band be furious with you for doing that? I know I’m dirty, twice. and I probably smell pretty Protons have mass? I disgusting.” didn’t even know they were “That’s okay. It’s imporCatholic. tant for him to see what a All I ask is a chance to woman looks like after she prove that money can’t has given up shopping, hair make me happy. appointments, and wine.” I’d give my right arm to be ambidextrous. WHY did the blonde stare What is a “free” gift? at the orange juice bottle for Aren’t all gifts free? They told me I was gulli- more than two hours? Because the label said ble .. and I believed them. Two can live as cheaply as “Concentrate.” one, for half as long. LITTLE Billy’s mother Experience is the thing you have left when every- and father had a visit from the new priest in town and thing else is gone. What if there were no hy- they asked Billy to make the pothetical questions? cups of tea. One nice thing about ego- When he carried the cups tists: They don’t talk about in, his mother asked if he other people. had remember to strain the A flashlight is a carrying tea. case for dead batteries. “Yes,” said Billy “But I What was the greatest couldn’t find the tea strainer thing before sliced bread? so I used the fly swat.” I used to be indecisive. “What???” exclaimed Now I’m not sure. mother as she went to stop The cost of living hasn’t him giving the tea to the affected its popularity. priest. How can there be self-help “Don’t get excited. I didn’t “groups”? damage your new fly swat. Is there another word for I used the old one,” said a synonym? proud Billy. Where do forest rangers go to “get away from it all”? MRS Brown became ill Is it possible to be totally at night and the doctor was partial? called. He went in to see her A WOMAN was walking and after a minute or two down the street when she he came out and asked Mr was accosted by a particuBrown if he had a sharp larly dirty and shabby-lookknife. ing homeless woman who This was provided but the asked for a couple of dollars doctor came out again and for some food. She got out her purse and asked for some pliers. Again this was supplied took a $10 note out and asked, “If I give you this but after a few minutes the money, will you buy wine doctor wanted a hammer and chisel. with it instead of food?” “No, I had to stop drinking “Is she dying?” asked a years ago”, the homeless frantic husband. “I don’t know” said the woman said. “Will you use it to go doctor. “I can’t open my bag shopping instead of buying to get the stethoscope out.”

THE old lady who lived in a shoe sure has plenty of children. Can you count them all as you colour-in the picture.

Can you spot the differences

THERE are eight difference between the two pictures of a man roller skating above. Can you find them all?

Page 18 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Church welcomes 68 new Catholics in our diocese By Regina T Abraham THE Diocese of Sale welcomed 68 new Catholics through the Rite of Christian Initiation this Easter. There were 42 catechumens baptised and 26 candidates who came into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. Of all various parishes within the diocese, St Michael’s Parish, Berwick had largest number of catechumens with 22 being baptised. The RCIA saw all the Catechumen’s and Candidates go through a period of enquiry. After this the inquirers who wished to continue their journey moved on to the “Period of the Catechumenate” where they

received instruction in the Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist. They then moved on to next stage of the “Enrolment of the names”. The Catechumen and Candidates from all over the Sale Diocese met with Bishop Prowse in February to confirm their wish to become Catholic and had individual discussions with him as to why they wanted to undertake this journey. During the third, fourth and fifth week in Lent these Catechumen and Candidates went through a scrutiny in front of the entire congregation and were presented with the “I Believe” and the “Our Father” during these weeks.

The climax of this anointed journey for all took place at the Easter Vigil Masses with the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation; Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion. The Sacrament of Reconciliation was made prior to the Vigil. This journey will end in a Mystagogia Mass held this year at Our Lady Help of Christians, Narre Warren on June 17 at 11am. (Mystagogy is a 50 day period which lasts from Easter Sunday until Pentecost Sunday, which marks the end of the Easter season for that year.) The conclusion of the Mystagogy period marks the end of initiation process for our Catechumens and Candidates.

