The Catholic Observer - December 2023

CATHOLIC

OBSERVER DIOCESE OF BATHURST

VOLUME 59 NO. 2 • DECEMBER 2023

INCLUDES BISHOP MCKENNA’S PASTORAL LETTER

ALIVE AND ACTIVE - READING THE BIBLE TOGETHER

Catholic Observer

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‘Mary’s Final Vision’ Adelaide Yr 5, St Johns Dubbo “This artwork was inspired by the Scripture passage ‘Journey to Bethlehem’ (Luke 2:3-5) and while it doesn’t depict the physical journey that Mary and Joseph undertook, it focuses more on the mental journey that Mary experienced while being pregnant with Jesus.

Mary had a vision of what life would be like once their baby arrived and this was what I wanted to portray. The larger outer hands are Joseph’s, while the smaller hands on the inside are Mary’s and in the middle being cradled are the feet of Baby Jesus.

I placed the feet at the very centre to show the love and protection that Mary and Joseph were willing to provide to keep their Son safe. The entire artwork is designed around a very traditional photo that many modern photographers capture during newborn photo shoots- the infant’s hands or feet being cradled by their parents. I then incorporated the Middle Eastern floor tile pattern into the background of my image to bring a sense of culture into my artwork. Is it believed that Middle Eastern geometric patterns draw heavily from mathematics and emphasize the importance of unity and order, as evidenced by God’s creation of the universe.”

Bishop’s Christmas Message 2 Bishops’ Social Justice Statement 3 Catholics And Jews ‘Walking Together’ 4 Synod Of Bishops 5 Vietnam - Seeing A Need 7 Maronites’ Golden Jubilee 7 Bathurst Pacific Partnership 8 Walking With Those Forgotten 9 Centacare News 10 11 St Vincent’s Hospital 100th Anniversary Charles Sturt University Catholics 12 Brigidine Chapel Reopening, Cowra 13 Canowindra Celebrations St Edward’s 14 Two New Deacons For The Diocese 15 Diocesan Bible Launch 15 Youth Engagement 16 Eugowra And “Slow The Flow” 16 World Youth Day 17 Cafe VIVA in Bathurst 19 Pastoral Letter - “ALIVE AND ACTIVE Reading The Bible Together” 20 Red Wednesday 24 Obituaries 25 Neville Dawson’s Posthumous Honour 27 Executive Director’s Message 28 th 29 La Salle Academy 70 Anniversary Praise And Worship 30 Coonamble Church Reopens 31 St Brigid’s Coonamble Celebrate 140 Years 31 Sisters Of Saint Joseph Visit Schools 32 CEDB Wins ACEL Award 33 Christmas Story Art Exhibition 34 Diocesan Sport 37 Principal Of Holy Family School Retires 39 SRE 39 Wellbeing Strategies for Student Support 40 Spelling Bee 2023 41 Bishop’s Missionary Appeal Back Page

Stay up to date on the latest Catholic Diocese of Bathurst news: @cdobathurst @catholicdioceseofbathurst @BishopBathurst

1 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

BISHOP’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE Christmas is Personal The painting I chose this year in our annual Christmas Story exhibition was by Zeke. It is about the light we need for this journey which is life.

It came with a very personal commentary from the artist and reminds us that faith is not abstract, but personal.

In Australia, Christmas is a very public celebration, with both sacred and secular elements. We always hope that at least some of the good news about Jesus manages to find its way through the clatter of trade.

Even for Christians, the joys and complications of family life can sometimes be overwhelming at this time of year.

“Personal” does not mean isolated. In fact, it is through my relationships that I come to know and grow who I am. At times, though, I need to return to what Jesus called “the private room” of my heart and recall that I am in the presence of God, “in whose light I see light.” (Psalm 36:9) May light and peace be your greatest gifts this Christmas, to receive and pass on. +Michael McKenna Bishop of Bathurst Zeke received Bishop Michael McKenna’s “Bishop’s Award”

My artwork is inspired by the passage from Isaiah.

Jesus hasn’t even been born yet and people are getting ready - they are preparing the way.

Bethlehem is getting ready.

The ground relates to my Aboriginal heritage and culture. It has different colours in it and they painted with different colours. The road is not straight. My life has been a winding road so far because I have lived in different places with different people. I have not had a straight road. The sky is blue and it is a bright blue - it is going to be exciting when Jesus is born.

The light is showing everyone the way to the baby, Jesus. My light is my Aunty Sam because she cares for me and helps me, and she took me into her home so I would be safe. Aunty Sam is my light.

Zeke Title: ‘The Light is my Guide’

I enjoyed mixing the colours and painting them on the canvas. It was fun.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 2

BISHOPS’ STATEMENT CALLS FOR ‘NEW ENGAGEMENT’ WITH FIRST PEOPLES Australia’s Catholic bishops have called on the nation to seek “a new engagement” with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in their annual Social Justice Statement, launched in August this year.

Since the 1940s, the bishops have published annual statements that urge the Catholic community to reflect and act on social, economic and ecological issues. The statements are published as a focal point for Social Justice Sunday.

This year’s statement, Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, was launched in Western Sydney on Thursday 17 August by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, chair of the Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service.

“One of the objectives of this statement is that we want Catholics to understand that Catholic social teaching and Catholic social action are not simply theoretical and academic exercises, we hear what God is saying to us about justice by being with our sisters and brothers on the peripheries of society.”

While the Social Justice Statement is a teaching document of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, a large part of this year’s statement was written by members of the National Aboriginal

3 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council. It is part of the message’s exhortation to “listen”. “Listening is hard. Hearing about young people taking their lives, about so many people ending up in jail, of children still being taken away from their parents and grandparents and about the ongoing racism is tough,” says Bishop Long. “It must be so much more difficult for these people to tell us about their painful experiences. We are deeply grateful to those who shared their stories of pain with us.”

The theme for this year’s statement was chosen in May 2022, well before the Voice to Parliament referendum.

“We ask the church in Australia to make efforts to lead the way for our fellow Australians” in pursuing reconciliation. “Our attitudes and actions towards First Nations Peoples need to be grounded in justice, love and humility. We need to listen with deep respect and learn from them about what needs to be done to improve their situations.

“We need to walk with them, day by day, and work with them to bring about change for the better – for their people and for all of us. Strengthening our relationship with our First Peoples is integral and indeed critical to the strengthening of the whole nation.”

Access the statement at: https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au Source: Gavin Abraham – ACBC

NEW DOCUMENT HIGHLIGHTS CATHOLICS AND JEWS ‘WALKING TOGETHER’ The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference launched a new document on 21 March 2023, to highlight Christianity’s unique relationship with Judaism and the celebrate the positive relationship the two faiths enjoy in Australia.

Walking Together: Catholics and Jews in the Australian Context comes 30 years after the Bishops Conference published a set of guidelines and recommendations to enhance Catholic-Jewish relations.

That document had built on the foundations of Nostra Aetate, the Second Vatican Council’s Declaration on the Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions.

Bishop Michael McKenna, chair of the Bishops Commission for Christian Unity and Inter-Religious Dialogue, said Walking Together “aims to help Catholics understand more deeply the uniqueness of our relationship with Judaism, our elder sisters and brothers in faith”.

Jillian Segal, president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said Walking Together “bears eloquent testimony to the intimacy of the connection between Judaism and Christianity”.

She said it affirms “the essential Jewishness of Jesus and the fact that he prayed and worshipped as a Jew; the ongoing, irrevocable nature of the covenant between God and the Jewish people; and the fact that Jesus and the Pharisees were in alignment, not in opposition, to one another”.

Bishop McKenna said the document’s launch, followed by a kosher lunch, allowed for a deepening of the Catholic-Jewish relationship, which he says has “a long and good history”. “Since Vatican II, which renewed and clarified the Catholic

DOWNLOAD WALKING TOGETHER

understanding of our relationship, our friendship and mutual help has grown,” he said.

A typically warm and generous vote of thanks was offered by the late Jeremy Jones AM. This, sadly, was to be the last time that Jeremy, who died on 6 September this year, participated in the Annual Conversations between the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and the Commission and its Councils. He had contributed enormously in encouraging and organising this dialogue for decades; and is deeply missed.

“It is not often that we witness seismic changes in relations between two communities, but it is no exaggeration to describe the present era of Catholic-Jewish relations as a Golden Age, after a history of too many Dark Ages,” Mr Jones said.

“The positive, meaningful contact and mutual respect is unprecedented.”

Mr Jones called Walking Together “a cry from the heart and a call for action”.

The document acknowledges some of the challenges in Catholic-Jewish relations in the past, but also proposes ways to continue to heal the wounds that were created.

Bishops Homeming, Nona, Rabbat and McKenna at the launch

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SYNOD OF BISHOPS

In 2020 Pope Francis announced that the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in October 2023 would be “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission”.

In 2021 each diocese was asked to prayerfully reflect on the dimensions Communion, Participation and Mission and make contributions.

The contributions from our Diocese included the need for more diversity in leadership, discernment and decision making. The need for new mindsets around formation and sacraments.

Diocesan contributions were also related to the mission of parishes in their community.

Contributions from the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia were also included in the Australian 5 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

submission to the Synod.

From October 4-28 this year 450 delegates from all over the world including 15 from Australia, gathered in Rome for the first session of the Synod.

For the first time voting members included religious men and women and lay men and women from around the world.

The Synod of Bishops began with a world wide ecumenical prayer vigil on 30 September and three day retreat. Pope Francis presided at the vigil in Rome in the presence of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and many other Church leaders. Local prayer vigils were organised around the world, including in Bathurst.

THE SYNODAL PROCESS

Holy Week and Easter Competition Pope Francis called Synod members to “learn again to be silent: to listen to the voice of the Father, the call of Jesus and the groaning of the Spirit. Let us ask that the Synod be a kairós of fraternity, a place where the Holy Spirit will purify the Church from gossip, ideologies and polarisation.”

