2016 31 august 19th catholic standard

Friday, August 19th 2016  Established 1905  Georgetown, Guyana  One Hundred Dollars ($100)  Year 111, No. 31

Social media, the crucial new frontier for the Catholic Church

Bishop Jason Gordon, Principal of the Caribbean School for Catholic Communications was the facilitator of the CSCC, held from July 31 to Aug. 5. Photo: Raffique Patrick.

Bishop Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, MHSH, Assistant Principal of the Caribbean School for Catholic Communications provides guidance to participants in one of the sessions of the CSCC 2016, Emmaus Centre, Arima, Trinidad. Photo: Tshenelle Bethel.

he Caribbean Bishops Conference (AEC), along with Signis Caribbean is working to develop one integrated communications plan to effectively assist the Church in its outreach in proclaiming the gospel.

In an interview with the Catholic News of Trinidad and Tobago, on August 5th at the Caribbean School for Catholic Communications (CSCC), Emmaus Centre, Arima, Trinidad, Bishop Jason Gordon of Bridgetown, Barbados, Chairman of the AEC Communica-

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tions Commission, spoke of the AEC’s efforts in developing its communications pastoral plan and use of social media to promote its pastoral letter on capital punishment. (please turn to page 4)

INSIDE Editorial: The Joy of the Family - p2 Msgr. Montrose: 41 years of priestly life - p3 A Christian Perspective on Social Issues - p4 Linden says farewell to Brother Francis - p5 Journeying with the Word of God - p5 Sunday Mass Readings - p6 Family Strife - p7 Lectors Corner- p8 Usain Bolt, his Catholic Faith, and his Miraculous Medal - p8 Children’s Page - p9 American Lutherans approve agreement with Catholic Church - p10 Viewpoint: Beautiful Corentyne - p11 Continental meeting launches ABP Orientation Booklet, approves 3 yr. programme - p12

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

Encouraging start for Marian Academy at CAPE BISHOP’S ENGAGEMENTS From Marian educator

M

arian Academy, the Roman Catholic-run educational institution, participated for the first time in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) in the 2015-16 academic year. It was a challenging but rewarding experience, and some of the highlights are now shared.

It was a small hardy band of students and stewards who ventured forth. The students, for the most part, rolled up sleeves and got down to business. As an example, young Bryan Kissoon, who did outstandingly well at the 2015 CXC level with passes in 13 subjects, essayed a weighty 8 subjects in CAPE Year 1, and passed all of them. Along the way,

Mr. Kissoon earned a handful of Grade 1s. This is what dedication and sustained effort brings, and should serve as an example for other students everywhere. There was work to do and this student did it on a sustained basis. Marian Academy recognizes and congratulates him, and the others who shared in this journey.

Overall, 20 subjects were entered in this pioneering effort at Marian, and 14 students participated in the fledgling programme. Using the CAPE yardstick of Grades 1-5, which ranges from “Excellent” to “Acceptable” the overall results registered at a shade above 82%, with 100% passes in 13 of the 20 subjects offered. This is encouraging and bodes well for future plans and endeavours. Prayers are offered for continuing guidance and blessings.

As written earlier, it was a challenging year. Amidst the physical and mental preparations, the school lost its Vice Principal, Mrs. Ercellen Cummings-Archibald, after a sudden brief illness. This was traumatic and problematic, as Mrs. Cummings-Archibald was one of the architects and guiding forces behind the CAPE developments.

She is missed. May she find rest.

Now Year 2 is about to commence, and all students and other contributors are exhorted to give of their best and to improve upon an encouraging first year performance, and what was a tremendous learning experience. May God be merciful and bless all in the educational realm everywhere, seeking to prepare for a better tomorrow, and to take their places as productive citizens in this land of ours. 

Sunday 21st August 08:00 hrs Stewardship Conference Tuesday 23rd August 15:00 hrs Junior Camp at Kayuka Wednesday 24th August Junior Camp at Kayuka Saturday 27th August Senior Camp at Kayuka Sunday 28th August 08:00 hrs Confirmation at Sacred Heart 18:00 hrs Mass at St. Teresa

 Francis Alleyne OSB

222 South & Wellington Streets, Georgetown, Guyana  Telephone: 226-2195  email: catholicstandardgy@gmail.com  http://www.rcdiocesegy.org

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

EDITORIAL The Joy of the Family The church has a marriage problem. The number of couples marrying sacramentally is falling. Cohabitation is becoming the norm. Secularization is growing rapidly.

The U.S. divorce rate, even among Catholics, hovers around 30 percent in the US. Children are seen as rights and commodities rather than as gifts from God. Fewer babies are being baptized. In short, the church is losing its people.

