Catholic Observer Magazine

Volume 47, No 2

June 2012

$2.00

“That they may be one” Historic Anglican-Catholic Covenant Dioceses of Bathurst ~ 24th May 2012

Picture courtesy of Phil Murray - Western Advocate

Bishop’s Message Anglican - Catholic Covenant

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lessed John Paul II said that the goal of Church unity always seems closer when Christians pray together. That was demonstrated on the 24th May in the three-part liturgy for the signing of a covenant between the Anglican and Catholic dioceses of Bathurst. Not only did the size of the congregation exceed my expectations, so did its fervour and joy.

We began our worship in the Cathedral of St Michael and St John.

Then, like true pilgrims, braved the rain and cold walking to All Saints Cathedral. There, the covenant was signed and icons of the patron saints of our two cathedrals exchanged. It was impossible to miss the presence of the Holy Spirit in a moving moment of communion in Christ.

impairs the work of preaching the Gospel. This may seem obvious, but it resonates more deeply with those who appreciate that the commission to proclaim Christ is given to “the Church.”

not merely in many easily observed practicalities, but at a deep level of relationships and witness.

Earlier in the day, Bishop Rutherford and Father Gerard Kelly had addressed the clergy of the two The idea that “the Church” is dioceses on Anglican-Catholic entrusted with preaching does not dialogue about the Blessed Virgin mean that an individual Christian has Mary. It seemed to me providential no call. To the contrary, everyone that this day of the covenant signing, who is baptised has a right and during the Week of Prayer for Christian responsibility to proclaim Christ. Unity, was on the Solemnity of Our However, we are baptised, not into Lady Help of Christians. Mary, Mother an exclusively individual relationship of the Church, pray for us! with him, but into his body. Each Christian shares the treasure of the +Michael McKenna Word and witnesses to it as a member Bishop of Bathurst of that body. If the Church is divided, this situation affects the preaching

Yes, the differences which still keep Anglicans and Catholics from full, visible communion around the table of the Eucharist are real. But that should not distract us from the reality of our fundamental communion in baptism, the sacred scriptures and the bond of Christ’s love.

Anglican Bishop Graeme Rutherford, preaching in the Catholic Cathedral, called us to proclaim the Gospel to a world hungry for God, but confused about how to find him. This has to be the motive of our efforts for reunion.

The Second Vatican Council, in its decrees on ecumenism and missionary activity, stated that division among Christians seriously

Pic courtesy of Phil Murray/ Western Advocate

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‘Be A Light To The World’ CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 2

State Heritage Listing for Cathedral

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he Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John in Bathurst has been listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The Minister for Heritage, the Hon Robyn Parker, made the announcement during a visit to Bathurst on 4th June.

The listing recognises the significant place the Cathedral has had in the life of Australia’s oldest inland settlement and its importance to the whole of NSW. A Restoration Appeal will be launched on 29th June - the Feast of the Dedication of the Cathedral - giving Bathurst parishioners a chance to support this vital work on their parish church, as well as providing an opportunity for the people of the Diocese to assist with the restoration of their cathedral.

Project plans include restoration of

stone and brickworks on the bell tower; removal and restoration of the cathedral bells; internal refurbishments including reinstatement of timber flooring and windows; and repair and replacement of a significant amount of brick and stonework on the facades.

Bathurst’s Bishop Michael McKenna

said “…over the years, the Cathedral has been lovingly expanded and cared for by the Bishops and people of the Diocese. This news will hopefully assist the Diocese, as custodians of the Cathedral, in our desire to seek funding to restore and maintain this unique piece of Bathurst’s heritage”.

Donation to Wau

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ishop Michael McKenna was very happy recently to be able to present a cheque for $94,833.65 to Mr Mike Deasy, Diocesan Director of Catholic Mission.

The money was contributed by the people of the Diocese over several Special Missionary Appeals held annually at Christmas time; however, due to the political instability of the country, actually getting the funds to the intended recipients has proven a very difficult task.

Thankfully, Catholic Mission has now been able to secure a safe channel for the funds, which will be used at the discretion of Bishop Rudolf Deng Majak, Bishop of Wau.

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The Year of Grace

A Message from Bishop Michael McKenna

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oday, on the Feast of Pentecost, we begin a Year of Grace in Australia.

What does this mean and why are we doing it?

This Year of Grace has been proclaimed with one voice by the bishops of all the local churches in Australia. We decided to do it after a great deal of thinking, praying and talking together about the need for renewal in our Catholic life.

We saw that our mission has often been distracted by the cares of this world. The practical details of the Church’s work have often obscured the love of Christ that is its motive.

Beginning with ourselves, we are inviting every Catholic to pause and ask about our life and work: “What does this have to do with Jesus?”

Grace is when we are given a share in the life of God. We know that God’s love for us is constant, but we do experience moments of special openness to it. This can be such a moment, made stronger as we join together in it.

There will be a number of national events during this Year of Grace, but every diocese, every parish, every family, every

person will find their own ways to take part in it.

In the Diocese of Bathurst, I have asked the priests to begin talking with parishioners about a pastoral plan. This will prepare the way for a Diocesan Assembly as an event of faith and a renewal of mission.

The other diocesan initiative will be the restoration of the building and the community of the Shalom House of Prayer in Carcoar.

This weekend, Shalom is hosting a weekend of prayer to begin the Year of Grace. Whether you can get to Carcoar or not, I invite you to join your prayers with those gathered there.

The Year of Grace is not about programs and activities, but about a shared openness to the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit, who will lead us to contemplate the face of Christ and recognize him in our common life. How will you, how will your parish do that? Surely it begins in prayer, individually, in families and together.

May Mary, “full of grace”, be our model, as we say to the Lord “let it be done unto us according to your will.” +Michael McKenna Bishop of Bathurst Pentecost Sunday 2012 (Editor’s note: For information on the Year of Grace visit - www.yearofgrace.catholic.org.au)

140 Years of Perthville Josephites

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n July, the Sisters of St Joseph will be celebrating the 140th Anniversary of the First Foundation of the Sisters of St Joseph at Perthville.

It was on 16th July, 1872 that three sisters and one postulant arrived at Queen Charlotte’s Vale, “The Vale” as Perthville was called at the time. They had been sent by Mother Mary MacKillop and Father Julian Woods to make this foundation in the Bathurst Diocese, at the request of Bishop Matthew Quinn who had asked for Sisters to set up schools in the outback places being settled by farmers and goldminers within the Diocese.

For 140 years the story of the Perthville Josephites has been written in schools, parishes and communities in city and suburbs, in country towns and within

Sisters continue to be involved in helping others in a variety of ways: in schools and university, in parishes as pastoral assistants, in adult faith formation, visiting people in hospital and in their homes, showing hospitality, caring for the aged, reaching out to refugees, praying daily and, through the Josephite Foundation No Interest Loan Scheme, assisting people in need.

The Sisters are planning three days of celebration in July involving Josephite Sisters, family and friends and the priests various cultures. Dedicated young and religious of the Bathurst Diocese. women came from Irish and Australian The theme chosen for the celebration is families to serve God and God’s people “Ring Out Our Joy”. The 140th anniversary so that during the past 140 years, over 300 logo features the bell which sits atop the Josephite Sisters have given their lives to Perthville Chapel and which was a gift carrying out the mission of Jesus. to the foundation sisters from their coWhile fewer in number these days, the founder, Father Julian Tenison Woods.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 4

Good Shepherd Vocations Network

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he Good Shepherd Vocations Network is a Cathedral Parish group that aims to promote priestly, religious and lay vocations by providing a seed ground of prayer and holiness within the local parish and amongst our daily activities.

In April, the Network, with the blessing of Bishop Michael McKenna, held a period of extended Eucharistic Adoration for the support of the clergy and to pray for an increase in all vocations - priestly, religious and secular - in the Diocese. The whole Parish of the Cathedral of St Michael and St John was invited to this special event, beginning with evening Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael and Fr Pat O’Regan, Dean of the Cathedral and Episcopal Vicar for Clergy.

After Mass, there was a procession to the beautifully adorned Parish Centre for 24 hours of continuous adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. A prayerful presence was maintained throughout the night and following day, with periods of silence, music, the Rosary and the Liturgy of the Hours. Devotions concluded with a procession back to the Cathedral and Benediction before the Saturday Vigil Mass.

The Good Shepherd Vocations Network would like to thank all participants and organisers of this gathering and urge your ongoing prayers for further vocations for the Diocese.

For more information on the Network, you can contact Marcelle Droulers via email - mdroulers@csu.edu.au.

Marcelle Droulers

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 5

Life Membership for CWL ladies

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t the Catholic Women’s League Diocesan Conference in March, the Lithgow Branch celebrated 40 years of CWL membership. The NSW Executive, President Mrs Carolyn Metcalfe, Secretary Mrs Bett Townsend and Treasurer Mrs Pauline O’Malley, were present at the Conference in Lithgow.

Other Dioceses with members in attendance were Broken Bay, Sydney Archdiocese, Parramatta and Wollongong. Lithgow Branch President Noela Williams gave a history of the Lithgow Branch and informed everyone that a local celebration will be held on Monday 2nd July at the Commercial Hotel....the site of the inaugural meeting in 1972.