Issues such as synodality itself, the role of women in the Church, welcoming and including in the life of parishes people who have felt excluded, including the poor, people with disabilities, and Catholics whose marriages are not recognised by the Church, better education and formation Dean’s Award ‘Going Live’ by Chloe Brasier Yr 9 of Catholics and more collaborative relationships MacKillop College, Bathurst between priests and laypeople were discussed during the Synod. Professor Renee Kohler-Ryan, Australian Synod member from the University of Notre-Dame, reflected that “there is a sense that things are tightening up, emerging, but through that process of hopeful patience,” she said.

Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, the Relator General of the Synod, said the Synthesis Report will be a transitional text, based on the experience of the

Yr 10 Highly Commended ‘Mourning Mother’ by Cleo McGinley James Sheahan Catholic High School, Orange

Assembly, which will contain the points where there is consensus and those where there is a lack of agreement, as well as open questions that will need to be studied in depth from a canonical, theological, and pastoral point of view, to be verified together with the people of God. This report will go back to local churches around the world for further consideration and input for the next phase of the synodal process and the next session in Rome in October 2024.

To read the letter of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to the People of Yr 9 First Place ‘The Eyes of Grief’ by Alexandra God please scan the QR code or visit Milne James Sheahan Catholic High School, Orange www.synod.va.

Jacinta Thatcher

READ THE SYNOD LETTER

Yr 9 Highly Commended ‘Ancestors resurrecting the creator spirit’ by Cameron Bamblett-Murray Yr 9 St Raphael’s Catholic School, Cowra

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Yr 10 Highly Commended ‘The Holy Spirit is for us too’

by Lucah Hill St Matthews Catholic School, Mudgee

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VIETNAM - SEEING A NEED Australia’s first Saint, Mary McKillop, is quoted as saying “Never see a need without doing something about it”.

In January 2018 a group of parishioners from the Diocese of Bathurst travelled with, then seminarians, Dong and Nam to their country of birth, Vietnam. This pilgrimage gave an opportunity to understand the faith and culture of Vietnam a little more, especially when our Diocese has been blessed by young Vietnamese men offering themselves in service to our local church.

During the pilgrimage we were taken to an orphanage for disabled children’s in the province of Nghe An, run by the Sisters of Missionary of Charity, solely on donations. These institutions receive absolutely no government funding at all. This experience touched my soul.

Seeing how the Sisters were caring for these children, with so few resources, it was clear to me that it was important to help them in any way I could.

the need in the Orphanage. In October 2023, St Brigid’s Parish again held a successful trivia night, with 100% of the proceeds going to the ministry of the Sisters.

This year has seen the ordination of Deacons Duong and Cong for our Diocese. We are blessed by the generosity of God and Vietnam in the “yes” of so many willing to serve in our local church.

Perhaps supporting the work of the Sisters in Vietnam is one small but tangible way of helping and showing our appreciation. I challenge other parishes in our Diocese to do the same or similar as Dubbo, and am only too happy to assist them in their efforts.

Fran Schubert 0417 452 678

After long years where it was not possible to raise funds or awareness because of Covid, in 2022, St Brigid’s Parish community in Dubbo held a fashion parade to raise funds and awareness of

MARONITES’ GOLDEN JUBILEE 7 May 2023 - The Maronite Eparchy continues to celebrate in 2023, the Golden Jubilee of its official establishment in Australia and today hosted His Excellency Archbishop (Most Rev) Charles Balvo, Apostolic Nuncio for the Holy See and the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC) for a procession, to welcome the first class relics of Australian and Maronite Saints and celebrate the Divine Liturgy at Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral. Bishop McKenna was among those concelebrating.

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BATHURST’S PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP A friendship formed at a Marist Fathers boarding school, St John’s Woodlawn, in 1981 has become the foundation for a partnership between the Diocese of Bathurst and the Diocese of Port Vila in Vanuatu.

Diocesan Financial Administrator (DFA) Patrick Cooper and his wife Suzanne visited Port Vila in 2017 on a holiday, and after 36 years reconnected with two of Patrick’s former school mates, who are active members of the Cathedral Parish of the Diocese of Port Vila.

They introduced him to Bishop John-Bosco Baremes SM, and after a few detailed discussions, occasionally held whilst enjoying the local kava, it was agreed that the Diocese of Bathurst would assist this pacific Diocese in some real and tangible ways.

Over the last six years, Patrick has worked with the Diocese of Port Vila to put in place computerised accounting, financial reporting, and identifying and documenting the many property assets that are held by that Diocese.

A major milestone recently achieved was the formation of the Diocesan Finance Council advisory body that will advise Bishop Baremes, ensuring the finances and property of the Diocese are properly managed.

Deacon Josh Clayton with the Bishop Baremes of Port Villa and local clergy and leaders.

In addition, Bishop McKenna and Bishop Baremes met earlier in this year at the Federation of Catholic Bishops Conferences of Oceania, and it was agreed that our World Youth Day Pilgrimage would include some pilgrims from the Diocese of Port Vila.

Bishop John-Bosco Baremes and members of the newly created Diocesan Finance Council, at their recent Zoom meeting which Patrick attends to offer whatever advice he can.

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WALKING WITH THOSE FORGOTTEN It is not uncommon for someone in prison to find God there. Life and all its chaos are put on hold in the wilderness of prison. The isolation, the loneliness and the realty of consequence confront the inmate in the space I often refer to as “God’s space”.

The imprisoned come face to face with themselves.

For many, the experience is too confronting, and they will seek distractions to take them away from

reality. Some though, accept their plight and seek answers to the questions. Who am I really? What is my life amounting to? Where do I find direction?

It is at these times when tentative steps toward God may be taken, attending a chapel service, reading scripture or engaging in spiritual direction activities. To be part of the journey of faith, for a person that society has rejected and thought to be unworthy of forgiveness and a relationship with Yris 9 Highly Commended ‘Triumphal God, enriching to my own faith journey.

Entry into Jerusalem’ by Josee Bruncher St Raphael’s Catholic School, Cowra

‘The Thorn James She

The three inmates that I walked the RCIA journey with, Bruce, Kate and Tayla, approached me to assist them in coming to know God, and in turn their real selves, whilst they were in God’s space.

They restored relationships with their families, became mentors for other inmates and became active disciples of Jesus serving others with friendship and compassion. The Holy Spirit was enlivened in them and they are examples of what it means to be transformed by God. Please pray for all those who are imprisoned, that they will seek and find God’s presence in the unlikely space that is our prisons.

If you would like to learn more or assist with Chaplaincy in a Correctional setting, please contact Deacon Josh on 0458261513 Yr 9 Second Place

Yr 10 First Place ‘In Focus’ by ‘Jesus in Colour’ by Mia C Kasey Paterson St Matthews Deacon Mike Williams La Salle Academy, Lith Catholic School, Mudgee

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CENTACARE NEWS Flood Recovery Grant 14 November marked the anniversary of the flooding event that the communities in Eugowra and the surrounding areas experienced. As part of the diocesan efforts to assist those affected Centacare provided immediate financial assistance as well as ongoing psychological assistance to the community. Centacare has now received funding from the NSW government under the Flood Recovery Grant scheme to continue our efforts.

Counselling and Psychological assistance will be the core services that will be offered under this program. The program will also have the capacity to provide some material assistance.

St Matthews Mudgee OSHC Centacare opened its seventh After School Hours and Vacation Care Service within the Diocese. This latest service has been operational at St Matthews in Mudgee as school community had been impacted by the closure of the service operated

by PCYC. The new service is well received by the families.

Pre-marriage Education Centacare continues to offer couples pre-marriage relationship education programs.

To Us: This is a relationship program for couples who are intending to marry. The To Us program is offered in a friendly group setting. The content is relationship education based and covers areas such as communication, problem solving, decision making, family of origin, managing conflict, and spirituality and marriage.

Prepare Enrich: This relationship program is for couples who are intending to marry. The program is offered on a one couple basis and is relationship education based. Each partner completes a

questionnaire designed to help them appreciate their unique relationship. Prepare Enrich helps couples to study, understand, and communicate openly about the many things that are important in their relationship. This program is offered face to face or video link.

Enrich: This is part of the Prepare Enrich program.

Designed for couples who are married or in a long term committed relationship, and would like to spend some time together enhancing and renewing their relationship skills.

Family Day Out Centacare organised a Family Day Out for the families in Lithgow second year running. The event which, was held on 28 October as part of the Children’s Week, was attended by hundreds.

Centacare runs these events annually in Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo as well.

Name Change Up until recently Centacare was officially known as Centacare Bathurst to reflect the fact that we are an entity of the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst. We are now Centacare Central West and Orana. This is to make sure that in addition to our diocesan identity, we also reflect the geographical coverage of our services in our name.

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ST VINCENT’S HOSPITAL 100TH ANNIVERSARY On Saturday 9 September a Mass was celebrated in St Michael and John’s Cathedral by the Most Reverend Michael Joseph McKenna and Fr Paul Devitt VG to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the opening of St Vincent’s Hospital Bathurst, to the very day. The hospital is no longer operative, with the last service, “Community Home Nursing”, being transferred to Bathurst Base Hospital in October 2022.

The Mass was largely attended by former Matron nurses, medical associates and staff who either trained, consulted or worked within the Hospital, along with many friends and community members who had been associated with it, were in receipt of the services provided, or felt a special association.

We were delighted to have three Sisters of Charity from St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney in attendance.

When Bishop O’Farrell purchased “Hathrop” in 1922 as the future hospital complex he invited the Sisters of Charity to take residence and run the facility in 1923. They did this with great love and devotion until they relinquished their role in 1978.

After Mass the congregation was invited to enjoy refreshments where many family and acquaintances came together for a very happy, friendly and enjoyable catch-up. Many nurses and associates had not seen one another for a number of years.

