Kete Korero August 2016

ketekorero August - October 2016

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The official publication of the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton August - October 2016

Poverty challenge Focus on Schools of Mercy Joyous occasion at Maketu Fr David Gledhill’s 50th anniversary Students deepen faith

Youth Ministry

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In this issue...

ketekorero August - October 2016

bishop’s message

Read it online!

Living the fullness of the Gospel

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t the supermarket a few weeks ago, people were collecting for the World Wildlife Fund. This was at the same time as we were hearing about homelessness every day in the news.

About the same time, I was walking across a school playground and one boy said to another, “Actually the man I call Dad is my real Dad.” These three areas of concern are at the heart of the pontificate of Pope Francis.

In 2015, he issued Laudato si’, his second encyclical on care for our common home. Pope Francis addressed it to “every person living on this planet” with the hope of entering “into dialogue with all people about our common home.” He reflected on our relationship to the earth, looking at what is happening to it and in the light of this, presents a Gospel of Creation. Having a right relationship with creation helps us towards right relationship with all the people of the earth and this in turn helps in the battle against poverty, war and injustice to the vulnerable of the earth.

Also in 2015 Pope Francis announced the Jubilee Year of Mercy in Misericordiae Vultus.

The focus of this year is to contemplate Jesus, who is the face of the Father’s mercy, so that we in turn become merciful like the Father. We need mercy and we show mercy.

We do this when we recognise the need of others to receive our mercy. It is by being merciful that we grow in the divine life and love. Having a merciful relationship with others means seeing through the eyes of each other, so that together we can overcome the social ailments of our age.

Earlier this year Pope Francis released Amoris Laetitia, his apostolic exhortation on love in the family. It is both a celebration of what is good and holy in family and at the same time a call of concern to what is happening in families today. When working in the seminary, I was told by one senior staff member that 85 percent of the children in his high school came from homes where they were not living with both natural parents.

“Children not only want their parents to love one another, but also to be faithful and remain together,” Pope Francis writes. Amoris Laetitia calls us to right relationships within our families, to really look at whether the external influences around us are helping or hindering family life.

At the heart of all these relationships is our relationship with Jesus Christ. We have a growing litany of social ills in our country in our time. The growth of these problems has been mirrored by a decline in the practice of Christianity. A long time ago the Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah, “If you do not stand by me you will not stand at all.” Again, in our time, we see a fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. So easily we justify our opinions and end up making ourselves gods who make our own rules for our own lives. A Christian on the other hand is called to discipleship, to the discipline of following Christ in his relationship to the Father, to neighbour, to self and to the creation. Jesus alone becomes our way, our truth and our life and we are called into a right relationship with and in him so we might live, as Pope Francis reminded us in Evangelii Gaudium, the “Joy of the Gospel.” The way to such joy is Jesus and as Fr Raniero Cantalamessa, the preacher to the Pope, once said, “If Jesus is Lord of our lives then he must be Lord of our wallet, of our sexuality, of what we say, of all we do.”

Living the fullness of the Gospel can change lives and it can change the world. More and more there is a whole lot that needs to change in our world and perhaps that change has to start in you and I.

www.proudtobecatholic.org.nz

Bishop’s Message Living the fullness of the Gospel

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Features Catholic agencies together for mercy in poverty crisis 3 Schools of Mercy in focus at conference 4 Twin families celebrate 50 years of priestly service 8-9 Sisters of Saint Joseph living out simple lives 14-15 The religious of the Diocese of Hamilton 15 Parish News Installation of acolytes joyous occasion for Maketu St Lorenzo feast prompts outreach plan Bishop at Matawai for Pilgrimage Whakatane children’s Pentecost Sid Wells - Deacon and a star of the sea St Joseph’s Matata 125-year anniversary Tyburn draws pilgrims Waihi Confirmation and First Holy Communion New rite of blessing Secretaries at forefront of parish changes School News Students deepening faith through Holy Communion ministry Innovative Learning Environment for St Joseph’s Opotiki Campion College rebuild Feast of St Anthony of Padua Youth News Anna-Marie responds to call for youth worker role

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The Kete Korero is an official publication of the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton.

Deadline for contributions to the next issue is 10 October 2016 Kete Korero Magazine C-/ 51 Grey St, P.O. Box 4353, Hamilton East 3247 Editor: Michael R. Smith, P.O. Box 6215, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010 Tel: 07 349 4107, kete@cdh.org.nz Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/KeteFb Videos: http://tinyurl.com/ketekorero Sponsorship and advertising: David Barrowclough, C-/ Chanel Centre 0800 843 233 Fax 07 8567035 or email: cdf@cdh.org.nz Design and layout: Sandy Thompson, Advocate Print 248 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010

In this issue of Kete Korero

Printing: Beacon Print Ltd, 207 Wilson Road, Hastings 4153

The crisis of poverty throughout our communities has seen Catholic agencies join those responding in the Hamilton Catholic Diocese. In this edition, we feature responses by Catholic Family Support and the Thermal Lands Council of St Vincent de Paul. See page 3.

Read on page 4 how Catholic schools are being asked whether they are “Schools of mercy”.

Page 5 has a report on the installation of acolytes making their steps to diaconate ordination - a joyous occasion at Maketu.

Parish News on page 6 highlights the Filipino community’s plans for celebrating the feast of St Lorenzo Ruiz, Gisborne’s plans for a Year of Mercy pilgrimage. Sid Wells, who celebrated

ISSN: (print) 2357-2221 & (online) 2357-223X

25 years as a deacon features on page 7.

On page 10, Rotorua-Taupo parishioners make a pilgrimage to Tyburn Monastery.

On pages 8-9, we feature the 50th anniversary celebration of Fr David Gledhill.

School News on page 11 features students becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Anna-Marie Barrett’s youth work role is featured in Youth News on page 13.

Sr Colleen Dempsey has prepared a two-page report on the religious in the Hamilton Diocese, with a particular focus on the Sisters of St Joseph (pages 14-15).

Cover Photos Front page: Joyous occasion at Maketu The panel: From left, pilgrims at Tyburn Monastery; First Holy Communion at Waihi; a parishioner congratulates Fr David Gledhill at his 50th anniversary; and innovative learning building opening in Opotiki.

Bubble: Youth worker Anna-Marie Barrett

ketekorero August - October 2016

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feature

Catholic agencies together for mercy in poverty crisis Catholic agencies in the Hamilton Diocese are pitching in to help communities combatting child poverty.

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n the May-July 2016 edition of Kete Korero, we highlighted the move by St Vincent de Paul in Hamilton to open a dedicated building to store donated goods.

In this edition, Catholic Family Support and St Vincent de Paul Thermal Lands have highlighted their challenge in helping to meet needs as highlighted in the Salvation Army’s 2016 “state of the nation report”.

The report highlighted how limited progress had been made in reducing child poverty over the past six years, and estimated about 90,000 children were in households materially and income poor.

The Thermal Lands Council of St Vincent de Paul covers the largest geographical region in New Zealand and includes regions among those considered the most socially and economically deprived.