Two Lithgow ladies, Mrs Pat Taylor and Mrs Joan Doonan, were very pleasantly surprised when they were awarded Life Membership of the League, as they were both foundation members of the Lithgow CWL Branch, had held office in the Diocese and had attended Diocesan, State and National Conferences as well as always transporting ladies to various activities in their cars. Both are involved in the Lithgow Parish. Pat’s daughter, Jenny

Emms, and Joan’s daughter-in-law, Lyn Doonan, were actually helping with the catering, so were very excited to be present for this special moment. Other foundation members - Betty Boardman, Nancy Connelly, Therese Walsh, Pat Livermore and Moira Murnane received certificates honouring 40 years of membership.

Sister Colleen O’Sullivan, a Josephite Sister who had spent time in Lithgow

schools, was our guest speaker and her topic was “The Year of Grace”.

Everyone declared it was a great day and all our visitors told us that they love to come to Lithgow each year. Many of the visitors were billeted with Lithgow ladies and enjoyed a night out at the “Workies Club” prior to the Conference.

Dawn Frazer Bathurst Diocesan President - CWL

‘Finding’ Spirituality?

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ver 200 people attended Spirituality in the Pub in Bathurst last month - the second such session organised by the Cathedral Parish.

The guest speakers for the evening were Anglican Bishop Richard Hurford and Catholic Bishop Michael McKenna – the first joint venture of the bishops after signing a Covenant between their two dioceses just a few days earlier.

The night’s topic was “Spirituality Where do you find it?”. The Bishops spoke individually, each approaching the topic from different angles, but with the same basic premise - that Spirituality is innately ‘within’ each of us.

Afterwards, the Bishops made themselves available for an interesting Q & A session.

The next session of SIP will be held on 24th July and the guest speakers for that night will be Marie Crowley and Father Michael Fallon.

Bishops Hurford and McKenna during question time

CATHOLIC CATHOLICOBSERVER OBSERVERSUMMER - JUNE EDITION EDITION - PAGE - PAGE 6

Important dates in the coming months •

BLAST - 27th to 29th July

•

Vocations Awareness Week - 5th to 12th August

• World Day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees 26th August •

•

Reynold Jaboneta’s Ordination 4th September Centacare Sunday 16th September

BISHOP NORTON’S DIARY – 1939 Edited by Fr Tim Cahill January 1939 19th - Mass in Oratory. Saw Mother General.

Fathers [Alf] Gummer [native of Perthville, and later Bishop of Geraldton in W.A.] and [Jim] Gallagher here.

20th - Mass in Oratory.

21st - Masses at St Josephs Mt & All Hallows [Dominican Convent in South Bathurst, which also ran a boarding school for primary aged boys]. At Benediction in St Vincent’s [Hospital] in evening. At Holy Hour at night. Pleasantly warm day in great contrast to the noted heat of this day week.

22nd - Mass in Oratory. Retreat began [from the early days of the Diocese, the priests’ Retreat took place in mid-January, and was held at St Stanislaus’ College in South Bathurst. This continued until Bp Thomas’ time, I believe.] Fr Francis Clune cm [was the Director,] all present except Frs [Cecil] Loneragan & [Thomas] Brosnan not yet back from holidays & Fr Cass in hospital

with tonsils operation.

23rd - (88°F = 31°C) Mass in [St Stanisalus’] College. Retreat continues. Got very hot in afternoon. Fr Clune very good, expert man. Had swim at night. Fr [John] Corcoran arrived late. Had not been well.

Dean O’Farrell not yet arrived [a long way to come from Coonamble…].

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CATHOLIC CATHOLICOBSERVER OBSERVERSUMMER - JUNE EDITION EDITION - PAGE - PAGE 7

St. Columba’s ~ Yeoval

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tudents at St. Columba’s School in Yeoval receiving Sacraments this year were presented to Father Tony Hennessy and the Church community in a Mass recently.

Sister Kath English rsj, also presented the Primary students with their Junior Josephite Association badges. This was a notable occasion as St. Columba’s is the first school in the Diocese to have students become members of the Perthville Junior Josephite Association.

Julia Englert

Students (with parents) receiving the sacraments this year were presented to Father Tony and the Church Community

Sister Kath English rsj, Mrs Kate Brown and the Primary Students after being presented with their Junior Josephite Association badges

Our Lost Churches

The Catholic Observer is published by the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst (Diocesan Publications)

St Joseph’s ~ Darbys Falls

PO Box 246, Bathurst, NSW, 2795 ph:(02) 6334 6400

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ollowing the Lachlan Valley goldrush in 1886, a substantial village was established south of Cowra at the location later to be known as Darbys Falls.

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Around 1910, Father O’Kennedy erected a weatherboard and iron church with a small cemetery on two acres given by Tom Neville, a staunch local Catholic. For 14 years this church was to serve as a Mass centre for the people of Darbys Falls.

Designer ~ Jacqui Callcut

email: observer@bathurst.catholic.org.au Editor/Advertising ~ Fiona Lewis Printed by Rural Press Printing Richmond NSW All material in this magazine is copyright and may be reproduced only with the written permission of the Editor.

The site of the church was close to the river, however, and was prone to flooding. So in 1924, the church was replaced with a new church (photo) on the hill above the village. The old church was then demolished, but its former site remains in use as the town’s cemetery.

lovely concrete church of St Joseph was a tribute to the faith of the people of Darbys Falls. The church today is a private residence.

Visible for miles in all directions, the

David Billington

The Catholic Observer is a member of the Australasian Catholic Press Association and the Australasian Religious Press Association.

CATHOLIC CATHOLICOBSERVER OBSERVERSUMMER - JUNE EDITION EDITION - PAGE - PAGE 8

Josephites Journeying Together

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arch and April saw special Josephite Journeying retreats held at Perthville. Sisters from all over Australia and New Zealand came together to ponder their shared journey, from its beginnings to this present day.

Back Row: Louise Gannon (Lochinvar) Carmel Drew (Goulburn) Francine Ceasar (Qld) Gail Leslie (SA) Joan Harrison (NSW) Essie Tuena (Perthville) Ann Morrison (Perthville) Mary Kavanagh (Vic) Front Row: Bernadette Douglas (Qld) Sandra Hopkins (Qld) Benedtta Bennett (NSW) Colleen O’Sullivan (NSW) Bernadette Hynes (WA) Teresita Breen (NSW) Janet Nolan (Vic) Helena Tran (NSW)

Back: Sian Owen (NZ) Ingrid Lineham (Lochinvar) Kerrie Cusack (Goulburn) Rita Sheedy (NSW) Teresa Keane (NSW) Rita Malavisi (Vic) Kathleen Price (NSW) Joan Hamilton (Vic) Therese Quinn (Vic) Marie White (NSW) Ann Neven (NZ) Mary O’Dea (Goulburn) Marion Gambin (SA) Front: Marianne Zeinstra (Vic), Marie Levey (NSW) Carmel Clear (Goulburn) Margaret O’Sullivan (Lochinvar) Christian Dinh (NSW) Lyn Young (Vic) Catherine Trinh (NSW) Edwardine O’Connel (NSW) Anne Porter (WA) Lynette Pearce (Lochinvar) Mary Quinlan (NSW) Mary Schiemer (Perthville) Absent - Pat Lenane (Goulburn)

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88 Bentinck Street, Bathurst 2795 CATHOLIC CATHOLICOBSERVER OBSERVERSUMMER - JUNE EDITION EDITION - PAGE - PAGE 9

Something Different Sunday

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n Sunday 6th May, St. Patrick’s Parish Wellington held a day with a theme of outreach to families of young children - to say that church worship is not boring and encourage Church and community to come together.

The day began with Mass, to the sound of a didgeridoo played by Glenn Carr and there were a number of hymns with a contemporary feel. Singers Karen and Geoff Pierce came from Orange to lead the singing.

Over 200 people attended the Mass, including a bus load of children and adults from Yeoval.

Reynold Jaboneta, our newly ordained Deacon originally from the Philippines, was involved in the Mass. His presence was greatly appreciated by the local Filipino community, who sang a hymn in their native language.

Marie Cornish, a Wellington sporting identity who had played in the Australian Women’s Cricket team, declared festivities officially open. Marie supported the idea of the Church and community working together and Sally Bryant, ABC Rural reporter, was there to direct the crowd to the activities.

The weather was beautiful and people enjoyed a time of fun in the Convent yard, including a free jumping castle, novelty food and apples, face painting, white elephant stalls, children’s raffle, kid games, cuppa, train and musical room display and guest personalities mingling with the crowd.

Money raised went to youth work in the Wellington area a $500 donation to the local PCYC and a number of other groups. Over $2,100 was raised from a fun and faith-filled day.

Father Tony Hennessy

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 10

Justice at work

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ecently, the Portland, Wallerawang and Lithgow Social Justice Group prepared lunch and welcomed some 60 refugees, asylum seekers and volunteers from JCA (Josephite Community Aid) to the Maranatha Recreation site at Lidsdale. Sr. Helen Sullivan rsj, who is a member of the Group, has had a long connection with JCA in Sydney.