A very interesting and comprehensive display of memorabilia was put together by Diocesan Archivist Mr Peter Condon, nurses and interested people who contributed items. There was much interest in the photos, office documents, regalia and interesting items relative to the time.

In his homily Fr Paul Devitt outlined the history of the Hospital, which was greatly appreciated by all in attendance. The building was built in 1862 as a private residence known as “Hathrop”, and used as such until it was passed to the Red Cross Society as a home for convalescent soldiers during World War I. It was purchased by the Catholic Bishop of Bathurst, Michael O’Farrell, in 1922 for an intended Catholic hospital. After renovations and updating to the required standard, it was officially open on 9 September 1923. It continued under the guidance of the Sisters of Charity until their departure in

1978, passing to the direction of the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst.

The Michael O’Farrell wing, connected to the existing hospital, was constructed with additional surgical and medical beds in 1976. Many additional services were introduced in the mid 1980 - 90s complementing the existing best possible services available within the hospital and outreach services.

The Private Hospital was opened in 1995 working in conjunction with the Community Hospital and outreach services. Catholic Health Care Base began administration in 1996 eventually closing the Community Hospital in 1999. The Private Hospital continued servicing the community with outreach services being of significant importance to those who were unable to access the private facility. The Private Hospital closed in 2016, with outreach services continuing subject to transfer and discontinuation until October 2022.

Mrs Gen Croaker

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CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY CATHOLICS Charles Sturt University (CSU) is a big part of the community in Bathurst.

Chaplaincy at CSU has always played an important role in campus life. It holds a strong tradition of being a helpful partner in the University community aiming to provide support, encouragement and teaching to staff and students. It allows opportunities for anyone, regardless of background, to explore and engage with Christian beliefs, including opportunities for respectful debate and dialogue between faiths, and with respect to academic disciplines, is available to the CSU community for counselling and support of people from any background in times of stress or crisis.

Every Wednesday morning, students are invited to join Fr Diep Nguyen for a free coffee and a chat.

There is an opportunity to discuss the scriptures, Lectio Divina and for Mass. A BBQ is also held three times a year.

If you are a student or staff member at CSU, look out for Fr Diep on Wednesday mornings in front of the CSU Library between 9:30am-12pm. Mass is held from 12pm-12:35 pm and Bible Studies from 1:30pm-2:30pm.

Fr Diep Nguyen 0450 326 686 csucatholics@bathurst.catholic.org.au

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BRIGIDINE CHAPEL REOPENING COWRA On the weekend of 16 July, St Raphael’s School and Parish celebrated 150 years of Catholic education in Cowra.

This significant milestone occurred in 2020, but the celebrations were delayed due to covid setbacks. The weekend began with a Parish Dinner, which included a review and slideshow of memories of the last 150 years. The Sunday morning Mass was a celebration filled with joy, grateful nostalgia, pride and hope for the future.

The theme for the weekend 1870 to 2020 “...it started with a dream…” acknowledged the contribution and dedication of past and present educators, students and members of the school community. It reminds us that the present was formed by those who came before and that we shape the future.

After the Sunday Mass, Fr Laurie Beath and Vicar General, Fr Paul Devitt blessed and re-opened the newly renovated Brigidine Chapel, which is part of the former Brigidine Convent. It is of Romanesque architecture style and is adjacent to St Raphael’s Church. The complete refurbishment of the beautiful chapel is a tribute to the Brigidine nuns, for whom the facility was a source of inspiration and strength. The refurbishment included new furniture and flooring, paint, lighting, electrical and windows, and the Chapel is now equipped with audio-visual equipment and all required of an educational space today.

Following on from the blessing of the Brigidine Chapel, Fr Laurie then unveiled four metal lasercut panels in the grounds of St Raphael’s School.

The panels beautifully depict the four distinct stages of teaching in Cowra. The first period, from 1870 to 1879, featured lay teachers. Then, the Josephite Sisters from 1879 to 1894, followed by the Brigidine Sisters from 1894 to 1987. Finally, the return to lay teachers from 1988 to 2020 concluded this remarkable 150-year journey.

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The next occasion of the morning was the renaming the primary school building on the grounds of St Raphael’s school to the “Brigidine Learning Centre”. It is a fitting tribute to the Sisters of St Brigid, who had a massive influence on the Cowra community during their more than 100year presence. Their educational contribution to generation after generation of the youth of the Cowra community has been immense, educating thousands of not only Catholic children but children of all faiths, including many in the Cowra Migrant Camp from 1948 to 1956. The Brigidine Learning Centre will ensure that the powerful presence of “Strength and Gentleness” will continue to be felt within the School for years to come.

The weekend concluded with morning tea, where Fr Laurie presented a gift from the Parish to St Raphael’s School. Fr Laurie commissioned a piece of art to commemorate the 150 years of Catholic education in Cowra in the hope it will serve as a commemorative reminder of this significant anniversary. Organisation for this wonderful weekend of celebration, plus the refurbishment of the Brigidine Chapel, took place over several years with assistance from committee members, donations from the Cowra community and in conjunction with Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst. Still, the catalyst behind it was the late Fr Laurie Beath.

Louise Ellison

CANOWINDRA CELEBRATIONS ST EDWARD’S Project Compassion launch

A

sh Wednesday on March 2nd On themarked last weekend in August, eight Sisters of St the official launch Project 2022, Josephofwere able Compassion to gather with the community Caritas Australia’s annual appeal, of Canowindra, a placeLenten where the Sisters had which runs for the six weeks of Lent.

ministered since 1908.

Project Compassion is one of Australia’s longest running fundraising campaigns It was the desire of the late Fr Laurie Beath that a and has been a long-standing Lenten stained-glass window be embedded in the parish fixture in parishes across Australia with church to honour the dedicated service of the its iconic donation boxes. Over the past Sisters Saint Joseph overmillions 115 years. Sadly, Fr 57 years,of Australians have raised Laurie died in July.

The people wanted to uphold of dollars for marginalised communities worldwide.

Australia his wishes,Caritas so it was with helps mixedover emotion that the 1.8 million people in to Australia anda weekend of joy, community gathered celebrate overseas everysorrow. year - walking hand-intinged with hand with those in crisis.

Caritas Australiaevening engages with parishes and was held to On Saturday a parish dinner schools throughout the Catholic Diocese remember Fr Laurie and to honour the Sisters. of Bathurst, from Lithgow to Dubbo to The parishioners worked tirelessly and generously Quambone and everywhere in between. together provide a delicious meal served for On Shrove to Tuesday, a day to reflect and about 80 people in the tastefully decorated hall. Mr prepare for Ash Wednesday and Lent, Ken McNamara, Principal of St Edward’s Catholic Bishop Michael McKenna launched the Diocesan Project Compassion appeal at St Primary School, Canowindra, emceed the evening Mary’s School, Wellington which Catholic was interspersed with a with few speeches, students, staff and parish community in quiz questions, and entertainment by the “Local attendance. “The students’ understanding Seekers”, which concluded with atosing-a-long. It of the need to raise money to contribute was so wonderful to be able totheir see again so many the benefit of others, mostly children people shared the lives of the Sisters own age who in lesshave fortunate circumstances, is evident. forgenerosity cake stalls was amazing. in so manyTheir waysplans - their and chicken noodle lunch fundraisers, On Sunday morning the parish community, along which they run themselves, are Projectgathered for with members of other churches, Compassion staples” says Bishop Michael. the celebration of Mass with Fr Dong Nguyen We look forward to hearing the stories of presiding. their success.The primary school prepared the liturgy

with sisters, parishioners, teachers and students

You can find out more about Project all involved in the various ministries. Mass was Compassion and how Caritas Australia followed byfrom the unveiling the stained-glass helps people all over theofword at window designed by Bridget Thomas. Sr Madeline www.lent.caritas.org.au

Breen rsj and Sr Margaret Flood rsj, who both grew Christine Sweeney

up in Canowindra, did the honours. The window depicts the pre-fusion cross surrounded by the light of faith. It features a ghost gum and a sketch of the old convent building which has now been converted into a B and B. This building, which is next door to the Church, was opened for an inspection much to the delight of the local people and the sisters. It has certainly been upgraded since the time the Sisters lived there and now provides accommodation for visitors. Scrumptious morning tea, provided by the Parent and Friends Association concluded the celebrations.

Our thanks go to the local people and Fr Dong who provided a wonderful weekend for the Sisters.

Fr Laurie would have been delighted with the celebration as it was a real community gathering.

May Fr Laurie rest in peace.

Sr Alice Sullivan rsj Used with permission Srs St Joseph of the Sacred Heart

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C a t h o l i c O B S E RV E R , T h e D i o c e s e o f B a t h u r s t • Easter 2022 • Page 27

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TWO NEW DEACONS FOR THE DIOCESE On Friday 8 September 2023, Bishop Michael McKenna ordained Cong Van Hoang and Duong Van Ha as deacons for the Diocese of Bathurst.

It was a very cold Bathurst night, but inside the Cathedral, there was plenty of warmth as Bishop Michael ordained these two well-known and much loved 7th year seminarians.

The Most Rev Danny Meagher, Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney and the Very Rev Michael de Stoop concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Michael, along with around 20 priests of the Diocese of Bathurst and over a dozen visiting priests. Bishop Danny is a former Rector of the Seminary of the Good Shepherd where our seminarians study, and Fr Michael is the current Rector.

As well as members of the Diocesan family who were present to support Cong and Duong on this important occasion, they were happily joined by family members and friends.

Fiona Lewis

DIOCESAN BIBLE LAUNCH A Diocesan Bible has been developed for students throughout the Diocese and especially for Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst. At the recent launch of the Christmas Art competition, the major awarded winners. Each received a copy of the new Bible as their prize.