Emmaus spiritual ministry forming EMMAUS Spirituality Ministry for the Diocese of Sale will be launched on June 8. This exciting spirituality ministry began after approaching Bishop Prowse in May 2010 and sharing with him the desire to bring to the Sale Diocese, after much discernment, a Spirituality Ministry. In February of 2011 we began with a day for all priests, religious and leaders within parishes to discuss this exciting spirituality ministry. There was an overwhelming affirmation that this would be a way forward for so many who wanted to enrich their personal relationship with God. It seemed our very first step would be to organise a discernment/guiding group which would be made up of Bishop Prowse’s representative, four

St John of God helping in Vietnam BERWICK - On a cold and misty day, little Ngan Van Phuc arrives at a makeshift clinic set up by a visiting team from St John of God Berwick Hospital in the remote northern highlands of Vietnam. He is a 10 year old boy whose skin is ravaged by the effects of Agent Orange, the chemical that was used during the Vietnam War that is still causing serious health conditions and deformities today. Ngan was just one of 600 children helped by the St John of God nursing team who recently returned from an exhausting 10 day expedition to provide medical and dental care to the villagers of Hang Kai and Pieng Ve. “Ngan’s skin was paper thin and breaks out in open lesions that get infected”, said attending nurse Fiona Jackson. The St John of God nursing team came across him when he arrived at the local school to participate in hand hygiene and teeth cleaning lessons. He was quickly referred to the general clinic to have his wounds cleaned and then onto the hospital’s makeshift dental clinic to be seen by Berwick dentist, Paris Kritharides. Ms Jackson said, “It was heartbreaking to see Ngan suffer. We gave him a full checkup and provided him with antibiotics and two years worth of skin creams. He came back the next day and it was amazing to see that the creams had soothed his raw skin even within 24 hours - the beaming smile on his face said it all”. Each day the visiting team worked from 8.30am to late in the evening so that they could see every adult and child who patiently queued for hours. Over 640 dental treatments were completed by Mr Kritharides; 550 children received health education and educational resource packs; over 3000 dental kits were supplied to local families; and 11 locally based clinical staff received education on sterilisation along with essential medical equip-

THE visit by the team from St John of God Berwick is welcomed by this Vietnamese village. ment donated by the project’s sponsors. The hospital’s main sponsor, Berwick Rotary, donated 10 percent of the project funds which enabled the team to deliver much needed school resources including computers, sports equipment, and the building of a toilet block and water purification system. Funding from the other main project sponsors - Hartmanns, Nurses First, Defries and the hospital’s onsite pharmacy APHS, enabled the hospital to provide medical equipment and medications. The generous support and donations from Berwick’s local businesses and individuals meant the project reached its funding goal of $40,000. During the visit two babies were born which were attended by midwives, Mel Pow and Julie Jarrett, one of which was complicated by post partum bleeding. “Complications during child birth are common due to the

lack of skilled midwives in the region” said Mel Pow. “I was relieved that the mums and babies were fine due to our team’s medical expertise.” Project nurse Michele Wright said that the conditions in the villages and poorly equipped medical clinic were quite shocking. “We saw one child who has rickets, a condition that is caused by poor nutrition and virtually non-existent in the industrialised world”. Nurse Leonie Wills added, ”The medical clinic has no running water supply so water must be fetched from a well. We would love to be able to improve their water supply in the next phase of the project.” The visiting team will now evaluate the project’s impact in preparation for its continued support to the region. Pastoral practitioner Paul Hammat said, “We were lucky to see how our first trip in 2009 has had a sustainable impact and we are confident that there

will be ongoing positive results relating to this trip too”. As part of its ongoing relationship with the people of Hang Kai and Pieng Ve, the hospital will soon purchase a motorised wheelchair for a little girl with cerebral palsy so that she can enjoy more freedom and attend school. If you would like to donate to the St John of God Berwick Hospital Vietnam Smiles project, contact Donna McKendry on 9709 1421