Although language could sometimes be a barrier, members of the Group soon found a friendly smile could overcome any hurdle and was always returned.

The weather also smiled on everyone as they experienced the driest (if not hottest) day we’d had for a while. Much laughter could be heard as the JCA volunteers unpacked the ‘slip and slide’ which soon had the children (and some of the adults) sliding around in waves of foam. The adults enjoyed the open spaces as much as the children, with soccer the game of choice.

Weekends like this would not be possible without the volunteers. JCA had two fulltime and nine part-time volunteers on the weekend. They are amazing young people who want to help others and make a difference.

Members of our Social Justice Group are looking forward to the next weekend at Maranatha which has been set for October.

If you would like to find out more information about the Group’s activities or to make a donation, please contact Charlie and Christine O’Mahony on 6355 1093.

Lorna Nicholson

Vespers and Vino…

Fr Greg serves drinks

Wine and good company in Mudgee

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ne of the Mudgee parish’s initiatives for the Year of Grace is offering an opportunity for prayer, wine and good company.

Vespers and Vino is a chance for different parish groups to come together for prayer and socialising. Each month during school term, the parish will host an evening beginning with Evening Prayer of the Church at 5.45pm in the Church, followed by wine and cheese in the parish centre from 6.00-6.30pm. Participants are asked to make a voluntary donation to help cover the cost of the evening.

The first evening was a great success. The Extraordinary Ministers of Communion in Mudgee and Gulgong parishes came together for prayer and mutual support. During Evening Prayer, Fr Greg Bellamy gave a reflection on the act of receiving communion during the liturgy: using our bodies, our sight and our voice.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 11

MacKillop College ~ Bathurst Bishop Blesses Reflection Garden

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ishop Michael McKenna blessed the St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Reflection Garden in the grounds of MacKillop College in Bathurst in March. We were joined by many parents, friends, staff, students, Sisters, Father Joshy Kaithakulangara, Executive Director of Schools, Mrs Jenny Allen and the former Principal of MacKillop, Mr Stephen Todd.

Each student contributed to the Garden, decorating a tile with a personal motif commemorating their presence in the School. In addition, each roll class was given a snippet of a prayer about Mary MacKillop. A band was designed by each class to wrap around a pole, inspired by this prayer and Mary’s life. The art reflects what it means for them to be a female in this community, enabling them to go forward confidently and courageously in today’s world. These poles will continue to influence our thoughts and prayers.

On the side of the wall facing the driveway is St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop’s face. However, when you go closer, you will notice that each

Principal Maureen Moore, Bishop Michael McKenna, Jenny Allen and Anita Fry (REC) panel has a different design making up the whole. Some panels show the history of the College, others the anniversaries and these were created by the Y10 Art class.

Many workers labored in this garden -

construction co-ordinator, Mr Robert Barlow, members of the P&F, families and MacKillop staff. It was indeed a labour of love - workers in the vineyard for the Kingdom of God. Ann Walton

Penny’s mixing at the top

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First Class First Aid

he MacKillop community is very proud of student Penny Duggan who recently achieved second place in the NSW State World Skills Australia Schools Commercial Cookery Competition; an outstanding result in a highly contested competition.

This industry renowned competition is an opportunity for school students to demonstrate, be recognised and rewarded for being creative and technically skilled.

The competition involved approximately 12 hours in the kitchen over two days, preparing two set menus for each day. It was a gruelling ordeal and was both physically and mentally challenging.

Ximena McPhillamy

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hunderous applause reverberated from the hall at MacKillop College when Y10 student Katie Ferrari rose to accept an award from the Ambulance Service of NSW during an Assembly recently. Katie received the Star Award, which recognises children who show remarkable courage in a medical emergency.

The Perthville boarder, from Trangie, was travelling on a CountryLink train from Dubbo to Orange last year, when a fellow student fell ill. Stranded between stations, Katie rendered First Aid to the girl before asking a guard to call 000. She remained by her side all the way to Orange hospital. (courtesy Jo Johnson/Western Advocate)

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 12

Centenary celebrations in Oberon 25th March 2012 saw great celebrations in Oberon to mark the 100th year of Catholic education at St. Joseph’s School.

The School was established by the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1912.

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Christian Living Camps Bathurst, Gulgong and Dunedoo

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he Christian Living Camp was held in preparation for Y6 Confirmation for students from Assumption School, Bathurst, All Hallows, Gulgong and St Michael’s School, Dunedoo.

goal of Confirmation this year. We are The camp finished up at lunchtime very grateful to Father Greg for making on Friday and we bid farewell to new the trip to Wellington for us. friends and travelled back to our towns, On Thursday night, an Olympics Night ready to live the positive, respectful life was held, with Fr Greg’s effort on the we seek.

Carolyn Holland

The students participated in a Christian tackling bag a highlight to watch.

Living Workshop with guest presenter Chris Doyle. Chris highlighted the importance of living the life they want through respect for self and others and using the gifts God has bestowed on each of us.

His sessions were a highlight of the camp as he had everyone singing, dancing and laughing along as he delivered his message. The students also participated in Sport and Rec activities such as kayaking, BMX racing, archery and grass skiing, which they enjoyed.

On Thursday afternoon everyone gathered for Mass with Father Greg Bellamy, assistant priest of the Gulgong parish. The Mass was a celebration of the group coming together with a common

Fr Greg and the group with Chris Doyle

Canowindra, Eugowra, Molong, Manildra, Blayney and Yeoval

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tudents from Canowindra, Eugowra, Molong, Manildra, Blayney and Yeoval also took part in a Christian Living Camp with Chris Doyle recently.

Y6 students at a recent Christian Living Camp with their Plaque in memory of Mrs Jocelyn Farr

Sacred Heart School ~ Coolah

To acknowledge Mrs Farr’s outstanding contributions to the Christian Living Camp, a shield was created to celebrate her life and memory. The shield reads: “In Memory of Mrs Jocelyn Farr, Manildra - Camp Legend”.

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012 has been busy with Opening School Mass, Class Masses, Ash Wednesday, Grandparents Day, Swimming Carnival, Coolah Radio 5/6 broadcasters, Pass the Poetry Please, Northern Region Swimming Carnival with representatives going on to Diocesan Swimming, one student selected for swimming in Sydney, Crazy Hair Day, Casillis Cross Country and a Farm Safety Day at Dunedoo with St Michael’s students.

David Garstang

Sadly, Mrs Jocelyn Farr from Manildra was absent from this camp as she passed away from cancer early in the year. Mrs Farr attended Christian Living Camps for over 25 years, contributing significantly to their success - sharing her musical and creative talents with students and teachers alike and contributing to the life time memories of many students.

Age Swimming Champions 2012 11yr Boy - James Williams, Junior - Will Ticehurst, Senior - Sam Piper, Junior - Grace Brown, Senior - Maddie Malone

The Shield was presented to the Captains of St Joseph’s Blayney by camp organiser Mr Glen Brown, after voting by fellow teachers.

The plague recognises that these students embraced the memory of Mrs Farr in their care for others and enthusiastic participation in all aspects of camp life.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 14

Gerard Davies

St. Mary’s School ~ Orange Going for Gold

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he students from St Mary’s Orange Y6 travelled to the Bathurst Goldfields recently - an excursion based on our “gold” unit in H.S.I.E. We arrived at Bathurst Goldfields and met our tour guide, Will. We went into a dark room and learnt about a miner’s spider! This was actually a candle which helped miner’s to see in dark spaces; it took 12 hours to burn down to the wick.

Next, we went into a display room and learnt about the tools the miners used in the 1850s and about the pick, kibble, pan, windlass and many other tools.

After our visit to the display room, we sat in the warm sun for recess.

Then we all went to a shaft mining area.

A group of students was chosen to operate a giant Windlass. They pushed and pulled a huge handle around a circular arena. Through a simple pulley system, this handle pulled a bucket (kibble) out of a deep mine shaft. It was complicated, but it would have really helped the miners to conserve their energy and dig deep underground.

Next we learnt about the influences a steam engine had on the goldfields.

The introduction of a steam engine would have saved the miners a great deal of time and energy.

Just before lunch we headed into a blacksmith’s shop. Some students were selected to shape and form a black iron fence post with moulded patterns. This

tool could also be used as a fire poker.

Y6 got to keep this as a momento of their trip to the Goldfields.

During our lunch break, we talked about our morning’s experience.

After lunch, we broke up into three groups and experienced making mud bricks for old fashioned houses on the goldfields, enjoying cooking our own damper which was cooked over the campfire. We also got to test out the games they played on the goldfields as kids.

Straight after there was a tent building tournament - boy’s v girls. It was very competitive and tested our imagination and skills. It was neck and neck, but

in the end, the girls won - of course!!

Will said every time he conducted a tour and did the tent building, the girls always win; except one time - but they were an all-boys school.

Last but not least, we got to go gold panning!! First of all, Will explained how to mine. As soon as he finished, everyone rushed to the ponds to try and find the gold specks. It wasn’t as easy as it looked - it was actually quite fiddly but everyone found at least one speck of gold.

It was a fantastic day. We thank our teachers and Will for giving up their time for our pleasure!!!!!!!!