In his newest papal document, "Amoris Laetitia" ("The Joy of Love"), Pope Francis tries to stop the bleeding. He tackles headon the fact that the church is generally viewed as out of step with the modern reality of 21st-century family living. And, in classic Francis style, he urges the church to descend to the level of a "field hospital" -- to meet couples and families, who perhaps fall short of the church's ideal, where they are.

"The church," he said, quoting the final report from the 2014-15 family synods, "must accompany with attention and care the weakest of her children, who show signs of a wounded and troubled love, by restoring in them hope and confidence ... ." While not changing doctrine, Pope Francis conveys how necessary it is for the church to witness to the beauty and joy that abounds when marriage and family life are centered on Christ -- even within all the messiness and realities of 21stcentury humanity. This, he admits, is a challenge for the church. "We find it difficult to present marriage more as a dynamic path to personal development and fulfilment than as a lifelong burden," he writes.

Yet this is what we are called to do. Unlike "Laudato Si'," Francis' encyclical on ecology that was addressed to "every person living on this planet," "Amoris Laetitia" is addressed directly to Catholics. It is first and foremost a document written for the new evangelization. "We need to find the right language, arguments and forms of witness that can help us reach the hearts of young people, appealing to their capacity for generosity, commitment, love and even heroism, and in this way inviting them to take up the challenge of marriage with enthusiasm and courage," he writes (No. 40).

In its practicality and accessibility, "Amoris Laetitia" is a highly effective document for encouraging and inspiring couples and families in the trenches of everyday life.

The pope's goal is the mission of the church: to bring Christ to people and the people to Christ. It is rich in practical advice and conveys a real understanding of humanity in all its (please turn to page 8)

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Political Consensus Required on State Asset Recovery Bill Dear Editor, Albeit clearly written, the draft State Asset Recovery Bill 2016 is not the promised anti-corruption platform which was so central to the coalition’s electoral campaign. While the Coalition Government could defend narrowness of focus in the new Bill on technical grounds, the lack of an enabling governance context comes as a disappointment to the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) - a case of promising much and delivering little.

The Guyana Human Rights Association submitted comments on the draft State Assets Recovery (SAR) Bill and attended the consultation organized by the Attorney General’s Chambers. The GHRA’s comments addressed some technical specifics of the Act which introduced new concepts into Guyanese law and practice as well as some of the over-arching political and contextual issues critical to achieving its aim.

If the Bill is passed without a serious effort to obtain genuine broad-based political support it risks prolonging ethnically polarized politics. Such support requires two things to happen: firstly broaden the scope of the Bill from asset recovery alone to a more substantive incorporation of the aims of the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and, secondly, create a mechanism that brings a range of civic and private sector forces into the process of promoting the Bill. Anything less will inevitably prompt the question whether ‘anti-corruption’ for the ruling party ever meant more than pursuing those now in opposition for corrupt acts committed while in power.

GHRA’s concerns over the impartial image of the new SAR Agency are prompted by two considerations: the sweeping powers available to the Director of the Agency and the manner of his/her appointment. With respect to the powers, the following private and state institutions are only a selection of those which must comply with any request from the Director of SARA for information they hold: the

Commissioner of Police, the DPP, Head of CANU, the Bank of Guyana, private banks, and the Chairperson of the Gold Board. Rather than the established procedure whereby other agencies provide the Guyana Revenue Authority with information on which if can act, the new Bill requires the opposite: the GRA must provide information on which the SARA will act. The Director of SARA is effectively a political commissar exercising enormous powers.

The GHRA at this stage is not challenging the wisdom of this accumulation of powers, but recommending safeguards against the ample mischief such an accumulation invites. The envisaged procedure set out in the First Schedule to the Bill requires that “the National Assembly shall: a) by a simple majority; and b) on the recommendation of the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments, appoint a Director and Deputy Director of the State Recovery Agency”. Similarly, both officers may be removed from office by the same combination of the Parliamentary Appointments Committee. With the Coalition Government enjoying a majority both in the Appointments Committee and in Parliament, as well as holding the Chairmanship of the Appointments’ Committee, this is effectively a Coalition Government appointment, dressed up as bi-partisan.

While the GHRA is supportive of SARA being a Parliamentary Agency, the proposed procedure is not sufficiently ring-fenced from partisan political influence. Genuine bi-partisanship would require a two-thirds parliamentary majority. Achieving this in the current atmosphere is remote. It took a decade for the Procurement Committee to come up with a list of five people acceptable to both sides and the end result is a far cry from the brave pronouncements made at the beginning of that decade of the quality of persons to be appointed. The SAR Bill effectively concedes the unattainability of bi-partisan support by opting to create the Agency on a partisan basis.