Brenda Whelan, who is president of St Vincent de Paul Thermal Lands, says the service is seeing a big increase in the need, particularly in housing as well as food parcels.

Apart from the 200-plus volunteers, Thermal Lands has only two paid employees. The volunteers include as follows Whakatane, 68; Kawerau, 11; Gisbourne, 44; Opotiki, 11; Taupo, 14; Tokorua, 32; and Rotorua, 36.

Accessing grants difficult Brenda says it has become increasingly difficult this year to access grants from all sources as the “purse strings” are being tightened as demand increases.

“We are needing more and they are saying ‘sorry, no’ because they have to cut back as well. It’s a double-whammy.”

More volunteers are being sought, because the average age is 75 with the eldest being a 98-yearold from Kawerau.

Thermal Lands is seeking to boost young-volunteer numbers by having closer relationships with schools and developing the Young Vinnies groups.

“The need is much greater, the volunteers are getting older, we

need new blood, and we need more contributions – financially and goods and food – to keep the service going as it is let alone expanding.

With only four shops – two in Rotorua, one in Whakatane and another in Tokoroa – all the areas were doing much more visiting to provide for people’s needs.

As well as those in need, many elderly people considered among the wealthy are very lonely and young people also need visiting.

Those who receive assistance are followed up with visits to see how St Vincent de Paul can assist them in other ways.

Displaced from Auckland In the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the shutting down and reduction of output at wood industry mills has added significantly to demand for services.

People displaced from Auckland were coming into the Thermal Lands area only to find that no houses were available for them.

“So we have lots of people living in cars in this area.”

Those who were not living in cars, were finding other places, such as in the grounds of a local mental health facility or stands at a rugby ground.

Many members have been involved in St Vincent de Paul for 20-40 years and, while they do see the increase, they are prepared to do what they can.

Catholic Support Services director John Kavanagh says the reasons for household poverty are varied but, whatever the circumstances, it was important to focus on the child.

“In some circumstances it is because of poor money management skills. Sometimes it is poor choices, such as borrowing from high interest lenders. Sometimes there are mental health or addiction issues.”

Families may also make it a priority to support extended family, or others to the detriment of their own family.

“But for whatever reason, it is important from our point of view

Catherine Maria Phizacklea (left), who runs the St Vincent de Paul Full Fill food van in Rotorua has formed an alliance with Mai Pelulale (right), chairperson of the the Fordlands Community Centre in Rotorua, where meals are delivered twice a week. Mai says the service fits in well with what the community centre is trying to achieve - “our families are struggling” - and everyone knows about the van. to focus on the child, not the adults, and to continually work to ensure that as far as we are able, we help the child get at least the basics in life. “ Disadvantage starts early Catholic Family Support services works with the families on a daily basis.

“We see children growing up in circumstances which disadvantage them from the beginning.

“Often they cannot participate in many taken for granted activities because there is no money.”

Embarrassment on the part of the family may mean they prefer to keep their children home from school rather than admit that they cannot afford school uniforms, pay school fees and provide school lunch.

“We are very grateful to the generosity of one of our supporters which has enabled us to provide support to these families.

“We are very grateful to the wonderful people who support our work.”

These included: • The good people at Catholic Womens League who provide knitted goods • Pregnancy Help who drive up from Taupo to drop off knitting to keep children warm in winter.

• The Kiwanis Club who deliver pyjamas to give out to children

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who do not even know what pyjamas are.

St Vincent de Paul who work with Catholic Family Support to provide furniture and other items to families without.

The Foodbank and Kaivolution who provide food, and All those other people who drop off used clothing that can be redistributed.

“It is truly a community effort to ensure that these children in our community are given a chance.

“We know that within our Church community there is a huge number of people who want to do something to help, John says.

If you do have used clothing or other items, please remember Catholic Support Services and St Vincent de Paul.

Your donations will go to these families who need the help.

CONTACT John Kavanagh, Manager Catholic Family Support Services, Ph 07-8563760 Brenda Whelan, President Thermal Lands St Vincent de Paul, 07-2190535 For a directory of these organisations, contact your parish or go to the diocese directory at: cdh.org.nz/works-services

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ketekorero August - October 2016

feature Schools of Mercy in focus at conference

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he annual conference of school principals and directors of religious studies from throughout the Hamilton Catholic Diocese was one of the best attended for years.

Organised by Paul Shannon and Dianne Porter, the Secondary RE Advisor and the Primary RE Advisor respectively, the conference theme was “School of Mercy”.

Bishop Steve Lowe who spoke on and questioned whether and how Catholic schools were demonstrating mercy (see separate story).

Fr Richard Leonard, a Jesuit priest and author based at North Sydney, held several sessions on the first day. His addresses were informative yet entertaining, based as they were on his publications “Where the hell is God?, What are we doing on earth for Christ’s sake? and Why Bother Praying? (see separate story). Among other issues, he talked about how Catholic schools are conducted largely in a culture hostile to religious belief.

Paul Shannon said about 80 delegates attended the conference, which was probably helped by Rotorua’s central location in the diocese, but those attending also had a stimulating programme to work through.

“One of the benefits of the conference was bringing together principals, DRSs and other school leaders of religious education all in the one place. Some other dioceses cannot do that but Hamilton can due its size. That’s important, because they are the leading catechists in schools and having them listening to the same message is valuable.”

Workshops held on day two and three of the conference also provided added value for those attending. The workshops included discussions around aspects such as Catholic social teaching and the role of Maori in schools.

Paul said virtually every school from the five secondary and 28 primary schools had somebody attending, making it the most wellattended to date in recent years.

Bishop Steve Lowe’s address reflected the Pope’s Year of Mercy – “Catholic schools must be schools of mercy and we have to be people of mercy.”

He said that the first teachers of Jesus Christ were his mother and father. Mary had to conceive what God’s plan was for Jesus. In spite of what we thought, the Holy Family was like most families, not always perfect. Mary was found to be pregnant and Joseph stepped into help her.

Bishop Steve said his recollection when

Bishop Steve Lowe with new principals and directors of religious studies. growing up was that the families he and others of his age encountered came from the ideal.

“When I went to school, there were no kids from single parent families but there were kids who came from families who were abusive but stayed together when they should have split.”

The paradox for principals and DRSs was that they had to deal with a lot more than in past years and, in many cases, much more than priests had to in their parishes.

Bishop Steve said Pope Francis wanted the Catholic Church to be a church of poverty but he asked whether that reflected in students attending Catholic Schools in New Zealand.

Attendance dues or activity fees were all legitimate parts of running schools but many could not afford them.

“What advertisements do you have for people who cannot afford fees and to tell them what help is available?”

Equally, it was also important to remember that Jesus was a refugee. As such, he asked, how open were schools to accepting today’s refugees?

“I think we are but how do we welcome the diversity that refugees bring.”

The rising incidence of pornography and suicide was a concern facing schools. Just as Mary and Joseph had to prepare Jesus, so schools had a role to play in prepare children for the modern world.

“We have to be like Mary and Joseph forming the children for the world around us,” Bishop Steve said.

Fr Richard Leonard talked around the issue of

how the Catholic identity and mission competes with other voices.