St Mary’s Y6 classes

St. Mary’s School ~ Orange Going for Gold

St Pius X ~ Dubbo

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ome of the recent liturgies we have had at St Pius X include our ANZAC Day and Mother’s Day liturgies which were both lovely and very spiritual.

We held a very meaningful ANZAC Day liturgy which included a reflective YouTube clip. The students showed great respect for the soldiers who fought for our country

which was wonderful.

On the day of our Mother’s day liturgy we invited our Parents and Community members to bring along some morning tea to share with thier family after the liturgy as part of the celebration for Mothers Day. Alicia Fuller

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 15

Easter around the Diocese Schools and Parishes around the Diocese commemorated Holy Week and celebrated Easter in various ways…..

Gulgong

Cowra

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n preparation for Easter, All Hallows School in Gulgong had a brief liturgy each day in the lead up to the Easter Triduum, where classes acted out a short tableau of the event.

On Holy Thursday, the School’s week culminated with a final series of events and the Stations of the Cross, with the whole School and the Parish community, concluding with an enactment of Jesus being placed in the tomb and a solemn reflection on his death.

This was one of the most beautiful and moving events in the School’s calendar and was deeply felt by the students, parents and parishioners who attended.

S

t Raphael’s school community paused to engage in a reflective and dramatic Stations of the Cross liturgy.

Readers, singers and cross bearers attired in black set the scene in St Raphael’s Church, which was decorated in the stark colours of the season.

The church full of students appreciated the re-telling of the Calvary story and all that it means for us today, in silent and reverent acknowledgement.

The liturgy was an ideal preparation for the Easter Triduum for staff, students and families.

Canowindra

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he Canowindra community organised the Stations of the Cross at the beautiful Windowrie Estate on Good Friday.

As well as a large number of children who participated in the dramatisation, over 50 people attended, walking from station to station to the beat of a drum.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 16

Portland

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n Easter Saturday, Portland Parish again joined with the other Churches in Portland to host the ‘Combined Churches Easter Festival’. Although this was not our first Festival, it was our biggest turnout yet, and was advertised as a ‘lead up’ event to ‘Reality 2012’ held in Lithgow.

The Easter Festival is sponsored by local companies, which enables the Churches to offer it free. The local community joins in, with the Fire Brigade making an appearance, horse and cart rides generously provided and the local school children entering the colouring-in competition.

The theme for this year’s Festival was “God’s Grace Love in Action”.

The Churches use this event to reach out to the community - no strings attached. This is our chance to show what God is about through our own actions. The ‘Open Crowd Festival’ activities, provided by Fusion, help us to engage the young people attending. Live bands play throughout the morning and a free barbecue is offered for lunch. It is a great way for the community to get to know the faces of the people in our Churches.

Lorna Nicholson

For the second time, Wellington Parishioners participated in an Ecumenical Way of the Cross at Bodangora on Good Friday.

Organised by the Anglican and Catholic communities, about 45 people took part.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 17

BLAST 2012 Starting Afresh….

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idgecrest Christian Convention Centre is the new home for BLAST and gives us the perfect setting to move forward on the next stage of our journey.

While we sadly bid farewell to our Diocesan Youth Ministry Co-ordinator Gabrielle Sinclair at Manna Fest, BLAST is giving us exciting opportunities to start afresh together.

The Gospel for the weekend is John 6:1-15 “Feeding the Five Thousand”.

Jesus shows us that when we let go of our own agendas and give what we have to God, there is no limit to what He can do.

course the favourite ‘So You Think You Can Liturgical Dance’. Ben Marshall and the North Harbour Catholic Youth Band will be joining us for the weekend. They will be offering workshops and performing for us on Saturday night.

Families of our participants are invited to join us for Mass at 12 noon on Sunday followed by lunch. They will then have the chance to join in the fun of the Final Small Group Challenge (Please RSVP for catering purposes).

Registrations will be closing as you read this (June 25th), so make sure you register now, if you haven’t already.

To download a Registration Form or for more information, go to: www. youth.bathurst.catholic.org.au

Our Youth Leaders are excited to be given the opportunity to give what they have this weekend. Their joy is teach each other. The participants always contagious and never fails to will be given vitally important In this of Year of Grace, I will be information for working with young looking forward to joining with you, as uplift all of those in the ‘BLAST Zone’.

In 2012, BLAST Radius is offering adults people, formation and support. They we start afresh in Christ together. working with youth in their parishes will also have the opportunity to mix and schools, the opportunity to with the younger participants at main Lorna Nicholson network with other adults from across gatherings and selected workshops.

Project Officer the Diocese. They will be able to share Over the weekend there will be Diocesan BLAST Youth Festival experiences in order to learn from and workshops, music, formation and of Gracious God, You have blessed this ancient land with many gifts, especially its people.

We thank you for the Year of Grace, a time to start afresh from Christ.

You invite us to contemplate the face of Jesus your Son, that we may experience a new wave of grace, and that the light of Christ may burn more brightly in our lives.

Attune our hearts and minds to the presence of your Holy Spirit, that our Church may be transformed, our relationships be healed, and our nation grow in compassion and justice.

With the intercession of St Mary MacKillop, who showed us new ways of living the Gospel, we make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Mary, Help of Christians, pray for us.

4 Lewis St Mudgee 6372 1742 www.stmattsmudgee.nsw.edu.au CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 18

A Message from the Executive Director of Schools

St. Columba’s Yeoval, Principal Glen Brown, with Jenny and students when Jenny visited the School recently

D

uring this first semester of the school year, travelling to each of our schools in the diocese and spending time interacting with staff, students and parents is deepening my understanding of the specific context of each of our school communities. A question that I have been posing to students invites them to share with me all of the things that they love about their school. The responses that they have discussed with me include such characteristics as: having teachers who are kind and caring, the friendly nature of everyone in the school, teachers who get to know us really well, the range of different things to be involved in at school, teachers who have a sense of humour, learning about and doing many new and interesting things, having really nice playground areas, school as a safe place to come to, teachers who know how to keep me moving forward with my learning, allowing students to express their opinions and ideas about our school, being encouraged to do my best and teachers helping to bring out everyone’s different gifts.

In each school where I have asked students this question, they have invariably spent most time naming the qualities that they appreciate within the staff. The exercise serves to reinforce what the research tells us and, of course, what we know from our own lived experience of schooling, that the quality of the teachers and staff is a key element leading to successful outcomes for students.

The feedback that students are giving me resonates with these points and reflects the quality of the staff within our schools.

The thoughts of the students also indicate the presence of the rich legacy of the Josephite and Mercy traditions within so many of our schools. Particularly within our schools in our smaller towns, I have been struck by the palpable sense of community which pervades every aspect of the life of the school. It is very evident that the Josephite commitment to rural communities, to live and “walk with” the people in their joys and their struggles in life is very much alive. The historic commitment to the expression of mercy within our schools is evident as students reflect on the compassion they have seen expressed so often in their school community.

A key document within our tradition which has for many years guided our understanding of the characteristics to be developed within our schools, is a document called The Catholic School. It is interesting to note that it was published on the feast of St Joseph. The document has this to say about staff in a Catholic school:

“The achievement of the specific aim of the Catholic school depends not so much on subject matter or methodology as on the people who work there. The extent to which the Christian message is transmitted through education depends to a very great extent on the teachers. The integration of culture and faith is mediated by the other integration of faith and life in Our Diocesan mission statement and our recently developed the person of the teacher. The nobility of the task to which Quality Catholic Education Framework make explicit the teachers are called demands that, in imitation of Christ, the components which our schools are using in support of their only Teacher, they reveal the Christian message not only by ongoing reflection and school improvement process. These word but also by every gesture of their behaviour.” documents state that our schools are committed to the provision In this Year of Grace, let us continue our prayerful and tangible of a safe, inclusive and professional learning environment, the support of our teachers, that they may be encouraged as they use of a variety of technologies and techniques to enhance contemplate the face of Christ to seek ways to continue to learning and teaching, the implementation of a challenging inspire and support their students as they encourage them to and engaging curriculum, recognition of the diverse needs of grow fully into the people God created them to be. learners and excellence in learning and teaching.

Jenny Allen

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 19

International Women’s Day 2012

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n March, the EOWW Committee in the Diocese celebrated International Women’s Day with a dinner at Charles Sturt University. Teachers, students and members of the parish attended as well as a special guest, the new Executive Director of Schools, Mrs Jenny Allen.

We gathered to hear Marie Sullivan OAM speak about the role of women and her own work to have the bicentenary of Governor Macquarie’s arrival in Australia recognised. Marie, a lawyer in Sydney, was educated at Diocesan Catholic Girls High School (now MacKillop College) in Bathurst, a Macquarie town, and this sparked her initial interest in the man and the period. The story of her commitment to the recognition of Governor Macquarie in 2010 on the bicentenary of his arrival in Australia was an inspiration. Hard work, persistence and good networks in her legal field allowed her to complete this task and the Order of Australia Medal recognised this effort.