The Bible will be given to all Year 5 students, in preparation for their Confirmation, which may be in Year 5 or Year 6. This Bible uses contemporary English, suitable for young people, with a custom design featuring Bishop Michael McKenna’s crest and the CEDB logo and containing an introduction by the Bishop and the Executive Director of Schools, as well as a space for further learning with links and resources.

We hope the presentation of these Bibles to our young people will deepen each student’s relationship with God and further enrich their journey in faith and in Catholic Education.

If you are interested in buying a copy, please contact Deacon Josh 0458261513 or order via this QR code.

15 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

ORDER YOUR OWN BIBLE

RISE YOUTH MINISTRY

REGISTER NOW

We aim to ENGAGE our young people in order to IGNITE in them an encounter with Christ in order to SEND them out as missionary disciples. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date. Here are some of the great events planned for 2024.

ARISE – 8-12 January 2024: An event for those aged 18 to 25 years. A chance to gather and rest in a quiet surrounding, with great people who share the same common interests and are all seeking to learn more about their faith but most importantly, dig deep to discover your personal relationship with God. RISEN – 22-24 March 2024: For those in Years 10-12, RISEN is a great chance to go a little deeper in reflecting on life and how faith is part of this. RISEN is held early each year and participants also receive formation so that they can be part of the Youth Team for the RISE Youth Festival.

RISE Youth Festival – 11-12 July 2024: RISE Youth Festival is for young people in Years 6 to 9 (anyone in Years 10-12 can be involved as a youth team member). The Diocesan Youth Ministers facilitate a festival full of fun, friendship, small group challenges, workshops, games, music and lots of opportunities to encounter Jesus. RISE will be held at St Philomena’s School, Bathurst starting at 10am Thursday.

Accommodation will be at Goldfields, Bathurst. RISE will finish at 2pm on Friday at the Cathedral School (next to the Cathedral).

Register now by scanning QR code above. For more information contact Deacon Josh mrd@bathurst.catholic.org.au

EUGOWRA AND “SLOW THE FLOW” In Laudate Deum, Pope Francis expresses deep concern that the effects of droughts, floods and other disasters are examples of “the signs of climate change”, and that these impacts are being “borne by the most vulnerable people” (LD 3). He considers “comprehensive solutions which consider the interactions within natural systems themselves and with social systems” (LS 139) as lying at the heart of our Christian faith.

and has been identified as important for slowing Mandagery Creek.

Sally Neaves Integral Ecology Animator/Mission Ministry Resource Coordinator

Taking these words to heart, a year on from the devastating inland tsunami that hit Eugowra on 14 November 2022, the “Slow the Flow” project is finding an ecological response to support this resilient community into the future, lead by the Sisters of Mercy.

On 27 October “Slow the Flow – Eugowra” met 50 farmers, landholders and supporters gathered on Reedy Creek in the community of Mandagery, near Eugowra. The gathering was the first in a series of capacity-building workshops designed to reduce speed and destruction of the Mandagery Creek and its tributaries in response to devastating floods experienced in the community in November 2022.

Reedy Creek is a tributary of Mandagery Creek

Mercy representatives at the workshop on Reedy Creek, Mandagery: Sisters Margaret Broadbent RSM, Ann-Maree O’Beirne RSM, Liz Maloney RSM (Institute Vicar), Ms Sally Neaves, and Sr Patricia Powell RSM. (Photo: Therese Welsh)

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 16

WORLD YOUTH DAY WYD 2023 was the largest group of pilgrims the Diocese of Bathurst had sent to WYD since Sydney 2008 and it was amazing.

The Bathurst diocesan group joined the Archdiocese of Luxembourg for their pilgrimage to WYD this year. Within the group there were many nationalities, which gave our pilgrims a chance to meet new people and to learn more about the Church and the world, not just talking about Australia There were Pilgrims from Luxembourg, Ethiopia, Thailand and Vietnam, France and Germany, a wonderful group of nearly 200. That then grew in number at each pilgrimage poing along the way. Our pilgrimage included time in Lourdes (France), Loyola (Spain), Braga (Portugal), Lisbon (Portugal) then to Paris (France) where after time visiting the important sites in Paris, the pilgrims were able to enter into a time of reflection, asking the question, “How has this experience changed me and how I see the world around me and my God?” My Reflection Being a Christian challenges you to put yourself into uncomfortable situations. What could be more uncomfortable than a 46 year old on a pilgrimage with young people aged between 18 and 30 years old.

As uncomfortable as I was, I somehow felt a calling to go on this pilgrimage. I wanted an opportunity to get to know Jesus more intimately and a pilgrimage would be just for me. Called to dedicate four weeks of my life To God. In addition, The World Youth Day experience would enable me to see the global church and witness the Holy Spirit in the people I see and meet. Unbelievably this was reiterated by Pope Francis at the Welcome Ceremony when he said, “Each of us is called by name” and called to be at WYD. WYD pilgrimage was a fantastic experience. I experienced things I would not have experienced traveling with the family on a family vacation. World Youth Day is not magic but while life continued at home, the experience has changed my soul to be in the hands of Christ on earth. I was certainly pushed far beyond what I was ever expecting. In my challenges I tried to look beyond myself and to look at the positive and the beauty in everything. To look at everything with love, just as God does.

17 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

WORLD YOUTH DAY I also witnessed God in between space and time in the historic churches and buildings built to worship God. God was present in the people of the past, the present and the future who would worship at these locations. Lastly God was present in the millions of people who made their way to Lisbon from all over the world to have celebrated Mass with the Pope.

In conclusion, I can’t say I will go on a WYD pilgrimage again (I am far too old now) but I will highly recommend the experience to everyone and anyone regardless of age. My hope and prayer is for all who are listening: You are called by name! Be open to hear God’s call!

Glenn Corben

An absolutely incredible experience to be offered and one to never be forgotten. The four week spiritual journey took our group across various parts of Europe with opportunities to explore our own connection with God and together as a Diocese. My favourite part was meeting new people and making friends with people from all over the world. The mark this experience has left with me is something l will reflect on throughout my life and will always be forever grateful for the opportunity to attend WYD 2023.

Sabrina St Joseph’s Primary School, Molong

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 18

MSC Mission Christmas Appeal DONATE TODAY

FREE WILLS INFORMATION KIT.

Keeping Christ in Christmas Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by: • worshipping at your church • telling your children and grandchildren the Christmas story • reading your Bible • praying for others • donating a gift to the needy

Phone our office or send an email to receive our Wills Information Kit (by mail and email). You can also contact Fr Roger for a confidential discussion about your wishes.

PLEASE ADD US TO YOUR GIFT LIST

We are grateful for any gift large or small The MSC Mission Office carries out lifechanging projects in over 20 countries.

We rely on help from generous supporters including donations and gifts in Wills, and on average 90% of funds raised are spent on projects, and donations of any amount are welcome as are your prayers.

Scan the QR code to go to our Donations page

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord and he will reward them for what they have done. - Proverbs 19:17

Donate by: MAIL : PO Box 1 7 7 Kensington NSW 1465 ONLINE: www.mscmission.org.au | PHONE: (02) 9697 0983

A PASTORAL LETTER TO GOD’S PEOPLE OF THE DIOCESE OF BATHURST

ALIVE AND ACTIVE

READING THE BIBLE TOGETHER

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 20

The Word of God I remember being at a youth festival some years ago, and they were handing out Bibles with a cheeky message on the front cover. It said Warning!

Reading this book could change your life.

I’d like to think that at least a few people were provoked to open it and start to read it. I can only wonder what happened then.

We begin with this story to emphasise that the Bible is not just another book. To read it, alone or in a group, is an encounter with God. For Christians, the Word of God is more than words on a page: it is the creative power of God. The first chapter of the first book of our Bible (Genesis) poetically tells the story of creation. Day by day, when God creates something new, the narrative states each time God spoke, and then concludes It was so.

The prologue to John’s Gospel presents Jesus as the creating Word who became flesh and lived among us (1:14). In the beginning, was the Word; and the Word was with God; and the Word was God…All things came into being through him (1:1).

The Word of God is given to us in sacred scripture and, we could say, is released and becomes active when the Bible is read alone or proclaimed in a group.

Alive and active is how the Letter to the Hebrews describes the Word. It continues on to say that it is sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

(Hebrews 4:12) I hope that nothing I am going to say in this letter will diminish this central message for you. When we open the Holy Bible, our hearts and minds need to be open too. Expectation is more vital than expertise.

However, the more we know about the Bible, the easier it becomes to find our way around in it and discover its riches. The aim of this letter is to offer some useful and basic information; and hope that it will encourage you to begin to find out more.

Next year, we plan to make available opportunities around the Diocese for people to learn to become more at home in this book, which is truly a gift from God. 21 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

How did the Bible come to us?

The Bible did not magically drop down to earth one day in its present form. It is actually a collection of books, composed by different writers, at different times, in certain places, over many years. In some books, we find various styles of histories; in others, poetry; or fables, preaching, visions: and combinations of all the above and more.

It is the product of God’s self-revelation to his people over many centuries and more, through the events they observed and reflected on with the eyes of faith. Mostly, what is contained in the sacred books circulated and developed in spoken word before it was written down. In this way, the communities of faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, played their part in testing and authenticating which books and which parts of books were what we would regard as inspired by God.

Technologies and the Bible

“Do you understand what you are reading?”

The most recently composed books in our Bible are just under 2000 years old; the oldest were written down centuries before that. In those days, there were no “books” as we know them now. The scriptures were copied by hand on scrolls and then distributed. You may remember Luke’s account of Jesus preaching in his local synagogue: He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written ‘the Spirit of the Lord is upon me…’ (Lk 4:16-18).

You may know the story of St Philip and the Ethiopian court official. It is in chapter 8 of the Acts of the Apostles, verses 26-39. The official was a devout Jew, on his way back from praying in the Temple. On the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, he was reading the prophet Isaiah when Philip caught up with him and asked if he understood what he was reading. How can I understand, replied the official, unless someone helps me?