Using an excerpt from the film “Billy Elliot”, about a boy who takes up ballet in spite of his family’s reluctance, he discussed how sensitivity and imagination can often be masked by the situation in which parents and children are living.

The film set up the father and Billy to be very different people but once they are taken out of their usual environment they are found to be very similar. They both resolve their conflicts violently but they are at heart deeply sensitive.

“Falling in love, what seizes your imagination, will decide everything.”

Asked by Kete Korero whether this aspect of imagination in education set aside Catholic schools, Fr Leonard said he would like to think that was true.

“I would like to think our creativity did that, because at its very best, one of the things I like best about our Catholic tradition is how it richly feeds the life of the imagination.”

He was therefore not sure to what degree the tradition would be coming to bear in any Catholic organisation and community which was lacking imagination.

“But this isn’t any old imagination: this is a religious imagination which fires us.”

It meant that with people who might not share our belief in God, it was the values that were consistent with that – inspiring faith, hope and love.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

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parish news Installation of acolytes joyous occasion for Maketu

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he installation of three acolytes at Maketū was a joyful occasion for parishioners.

On 22 May, Bishop Steve Lowe installed Douglas Rewi, Ben Pomare and John Limrick as acolytes at the small church of St Peter’s, Maketū.

Maketū is on the Bay of Plenty coast between Tauranga and Whakātane, and it has historical significance to both Catholics and Maori. For Maori, the history goes back to when ancestor Tamatekapua and his relatives set out from Hawaiki in a double-hulled canoe.

After exploring the North Island coast, they settled in Maketū. From there, some of the group went inland to settle around the Rotorua lakes.

Alister Matheson, who had a lifelong interest in the history of Ōtumoetai, Maketū and Tauranga wrote that the first Catholic missionaries at Maketū were Father Borjon and the catechist Brother Justin who arrived from the Bay of lslands with Bishop Pompallier on the Catholic Mission schooner Sancta Maria at 5pm on 22 August 1841.

According to Pompallier’s diary he named this first mission station for ‘Saints Joachim and Anne ‘ the parents of Mary the Mother of Jesus.

In September 1841 Pompallier married Hans Homan Felk Tapsell to Hine-e-Turama and it was from them that the large Tapsell family of Maketu are descended. The first Catholic Church at Maketu was erected by Chief Pukuatua of Maketu in 1845 and blessed by Bishop Viard in December 1847.

St Peter’s Catholic Church was built in 1887 under the direction of Fr James Madan of the Mill Hill Mission based at Matata, and erected by the people of Maketū, with the materials purchased and collected by them. The Church was blessed on January 1 1888 by Bishop Luck, Bishop of Auckland .

This was the church in which Bishop Steve carried out the installation of the deaconates

Left, Bishop Steve Lowe (back) with acolytes Ben Pomare (front), John Limrick and Douglas Rewi.

Above, Douglas Rewi and daughter Renee helped lead parishioners in hymns.

Right, in front of St Peter’s Maketu, Deacon Henk Gielen, Fr Stuart Young, Ben Pomare, John Limrick, Bishop Steve, Douglas Rewi, Fr Darren McFarlane, and Fr Brendan Ward (Holy Cross Seminary Rector). nearly 130 years later.

Bishop Steve told the parishioners during the Mass that he acknowledged the people as custodians of the land and the church.

“Through the years, this is where people have come to give praise to God; have come to pray for and remember tipuna. In God, individual tipuna become the tipuna of us all, because in God there is one family.”

Sunday 22 May was the feast day of the Holy Trinity and, for Doug, Ben and John, this was their next step in the journey to being servants to the God of love.

“We remember those who surrounded us with love, who passed the faith and love on to us, and we in turn pass that faith and love on to one another.”

Speaking after the Mass, parishioner Mike Maassen, (pictured) said it was a privilege for the community to be able to host such a big occasion in their small church.

Although small churches have been under strain throughout the country, Doug said the Maori community had ensured that the Maketū church had remained strong and open.

“As congregations have fluctuated, there’s always been a core of locals who have kept the fires burning and kept the doors open.”

Mike said it was great to see a large group of people from across a wide area come out and show their respect for the men on the day.

Doug Rewi and his wife, Hāriata, spoke to Kete Korero after lunch in the dining room of the nearby Ngati Whakaue Marae, Maketu. Doug’s journey to become a deacon began some decades ago but gained traction about four years ago, when they returned to Maketū on retirement.

Doug had been in forestry in Murupara and Hāriata had been working for the Department of Conservation.

Although he had been a lay minister in Murupara, Doug felt it was important to take his involvement further on coming back to Maketū,

with a better understanding of scripture, for example.

The late Pa Hemi had told parishioners the church was looking for people to put their names forward as deacons. Although he had some experience during his time in Murupara, he felt it necessary to take the step forward given his new involvement in Maketū.

Doug said that although he now had a deeper understanding of the prayer life, his life had changed as well.

“My family life and my being is different. I see things much more differently now – when I see a problem, my religious training has a big input on the outcome I decide.”

Hariata said the experience had made the family’s lives richer and had in some way affected all of their four daughters. Daughter Renee Rewi said that although they were all brought up in the faith, they were also getting to know more as a result of their father’s experience.

Details regarding Maketū and Te Arawa: http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/te-arawa Details of the Catholic history can be found in an article by Alister Matheson in the Historical Review, Vol. 57 No. 1, May 2009. http://www.lowerkaituna.co.nz/cmsAdmin/ uploads/Vol-57-No-1c.pdf

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ketekorero August - October 2016

parish news

St Lorenzo feast prompts outreach plan Bishop at Matawai for pilgrimage

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ommunity outreach will be the focus of this year’s celebration of the beatification of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz by the Filipino community in Rotoua.

The day 24 September is a special one for the Filipino community as it is the date when they celebrate the Feast of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz here in Rotorua, New Zealand.

St Lorenzo was canonised by Pope John Paul II during a visit to the Philippines in 1981, the only beatification outside to be held outside the Vatican in history.

The Filipino community in Rotorua will come together for the third year in September for the celebration.

Elmer is the Filipino representative on the Hamilton Diocesan Council says this will be the third year the Rotorua community will celebrate the feast.

Normally, a statue of St Lorenzo is shared house-to-house, with each family hosting prayers and a meal.

The celebration this year will be extended, so it includes a Mass followed by a procession around the St Mary’s School field. Money is normally collected and food provided for all those attending However, this year the money

raised will go towards donating to community food services in Rotorua under the “Feed the People” outreach banner.

The Mass will be primarily in Filipino, with English involved.

Other members of the parish community have also been invited to join in the house-to-house celebrations held during the time as well.

“We are hoping to use St Lorenzo as the vessel to share our culture, our faith and fellowship” says Elmer.

Born to a Chinese father and a Filipino mother who were both Catholic, St Lorenzo was executed in Japan by the Tokugawa Shogunate during its persecution of Japanese Christians in the 17th century.

The circumstances of St Lorenzo’s death make him a hero to Filipino people and an example of the perseverance they must have as migrants worldwide in keeping and growing their faith.