The other theme of her speech, “when women support women, women win” was colourfully illustrated with political and social anecdotes. Her own story was one of ability, hard work, setbacks and determination and it was a great delight to her that two of the Sisters of Mercy who had taught her were present at the dinner. Marie noted that we congratulate ourselves for the appointment of women to some of the top positions in the land - Governor General, Prime Minister, Premiers - yet the public and political commentary denigrates rather than affirms women. She reminded us of the lack of parity in earning between women and men with women still earning about 17% less than men. The parlous state of older women and their minimal superannuation accounts because of interrupted work lives and lower pay makes them more than twice as likely to live in poverty in old age. Marie spoke particularly to the young women present, encouraging them to choose subjects wisely at school and develop confidence in their own abilities. She encouraged women to be supportive of one another and noted the important role that men can play here too. Her words echoed the thoughts about the role of women expressed in the introduction to the

evening and in the harrowing tale of the young factory girls in New York delivered by Jackie Groom from the Diocesan EOWW Committee.

Many of the Committee contributed to the raffle and several prizes were awarded. The raffle raised $186.00 which was donated to the cause identified by UN Women - making marketplaces in the Pacific safer for women by providing lighting. Thank you to the Committee and the local community for support for the event.

Gene Smith

St. Patrick’s Primary School

St Joseph’s Central School K - 10

Committed to excellence in education and student welfare

Queen St Oberon NSW 2787 Telephone: (02) 63 36 1384 Facsimile: (02) 63 36 2190

Lithgow

Ph: (02) 6351 3719

Email: stjosephsoberon@bth.catholic.edu.au

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 20

Catholic Schools Week 2012

A time to celebrate “Faith in every student” Each year, a week is dedicated to celebrating Catholic Schools in Australia and our schools in the Bathurst Diocese took part with gusto this year…..

Assumption School - Bathurst St. Michael’s - Dunedoo

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any families joined us to celebrate the end of CSW when we opened our doors to the community and showcased what a wonderful school St Michael’s is. The children had a ball showing parents and children around our school and participated in many fun activities both in and outside the classroom.

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f you were unable to make it to the Open Day and would like to have a look around please drop in any time and say hello. You will be welcomed with lots of happy faces.

Peta Brennan The Windsor Family made the most of Catholic Schools Week with a visit to Assumption School in Bathurst

Sacred Heart Primary School Coolah Church Street, Coolah

Kindergarten to Year 6 Ph: (02) 6377 1132 Fx: (02) 6377 1458 CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 21

Catholic Schools Week 2012

All Hallow’s - Gulgong

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t was certainly a time of celebration at All Hallows during Catholic Schools Week - when the many and varied aspects of Catholic Education shone through.

So many parents and families shared the week with us.

Everyone in Gulgong was well aware of CSW as they drove past the School and saw our banners proudly displayed along the verandahs.

As a Catholic school, our beautiful Mass was our first focus, a fitting start to the week and Fr Greg was marvelous. Thank you to the parents and grandparents who were able to share this very positive start to the week with us.

Our Open Rooms showed the wide variety of activities which the children undertake and were a great opportunity for parents to have a lot of fun learning with their children.

It was a huge week and a very positive celebration of this Catholic school. Thank you to all our families for your support as we strive to provide quality Catholic education for each child we have the privilege to teach.

Carolyn Holland

St. Raphael’s - Cowra

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uring Catholic Schools Week 2012, St Raphael’s was involved in a number of activities reflecting the diversity of educational experiences available in Catholic schools.

In recognition of this special week, a whole school assembly was held. Guest speaker for the occasion was former staff member Mrs Margaret Devery, who spoke about her long association with education and her many and varied experiences in Catholic schools. It was special to have Mrs Devery back with us for the occasion. Parents were invited to join Primary students for lunch after the assembly.

Other events included - Y10 travelling to Mulgoa for their annual retreat with three days of reflection and friendship; a large number of students spending the day at a Music Workshop at Redbend College, Forbes in preparation for a Bathurst Diocesan Music Festival later in the term. Sporting teams travelled to - Blayney for Round 1 of the Bill Turner Cup Competition; Orange for the Diocesan Rugby Union trials; Coolah and Orange for the Diocesan Cross-Country Championships; Orange for a Rugby League Gala Day. There was also an Open Day in the Primary Department.

Catholic Schools Week was busy, celebratory and filled with teaching, learning and all the other activities which make school at St Raphael’s a great experience.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 22

Sue Whiteley

Catholic Schools Week 2012

St Pius X - Dubbo

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t St Pius X Primary School in Dubbo we take pride in the fact that visitors and people who are a part of our Catholic School community often say how much of a family atmosphere we have at our School. And really that was what Catholic Schools Week was all about - celebrating our Catholic Schools and taking the time to think about what it is that makes our own School special.

The Dubbo Men’s Shed made a presentation to St Pius X Primary School in the form of wooden blocks for our Passive Play Area. They were approached by the School and asked if they would be interested in taking on the project of supplying blocks for the children. The men from the Shed were very enthusiastic and not only cut out a variety of blocks in all shapes and sizes that filled two large storage containers but supplied all the materials free of charge. We are very grateful to the men for their generosity and were delighted by the community building that was generated within our School and the wider community.

Alicia Fuller

CSW at St. Joseph’s Blayney began with a special parish Mass organised by the teachers and students

St. Mary’s - Wellington

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atholic Schools Week was celebrated at St Mary’s Catholic School in Wellington last month, with an Open Day. The School was able to showcase our wonderful facilities and teaching and learning in the classrooms.

The morning started with a beautiful Mass, celebrated by Fr Tony Hennessey, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, followed by a morning tea provided by the Parents and Friends Association. Parents, grandparents and friends were then escorted through classrooms and facilities. Afterwards family photos were taken in the playground. A lovely day experiencing the warm and friendly atmosphere was enjoyed by all visitors.

Jennifer Simpson

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Physicality

‘The Pits!’

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n a world where i-Pods, i-Pads and phones rule and Facebook, Twitter and Google are the constant pastime of the masses, it is reassuring to find that the good old humble sand pit has survived the hands of time and is a major focus in many of our school playgrounds.

Beau and his mates at St Columba’s in Yeoval spent most of their daily break times creating this amazing mountain- only to have the pleasure of squashing it as the final bell tolled! Likewise, Joey and friends at St Brigid’s in Coonamble spent ‘weeks” attempting their ‘dig to China’!

And the construction crew at St Joseph’s in Manildra were ably led by Tyler in creating this more ‘grounded’ superhighway as time-out from surfing the more popular one in cyberspace!

Janine Kearney

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he students in our schools are so lucky with their amazing school environments and it seems that the greater the distance from the Metropolis, the grander the playground space. If you are visiting any small country town over the Great Divide, head to the top of the hill (or if you’re on the plains, just aim for the centre) and there you’ll find the Catholic School... with an amazingly individual aspect! Although the low ratio of bodies per hectare can be of concern to the powers that be, there’s no room for despondency from those who are at the centre of all we do - the Students! With all that glorious space, even the most energetic little jumping bean can run off every last ounce of excess energy…which (a bonus feature) builds teacher contentment!

Janine Kearney

Beau and friends at St Columba’s Yeoval

The students from Sacred Heart in Coolah have just completed a daily PE session with a jog around their wonderfully maintained oval

Tyler and the construction team at St Joseph’s Manildra

Students from St Joseph’s in Eugowra pause for a still shot

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Thanks and Welcome!

K

aren Andriske and Denise Kelly have been supporting our Diocese in the delivery of Indigenous Education initiatives in a part-time capacity for the past four years. We thank Denise and Karen for their contributions as ‘pioneers’ in raising the profile of Indigenous education across our diocese. They continue to be part of the wonderful team of Aboriginal Education Workers, promoting cultural awareness, community connections and improving outcomes for indigenous students in our schools.

A full-time Aboriginal Education Officer position was created in response to the accountability requirements and growing needs in this area. We welcome Darlene Murdoch, the successful applicant, to our CEO team. Darlene comes to us with great experience and understanding of indigenous issues, a sound knowledge of curriculum and successful teaching experience in our Diocese. We know that she will be a great support to our schools, indigenous students, AEWs and in representing us at State level via the Catholic Education Commission. Welcome Darlene!

Janine Kearney

Our wonderful AEW team meet in Dubbo (Darlene is 3rd from left in back row)

St Joseph’s BlayneyWhat a COOL School!

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he CEO Team had the privilege and pleasure of spending some quality time at St Joseph’s in Blayney this term! What a school! Brilliant BER upgrade of facilities! Fantastic children! Wonderful parent support!

Great teachers and a committed executive! AND we arrived for the final of the Master Chef Judging which was a delicious thrill for all concerned!

The students created their marvellous concoctions at home with the family over the weekend! The Master Chef judging was on Monday morning (the taste testing proving to be very popular)! Then the ‘goodies’ were used for a special Mother’s Day morning tea…and the leftovers made their way to the staff room. Another great innovative idea from the creative team at St Joseph’s in Blayney! Thanks everyone…and YUM! Janine Kearney

Mr Derwin, the Master ‘Master Chef’ Judge

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 25

National Mathematics Day 2012

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012 marks the centenary of the birth of Alan Turing, noted for the significant contributions he made to Mathematics and Computer Science. Turing is remembered particularly for leading the code breaking teams of Bletchley Park during World War II and the subsequent cracking of the Enigma Code.