people from the Sale Diocese and also four people from Campion Outreach Team who are also from the diocese. These monthly gatherings happened for a year; great discernment happened during these gatherings. After only a few months we had a Spirituality Formation Program happening in which all the Sale Diocese was invited to “come”. The word “come” was very appropriate as those who have attended really do “come” ready to be filled by God and journey this outwards to others. A day for parish workers was held and many attended. Most were surprised at the way the day unfolded , many said they had “changed” in their relationship with God and the closeness they felt now was very tangible. People asked “how do we become spiritual directors”. The way forward seemed to be to have an evening for anyone who would like to become a spiritual director. Over 20 came to this night from all over the diocese hearing different ways in which they would be able to become a “qualified” spiritual director, under the Australian Ecumenical Council for Spiritual Directors. Many have begun this journey forward. There are many being given spiritual direction throughout the diocese. The parishes we go to are Bairnsdale, Leongatha, Pakenham, Sale and Newborough. The spiritual exercises of St Ignatius are also being given to those enquiring throughout the diocese. As we begin 2012 we resume the Spirituality Formation Program in Yarragon with Apostolic Leadership followed by Preparing for the Future. We are also giving this Spirituality Formation Program in Pakenham beginning in May with The Art of Prayer. There will be All Parish Workers days on in Pakenham on April 24 and one in Bairnsdale on October 9. We hope to give days of prayer throughout the different regions within the diocese. If your parish would like a half day/day or weekend, we can “come” to you, we are a mobile spirituality ministry. “Come” and enjoy some time resting in God and allowing yourself to grow in relationship with Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Catholic Life needs your advertising support. Costs are continually rising, so to keep these in check we need regular support from Catholic businesses. Call 5144 6132 to talk to us about advertising.

Catholic Life, April 2012 - Page 19

Classifieds bingo Sacred Heart School

BINGO Every Friday

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THANK YOU St Jude. O Holy St Jude Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen.

Priests & Deacons

Morwell RSL Club, Elgin St., Morwell

Eyes down 11am. Ticket sales 10.30am Now 55 games at 20 cents per game.

Further details phone 5134 8484 or 5133 7221 (AH)

Are you considering a vocation as a priest or deacon for the Diocese of Sale? If so please contact Diocesan Vocations Director

prayer

Fr Darek Jablonski 5996 1985 vocations@sale.catholic.org.au

If you are making or updating your will, you may consider leaving a bequest to the Bishop’s Family Foundation.

situation vacant

Assistant Business Manager The Catholic Diocese of Sale is seeking applications from suitably qualified and experienced persons for the above permanent full time position based in Warragul, commencing mid to late June 2012. For further details obtain an information pack from www.sale.catholic.org.au or email pa@sale.catholic.org.au or telephone 03 5144 6132 Applications will close 30th April 2012.

Bishop’s Family Foundation

The Bishop’s Family Foundation has produced some easy-to-read booklets explaining bequests which may be an advantage to read before seeing your solicitor to prepare or update your will. Copies may be obtained by phoning Pat on 5144 4991 Do it today and sleep easy knowing you have done your part.

HOLY SPIRIT You who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideals, you who gives me a divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me; in this short dialogue I want to thank you for everything and affirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in Your perpetual Glory. (Mention your request). Thank you Holy Spirit for your love towards me and my loved one. Amen This prayer should be said for 3 consecutive days. After the 3rd day the request will be granted, no matter how difficult it may be. While making the request one must either promise to publish on granting the favour or promise to circulate copies of it to as many people as possible. This is to spread the wonder of the Holy Spirit.

services INSIDE/OUT BUILDING INNOVATIONS. All home improvement works. New and facelift kitchens, bathrooms, painting, tiling, plastering, decking, pegolas and all plumbing works with compliance certificate. Pensioner discounts. No job too big or too small. Contact Stephen 0403 314 835.

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Page 20 - Catholic Life, April 2012

Narre Warren stations of cross Coin words raise funds for Project Compassion

NARRE WARREN - Our Lady Help of Christians Parish has for the past few years enacted the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday between 10-11am. The venue has been the Don Bosco School Oval, which provided us with the most natural environment and setting for the enactment. This enactment is put together purely through the generous voluntary efforts of parishioners who willingly contribute their time and talents. The team consists of coordi-

nators who put the script, music, sound and props together with the actors and readers. This year, there were about 60 volunteers, even attracting the participation of primary school children in the enactment. The end result was the manifestation of each volunteers’ untiring effort , ultimately reaching out to every single person that attended this enactment in the hope that we as Christians get a small insight into what our Lord Jesus Christ sacrificed for us on that heart-

breaking day at Calvary. The audience numbers have grown steadily every year with many visitors from neighboring parishes attending. This outdoor event has become bigger with enhancements and improvements being made with each passing year. The parish thanks the volunteers who have been critical to the way it has been able to reach out and touch the lives of others through this enactment of the Good Friday Stations of the Cross.