The GHRA welcomes the reference in the Explanatory Memorandum that the draft Bill explicitly seeks to give effect to the non-conviction-based recovery provisions of the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).Unfortunately the same attention was not paid to the strong provisions for Governments to promote the participation of society in these matters. Article 13 of the UNCAC explicitly states that: Each State Party shall take appropriate measures, within its means and in accordance with fundamental principles of its domestic law, to promote the active participation of individuals and groups outside the public sector, such as civil society, nongovernmental organizations and community-based organizations, in the prevention of and the fight against corruption.

Operating entirely from within the confines of the Ministry of the Presidency may prove more agreeable than seeking awkward alliances. However, at the end of the day, working in silos of this nature is illsuited for the efforts needed to create inclusive anti-corruption architecture.

Guyana does not have to re-create the wheel in this area. Many countries are grappling with anticorruption measures, particularly the central issue of access to reliable information. Mexico, a world leader in ‘Open Governance’ in this respect and Chile are two notable examples.

The Chile Transparency Council (elected by a two-thirds Parliamentary majority) was recently able to boast that it had responded to over 90% of the Freedom of Information requests received from the public.

The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is urging the Coalition Government not to sacrifice the powerful platform of transparency, accountability and anti-corruption on the altar of partisan politics.

Executive Committee, Guyana Human Rights Association

Suicide not an illness Dear Editor, I would like to draw your attention to an error in your Editorial entitled “Suicide”. In the Catholic Standard Friday, September 19, 2014 pg 2, Fr. Ron Ronheiser explains that “suicide is a disease and the most misunderstood of all sicknesses”.

Sir, suicide is NOT a disease! It is an ACT resulting from a disease, mainly mental illness. The Merriam-Webster (https://www.google.com/

#q=define+suicide) defines Suicide as (1. “The act or an instance of taking one’s own life voluntarily and intentionally and (2. “A person who commits or attempts suicide.” Attempted suicide is referred to as “self-harm”.

I am happy to volunteer my services as a writer and Health and Family Life Education Instruction Advisor by submitting articles to the CS pertaining to this complex issue of mental health and how it relates to our faith.

I am vitally aware that readers are searching for accurate information that can educate, uplift and inspire them. It is therefore imperative that the information provided is correct as well as relatable. I do hope that I can work with you to enhance the readers’ experience of my favourite childhood paper.

Maureen Holder-Singh Rices, St. Philip, Barbados

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

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Msgr. Montrose: 41 years of priestly life Upcoming Events

By Leon Suseran Our very own Vicar General Monsignor Terrence Montrose celebrated his 41st anniversary of ordination to the priesthood on August 10th, 2016. While I’m sure Most Rev Montrose celebrated the day with some quiet reflections— the simple and humble man he is— he is a very special priest within our diocese. He has served in numerous parishes across the country, including the Church of the Ascension in New Amsterdam.

A few years ago I had the opportunity to interview Monsignor Montrose.

We had an interesting interview where he revealed some of his most personal stories.

Young Terrence Montrose, during a midnight Mass one Holy Saturday night, decided that he wanted to give his life to the Lord in complete service – to become a priest. He had thought about entering the priesthood sometime before that, while having a conversation with other young people and Father, later Bishop, Benedict Singh, “but I told no one”.

“This thing hit me straight between the eyes during Midnight Mass and I said, ‘I want to be a priest’, but again, I did not tell anybody, because in those days, the priests in Guyana were all foreigners and I doubted the idea that a Guyanese could even strive to become a priest.

Sunday August 21st

St. Pius X Parish 55th Anniversary All are invited to Mass at St. Pius X Parish, West La Penitence, Georgetown at 8:30am on Sunday, August 21st as we celebrate our Patronal Feast and 55th Anniversary.

NCSC 2016: ‘Liturgy – Celebration of Life’ The National Catholic Stewardship Conference (NCSC) 2016 continues Sun. Aug. 21st from 8:00am at the St. Paul’s Pastoral Centre, Vryheid’s Lust.

Farewell Mass for Fr. Eddy All are invited to a farewell mass for Fr. Eddy Bermingham sj at 5pm at the Cathedral on Sunday, Aug. 21st.

“I never saw a Guyanese priest so I never thought it was possible, but one day my mother asked me and I told her I wanted to become a priest and she said that ‘we cannot educate you’ since there were many of us siblings.”

He later joined the seminary in Georgetown and was encouraged by certain individuals including Father Singh. But then he saw a few Guyanese priests and nuns who came back home and he “ran with the Catholic Standard” to his mother and showed her, “There’s a black priest!” and she allowed him to continue at the seminary.