This year, National Mathematics Day activities focused on codes and code breaking. Students in schools across the Diocese celebrated this day by taking part in activities related to creating and deciphering codes, as well as other enjoyable activities related to Mathematics.

At St Lawrence’s in Coonabarabran, Y2 particularly enjoyed making codes for their friends to break.

throughout the grades. As well, the equipment is being used in conjunction with SMARTboards which were installed throughout the School at the end of 2011 At St Joseph’s Catholic School in Oberon, Kindy, and Y1 and Y2 split up into groups for a variety of activities including Bingo,

At Holy Family School in Kelso, Kindergarten students worked on the time, an appropriate activity to celebrate a centenary since the birth of Turing. Y3 engaged in practical activities around the theme of ‘probability’.

Holy Family recently purchased a large quantity of practical maths equipment with the help of the P & F Association.

The hands on equipment will consolidate student learning

Mothers Day at St Michael’s Dunedoo

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gorgeous sunny afternoon, lots of pampering and spoiling were the order of the day for our Mother’s Day Celebration. We massaged, we painted and we let our Mums know just how special they really are to us. Some home made treats and divine tea and coffee completed the afternoon before reality arrived again!

Grandmas and Mums alike were treated like the Queens they are in our eyes. We hope they enjoyed a wonderful day with their families.

3D shapes and interactives. Stages 2 and 3 did quizzes and number blasters in the playground.

At St Mary’s in Orange, an athletics carnival took place on National Mathematics Day, however this did not stop the school celebrating this important day on the calendar. Principal Kerrie Basha periodically read out maths based questions to the children over the microphone. The first child to provide the nominated teacher with the correct answer won bonus House points. Follow up activities on codes took place on the following Monday in Peer Support Groups St. Matthew’s in Mudgee traditionally celebrates Pi Day - commemorating the mathematical constant π (pi) .

It is celebrated on March 14th (or 3/14 in month/day date format), since 3, 1 and 4 are the three most significant digits of π in the decimal form. How? Well at St. Matt’s, this important day on the Mathematical calendar is marked by creating - and eating - lots of pies!

Patricia Eakin

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 26

Spelling it out

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n 2011, the Diocese initiated a working party to look at the area of spelling. Although Diocesan results in NAPLAN have been very strong in the area of literacy - and we have consistently been above State and National means in Reading, Writing and Grammar - our results in Spelling have been below State means in most age groups.

A working party representing high schools (Deborah Champion, MacKillop College), K-10 schools (Rose-Marie van Raad, St Matthews Mudgee), large and small primary schools (Kerry Maher, St Mary’s Orange and Simone Taylor, St Joseph’s Portland) and CEO (Lorraine Short, Janine Kearney and Gene Smith) was formed.

St. Joseph’s - Blayney

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rs Jenny Allen, the Executive Director of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Bathurst, recently visited St Joseph’s Blayney to personally introduce herself to the school community.

Mrs Allen had afternoon tea with the staff, visited classrooms and chatted with parents as they collected their children at the end of the school day.

Mrs Allen’s visit was timely as the school had just completed its school Appraisal. A highlight of the visit for the Kindergarten students was when Mrs Allen read them the story ‘Belinda’ by Pamela Allen.

Gerard Davies

The working party aims to explore the reasons for our poor performance across the Diocese in spelling; investigate effective pedagogy in the teaching of spelling within the Diocese and beyond and recommend a Diocesan approach in the teaching of spelling.

The next meeting of the working party in June will review the information from surveys, prepare a summary for schools and begin the task of mapping the results with information gleaned from best practice outlined in in-service and readings. This will lead towards the third aim of the working party - some recommendations and feedback for schools.

Gene Smith

Athletic Skills Thrills at St Phil’s

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he split level playground at St Philomena’s school in Bathurst provides the perfect venue for large scale fun…and whole school athletics training! You could go for days and not come across another body it would seem! Nevertheless, the students certainly appreciate the opportunity to brush up on their skills in preparation for the school athletics carnival and in anticipation of being part of the ‘select few’ crew who will go on to represent their school at the Diocesan and Polding carnivals.

Janine Kearney

Infants ‘Jumping High’ Primary ups……and downs

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Mudgee’s Mons O’Donovan honoured

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n April, St. Mary’s Parish in Mudgee celebrated the 100th anniversary of the death of its second parish priest, Monsignor John O’Donovan.

To mark this occasion, current parish priest, Fr Garry McKeown, blessed the grave of his predecessor (in front of the statue of Our Lady at St. Mary’s Church) and laid a wreath of flowers in his honour.

Mons. O’Donovan was born on 6th November 1836 in Ballyvaden, County Waterford, Ireland. He was ordained a priest from All Hallows College Dublin on 24th June 1861 and sailed for Sydney in September that year.

After serving in Sydney and Orange, Mons. O’Donovan became parish priest of Mudgee in October 1862. During his tenure, he planned and built St Mary’s Church (blessed in 1876), the Mercy Convent in Mudgee and churches in Gulgong, Rylstone, Wollar and other places.

Mons. O’Donovan was an “athlete of no mean character”.

Henry Lawson once wrote of him: “Father O’Donovan was a character and I like him”.

He was parish priest of Mudgee for 44 years. In that time he performed 450 marriages and 2,520 baptisms. He died on 24th April 1912, having left an enduring legacy for the Catholic community of Mudgee and surrounds.

Father Greg Bellamy

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 28

St. Mary’s - Wellington Positive’s the word…

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t Mary’s Catholic School in Wellington is introducing a behaviour framework called Schoolwide Positive Behaviour for Learning (SPB4L). This supports and supplements the current School Behaviour Management Guidelines and commendation system.

SPB4L promotes a school culture of competence. It is naive to assume that all students arrive at school with the necessary social skills. The framework has a process of: Don’t wait for students to fail and think that punishment procedures will control all behaviour; Define a small number of clear behavioural expectations and teach these expectations; Provide ongoing social recognition to students who display these behavioural expectations; The school needs to define, teach and support expected behaviours.

The school SPB4L team has developed four school wide rules of expected behaviours: Be safe; Be responsible; Be respectful; Be a Learner.

It is from these fundamentals that the more refined expected behaviours will be taught. To start off the program, the behaviour “be polite to others” was the focus for the next two weeks. This will be reinforced by reward tokens that will be given out by teachers when they catch students reflecting this behaviour. The SRC decided on rewards and there will be a draw at the next assembly.

Buddy System St. Mary’s conducts a very successful ‘Buddy System’ where Y6 students are allocated a Kindergarten student to mentor. Max Mason with his Buddy Austin

Jennifer Simpson

HERE’S A GREAT WAY TO SERVE GOD IN 2012 o In 2012 we will need SRE Scripture Teachers & Assistants.

More men who have flexible working hours would be especially welcome! or o Could you be a Prayer Partner with a Scripture teacher?

OUR CHALLENGE FOR 2012 is to have….

• a Scripture teacher for every Primary class • a Prayer Partner for every Scripture teacher

COULD YOU HELP???

Please contact your parish priest!

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 29

Vale beloved teacher…..

Jocelyn Farr – 29th November 1942 to 24th March 2012

T

he Manildra community farewelled one of its much loved members with a Requiem Mass in St. Michael’s Church in Manildra, following her death on 24th March 2012.

Jocelyn Farr was an integral part of St. Joseph’s School, Manildra - in fact, she was just about synonymous with it. Her father built the school shortly before she began there as a kindergarten student and she continued her education there until Y10. Her family history with the School continued as she went on to teach her own children and a grandchild there in subsequent years.

Her teaching career began in the 1960s. In 1972, Jocelyn was appointed to Saint Joseph’s Manildra and became its Principal in 1979, remaining in that role right up to her passing. In that time, she taught in both Infants and Primary classes, teaching with great passion and energy. Her room was full of laughter, anecdotal stories and music. She was born to teach and loathed the days that took her out of the classroom, away from the children, to attend to ever increasing administrative demands.

Jocelyn saw the School as an extension of home for the children; a place where family and faith were of the greatest priority.

She had an open door policy and prided herself on nurturing a school family where friends and families were always welcome.

Jocelyn taught the children, by example, to live their faith. She carried on the traditions of the Josephite sisters who originally began the School. To this day, the Angelus bell rings daily and religious icons proudly adorn each room.

To her staff, Jocelyn was a true leader, mentor and friend. So highly held in esteem, in 2009 she was a finalist in the National Excellence in Teaching Awards.

She always had time for her students and staff. Everyone felt very much part of her team, respected for their talents and their differences. She had a unique way of using her sense of humour to ease the stress and frustration of the day, reminding us not to take life, or ourselves, too seriously. As any member of her family would tell you, education was of paramount importance to Jocelyn. She truly believed, as her mother instilled in her, that it was the key to self-worth, self-belief and success. It was her aim to bring out the best in everyone she touched.

Flicking through albums and disks for photos of camerashy Joccie, we found one particular photo which captures the essence of Jocelyn Farr, teacher. Celebrating Catholic Education Week 2011, with the theme “A Learning Adventure, a Journey of Faith”, Jocelyn is pictured in the hallowed setting of the church, not taking centre stage, but preferring to be on level standing with her staff and parish priest, surrounded by the children she dearly loved. The only one missing is her husband John, who was her off-sider and greatest supporter in life.