Child’s Bible - ‘God Speaks to His Children’ The Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s Bible ever! Feed a Child with the Word of God Worldwide, the Church is under attack from atheistic regimes, militant Islam, sects and basic ignorance of the Faith.

)LH\[PM\SS` PSS\Z[YH[LK I` :WHUPZO U\U 4PYLU :VYUL [OPZ KLSPNO[M\S *OPSK»Z IPISL PZ available for a donation of $7.00.

The international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) is able to counter these attacks by supplying Child’s Bibles to children and families ^OV ZPTWS` JHUUV[ HɈVYK [OLT PU countries where the Church is poor or persecuted.

Rosary from the Holy Land

:PUJL P[Z SH\UJO PU (*5 OHZ WYPU[LK and distributed 48 million copies of God Speaks to His Children in 167 languages. It is the Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s bible ever!

Bolivia

WARRAGUL - Students from St Joseph’s Primary School bought in their loose change to make Lenten words out of coins. Classes spent many sessions discussing their chosen word and what it means and then they made this word with their coins, raising over $1300! This activity was a great hit with students who were trying to raise as much money as they could for Project Compassion during Lent. Classes really put a lot of thought into their word and en-

joyed the challenge of making it and then counting up their money. It was great seeing everyone involved and as you can see by the photo, it was a really powerful result! All money raised will go to Caritas for its Project Compassion appeal this year, helping to end poverty, promote justice and uphold the dignity of the world’s poor. Students were really proud of their efforts and enjoyed seeing photos of all the words at assembly.

St Pat’s quilt project projects harmony

Simple in design and yet profound in its Z`TIVSPJ ZPNUPÄJHUJL [OL VSP]L^VVK YVZHY` OHUKTHKL PU )L[OSLOLT I` *OYPZ[PHU MHTPSPLZ Z[Y\NNSPUN MVY Z\Y]P]HS are also available for a donation of $7.00. All proceeds will go towards the work of Aid to the Church in Need for the poor and persecuted Church worldwide.

This inspiring book can also teach the -HP[O OLYL PU (\Z[YHSPH! ^P[O `V\Y MHTPS` NVKJOPSKYLU VY PU `V\Y WHYPZO VY ZJOVVS The Child’s Bible is a perfect gift for JOPSKYLU NYHUKJOPSKYLU ULWOL^Z HUK UPLJLZ LZWLJPHSS` [V THYR H -PYZ[ /VS` Communion. The Bible complements the catechism and children’s rosary booklet also published by ACN and available via our website.

ONE of the finished quilts on display in the administration building at St Patrick’s School.

BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED THROUGHOUT 48 Bible stories from the Old and New Testaments Available for a donation of $7.00 A lovely gift idea!

Cath Life Sale

PAKENHAM - As part of Harmony Week 2012 St Patrick’s Primary School decided to do something big. As the school has had such an influx of new families this a year it wanted to show them that they were part of our community and school already. It was decided that a quilt with the surnames of everyone in the school be put together to celebrate and showcase the school logo “Together as One”. So earlier in the term every family was given a square of calico to decorate with their surname and then to show their special interests or pictures that represent their family. There was a great response and the one quilt that was going

to put together, turned into four quilts. The school was lucky to have four wonderful parents who gave up their time to sew the quilts together. They filled the school meeting room and staff room with the humming of sewing machines and strands of cotton. They did a wonderful job working together and some meeting for the first time, which showcased the school motto to our students. The quilts are now hanging proudly in the administration building for everyone to view. One was also displayed at Pakenham Living and Learning Centre for the Cardinia Shire harmony Week Celebrations.