The Filipino community in New Zealand currently numbers about 50,000 and is expected to reach about 100,000 by 2018 or so.

For more information, contact Elmer Ersando: 021 0511614 or email elmer_ersando@vodafone. co.nz

A visit by Bishop Steve Lowe to consecrate a Holy Door at St Bede’s, Matawai will be a highlight for parishioners in the Gisborne area joining an inclusive pilgrimage programme for the Year of Mercy.

The programme includes: • Tuesday, 9 August- Sr. Meg will run a workshop from 10.00am until 3.00pm on the topic “To Live As We Age”.

• Saturday, 17 September Sr. Cynthia will lead a day of Retreat.

• Saturday, 24 September- Mrs Bev McDonald, (the National Leader of the 3rd Order of Mary), will lead a day of Retreat. (All three days will be in the Parish Centre.)

• Tuesday, 8 November- a Parish Pilgrimage to St. Bede’s Catholic Church, Matawai Parish Pilgrimage to Matawai will coincide with a visit to the area by Bishop Steve on 8 November.

Whakatane children’s Pentecost Each term the children and teachers of Saint Joseph’s School, Whakatane, organise all Liturgy for a Sunday Mass. This is a photo from Pentecost Sunday and features some of a class who made their own head bands, portraying the Holy Spirit coming down on them.

They are Olivia Allison, Olivia Simpson-Wilson, Charlie Ansell and Jerome Stoove in the back row. Madison Gibson, Abbigail Hickson and Emily Martin, in the middle row. Amelia MacKenzie and Emma Hall are in the front.

The new large wall hanging depicts the Holy Spirit who is surrounded in fire. This art work is a parish collaborative effort.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

7

parish news Sid Wells - Deacon and a star of the sea

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artyloga Oleksandr (right) and Marchenko Oleksandr from the Ukraine receive some guidance from Chaplain Sid Wells (left) at the Port of Tauranga’s United Seafarers’ Mission.

Sid is a member of the Tauranga Apostleship of the Sea and is a Deacon in the Parish of St Mary’s Star of the Sea. This year he celebrated 25 years as a deacon, making him one of the longest serving in New Zealand.

Sid’s work as a port chaplain at Mount Maunganui has brought him face-to-face with the human cost of work today.

In his role as port chaplain, Sid attending the Worker’s Memorial Day held at Pilot Bay in the Mount, where he was the final speaker.

Sid said he was horrified by what he heard regarding workplace accidents; that about 75 workers died each year at work and a further 6,000 working people were seriously harmed in their work. Thousands of others suffer from diseases related to long-term workplace exposures and work-related conditions.

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In the Bay of Plenty, there are an average of seven work-related deaths annually, not including those who die from work-related illnesses. Since 2008, eight men working in the Bay’s extensive forest plantations have lost their lives and 104 were seriously injured.

He talked about his work as Port Chaplain and about cases he had been involved with on the wharf and shipboard accidents.

“I asked the people around us to bow their heads as I prayed for the souls of those had died, families and ourselves.”

He finished with a prayer for those who make the rules that they would be guided to produce “sensible and easier procedures for workers to follow”.

Originally from Norwich in England, Sid had been a deacon for five years before coming to New Zealand. Initial contact had been made with Bishop Gaines and this was followed up with Bishop Denis once he arrived with family in Tauranga.

Although appointed a church deacon, it was suggested he should take on the role with the Apostleship of the Sea. The various churches had separate port missions at the time but came together in the current building in 2000 after the Port of Tauranga decided to move the mission house into company’s security perimeter.

“Oceania House” is today used by different agencies but the missions pay for the bottom floor where various rooms cater for the needs of visiting seafarers. AOS has about 15 people from the parish available to assist to provide the services to seafarers.

The mission receives about 15,000 visitors annually and the chaplains make between 200

and 300 ship visits monthly.

As with the two Ukrainians above, Sid says the most asked for assistance is around linking up visiting seafarers to their families back home. To do this, they can have free access to Wifi internet connections, so they can use their own devices, or they can use the mission’s computers.

The mission is well fitted out to allow the men exchange foreign currency, utilise the free tea and coffee supplied and a games room. A 12-seater mini-bus provides transport, with most men choosing to go shopping malls.

Sid, who turned 75 this year may have to retire as a deacon under the church’s rules regarding the retirement of clergy but he is hoping to continue, if possible.

In a note to parishioners, Sid said his journey began many years ago after falling out with an elder of his church where he had been a choir boy for eight years; he left and never returned.

Many years later he married a Catholic girl and, after many years, he finally found his way and became a Catholic.

“I was influenced by the people I met, especially my local priests, but later God spoke to me and called for married men to become Deacons.

Well, that’s how it appeared to me, though really it was a letter from our Bishop. After four years of investigation and training I was ordained and ready to work: ‘I was going to save the world’.”

He started his journey and five years later, in 1996, he arrived in Aotearoa, after following his children and grandchildren here.

“Now, 20 years later, I am still trying to follow Christ’s instructions to go out to the world. Paul made many journeys but I have been lucky to have reached many by being a Port Chaplain to seafarers from all over the world, right here in Tauranga.”

To find out more about the United Seafarers’ Mission, go to: http://www.unitedseafarersmission.org/

St Joseph’s Matata 125-year anniversary St Joseph’s Catholic School in Matata will celebrate its 125th anniversary with a special pageant dedicated to the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart.

The school was established in 1891 by the sisters and the Mill Hill Fathers. Sisters Margaret and Margaret Mary currently live adjacent to the school.

Although the official date is 8 August, the celebration will be held on 27 October so that the

event can take advantage of the better weather at that time. The pageant will be acted out by sisters, in the original habit, priest, pupils and teachers from St Joseph’s. The pageant will celebrate two events – The Coming of the First Sisters and then the visit by Mother Mary of the Cross.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

feature Twin families celebrate 50 years of priestly service

Mass was held in the meeting house at Rangitahi Marae due to the numbers attending. Above left, Br Vincent Jury addressing those participating in the Mass (above).

By Michael Smith

T

he day Father Hemi Hekiera SM died on 5 February this year, I was standing on our back porch looking at rain spitting down in shards. As the thin raindrops rushed down to the earth, they reminded me of all the people I see as life marches by.

One droplet stood out large seemly like somebody who stands out, or makes an impression, in your life. I returned to my office and checked incoming emails to find one telling us that Fr Hemi had died that afternoon.

It seemed appropriate when, during the pōwhiri to welcome visitors for Father David Gledhill’s 50th Jubilee celebration, when a faint rainbow hung overhead and then an icy squall brushed across Rangitahi Marae, Murupara.

Pa Hemi and Pa Rawiri (David) had been close colleagues in recent years and instrumental in implementing the Hamilton Catholic Diocese’s new plans for Maori under the title “Whaia Te Whaea”. As part of this transition, they had moved to take up occupancy at the former nun’s convent at St Michael’s Catholic School in Rotorua.

Throughout the day on Sunday 26 May, Pa Hemi’s name and influence was mentioned – during the powhiri and the Mass that followed in the meeting house, and later at the long lunch in the dining room.