Indeed, every day of her teaching career and vocation, this most wonderful lady took us all on a learning adventure and a journey of faith. How privileged so many of us were to be part of her life and how truly grateful we must be to her family for so generously sharing her with us.

Now Jocelyn has found yet another way to challenge us to step up to the plate, to bring us all closer together, to remember what is important in life, to call on our faith and to put our trust in God. Even in death, Mrs Farr is still giving us little lessons!

Although the pain of our loss is so raw, we thank God for sharing Jocelyn with us. After all, that is what she would be reminding us to do. And now it is time for God to take her back where she is being held so gently in the palm of His hand.

St Joseph’s School

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 30

James Sheahan ~ Orange Creating links in Sri Lanka

Year 7 Reflection Day

ames Sheahan Catholic High School is a Lasallian and Mercy school, honouring values from both the De La Salle Brothers and the Sisters of Mercy. As a result of this heritage, we take great pride in our fundraising efforts which raises much needed money for those less fortunate.

7 students enjoyed a fun, faith-filled Reflection Day recently. It was facilitated by Lasallian Youth Leaders who had trained our Y11 peer support leaders the day before in the skills required to lead the small group sessions with their peer support groups.

J

Y

The Y7 retreat centres on students finding their way in a new Christian community. Students are confronted with finding new friendship groups, finding their way around a new school and finding their place in a high school setting.

Their challenge is to find new strength within themselves, whilst also coming to terms with the idea of finding a way An extension of this is our Sri Lankan Immersion Program which is being implemented over several years. The first stage took part in March when Principal of James Sheahan, Mark Pauschmann, together with Lynelle Maguire (Coordinator of Learning and Innovation) and myself travelled to Sri Lanka to see the various projects being undertaken by the De La Salle Brothers in this developing country.

We were fortunate enough to visit projects in Colombo and Mannar. The Brothers in these areas work with incredibly poor children and are able to do so much to improve their lives with very little resources. Next year, interested students in Y11 will be able to apply to attend and assist with the project in Mannar. They will then be involved in fund-raising for the project they will be immersed in during their time in Sri Lanka. It promises to be an incredible opportunity for our students.

Amber Calleja Religious Education Coordinator: Mission

to God. Y7 and Y11 students had a wonderful day full of games, role playing and prayer. Every year group is able to enjoy a retreat at various times throughout the year. It is a nice change for students to step back from their daily lives and take some time to reflect, relax and think about their faith.

Amber Calleja

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 31

St. Brigid’s School - Coonamble

A

nnually at St Brigid’s School, Coonamble we all invite our older friends and relatives to school. In March, a huge number of local people and many visitors who travelled, joined the students for Mass at 9am in the church.

Kindergarten students sang the entrance hymn ‘God Loves Me’, Y3 re-enacted the Gospel and the choir sang the responsorial psalm and Lenten acclamation. Y1 and Y2 read the prayers of the faithful, Y4 sang the final hymn to honour all guests. Y5 made prayer reflection cards and distributed them to all the guests, and Y6 made thought provoking posters to show what ‘oldies’ do in their spare time (refill the lolly jar, water aerobics, cuddles).

After Mass visitors were invited into the classrooms to see the students working and view the displays in the rooms. The generous parents and carers provided delicious food for all the guests. This was graciously served by the Y6 students and their parents and carers. Father Greg (Kennedy) enjoyed meeting many of the visitors. It was also an opportunity for all parents and carers to view the many things the children are undertaking. It truly was a wonderful morning.

Trish Crawley

St Joseph’s School ~ Portland

R

ecently, Years 5 and 6 students held a cake stall to help raise funds for the annual Walk for Cancer from Portland to Wallerawang. This walk is held in memory of special people in our community who have lost their battle with cancer - one of these was our beloved priest, Monsignor John Grannall.

Special thanks to all parents who made lovely treats that were sold on the day, and for supporting the children by sending them along with money to purchase items for sale. The children also made a money line that was added to the money raised from the cake stall an amazing total of $267.40 was raised.

This was a tremendous effort for a small school of 56 students.

Shireen Sheehan ABOUT CENTACARE....

Bathurst - Lithgow - Orange - Dubbo Mudgee and beyond Phone to make an appointment in your local area or register your interest for a personal visit wherever you are!

Centacare is a non-government, non-profit organisation.

Centacare receives funding from the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst and the Department of Family & Community Services.

Clients contribute to the cost of services on a sliding scale.

The inability to pay will not stop you from receiving these services.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 32

www.centacarebathurst.com.au

St. Joseph’s School ~ Eugowra Learning about disability

Y

ears 4, 5 and 6 had an enjoyable and informative talk with Dianne Turner, Prue McCarthy and Marlene Stibbard recently, regarding people with disabilities - Prue has Cerebral Palsy. They enjoyed some activities and listened to Prue’s stories of growing up and living with a disability.

During the sessions, the children asked many questions, giving them an insight into the different types of disabilities - physical and other. They had a go at decoding some Braille and at sign language. They also talked about the best ways to communicate with a person in a wheelchair, someone with speech difficulties and someone who could not see.

We would like to thank the team from Orange CPA for taking the time to visit the School. The children and staff all gained a lot more empathy and understanding towards those with a disability.

ANZAC Day

S

t Joseph’s Eugowra proudly marched with returned servicemen, community members and other local schools on Anzac Day. Y6 student Lachie Herbert provided the drum beat and Y6 students Brodie Adams and April Harvey carried the banner and wreath.

Sarah De Lange

Dianne, Prue and Marlene with some students Brodie and April

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Our family caring for your family CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 33

Christian is a seminarian in training at St. Dominic’s, the only theology college in Zambia.

With just 650 priests for Zambia's 3.3 million Catholics, your support will help people like Christian and the Catholic Church to grow.

With the need so great, why is it so hard to become a priest?

For seminarians in Zambia the biggest obstacle to joining the seminary is the cost.

Join the Seminarian Supporters Program and make training of a seminarian possible today.

Call 1800 257 296 now.

SEMINARIAN SUPPORTERS

PROGRAM

Catholic Mission is the oďŹƒcial mission aid agency of the Catholic Church

catholicmission.org.au CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 34

Sponsor a seminarian in Africa?

Our parish? Our school? Who us?

F

r Bernard Makadani Zulu, National Director for the Pontifical Mission Societies in Zambia visited Australia before Easter to acknowledge the wonderful prayerful and financial support the Catholic Church in Zambia receives with the formation of its seminarians from Catholic Mission donors in Australia.

Fr Bernard, on his return to Zambia, contacted a number of the donors by email and post who are supporting a seminarian at St Dominic’s Theological College under Catholic Mission’s Seminarian Supporters Programme (SSP).

Typical of the messages of thanks is the one provided to Fr Pat Kenna a retired priest for the Diocese of Wollongong and an occasional ‘priest-supply’ for parishes in the Diocese of Bathurst (Fr Pat now lives in Harden). “….. I wish to thank you most sincerely for your solidarity with us. Your support to Mubuina, at St Dominic’s Major Seminary is big support to building the Church in Zambia. We are blessed with many seminarians in our country. Training of seminarians is an expensive program for

the bishops of Zambia. You are making a unique contribution to the growth and maturation of faith. By sharing the gift of faith with us, you are helping us to bring hope and love to those who need it most.

You are sharing with us the most precious service to bring the Gospel to the ends of

the earth. We ask for your prayers so that we may continue to be one body, one spirit in Christ”.

Zambia is land-locked and one of Africa’s poorest countries. The population is 12 million and 68% of the children live below the poverty line. The HIV/AIDS infection rate is one of the highest in Africa.

“Our pastoral initiatives are beyond what we can manage” said Fr Bernard “and here lies the importance of Catholic Mission initiated programmes like SSP. All the bishops of Zambia know of Australia

and the extraordinary generosity of Australian Catholics in promoting the work of mission and evangelisation in my country.”

The SSP donor commitment per seminarian is $125 per month or $1,500 pa for three years. In return for such generosity, sponsors receive a booklet identifying the seminarians currently in formation at Zambia’s only theological college, and are provided with regular quarterly updates from the seminary’s Rector. Sponsors also receive a Certificate and a prayer card as a daily reminder to pray for seminarians and increases in priestly and religious vocations worldwide.

Sponsorship enquiries can be directed to either Lucas Olmos, SSP Director, at the Catholic Mission National Office, North Sydney on 1800 257 296 or Mike Deasy, Catholic Mission Diocesan Director (Bathurst) on 4284 0970 - mobile 0417 048880 - PO Box 1015 Wollongong NSW 2500 or email wollongongdd@ catholicmission.org.au Mike Deasy

Josephite Rural Conference – Dubbo

I

n May, 50 Sisters of St Joseph from across rural New South Wales gathered at the Cattleman’s Inn at Dubbo for their annual Rural Conference. Sisters came from as far afield as Lightening Ridge, Mungindi and Moree in the North to Balranald, Holbrook and Eden in the South as well as three sisters from Victoria.

The Josephite Rural Conference, initiated by Sister Mary Quinlan 15 years ago, is a support for Sisters living in remote and isolated areas and an occasion for input and discussion on issues of concern for rural communities.