It was around the time of Jesus that a new technology emerged: the “codex”, or the book as we know it. Perhaps providentially, this made copies of the scriptures easier to carry around and circulate. It also meant that collections of books could be bound in the same volume. Eventually, all the books that now make up what we call the Bible could be contained between the covers of one book.

You may guess that this has several implications.

One is to emphasise that this variety of books is a network of meanings which produces a unity of revelation about God’s relationship with humankind. Another implication is that it becomes necessary to choose which books are “in or “out” in a stricter and more final way.

The next big development, which brought about more changes in the way the Bible has been used, was the invention of the printing press in the 15th Century. Until then, the scriptures mostly had to be copied by hand, which was time consuming and meant that they were too scarce and costly to be available beyond churches, monasteries and great houses. With the advent of the new technologies of book production, more and more people could have a Bible; and one translated into their own language. This was an enormous blessing; though one which raised new questions about individual interpretations, and the teaching office of the Church, to which I’ll return later.

Today, we are in a rapidly developing age of electronic and digital technology, which is having effects on human culture which we are still working out. As far as reading the Bible goes, we can access and search the sacred texts more easily than ever.

This will have both benefits and challenges: and we are still counting them!

The passage which puzzled him begins He was led like a sheep to its slaughter… (Isaiah 53:7-8). He asked Philip Is the prophet talking about himself, or someone else? Philip shared with him the Christian interpretation that this is a prophecy about Jesus Christ; and from there expounded the Gospel.

We don’t know how long this took, but when they came upon some water, the Ethiopian asked for, and received, Baptism.

I have been studying the Bible for half a century and still have a lot to learn. My understanding has been deepened and expanded by listening to and reading saints and scholars, the teachings of the Church and sharing insights with fellow believers.

That is why this letter is subtitled reading the Bible together. It is impossible to be a Christian on your own; and the work of interpreting the sacred texts cannot be done alone, just as the scriptures were not produced by individuals working alone.

As we noted earlier, these writings, inspired by God, emerged from and were authenticated by communities of faith.

This can help us understand the teaching of the Second Vatican Council about Divine Revelation, in its Dogmatic Constitution called Dei Verbum (“the Word of God”). It talks about the relationship between sacred tradition and Sacred Scripture.

Tradition, which literally means handing on, refers to the teachings of the Apostles which was expressed in a special way in the inspired books (n.8) but also transmitted to and developed by their successors the bishops, in communion with the faithful and the Bishop of Rome. Both tradition and Scripture flow from the same divine wellspring (n.9). The task of authentically interpreting the word of God, whether written or handed on, has been entrusted exclusively to the living teaching office of the Church, whose authority is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ.

This teaching office is not above the word of God, but serves it …(they are) so linked and joined together that one cannot stand without the other (n.10).

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 22

The Bible and Personal Prayer Although we walk the path of faith together, each of us is unique in the eyes of God and each person’s response to the divine invitation to love is his or hers alone. That uniqueness is the gift each one brings to the community of faith, and is partly discovered there, though not fully. Remember the words of Jesus: When you pray, go into your room and shut the door… (Matthew 6:6) These times of personal prayer can be nourished by reading and pondering the Bible, through which I may hear God speak to my heart. Many believers, including the present writer, recall occasions when the words of scripture illuminated the realities of their lives at a certain time. We do not expect grand revelations to happen every day; but a little wisdom, even guidance, can be God’s frequent gift for those who wait and listen.

Although we are not talking here about “bible study”, it is difficult to insist on a sharp line between the two activities. It certainly helps to be more familiar with the Bible and its context than not when we take it to prayer; and even academic study of the scriptures should be approached with a prayerful and respectful attitude to writings which are more than just another book.

Although this modest letter has barely touched on the beauty and the power of God’s gift which is the Bible, I hope that it has left you with more questions to explore; and that, in the year to come, we may provide opportunities to do just that.

23 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

Verbum Domini (The Word of the Lord) is the Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Benedict XVI which emerged from the 2008 Synod of Bishops. It is worth reading in full, but I will conclude with this beautiful meditation quoted in it on Mary and the Bible: Here I would like to mention Mary’s familiarity with the word of God. This is clearly evident in the Magnificat.

There we see in some sense how she identifies with the word, enters into it; in this marvellous canticle of faith, the Virgin sings the praises of the Lord in his own words: “The Magnificat – a portrait, so to speak, of her soul – is entirely woven from threads of Holy Scripture, threads drawn from the word of God. Here we see how completely at home Mary is with the word of God, with ease she moves in and out of it. She speaks and thinks with the word of God; the word of God becomes her word, and her word issues from the word of God. Here we see how her thoughts are attuned to the thoughts of God, how her will is one with the will of God. Since Mary is completely imbued with the word of God, she is able to become the Mother of the Word Incarnate. (n.28) +Michael McKenna Bishop of Bathurst Feast of St Andrew, Apostle, 2023

RED WEDNESDAY Red Wednesday is a global initiative of Aid to the Church in Need to draw attention to the plight of persecuted Christians and all who suffer for their faith around the world. Around Australia and worldwide, cathedrals, churches and other public buildings, including The Cathedral of Ss Michael and John were lit up in red on Wednesday 22 November 2023 as a sign of solidarity.

On Red Wednesday, we join together, pray and raise a strong voice in support of the persecuted who are unable to speak freely, and who look to us - their brothers and sisters in Christ - to speak on their behalf.

Two-thirds of the world’s population live in countries where there are serious violations of religious freedom. It is also clear that the persecution of Christians is worse today than at any time in history. You may wish to read more about global religious persecution in the 2023 Religious Freedom in the World Report at https://acninternational.org/religiousfreedomreport.

Please give generously to the Cathedral Restoration Appeal. Donations can be made:

In Person: Catholic Chancery Office Bathurst, or your local Parish Office

By Phone: 6334 6400 By email: contact@cdob.or.au Online: bathurst.catholic.org.au/aboutus/cathedral-restoration/ Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 24

OBITUARIES SR BETTY CARROLL rsj 7 February 1930 - 20 October 2023 Betty Carroll was born in Brisbane in 1930 and died peacefully at Bathurst on 20th October 2023. Aged 22, Betty (also known as Elizabeth) entered the Sisters of St Joseph at Perthville and was professed as Sr Mary Vincent of the Holy Family in October 1954.

Following her teacher training, Betty taught upper primary composite classes and was a Primary School Principal. She served as a competent educator for 30 years in country schools at Newbridge, Oberon, Yeoval, Gulargambone, Perthville, Manildra, West Bathurst, Portland, Molong, Blayney and Dunedoo. Betty was professional, reliable, and conscientious and was highly respected in the education field.

Betty gained certification in Pastoral Ministry at ACU and became a much-loved pastoral worker at Assumption School in Bathurst and at Corpus Christi in Cranebrook. She also served in Pastoral Care at Mary MacKillop Chapel, North Sydney.

Betty was for a time the Perthville Congregation Secretary and she spent three years on the Perthville Congregation Leadership Team. She was a loved and treasured sister of St Joseph. Her gracious and engaging presence, her dedication to prayer and religious life, her love for the children she taught, her professional bearing, her ease of conversation with all manner of people, her ability to gather beautiful friends around her, her love of her Sisters and her family were the hallmarks of her rich life, graciously lived.

Betty was ever grateful for the gift of her vocation which she lived with generosity, trust, passion, and dedication.

SR CARMEL SHERIDAN rsj 22 August 1929 – 17 May 2023 Carmel Sheridan was born at Coolah, NSW in 1929.

She entered the Sisters of St Joseph at Perthville in May 1947.

Carmel was professed as Sr Francesca on 22 November 1949 and reverted to her baptismal name in the 1960s.

Carmel gained her A.Mus.A. during her time in the Novitiate and in her early years of ministry she taught Music in various places in the Diocese. Carmel later gained her Teacher’s certificate at the Catholic Teachers College, North Sydney and became a primary school teacher. At times she was also the school principal and the superior of the local convent community. She taught in Manildra, Molong, Baradine, Millthorpe, Woodstock, Blayney, Dunedoo and Gilgandra.

Carmel served as bursar for the Perthville community for four years and for many years she worked as the pastoral Sister at St Anne’s Home where she attended to the senior Sisters and 25 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

residents with selfless love, good humour, and compassion. Carmel was involved in Rural Ministry for thirteen years, based in Tullamore with outreach to Trundle, Tottenham, Bogan Gate, Fifield and Bobbedah.

In these country areas she was loved and respected as a woman of integrity, kindness, and practical faith.

Carmel loved her family and they reciprocated. A much-loved Josephite, Carmel was a talented, capable woman with a wry sense of humour, a keen intellect and a wonderful way with words.

In 2018, when she herself required more care, Carmel retired to St Catherine’s Aged Care in Bathurst. It was there, lovingly accompanied by Sisters, family and staff, that Carmel died peacefully on 17 May 2023.

FR LAURIE BEATH 13 September 1954 - 26 July 2023 Father Lawrence (Laurie) Patrick Beath died, aged 68 years, in Cowra Hospital on Wednesday 26th July 2023 after a long battle with cancer. Father Laurie was Parish Priest at Cowra, Canowindra and Eugowra at the time of his death.

Family, friends, parishioners, civic dignitaries and church officials gathered in their hundreds for the Requiem Mass at St Raphael’s Church in Cowra on 2 August 2023 giving thanks to God for Fr Laurie’s life and work.

Father Laurie was born on 13 September 1954 in Canowindra to parents Stanley and Doreen Beath and he was a brother to Barry, Michael, Fr Greg, Colin, Aiden, Guilly, Tony and Marianne and he grew up in Gooloogong with his large and loving family.

Father Laurie played football and then continued to referee for many years after retiring from the game.

He was a teacher before becoming a priest. He was an enthusiastic gardener and believed a garden should be shared. He created his own gardens and enjoyed helping others to establish theirs.