Among the about 241 visitors who attended were visitors from Wellington, Wanganui, the Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and Auckland as well as from throughout the Bay of Plenty and Waikato.

They included Emeritus Bishop Denis Browne and Marist Fathers Phil Cody, Otaki; Tim Duckworth, Wellington; and Peter Healy, Otaki.

Brother Vincent Jury, the Christian Brother who has been at Murupara for a quarter of a century, was among those in the kaumatua welcoming group.

The celebration fell on the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time, in which the readings relate Jesus’s invitation to follow him, saying in the Gospel “Anyone who starts ploughing and keeps looking back isn’t worth a thing in God’s kingdom!”

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Fr David Gledhill (centre) is pictured above with (from left) Phil Cody, Marist Otaki; Emeritus Bishop Denis Browne; Tim Duckworth, Marist Wellington; and Peter Healy, Marist Otaki.

Bishop Denis said in remarks during the Mass that when Pa Rawiri was ordained 50 years ago he would never have imagined that he would be gathering in Murupara with his family and friends, and whanau, so the readings were appropriate “What all of us want to do today is to say ‘thank you’ for the way in which you have lived your priesthood over the last 50 years, like those great servants Elisha and Elijah, and like Paul and those people who were called in the Gospel.

“You have been called to the priesthood in a unique way, because The Lord has called you to a very special mission and you have responded.”

Although that call came from Jesus, Bishop Denis said, some people might say He might have had trouble finding Pa Rawiri, a reference to his being in two places at once.

“In every case you are serving the people.

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Fr David with family members. To his right Elvin and Marie Priest; and on his left, Patsy Taylor.. and that is how you have lived your priesthood in a very special way. Jesus, I know, He knows where you are and like us he is grateful that you have spent yourself every day.”

Pa Rawiri had lived this life through prayer, the celebration of Mass daily, in the sacraments he had conferred and the way in which he had seen Jesus in all the people he had served.

“We would like to join with you in thanking God that you have allowed yourself to be open and allow the spirit of God to come through.

Paul in the Letter to the Galatians was talking how you must recognise freedom, and you’ve got that spirit of freedom about you.”

At one stage, Pa Rawiri was the parish priest at Wairoa, part of the diocese of Palmerston North, and took the liberty of transferring the church at Te Whaiti, then in the Diocese of Auckland, to

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ketekorero August - October 2016

9

feature

Listen to Emeritus Bishop Denis Browne’s address at: http://tinyurl.com/bishopdenis

Above, parishioners and visitors congratulate Fr David after the Mass.

Top, the 200-plus people enjoyed speeches and singing during the long lunch. Above, Fr Ngaputahi, which is the centre of devotion in Te David gives thanks to those gathered for the celebration.

Uruwera.

“You had no hesitation whatsoever in shifting the church and the bishop of the time was grateful you were saying Mass in a church that didn’t really belong to the parish of Wairoa.”

Bishop Denis said the people of the district loved Pa Rawiri the same way in which they loved Br Vincent. Turning to Br Vincent, he remarked on his commitment to the people of this district and how the love he and Pa Rawiri was reciprocated by the love the people had for them.

“You have lived your priesthood in following Jesus and done it magnificently.”

Pa Hemi had been mentioned on more than one occasion in the powhiri and Br Vincent’s welcome, Bishop Denis said.

“Pa Hemi was your soul mate in the priesthood and the Society of Mary. We not only acknowledge his spirit is there with us in Whaia Te Whaea and those wonderful movements Pa Hemi thought of, but he would not have been able to achieve anything would it not have been for support of people like yourself “I am sure that Pa Hemi will be sending down blessings galore upon you today as you share with him this wonder of your 50 years of priesthood.

You have done it as a priest of the Society of Mary and for you that means that everything you have done is in the spirit of Mary and we congratulate you for being such a son of Mary as well as being a son of Jesus.”

The congregation in the crowded meeting house then sang “Mo Maria” (the Marian anthem attributed to Bishop Pompallier) in response and in recognition of Pa Rawiri’s calling to the

Society of Mary.

After Mass, family and friends gathered to congratulate the priest. Pa Rawiri was the eldest of a family of four children, and two of his three sisters were present.

Marie Priest and Patsy Taylor said they were privileged to come and support their brother.

Another sister, Gillian, lives in Canada.

“We haven’t seen David in this environment before and I was looking up at the altar and I thought ‘I’m proud of you’,” said Marie.

They had not seen their brother earlier on in his priesthood, when he had been teaching at Hato Paora Māori Boys Boarding College and leading a busy life.

“As you get older, family becomes more important.”

He had baptised, buried and married many members of the extended family.

“Family is very important to him and he is very important to us,” Marie said.

Steve O’Connor, a cousin and the director of the Johnsonville-based social work and youth development agency Challenge 2000, said 23 people had come from Wellington and Wanganui and other centres because Pa Rawiri had worked with them for the past 25 years.

The young people presented him with a manaia with words saying “If you give love, love is returned to you” in appreciation of the support he had given Challenge 2000 over the years.

After speeches and waiata in the dining room, Pa Rawiri addressed those gathered, saying how it was a real honour to have worked with Bishop Denis for the past 20 years. His presence at the

event honoured the occasion and the priesthood of the diocese, and the relationship with Maori was unique in the Christian world today.

“I stand before you to say thank you to those gathered today.”

Reflecting on Bishop Denis’s words, he said that those who took seriously the invitation of Christ in married life or religious life would never regret their decision.

“So I am really honoured to see you all gathered to honour that decision 50 years ago. I’ve never regretted it but you are confirming that not only for me but also in your own minds. Fifty years on I have never regretted my decision to become a priest in the Society of Mary.”

He then invoked an old Irish blessing: May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

NOTE Fr David Gledhill’s 50 years as a Catholic priest began when he was ordained on 26 June 1966 by Bishop Brian Ashby – the Bishop of Christchurch. Born and raised in Blenheim, Fr David was educated at Christchurch’s St Bedes College.

He graduated from college after being the head boy and winning many accolades for leadership.

As speakers noted at the celebration of his 50th anniversary as a priest, he could have been an All Black but The Lord had other ideas.

Fr David entered the Greenmeadows Marist seminary 1960 and shortly after his ordination in 1966 he was posted to Hato Paora Māori Boys College in Fielding. While there, he began his long relationship with Maori, including studying Te Reo Māori at Victoria University.

He remains fondly remembered in the parishes he served, including St Mary’s in Whanganui, St Peter’s in Wairoa and the Immaculate Conception in Tauranga. In recent years he served at Te Puna, Tauranga, and from here he worked with Fr Hemi Hekeria on development the Whaia te Whaea mission for the Hamilton Catholic Diocese.

Although still travelling widely, Fr David is headquartered at the former Mercy Convent at St Michael’s School in Western Heights, Rotorua.

It has been accounced the Marist Fathers have appointed Fr David Moore SM to be with Fr David and to help with Whaea te Whaia.

10

ketekorero August - October 2016

parish news

Tyburn draws pilgrims

P

arishioners from Rotorua and Taupo (above) gather for rosary during a Pilgrimage for the Year of Mercy to the Tyburn Monastery in Ngakuru.