Over the years these issues have included: lack of essential services and personnel, drought, bushfires, floods and the need for the Church to be alive to, and meeting, the contemporary needs of rural communities.

The gathering, facilitated by Queensland Josephite, Sister Monica Cavanagh, focused on Josephite Ministry in Rural areas, being alive to the Mystery of God in our lives and our environment and the importance of

solidarity among the Sisters and those to whom they minister.

The Conference participants were very enriched by Monica’s input and the interactions experienced by the Sisters present. On Saturday evening, the

Sisters joined the Catholic community of Dubbo at the Vigil Mass and were warmly welcomed by Father James and the parishioners.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 35

Sister Therese McGarry

MSC Mission Office PO Box 177, NSW 1465 Ph: 02 9697 0983 / 9662 7188 Email: mscmisio@acon.com.au www.australia.mscmission.org

A work from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart for helping families, young people, schools and religious formation.

MSC development projects seek to improve the conditions of communities in a sustainable way. It is based on working with communities, rather than for or on behalf of communities. The MSC Mission Office relies on benefactors to support the Outreach activities for Water projects, Disadvantaged Youth, HIV/AIds, Relief & Formation.



2011 - TOTAL FINANCIAL AID FUNDING:  COUNTRIES (Aust $)  

AUSTRALIA $  49,600 BURKINA FASO

$ 8,650  CAMEROON $ 62,500 D.R.CONGO $ 81,500  EL SALVADOR $ 7,500  FIJI $ 120,850  HAITI $ 10,000  INDIA $ 110,375 INDONESIA $ 56,550 KIRIBATI $ 18,500 MARSHALL ISLANDS $ 7,000 NAMIBIA $ 14,000 NEW ZEALAND $ 2,000 PHILIPPINES $ 61,000 PNG $ 200,290 SENEGAL $ 15,300 SOUTH AFRICA $ 42,000 SOUTH SUDAN $ 42,000 TIMOR LESTE $ 2,000 VANUATU $ 14,600 VIETNAM $ 96,400 TOTAL FUNDING ALL PROJECT CATEGORIES 2011 $ 1,022,615

The MSC Mission Office is a work of the Australian Province of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and while we try to love the world, the work of the MSC Mission Office has concentrated its energies. We have restricted ourselves to three main areas for financial assistance.

1) CLEAN WATER PROJECTS

2) DISADVANTAGED YOUTH

3) HIV/AIDS LEPROSY

 Your small donation can make a big difference!

I wish to support:

Clean Water Projects

HIV/Aids Programs

Children's Programs

Seminarian (non tax deductible)

Most Urgent (Domestic / Overseas) Enclosed is my gift

$25

$50

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I wish to claim a tax deduction

Other $

Please debit my credit card: Visa / Master / Amex

/

Exp Signature:

Name: Address: PCode Ph:

Email:



 



CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 36

Assumption School – Bathurst

Kindergarten students singing at the Mothers’ Day Liturgy at Assumption Church Parents and students enjoying the Biggest Morning Tea in May in the Assumption gardens Ruben Gear’s First Communion in Assumption Church - Ruben, his parents, Fr Joshy, Charlie, Hugh and Liam

Catechists Reflect

C

atechists from St Raphael’s Parish in Cowra enjoyed a time of Reflection with Sister Robyn McNamara rsj recently.

After our regular Wednesday Scripture lessons, we met at St Raphael’s Presbytery for lunch, followed by a lovely reflection afternoon. The ladies enjoyed the beautiful gardens of the Presbytery, spending time reading the Scripture reflections prepared

by Sister Robyn - wonderful experience for the Catechists.

Annie Meyers Parish Catechist Co-ordinator Pictured right: Bernie Sheehy, Sister Robyn, Anne Dernee and Trudy Clarke

A bequest to the Catholic Bishop of Bathurst for the religious, educational and charitable works of the Church allows funds to be applied where the need is greatest.

Please mail coupon to: The Vicar General, Diocese of Bathurst, Name:____________________________________________ PO Box 246, Bathurst NSW 2795 Tel: (02) 6334 6400 Fax (02) 6331 4869 Address:__________________________________________  I would like more information about remembering the Church in my will.  I have already included the Church in my will and wish to have this noted.  I would like to be contacted for a confidential talk about my will, or a gift to the Church in my lifetime.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Telephone:_______________________________________

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 37

St. Phil’s ~ Bathurst

Kindy’s at St. Philomena’s School in Bathurst wish their Mums a Happy Mothers Day

The king of all chook houses at St. Phil’s!

Removals and Storage Littlebourne St Kelso (02) 6331 1833 Lot 17, Redfern St We treat your furniture as our own.

Wetherill Park (02) 9609 5131

Web address: www.drsaus.com.au Email: sales@drsaus.com.au

Have some spare time? Become a volunteer and be part of something ‘MAGNIFICENT’.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is all about - serving our neighbours in need, regardless of race or religious affiliation.

When difficult situations arise - a lost job, an illness or unexpected expense - the most basic necessities like food, shelter, medicine, clothing and transportation can become impossible to afford.

Each day there are heartbreaking circumstances right here in our own community, but practical, person-to-person care offered in a respectful, confidential and loving way can make a world of difference.

Can I really make a difference?

When you join forces with so many others who volunteer their time and talents to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the answer is most definitely “yes.”

If you would like to volunteer your time please contact the Diocese office in Orange on 02 6362 2565

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 38

Josephites ring out joy in Wellington

L

ast month, the annual gathering of the Perthville Josephite Associates provided the opportunity for the first of the celebrations marking 140 years since the arrival of the first Sisters at Perthville.

There was a special moment when everyone at the Infant de Prague Hall in Wellington, rose to acknowledge the Sisters and Associates who had gone before them and to sing their gratitude. Memories flooded in as the faces of so many Sisters and Associates were flashed onto the screen with the words of the song.

A happy group of around one hundred, including Associates from almost every local group and a number of the Sisters, enjoyed a day of interesting sessions, prayer and ritual, social interaction and the wonderful hospitality of the Parents & Friends of St. Mary’s School.

The initiative of Brian Turner and the Blayney Associates in arranging a coach to pick up at Bathurst, Blayney, Millthorpe, Orange and Molong made the day possible for some who would otherwise have been unable to come and, by all accounts, provided a most enjoyable trip.

Congregational Leader, Sister Therese McGarry, in a warm welcome to everyone, gave a very brief outline of the history of the Congregation, from the Sisters’ arrival in the

dead of winter 1872, to the present. She also expressed her gratitude to the Associates for their friendship and support and her best wishes for the future of the Association. The presence of Therese and the whole Leadership Team, spoke for itself of the regard in which the Associates are held.

Morning Prayer picked up the theme of the year’s celebrations, ‘Ring Out Our Joy’. In a ritual of remembrance and gratitude at the conclusion of the day, representatives of each of the local groups of Associates were given a decorated candle to take home for use at their local gatherings and were commissioned by the Congregational Leader.

Input sessions focussed on the arrival at Perthville - on the human story and on the context and the people providing an appealing angle and fresh understanding of the familiar story. Guest Presenter for the day was Sister Patricia Egan rsj from Lochinvar, whose breadth and depth of research and feeling for her subject - along with her superb teaching skill - provided input that was described as ‘inspiring, amazing, fascinating and wonderful’.

All who could be assembled at the end of the day Absent: The Leadership Team who left a little early en route to Tasmania

Servicing the people of Orange and District Community

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Sr Jean Cain, rsj

Historic Signing in Bathurst “That they may be one”

H

istory was made in Bathurst on 24th May 2012 when, amidst a feeling of great warmth and friendship - in stark contrast to the outside elements - a Covenant between the Anglican and Catholic Dioceses of Bathurst was signed by Bishop Richard Hurford and Bishop Michael McKenna.

Around 500 people - including clergy, religious and laity, from across the widespread area covered by both Dioceses took part in the moving Liturgy which began in the Catholic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John. Also attending were members of various Christian denominations, representatives of local council areas and schools in both Dioceses.

Part of the Liturgy was a Pilgrim’s Way Walk (in the rain) to the Anglican All Saints Cathedral, where the Covenant was signed and the two communities exchanged gifts of Icons.

These will hang in each Cathedral, along with the Covenant

document, as a physical reminder of a very special bond.

The Covenant will give formal affirmation to the desire of the two denominations to work together more intentionally.

It is hoped that it will consolidate and progress the already positive relationship that has existed between these two great traditions in recent years.

The Covenant working group comprising the Deans of both Cathedrals - Rev Anne Wentzel and Rev Patrick O’Regan, Canon Frank Heatherington, Father Tim Cahill and Mrs Jenny Bremner, was thanked for its work in bringing the Covenant to fruition. A committee will now be established to oversee and progress the Covenant - which can be read on-line at www. bathurst.catholic.org.au.

In his concluding address, Bishop Michael McKenna said “….the presence of the Holy Spirit (here today) is impossible to miss”.

Photos courtesy Phil Murray/Western Advocate; Chris O’Rourke and Lew Hitchick/Anglican News

CATHOLIC OBSERVER - JUNE EDITION - PAGE 40