Father Laurie served the church for 35 years in Dubbo, Bathurst, Baradine, Coonabarabran, Cowra, Canowindra and Eugowra. His creative ability in preparing the church for Mass was well known. Through decoration, flowers, music and power-point presentations, he engaged the congregation in liturgical celebration. He travelled across the country to baptise, enthusiastically conduct weddings and to exercise his priestly ministry in many ways, particularly in liturgy and in the schools within his parish.

He was an extraordinary man whose generosity, enthusiasm, passion, energy, commitment, dedication and robust faith carried him through to his very last days.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 26

POSTHUMOUS HONOR FOR NEVILLE DAWSON Bishop Michael McKenna presented a Papal Honour, posthumously, to Mr Neville Dawson’s family at Mass in the Cathedral of St Michael and St John on 26 March 2023. The Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (for Church and Pope) is an honour awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for outstanding service to the Catholic Church and the Pope.

Mr Dawson died on 9 November 2022. He and his wife Johanna, who only predeceased him on 27 July 2022, had four children (Peter, Debbie, Judy and Bernadette), nine grandchildren and 13 greatgrandchildren. They founded and ran Dawson’s Removals in Bathurst for over 40 years, retiring in 2001, with his son Peter and daughter-in-law Bernadette carrying on the family business. The Dawson family were all gathered in Bathurst on the last weekend in March, to celebrate what would have been Mr Dawson’s 90th birthday, and Bishop Michael thought the 10am Mass, which Mr and Mrs Dawson usually attended, was the perfect opportunity to present the Papal award.

A well-known Cathedral Parish parishioner, Mr Dawson was a member of the Parish Finance Team and Council for around 30 years, assisting the Dean of the Cathedral. He was also a member of the Cathedral Restoration Committee for 10 years, providing support for the Bishop in restoring the Cathedral of St Michael and St John, Bathurst; and a member of the St Vincent’s Private Hospital Board.

In earlier days, he was

the co-founder of the St Patrick’s Young Men’s Society Club (CYMS), providing pastoral care and development for young people; and a founding member of the Majellan Catholic Club, fostering good relationships and support between Catholic families in the community.

His good works also extended to the wider community and in 2014 he was named ‘Bathurst Citizen of the Year’, for 50 years’ service to the humanitarian services association, Rotary. In 2015, his contribution to the life of the local community was recognised when he was named as a ‘Bathurst Living Legend’.

The medal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice was instituted

by Pope Leo XIII on 17 July 1888 to commemorate his golden sacerdotal jubilee. It was bestowed on those who had merited well by assisting in making the jubilee and the Vatican Exposition successful.

This decoration was made a permanent distinction in October 1898. It is usually awarded to reward those who in a general way deserve recognition from the Pope on account of services done for the Church and its head.

The Dawson Family With Bishop Mckenna

27 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Each day, more than 9,600 children across the central west of NSW are entrusted by their parents to other adults. These adults are the Catholic school teachers who support parents, who are the first educators of their children. If you count only the school time (6 hours per day, 5 days per week, 40 weeks per year), these teachers collectively invest 15,600 hours into students’ lives over the 13 years of formal school education.

Of course, teachers also spend many hours beyond the school day planning and marking, they coach sport; run bands and choirs; train debating teams; plan and run school camps and retreats and so much more! What a privilege it is to have this opportunity to invest in students’ lives and potential, and to contribute to the future of the communities in which we live and work.

Teaching in a Catholic school is not merely a career but a vocation. At the core of teaching in a Catholic school is the integration of faith into the educational experience. Teachers and leaders are entrusted with the sacred duty of not only imparting knowledge and skills but also nurturing spiritual growth. Through prayer, reflection, and the incorporation of Catholic teachings, they guide students in their journey towards a relationship with Jesus, a deeper understanding of their faith and enable them to take an active role in the world.

Currently, Australia and much of the world is experiencing a teacher shortage, in some places this shortage is chronic. The reasons behind this shortage are complex and governments and systems of schools are investing significant time, effort and financial resources into attracting and retaining high quality teachers. Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst has introduced teaching scholarships to encourage the graduates of our Catholic schools as well as those already employed, such as learning support officers and Aboriginal education officers, to undertake teacher training.

We also offer incentives for those accepting teaching and leadership positions in our more difficult to staff areas.

Support for teachers ongoing learning and development is another important element of attracting and retaining this much valued workforce, and a significant investment for the

Fr Dong Farewells Mudgee, Gulgong and Kandos Parishes

I

t was with great sadness that the parishes of Mudgee, Gulgong and Kandos farewelled Fr Dong as he moves onto the parish of Dubbo. Fr Dong arrived in Mudgee in April 2020, to lock downs and live stream masses and sadly no big Christina Trimble welcome. Despite this, Fr Dong has become an integral part of Executive Director of our parish communities.

Schools From his caring home visits to his beautiful singing at Mass and everything in between including his legendary table tennis skills, Fr Dong will be missed. We wish Fr Dong all CEDB in the for future of our system God’s blessings the future and hope toof seeschools him backas in our well as building the capacity of our teachers to Parishes soon. continually improve their craft and ultimately help Kristie Newman

students to achieve their potential. Recent pay increases may be an additional incentive for our young people as they consider their future career options.

As a society we need to clearly articulate the importance of teachers for the future of our children and young people, and for the world in which they will grow. We need to advocate for our teachers every day, remembering to show our appreciation for all they do in their vocation, giving opportunities to young people and shaping the future of our society.

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ish or M Bathurst pastoral at the Se We thank God’s ric Christina Trimble Coverage next edit

Fr Dong’s Farewell

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 28

LA SALLE ACADEMY 70TH ANNIVERSARY La Salle Academy, Lithgow, celebrated its 70th Anniversary on Sunday September 17 with a special Mass and Open Day, commemorating seven decades of educational excellence and community engagement. We were honoured to have several special guests including Mrs Christina Trimble (Executive Director of Schools, Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst) and Brother Visitor of the District of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea, Br Tim Peter.

Celebrations commenced with a Mass celebrated

by Fr Garry McKeown and Fr Paul Pearce Alumni, current students, parents, teachers, and community members gathered to give thanks for the Academy’s enduring commitment to academic achievement, character development and service to society. It was wonderful to see as many as three generations of La Sallians take part in the liturgy.

The Mass was accompanied by beautiful hymns sung by the St Patrick’s Primary School Choir.

Following Mass, celebrations continued with an Open Day event that showcased the Academy’s facilities, educational programs, and the vibrant community it has fostered over the years. Visitors were greeted with warm smiles and guided tours by our current students. Many attendees, both past and present, reminisced about their own experiences at La Salle Academy, sharing stories of how the institution had shaped their lives.

Cake Cutting (L-R): Mrs Christina Trimble Executive Director of Schools, 2023 School Captains Jed and Nina, Br Tim Peter and Principal Mr Glenn Carpenter

Garden and Main Building

One of the highlights of the Open Day was the Walk Down Memory Lane Exhibit, which featured photographs, yearbooks and memorabilia spanning seven decades of the Academy’s history. Alumni, some of whom had not visited the school in years, were visibly moved as they strolled through the exhibit, sharing anecdotes and reconnecting with old friends. The festivities continued with live music, a barbecue and interactive activities for children and adults alike, including the agricultural farm.

As La Salle Academy looks back on seven decades of excellence in education, it also looks forward to the future with a renewed commitment to its mission. The Academy remains dedicated to providing a holistic education that not only prepares students for academic success but also instills values of compassion, service, and leadership.

29 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

Reminiscing with friends in the Walk Down Memory Lane Exhibit

A very big thank you to everyone who joined us, and all who worked so hard to make the event such a special day for all.

Belinda Redden

PRAISE AND WORSHIP Students from across the Diocese have been involved in a number of Praise and Worship events in 2023. These events allow students to dive deeper into their faith and, through song, teamwork, games, prayer, liturgy and a variety of other activities, strengthen their relationship with Jesus and make a place for him in their lives.

Primary Praise and Worship Days - Emmanuel Worship: Primary school students were incredibly excited to have the opportunity to gather in both Orange and Dubbo and experience a day of praise and worship. The team from Emmanuel Worship led students to a greater appreciation of the love that God has for them, a love that will last for a lifetime and can never be broken. Students learned new songs and dances, worked in teams to explore their love of God, self and others and participated beautifully in a special liturgy thanking their loving creator for their uniqueness and the gift of others in their lives.

Secondary Praise and Worship Days - Fr Rob Galea: Secondary aged students were also able to engage with a day of Praise and Worship, this time led by Fr Rob and his team in both Bathurst and Dubbo. Fr Rob’s message to these students was that, in spite of their faults and failings, they are unerringly loved by God, a God who sees the goodness in them and wants to raise them up to be all that they were created to be. Through song, discussion and testimony these days encouraged students to be brave in their faith and to find ways every day of building their relationship with Jesus.

Rise Up - Emmanuel Worship: Rise Up is a Praise and Worship event dedicated to those students who have participated in their school’s Year 9 and 10 CSYMA program. This is an optional program in which students elect to participate in lieu of their normal RE lessons, in sessions exploring Youth Ministry and Christian Leadership. These students are then trained to assist in the running of retreats, at their local primary schools focused on the Sacraments, Mary and Christian leadership. Rise Up allows students to interact with peers across the Diocese who are likewise interested in exploring their faith in a significant way.

Ignite: The Ignite Conference is a national Catholic conference led by Ignite Youth and held for 4 days in Sydney over the September school holidays.

A group of 50 participants from the Diocese of Bathurst travelled to this event to explore the “2023, Wonder”. All participants were able to engage with notable guest speakers, enjoy fun night rallies, sit in the presence of the Lord through adoration and engage with the sacraments. A student participant reflected of their experience of the event.