The pilgrimage on 14 May brought together about 70 parishioners from across the collegial area spanning Rotorua and Taupo-Turangi.

The monastery is tucked away near the end of Waikite Valley on 16 hecrares of land about 38 kilometres

Pilgrims in front of the Holy Door of the tiny chapel.

Pilgrims gather in the Rosary Garden. south of Rotorua. In theory just a 40 minute-drive, a visit can take longer given the winding, narrow roads until you reach a turn-off on Dod’s Road to the monastery driveway, now dubbed God’s Road.

The pilgrimage was organised by the priests and parishioners of Rotorua and Taupo. Monsignor Trevor Murray, who is now the parish priest for Taupo following a transfer from Waihi, was one of those involved in developing resources for the theme of “Doors of Mercy” for the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.

After everybody gathered having travelled from throughout the collegial area, the group walked up to Calvary Hill, which rises above the Tyburn property with a cross at its peak.

Mass was said in the chapel and this was followed by the Rite of Reconciliation.

A break in proceedings allowed people to chat and reflect on the beauty of the surroundings.

The group then gathered in the Rosary Garden where they said the rosary in the bright, winter morning sun.

Waihi Confirmation and First Holy Communion

Above, Bishop Steve Lowe was at St Joseph’s, Waihi for Confirmation and First Holy Communion and was joined by Cardinal Tom Williams who was there to confirm his great-niece

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Tamaiti Kei Roto Tonu I Te Kōpū, Rite of Blessing for Expectant Parents and Their Child in the Womb which outlines the wording and prayers for this Rite.

This is especially timely following the recent Exhortation from Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia, The Joy of Love.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

11

school news Students deepening faith through Holy Communion ministry A deepening of their faith and giving back to parish communities are reasons given for students at John Paul College in Rotorua to become Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

A group of 10 students from the school went through the process recently and Kete Korero spoke with three of them along with JPC Campus Minister and Lasallian Facilitator Bernadette Fredricksen.

Te Mahara Swanson Hall is Year 13, Theresa McLean a Year 12, and Brendan Douglas Year 11.

Asked why the students went through the process, Theresa said: “It’s an opportunity to give back to your community through Mass, and being able to give the Eucharist to parishioners is quite a privilege.”

Brendan says that when he was told about it, he thought about how he was going to Mass every Sunday and how it would be an opportunity to deepen his faith and help the community.

Te Mahara said that, when growing up she had always looked up at Eucharistic ministers as being holy. She had always looked up to parishioners serving as ministers and wonder whether she was “good enough” when asked.

“But I am happy to have taken the opportunity, because in my more senior years I’ve grown a lot in my faith. It has changed my view of Catholicism and I’m quite proud of my faith.”

Te Mahara said she felt privileged to have the opportunity to give back to the parish that helped her growing up.

The students stated that they had been given an insight into the amount of work that goes into organising a Mass, and they particularly had a new appreciation of the work done by parish priest Fr Eamon Kennedy.

“Working with Fr Eamon we got a little glimpse into how much he does for our parish and our school,” said Theresa.

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Te Mahara Swanson Hall

Brendan Douglas

Like Te Mahara, Theresa said that as she was getting older, her eyes were opening to the faith more and what it means to be Catholic.

“Sometimes I think we disregard the things that need to be done within our parishes, so it’s nice to be able to help people who have always helped us.”

Brendan said he enjoyed learning the process and the rituals involved, rather than just going up to receive communion and sitting down again.

Asked if the experience had changed their relationship with their faith, Te Mahara said: “I appreciate it a lot more and I am also grateful for the amount of new relationships it’s provided me with.”

Because Fr Eamon was relatively new to the parish, she had been able to get to know him more, was able to talk to him and ask him questions anytime, rather than just saying a quick hello after Mass.

“I also see the people I went through the Eucharist minister training with as like my

Theresa McLean

brothers and sisters now. It made me appreciate what we do and that we are role models in our school.”

Fr Eamon had reminded the students when completing their course that they were not only doing it for themselves but also for the parish.

Te Mahara said her first time administering communion was at the Saturday evening vigil at St Michael’s Church. Afterwards, she had been encouraged to come more involved with those providing Maori ministry services and to get her school involved.

“It was something in my journey as I moved forward that I could see how you could help others follow that path also.”

Looking forward, Brendan, who is looking to be a pilot, said he would always have his faith no matter whatever he did in life or what job he did.

“It’s important to be a part of your community and to give back and the more you can help out the better.”

Theresa said she would like to do something to make a difference to the lives of others. She had a keen interest in environmental issues and that being a Catholic has lots of different aspects, so it was hard to narrow it down.

Te Mahara, who is in her last year of schooling, said she wanted to go to university.

“But no matter what I do and where I go, I want to keep up with my faith and help my people.”

Bernadette said it gave her great joy to see the students who wanted to participate at another level in the parish and the school.

“The most powerful thing is that they are witnessing their faith to their peers, and I think that is a wonderful thing,” she said.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

school news

Innovative Learning Environment Campion College rebuild for St Joseph’s Opotiki

Raewyn Clark, Principal The 2nd of June was an exciting day for St Joseph’s School in Opotiki when a much awaited new Innovative Learning Environment Block was opened by Bishop Steve Lowe.

Prior to arriving in Opotiki, Bishop Steve said he had seen a picture of the school shield on the school website and its motto - E noho I te pono me te aroha translated means “live in faith and love” He then went on to explain that the motto was what the building was all about. He said the striking archway at the entrance, where he said a prayer, pointed to heaven, and the building’s width symbolised children needing to open their hearts to everyone.

Then the long wait for teachers and learners was over! The new building, which took nine months to complete was finally ready for use.

Board of Trustees Chairman, Zac Brown, said its arrival heralded a new style of teaching whereby children would be able to take control of their own learning.

The building, which reflects the

The Opotiki community looks around the new Learning Environment Block.

Below: Bishop Steve has help cutting the ribbon.

A rebuild at Campion College is set to transform the Gisborne Catholic school. The multi-million-dollar project will see the three two-storey buildings replaced with single storey “innovative learning spaces” to meet international agreed standards for 21st century learning and teaching. The new buildings will be in line with the nationwide move to place a greater emphasis on ensuring that all students are able to learn at their own pace and not at the pace of the class.

Feast of St Anthony of Padua

school’s heritage in its form, and its new technology and internet capabilities is the first of its kind in the area.

The new technology includes: laptops and tablets at separate work stations, LED widescreen televisions, cooking facilities and a colourful, welcoming environment warmed by heart pumps and oodles of open space.

The Feast of St Anthony of Padua was celebrated in a very special way, as the Patronal Day of St Anthony’s Catholic School, Huntly on 13 June..

The entire day was planned as a celebration in honour of St Anthony and declared a non-instructional day. The students dressed in house coloured mufti.

We began the day with a joyous Holy Mass on campus, presided over by our School Chaplain, Rev Fr A. Aherne and Deacon Bill Wells. We offered a ‘loaf of freshly prepared bread’ in Anthony’s tradition of ‘feeding the poor’, a ‘white lily’ depicting ‘purity of body and spirit’ and a blessed picture of

St Anthony as part of the Offertory procession.

New Grotto Dedicated A newly built Grotto was dedicated in honour of Our Lady of Lourdes, with a formal blessing of the site by Rev Fr Aherne. The statue was re-painted by Sr Philippa Reed RNDM from Morrinsville.

This beautiful statue of Mary was originally in the school building, on the old school site in Huntly. The grotto was built from donations made by the St Anthony’s Catholic School Centenary Re-Union Committee.

Dr Kevin V.C. Kannan Principal

ketekorero August - October 2016

13

youth news Anna-Marie responds to call for youth worker role

A

sking for God’s guidance has led AnnaMarie Barrett to leave her home in Christchurch for a role as a Catholic youth worker in the Bay of Plenty.

Anna-Marie works with youth through the parishes of All Saints by the Sea in Mount Maunganui and St Thomas Aquinas in Tauranga along with Aquinas College.

Anna-Marie was home-schooled and, in her last year of schooling, she decided to have a gapyear before going to university. That led her to work with the Christchurch Youth Mission Team, a group of six young people from the diocese who run retreats and camps and organise youth groups.

She was undecided what to do after that job finished, so prayed to God for guidance and it turned out that the reply came relatively quickly – she saw an advert for the youth worker’s positon on the same day. In what was quite a brave decision, having no family or friends in the Bay, Anna-Marie started the job in March this year.

“What made me want to do the job was that youth ministry is one of my biggest passions but the important thing for me is to have that partnership with God.” The 19-year-old says she did not have a personal relationship with Jesus until she was about 16 or 17 and that started changing her life, so she was passionate to see that relationship come about in other young people. So she saw the job as timely and something she never thought she would be offered – not only to do the ministry but also to work full time in it.

Anna-Marie is based on St Thomas More Church at The Mount in a coordinator role for the parish, which entails organising and running its two weekly youth groups with the help of five leaders who volunteer for the Friday and Sunday night sessions.

Anna-Marie Barrett - walking alongside young people on their faith journeys.

As the chaplain at Aquinas College, AnnaMarie works with the religious education (RE) team, walking alongside the young people in their faith rather than trying to teach them. This involves being at the school three times a week, informally meeting the students as well as being involved in RE classes.

“I hang out with the students at lunch time and break times, developing relationships and getting to know them. I talk to them about their faith journey and try to encourage them.”

Although the youth group coordinating role is relatively common in a parish, her role as a

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chaplain was different.

“Being there to hang out with the students is a unique part of the role but it’s a great tool for being able to build a foundation [of trust] with them. Having somebody there for them not so much in a leadership role but as a support for the students in their faith is really quite awesome.”

Being home-schooled meant she had to learn how schools worked but it also has enabled her to bring something special to her role as a nonteacher.

“It’s a good thing, because I don’t have any negative memories of high school so that, in a way, my conversations with students differs.

I’m not there to try to get them to achieve a goal.

I see my role as somebody who is like a friend and I’m not there to put any pressure on them.”

Anna-Marie says she comes from a position that you cannot teach faith. “You can teach a religion but that doesn’t mean anything unless who have a reason for why you are doing it. I don’t want to tell you how to live your life – I want to encourage you to see there’s more to life and there is a purpose for all of this.”

It was valid for the children to ask “why” when being taught that goes back 2000 years.

“Although I am from a Catholic family, I felt like that myself a few years ago, but let’s think about why it is important and I want to seek out whether there is truth in this, whether or not I believe in it and can experience God.” The youth group was the best place where these questions were able to given answers.

Having just started in on this work, AnnaMarie isn’t planning what she is going to be doing for the next five years – that’s not her way of doing things.

“God got me this far and I believe God has something for me after this, whenever or wherever that may be.”

In the meantime, Anna-Marie is enjoying the warmer climate in Tauranga and the different scenery around the Bay. She loves getting outdoors and running up the Mount.

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ketekorero August - October 2016

feature Sisters of Saint Joseph living out simple lives The items on this page and page 15 have been compiled

by Sr Colleen Dempsey Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Fr Julian Edmund Tenison Woods (1832 – 1889) said, “Never see an evil without trying to remedy it.” St Mary of the Cross MacKillop (18421909), the co-founder of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart, incorporated this into the mission of the Congregation they founded.

It is included in her understanding that being consecrated is not an addition to being Christian. It is the specific manner in which the Spirit asks each Christian to belong to Christ. The Sisters today believe that God is active in their lives and calls them to service of others.

Living out radical trust in the Loving Providence of God, the Sisters answered the invitation to work in simple, ordinary ways to bring the message of Christ’s Saving Love to men and women, particularly those in rural areas.

Respecting the human dignity of

all men and women, and standing out against injustice, characterises Josephites from the time of their foundation.

The first Sisters of Saint Joseph in the Hamilton Diocese went to isolated and rural places, as follows: Matata – 1891; Rotorua – 1903; Tokaanu/Waihi - 1905; Gisborne – 1913; Taumarunui – 1916; Te Kuiti - 1921; Te Awamutu – 1921; Matamata – 1930; Whakatane – 1933; Mangakino – 1950; and Otorohanga – 1955.

Today, Sisters Joan Anderson, Carina Cobb, Colleen Dempsey, Margaret Mary Dwane, Lorraine Gaines, Win Fouhy, Meg Hills, Margaret Louisson, and Marie Therese Williams minister and live in the parishes of Matata, Rotorua, Gisborne, Taumarunui, Te Awamutu, Whakatane, Mangakino and Hamilton.

The following excerpts give an indication of ministry and presence for the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart in the Diocese of Hamilton today.

From Left: Srs Meg Hills, Lorraine Gaines, Jeanette Conheeney, Carina Cobb and, in front, Joan Anderson.

The above picture of the Sisters of St Joseph is from the history of the foundation of the Sisters of St Joseph in this country. For more information, go to History/Aotearoa New Zealand at sosj.org.au

Sisters in service across the Hamilton Catholic Diocese Mangakino - the Hub of the Diocese

By Sr Marie Therese Williams rsj This is a town filled with the most amazing people.

For this town, Pope Francis’ Year of Mercy began some years back when work on building the hydroelectric dams in the area ended and most workers had left the area.

The remaining townsfolk pulled together and since then have established a community where people are known, respected for who they are, and cared for when in need.

This town is not about buildings

Sr Marie Williams rsj at the Lake at Mangakino. and great resources - it is about people.

Where does a Sister of St Joseph fit in?

Taking residents to Waikato, Taupo, Rotorua and Tokoroa hospitals for appointments; visiting the elderly and lonely; doing the odd bit of shopping in Tokoroa for the housebound; and taking others to do shopping or for an unscheduled day out.

All this is possible only with the backing of the Sisters of St Joseph who provide rental accommodation, a car and means of support.

We meet the spiritual needs of those who want it with a weekly prayer meeting held in Tokoroa and a fortnightly Liturgy of the Word In the spectacular Mangakino St Joseph’s Church where the tukutuku panels are second to none.