“The conference allows me to just worship freely without being or feeling judged and it allows me to really connect with God and it just be me and him.

There are so many opportunities to explore my faith at Ignite and it can be so strong and powerful.

Ignite changed my life and for that I am forever grateful and always connected with God.”

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 30

COONAMBLE CHURCH REOPENS On 16 June, Bishop McKenna blessed and reopened the recently refurbished Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. Parish Priest, Fr Francis Muhenda and Assistant Priest, Fr Thao Van Nguyen concelebrated with the Bishop.

The 84 year old church required major renovations following storm damage in 2021 and was closed in March this year to allow for repairs and refurbishment.

This Mass was also the start of St Brigid’s Primary School’s celebrations for Grandparents and Older Friends Day. Afterwards Bishop McKenna blessed the new classrooms at the School and there was a chance for people to visit them. This was followed by a lovely morning tea.

Mr Drew Inman, Mrs Marg Markey, Fr Francis Muhenda, Mrs Gai Gilmour, Bishop Michael McKenna, Fr Thao Nguyen, Mrs Louise Keady, Mr Patrick Cooper and Mr Kevin Keady, after Mass.

Fiona Lewis

ST BRIGID’S COONAMBLE CELEBRATE 140 YEARS St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, Coonamble celebrated its 140 year anniversary on 14 September 2023. Brigidine Sisters, Bishop Michael McKenna, past and present staff, students and their families, along with parish and community members, joined to celebrate the School as an important educational site, and the arrival of the Brigidine Sisters in 1883. Two significant events were held which acknowledged the Brigidine Sisters’ enduring legacy, and two sculptures were erected, one in the new Brigidine Garden in the main street of Coonamble and another on the school grounds to pay homage to the pioneering Sisters who travelled from Ireland 140 years ago.

The students and staff of St Brigid’s are proud representatives of Catholic Education and continue to embody the traditions of the Brigidine Sisters, whose faith and strength is woven into the fabric of the School.

Peta Jagoe

31 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH VISIT SCHOOLS In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Sisters of Saint Joseph in NSW, members of the Perthville Convent Heritage Committee have been visiting schools in the Diocese of Bathurst, founded by the Congregation.

The primary schools were very interested in reconnecting with their Josephite charism. Sr Alice Sullivan and Sr Maureen Sanderson were the anchor of the tour and were joined at different schools by Committee members. Mrs Margaret Smith, Mrs Pam Haddin and two others, Sisters Ann Morrison and Virginia McGrath.

The schools visited included Blayney, Molong, Eugowra, Gulgong, Coonabarabran, Canowindra, Portland, Gilgandra, Oberon, Dunedoo, Coolah, Baradine, Manildra, Yeoval, Lithgow, and the Assumption School at West Bathurst.

Of those schools, 11 have been established for more than 100 years. There were 60 convents and schools founded from Perthville (near Bathurst).

Lithgow was founded by Mary MacKillop in 1908 and she actually signed the deeds of the Lithgow Convent herself – a fact not previously known to the staff. “Sr Maureen and I received a great welcome everywhere we visited,” said Sr Alice. “We were grateful to have the “MacKillop” book written in both English and Vietnamese by Sr Joanne Linh Le. In the various parishes where we have priests from Vietnam, the students are keen to hear the story read by them in Vietnamese as well.”

With the blessing and assistance of the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst, the Sisters were able to provide each school with a USB stick with the MacKillop book able to be put on the large screen for all to see while the book was read to them.

At St Joseph’s in Eugowra, the Sisters were able to present each child with their own book. These were received with delight since their school, along with the library, was decimated in the floods.

Another venture of the Perthville Convent Heritage Centre Committee, as part of the

150-year celebration, was the creation and launch of an app telling the story of the history of the Perthville Sisters. “It was a joy to experience the interest and enthusiasm of the students and staff as they engaged with their school’s history and the Josephite spirit that is their legacy,” said Sr Alice.

The email received from St Patrick’s School, Lithgow summed up their appreciation “Thank you for teaching us about the incredible works of Mary MacKillop. We all loved how you clearly explained the interesting life of Mary MacKillop in a fun, yet effective way to all students.” Every school invited us to return and asked if we might do something more about Fr Woods next time! We look forward to future visits.

Sr Alice Sullivan rsj and Sr Maureen Sanderson rsj Used with Permission Sisters of St Joseph

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 32

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK MASS BE A VOICE FOR GENERATIONS On the morning of Tuesday 30 May our students, staff and members of the community from the Diocese of Bathurst celebrated the first Diocesan Aboriginal Mass as part of National Reconciliation Week. Bishop Michael McKenna presided the Mass with over 450 people filling the Cathedral of St Michael and St John, Bathurst.

It was a fresh sunny morning as everyone gathered on the lawns of the Cathedral to be Welcomed to Country by Uncle Bill Allen, Dinawan Dyirribang, a senior Wiradyuri Elder and Jade Flynn, Yanhadarrambal. The Welcome ceremony included The Assumption School Tiddas welcome dance and a smoking ceremony. The smoking ceremony was to ward off any negativity and open our hearts, souls and minds to the celebration of the Mass.

The Mass was a true celebration, with students from each school playing an essential role. With the music and songs led by MacKillop College Band and Choir, the Cathedral was filled with joy.

Our students spoke reverently acknowledging our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander brothers and sisters journey towards healing. The feeling within the Cathedral walls was one of empathy and solidarity. Respecting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, learning from them and working together for a future of unity and understanding.

We look forward to celebrating future Diocesan Aboriginal Masses with our local community members across the Diocese.

Leanne Bovington

33 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

CEDB WINS PRESTIGIOUS ACEL LEADERSHIP AWARD On August 4 the members of the CEDB Diocesan Learning Hub were presented with an ACEL Team Leadership Award at North Sydney at the NSW ACEL Awards. The award was presented by National President of the ACEL, Dr Briony Scott.

The event was attended by the NSW Minister for Education, Prue Car and educators from across the state. Other award recipients on the night included Br David Hall and Murat Dizdar.

to education, and the work of the committed and skilled team of teachers from across our system of schools, has had a significant impact on the learning outcomes of students, promoting a culture of high expectations and fostering student success.

The Diocesan Learning Hub project team is a dedicated group of educators from the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in education.

CEDB designed an innovative solution, providing equitable access to extension courses for all students. With a strong commitment to high levels of learning for all, the Diocesan Learning Hub has challenged the possibilities of traditional education and mobilised the great strengths of our Catholic system of schools.

The team’s dedication and innovative approach

Members of the CEDB Diocesan Learning Hub accepting their award from ACEL National President Dr Briony Scott Caitlin Fahey, Kristi Ryan, Jan Mendham, Ann Walton, and Rose-Marie van Raad (Kate Harris was unable to attend)

Learning and teaching in the classroom

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CHRISTMAS STORY ART EXHIBITION AND COMPETITION On 8 September, Bishop Michael McKenna led a liturgy in the Mother Ignatius Croke Centre, in the Cathedral Precinct, Bathurst, attended by representatives of schools from across the Diocese. The occasion was the launch of the annual Diocesan Christmas Story and Art Exhibition. Mr Dane Fitzpatrick REC from Holy Family School, Kelso was the MC, and Ms Paula Jackson and the choir from Holy Family provided the music for the liturgy. Morning tea followed the liturgy and gave everyone a chance to view all the entries, which were beautifully displayed around the hall.

Established in the Archdiocese of Sydney in 2005, the Diocese of Bathurst began its own competition in 2012. Today the Christmas Storytelling Art Competition and Exhibition is an annual event open to Year 5 and Year 6 students in the Archdiocese of Sydney and the Dioceses of Wollongong and Bathurst, and Catholic students

ABOVE: Maebelle, received Christina Trimble’s Executive Director’s Award

BELOW: Lily, received Fr Paul’s Dean of the Cathedral Award

in Government schools. Award winners from the individual diocesan competitions form the combined Competition/Exhibition in Sydney. Every year, hundreds of artworks are submitted and shortlisted by a team of professional artists and teaching specialists. Winners are announced at a ceremony and the shortlisted works are displayed at the University of Notre Dame during Advent.

Students reflect on the Sacred Scriptures surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. Through personal conversation with God in prayer, students make connections to their own life and share these life experiences through a creative artwork. The Diocese of Bathurst had a record number of entries this year and the standard was very high indeed, with students utilising a myriad of mediums to share the beauty of creativity, depth of spiritual reflection, and uniqueness of self-expression.

Over 30 awards, in various categories, were presented at the Bathurst Exhibition. Another highlight of the day was the presentation of a beautiful Bible to each winner. These Bibles have been specially commissioned by the Diocese of Bathurst, with the intention of providing them to the children of our schools preparing for Confirmation, and contain messages from Bishop McKenna and Mrs Christina Trimble, the Executive Director of Schools.

As well as the amazing work of the artists, a lot of work is done behind the scenes by Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst to ensure the success of the Competition and Exhibition.

Ms Donna Mitchell (Visual Arts Teacher at MacKillop College, Bathurst and the Leader of Teaching and Learning at La Salle Academy, Lithgow) had the very difficult task of judging most of the categories. Particular thanks and credit must go to Dr Amber Calleja and Mr Glenn Corbin, who not only workshopped with the students but also collated, categorised and photographed the entries, and arranged the judges, the liturgy and the exhibition; an enormous job given the large number of entries.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this magnificent endeavour!

35 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

Fiona Lewis

Year 5 1st Prize.