Children are prepared for baptism, confirmation and first communion with the support of Bishop Edward Gaines’ School in Tokoroa and the Tokoroa Catholic Community.

For a holiday beside Lake Maraetai and all the peace and quiet you need come to Mangakino!

Rotorua – Under the Patronage of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop

By Sr Carina Cobb rsj Three Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart arrived in Rotorua at the beginning of February 1903, following a two-month visit the

Sr Carina Cobb (right) in Rotorua. previous year by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who sought treatment in the therapeutic waters for a rheumatic condition that was gradually crippling her.

The original convent and school were built beside and behind the present site of St Michael’s church.

However, by 1922, the small school and playground were proving inadequate for the growing numbers of children, so a larger block of land was procured on the present St Mary’s site on Seddon Street.

Today I work within the St Mary’s parish area.

While still taking an interest in St Mary’s School and connecting from time to time with the teachers and children on the playground, I visit many of the parishioners and take communion to the sick.

I am one of the catechists for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), teach the parish baptism programme and also, during the

ketekorero August - October 2016

15

feature The Religious of the Diocese of Hamilton as at 14th April 2016

Colleen Dempsey rsj The following are the groups that make up the Religious of the Hamilton Diocese.

I shall name each group, give the name of their leader in New Zealand, state the number of members in New Zealand and the number in Hamilton. I shall also add relevant details for your interest and information if I have them.

Sr Win in community garden at Taumarunui. different “seasons” of the year, direct and lead a Sunday Scripture group.

My days are busy and varied as I acknowledge and honour the fruitfulness, beauty and life experience of the people among whom I live and work and among whom I continue to minister as a Sister of St. Joseph.

Presence and Music Ministry in Te Awamutu

By Sr Margaret Louisson rsj

Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions RNDM (Religiouses Notre Dame des Missions) Founded Lyon, France in 1861 by Euphrasie Barbier. Arrived in New Zealand 1865 (Napier) Now: International Congregation approximately 900 members worldwide. Main Leadership House: Rome.

Leader in New Zealand: Sr Carmel Cole .

Number: 95 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 18.

Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus RSJ Founded Penola, South Australia in 1866 by St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods.

Arrived in New Zealand 1883 (Temuka) Now: International Congregation: 880 members.

Main Leadership House: Sydney, Australia, Leader in New Zealand: Sr Annette Arnold Number: 85 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 9 Adorers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Montmartre OSB – Tyburn Monastery at Ngakuru, Rotorua International Congregation.

Main House at Tyburn in London. Members in Hamilton Diocese: 8

I play the organ or piano as required, and ensure the parish is provided with music that the people enjoy and sing readily. With the support and leadership of the parish music group, the parish quickly learns and sings the hymns for Sunday liturgical celebrations.

A group of singers attend funerals ensuring strong support for the leading of the singing. St Patrick’s School calls on me to play for special occasions. I often visit the school and am made very welcome there.

I am chaplain to the St Vincent de Paul Society, a sizeable and active group, and am part of the working team responding to calls for assistance or consultation.

Parishioners appreciate my availability, as a listener, to answer phone queries, and to occasionally make home visits.

Looking to the Future As Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we understand that there is one mission in the church (to bring about the kingdom of God). The gifts of the evangelical counsels are available to all the baptised faithful as they are an integral part of the Christian message.

“We (the baptised) are all called to live and bear witness to the spirit of the beatitudes in order to transform the world according to God’s heart.”

Vita Consecrata par.55.

Sisters of St Joseph of Cluny SJC Founded at Cluny in France in 1807 by Blessed Anne Marie Jayouhey. Four Irish Sisters arrived in New Zealand in 1940 (from Fiji) Now: International Congregation : 2,900 members. Main Leadership House: Paris, France Leader in New Zealand: Sr Allison Macalister Number: 10 Members in Hamilton Diocese 5.

Nga Whaea Atawhai o Aotearoa – Sisters of Mercy New Zealand RSM Founded Dublin, Ireland by Venerable Catherine MacAuley.

Arrived in New Zealand in 1850 (Auckland) On 12th December 2005 the four Congregations in New Zealand united to become a single national Congregation. Main Leadership House: Wellington, New Zealand.

Leader in New Zealand: Sr Katrina Fabish Number: 195 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 3.

Marist Sisters SM Founded Cerdon, France, by Jean-Claude Colin and Jeanne Marie Chavoin in 1817. First overseas community at Spitalfields, London in 1858. International Congregation.

Leader in New Zealand: Sr Gemma Wilson Number 22 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 2 Society of Mary New Zealand Te Ropu o Mere Aotearoa SM Founded at Cerdon, France, by Jean-

Sr Colleen Dempsey rsj at work in Hamilton.

Claude Colin. Arrived in New Zealand in 1838.

Now: International Congregation.

Main Leadership House: Rome. Leader in New Zealand: Fr David Kennerley Number: 115 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 1 Marist Brothers FMS (Fratres Maristae a Scholis) Founded La Valla-en-Gier, France in 1817 by St Marcellin Champagnat sm First arrived in New Zealand in 1838 alongside Bishop Pompallier and Society of Mary. Re-arrived in 1876.

Leader in New Zealand: Br David McDonald, Number: 80 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 2 Christian Brothers – Founded Ireland By Edmund Rice. Main Leadership House: Rome. Leader in New Zealand: Br John O’Shea Number: 10 Members in Hamilton Diocese: 1 Mill Hill Missionaries MHM –(Founded London, England) Fr Anselm Aherne - Hamilton Order of Augustinian Recollects – Fr Edwin G Macmac - Tauranga Society of St Francis – Anglican Community Hamilton IN RETIREMENT Sisters of the Good Shepherd RGS - (Founded France) Sr Aileen Marsh - Taupo Congregation of St Brigid – (Founded Ireland) Sr Clothilde McDonnell - Opotiki

Classifieds

16

ketekorero August - October 2016

ADVERTORIAL

Pellows Funeral Directors have served your community for over 50 years. A regular sponsor of Kete Korero for nearly 10 years, Pellows are involved in many diocesan and parish sponsorships.

As members of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand, we have qualified people to care for you and your family. You can be assured of sensitive and caring attention when you employ Pellows at your time of need.

Our service covers funerals, pre-arrangements, pre-paid funerals, pre-planning, granite and bronze monumental work. All our families are offered complimentary bereavement support after the funeral.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss your needs or answer any questions you may have. This can be done over the phone, at your home or our rooms - there is no charge for this service.

We are available to talk to groups and can tailor our talk to suit the needs of the group. It may be that you are interested to hear what we do, what motivates us to do this work, or just more about who we are and how we fit into your community.

138 Grey Street, Hamilton l Ph (07) 8565129 l www.pellows.co.nz l Email: pellows@funerals.co.nz

SPONSORS

Helping fund a caring community

Catholic Care Foundation

Phone: 0800 843 233 Email: cdf@cdh.org.nz

Ground Floor, Federated Farmers Bldg 169 London Street Hamilton 3204 Ph: (07) 839 9045

Phone: 0800 843 233

Email: cathcare@xtra.co.nz

Email: cdf@cdh.org.nz

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