Chloe, St Columba’s Catholic Primary School, Yeoval

Year 6 1st Prize Caleb St Joseph’s Primary School, Molong Year 6 2nd Prize Ralph, St Joseph’s Primary School, Molong

Year 5 2nd Prize Patrick, St Philomena’s Catholic School, Bathurst Year 5 3rd Prize Harriet St Laurence’s Primary School, Dubbo

Year 6 3rd Prize Georgie, St Michael’s Catholic Primary School, Dunedoo

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 36

DIOCESAN SPORT In 2023 the Diocese of Bathurst had many students selected in New South Wales state teams, these students are listed below:

NSWPSSA Sport Representative 2023

NSW All Schools Representative 2023

Poppi Stephen - Cricket Lily Railz - Cricket Chloe Howard - Hockey Bella Crawford - Hockey Clancy Simmons - Touch Olivia Carney - Touch Ruby Azar - Rugby David Kang - Golf Bill Holden - Athletics Jacob Fordham Athletics Alfie Dunstan - Cross Country

Ky Hurst - Softball Finley Gutherson – Softball Taj Jordan – Touch Cody Kirk - Hockey Chloe Carty - Hockey Rex Bassingthwaighte Rugby Halle Potter - Triathlon

37 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

School Sport Australia All Australian Representative 2023 Ky Hurst - Softball Taj Jordan - Touch Here is a selection of only a small number of events students participated in during 2023.

ALL HALLOWS GULGONG CELEBRATES 140 YEARS All Hallows Catholic Primary School, Gulgong celebrated their rich 140 year history on 20 October 2023 with many wonderful activities that spread across a three-day period, involving the broader school community and acknowledging the contribution of the Sisters of St Joseph who arrived in 1883 to establish the school.

A beautiful Liturgy was held, followed by a delicious cake and morning tea. That evening a wonderful night Bazaar had been organised and was very well attended by the local community. A formal dinner was held on the 21 October, with events concluding Sunday 22 October with Mass and a barbeque lunch at the school.

Congratulations to Principal Mr Brad Toole and the school staff, students and families who all contributed to these wonderful celebrations, commemorating the rich history of the school and Catholic education, and in particular the Josephite heritage which still lives on within the school today.

Peta Jagoe

Gulgong Janine Kearney Cath Gaudry Christina Trimble Brad Toole Sr Margaret Flood and Sr Alice Sullivan

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 38

PRINCIPAL OF HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL, KELSO KEVIN ARROW RETIRES After 31 years as Principal of Holy Family School, Kelso, Kevin Arrow has decided it is time lay down the chalk and duster.

Kevin has faithfully served Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst for the past 43 years, the majority of which has been spent giving leadership to the Holy Family community.

Kevin has witnessed many changes to both the School and education more broadly over the years and can be justifiably proud of the contribution he has made in that time. The school has grown considerably in Kevin’s time and is currently transitioning to a three stream coeducational school.

Kevin Arrow with the Holy Family AFL Paul Kelly Cup girls team Bathurst 2020

Kevin’s contribution to the organisation of sport in the Diocese has been greatly appreciated with students across our 33 schools enjoying the many opportunities provided.

His passion for education is evident in his conversations and planning, with students at the forefront of his decision making. Whilst occupying the seat of Principal for over 30 years, Kevin has remained a teacher at heart.

Dermott O’Neill

Kevin Arrow with the 2023 school leaders

SPECIAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION On 3 October, 39 Special Religious Education (SRE or Scripture) Teachers gathered at St Brigid’s in Dubbo for a training day. The day was organised by Christian SRE and attended by SRE Teachers located from across the Central West and Western Plains including Orange, Bathurst, Trundle, Coonamble, Dubbo, Wellington and Mudgee.

The day was a wonderful opportunity to upgrade skills by learning from experienced presenters. It was also an opportunity to meet with other SRE teachers from our region, many of whom we have not met before. We look forward to more learning opportunities like this in the future.

5 Surprising Benefits of being a SRE Teacher 1. Quality Relationships 2. By Giving, We Receive 3. Spiritual Enrichment 4. Mastering New Skills 5. Being Part of Something Important

Nicole being presented her 55 year service certificate by Fr Greg Kennedy

Give the gift you were given - contact your Parish Priest or Jacinta Thatcher e: sre2@bathurst.catholic.org.au p: 6334 6426 All participants at the Christian SRE training day in Dubbo

39 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

WELLBEING STRATEGIES FOR STUDENT SUPPORT Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst (CEDB) took a bold step towards promoting proactive wellbeing strategies across its schools this year, reaffirming its commitment to the holistic development of students.

Every primary school within the CEDB now has a dedicated Wellbeing Officer. They work closely with students, teachers, and parents to foster a positive and inclusive school culture.

In Secondary schools, in addition to their Wellbeing Coordinators, an Attendance Officer has been appointed to support and promote positive attendance patterns in our students. Recognising the importance of attendance in academic achievement and overall student wellbeing, CEDB has placed an increased focus on attendance within schools. By encouraging regular attendance, the CEDB aims to provide students with every opportunity to succeed academically while simultaneously fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.

To support these initiatives, we launched a comprehensive Student Wellbeing Framework this year. The Framework serves as a guiding document, outlining the principles and strategies that underpin the Diocese’s commitment to student wellbeing. By implementing evidence based professional learning for staff, the framework equips educators with the necessary tools and knowledge to identify and respond to student wellbeing concerns effectively.

Our schools are championing wellbeing with the implementation of these innovative strategies.

The introduction of the weekly Student VIBE (Valuable Insights, Beliefs and Experiences) survey has increased student voice. It tracks and supports each child’s emotional health in real time, ensuring they have the support they deserve throughout their academic journey.

Rose-Marie van Raad (Head: Learning, Teaching and Wellbeing at CEDB)

CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023 | 40

SPELLING BEE 2023 The atmosphere at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Wellington was filled with excitement as they hosted the highly anticipated 2023 Spelling Bee. This annual two-day Diocesan event has been captivating the hearts and minds of students, families and educators since it began in 2013.

Over two extraordinary days, more than 120 students, representing their schools, showcased their impressive spelling skills, all competing for the prestigious title of champion. It was a true community learning event with students, parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers and CEDB staff present.

We at CEDB are immensely proud and would like to congratulate all the participants for their dedication, determination and unwavering spirit throughout their Spelling Bee journey. These remarkable students started their journey in their respective schools, where they triumphed in challenging competitions to earn a coveted spot in the finals.

Our talented spellers confidently navigated through multiple rounds, leaving the audience in awe of their linguistic abilities. The competition reached its peak as these students fearlessly tackled the ultimate challenge of spelling previously unseen words. It was truly a remarkable sight as these young wordsmiths rose to the occasion, demonstrating grace and composure while dealing with the complexity of these words. Their support for one another underscored the strong sense of camaraderie that permeated the event. We look forward to the 2024 Spelling Bee with great excitement.

Kristi Ryan Spelling Bee Coordinator

Stage Five champions Winner: Lynnett Runner-Up: Cohan Stage Four champions Winner: Amelie Runner-Up: Angelina Stage Three champions Winner: Christian Runner-Up: Mia Stage Two champions Winner: Noah Runner-Up: Hugo

41 | CATHOLIC OBSERVER | DECEMBER 2023

CAFE VIVA IN BATHURST Cafe VIVA is a Not-For-Profit Social Enterprise Cafe, providing outstanding employment opportunities and real life skills for people living with disability.

With an energetic and dynamic team of 17, delivering a unique and positive customer experience is just the start. Serving a variety of artisan cakes and pastries, toasties and exceptional specialty roasted ‘Black Market Coffee’ daily. Cafe VIVA also provides amazing catering platters suitable for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

Recently, Cafe VIVA launched ‘The Big Lunch’, which operates every Thursday, providing free meals within our community from midday on Thursdays.

‘The Big Lunch’ is about giving back to our community, providing a platform for people to come together for community connection and to expand opportunities for the VIVA team to obtain meaningful, sustainable employment.

The vision of a cafe operated out of the Cathedral Parish Centre was one shared by Fr Paul Devitt VG, Dean of Cathedral and Sarkis Achmar, who formerly supervised “Fully Alive Café”, as a way to assist young people gain skills and enter the workplace.

Cafe VIVA brings much of that vision to fruition.

Fr Paul fully supports Café VIVA, which he sees it as a beautiful and tangible way in which the Parish can partner with organisations to support members of our community in attaining skills which could gain them meaningful work. Work is crucial in developing dignity and positive self-esteem and Cafe VIVA is committed to training and ensuring appropriate employment conditions.

Next time you are in Bathurst grab a coffee and see the good work of Cafe VIVA for yourself!

Cafe VIVA is open Monday to Saturday from 7:00am to 1:30pm and Sunday from 9:00am to 12:00pm.

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BISHOP’S MISSIONARY APPEAL

“We aim to provide a safe and more conducive place for both the students and the teachers for all the teaching and learning activities they do the whole year through.”

Sr Alma Castagna.

The Christmas spirit will be alive and well across the Bathurst Diocese with church-goers being invited to support a vital community school project in one of Australia’s nearest neighbours, in Timor Leste.

Known locally as Eskola Primaria Katolika Maria Auxiliadora, the Maria Auxiliadora Catholic Primary School has more than 1000 students, the majority of whom come from vulnerable backgrounds. It was the first Catholic primary school established in the region.

Through the annual Bishop’s Christmas Appeal, conducted at Masses in each parish in the Diocese of Bathurst on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Diocese will help with the construction of a multipurpose hall for assembly and student activities, as well as with renovations to the school library.

“The quality of student life and the education they receive will be improved with the creation of a gymnasium space for students to safely do physical activities,” Diocesan Director for Catholic Mission, David McGovern said.

“Funds from this appeal will help the Salesian Sisters, who established the school in Dili in 1998, create a relaxing space for teachers and staff, enabling them to have time and space to plan lessons and discuss schoolwork.” Sr Alma Castagna said the Sisters, with Catholic Mission’s help and the generosity of people from the Bathurst Diocese, were committed to providing “a safe and more conducive place for students and their teachers.”

Donations can also be sent direct to Bishop McKenna at PO Box 246 Bathurst 2795 or made via our Diocesan website bathurst.catholic.org.au, or the QR code at the top of the page.