He left home to attend St Paul’s Seminary in Vryheid’s Lust from 1965 to 1969, doing the basic formation training and after that he left to take up more in-depth studies at the St John Vianney Seminary in Trinidad from 1969-1975 and returned home. He spent a year teaching at St Mary’s Primary in preparation for ordination as a priest and was ordained on August 10, 1975, by then Roman Catholic Bishop (now retired) Benedict Singh.

Fr. Monty, as he is popularly called, also completed studies in Rome, Italy in Vocation Training and Spiritual Theology from 1979-1981. (please turn to page 10)

Youth Camps: Aug 22-24 & 26-28 The Roman Catholic Youth Office invites youths and young adults to the Diocesan Youth Camps to be held at Camp Kayuka.

The Junior Camp will be held from August 22nd to 24th for young people between the ages of 13-16.

The Senior Camp will be on August 26th-28th for persons aged 17-35.

For more information, please contact the Youth Office on tel. 231-8249 or 642-8866.

Pope’s Intentions Each month, the Pope releases specific intentions for the World and for Mission. Please pray for Pope Francis’ intentions in August:

Sports : That sports may be an opportunity for friendly encounters between peoples and may contribute to peace in the world.

Living the Gospel: That Christians may live the Gospel, giving witness to faith, honesty, and love of neighbour.

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

Social media crucial new frontier According to Bishop Gordon, communications is at the heart of the gospel and evangelisation, whether through face-to-face interaction, print, video, radio, television or social media “the message of Christ and the growth of the Church came about through communication”. He added, “Preparing a coterie of communicators who are committed to their faith is essential to the Good News and the life of the Church at this time”.

The CSCC was held July 31 to August 6.

Its mission and primary theme is to “Form missionary disciples for the digital age.” This year’s sub-theme focused on Pope Francis’ call for The Year of Mercy (December 2015November 2016).

Bishop Gordon said the “lifeblood” of the Caribbean Church was dependent upon communications at every level and the CSCC “has for many years been teaching Catholics how to understand the tools, how to use them effectively and how to proclaim the Good News”.

He acknowledged that the digital age had triggered the need to develop a new type of media literacy utilising available digital tools.

He said, “We have to understand where our people are and (where) they’re receiving information”. He noted the digital age had brought a plethora of newspapers, radio stations, cable stations and social media sites that have “splintered the people into many different small pockets”, making it difficult to reach them today, however, Bishop Gordon said, Church must “still find a way to do it.”

The CSCC he continued, “is all about finding that way to reach people in that fragmented, segmented market of media communications that is available to all of us”. He said it was crucial

“to understand where your people are, the (media) tools they are using (and) how you communicate using those tools”.

People also have to be taught how to discern between social media messages which are authentic and those that are not.

Bishop Gordon explained how the media, especially social media could draw wider attention and stimulate discussion about the AEC’s document on the death penalty. The AEC plans to use different media platforms to disseminate the document. These include hosting media conferences by bishops, distribution of information packages to media personnel and members of Parliament, and Catholics approaching and engaging members of Parliament about the death penalty.

There is also a plan to prepare a catechetical handbook and workbook so as to “use the pastoral as a catechetical tool”.

Bishop Gordon mentioned the production of memes, dramatic scripts, gifs and animation to promote dialogue about the message. He said the use of social media will bring about greater interaction amongst groups of people at all levels, leading to a greater, more effective distribution of the message.

Sr Angela Ann Zukowski MHSH, professor at the University of Dayton in Ohio, and assistant principal of CSCC, said if the Church could not keep abreast of the ongoing developments in social media communications, then she would find herself further behind, with the message of the gospel being lost.

In an interview, Sr Angela Ann stated that the development of a new communications plan entailed a new understanding and a new infrastructure to proclaim the gospel in the 21st cen-

(From Front Page)

tury “with clarity, specificity and impact”. Rapid technological advancements in communications have brought about “a new culture, a new language and new techniques related to how we should be communicating today”. There has been a movement away from interaction with printed text such as books, and with shortened attention spans, the traditional methods of evangelisation are less effective in the 21st century. “We have to find ways to use new technologies to stimulate religious imagination,” Sr Angela Ann said.

The use of social media by Pope Francis and the restructuring of the communications commission in the Vatican “should provide a clue that the local Archdiocese needs to do the same”.

Sr Angela Ann commented that social media “starts a conversation” on documents of the Church, citing the example of Pope Francis’ promotion of the document Laudato Si’ via YouTube clips and on Twitter. She stated that “Church documents have to become living documents”. “Just writing and posting a document on a website is not enough”. Documents can remain dormant on the internet and “the message will die”. However, once a document has residence in cyberspace, social media tools such as Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, WhatsApp, etc., will facilitate the participation of the laity in a wider dissemination of the message, giving life to it.

Bishop Gordon noted that posting URL addresses or links on social media platforms may stimulate discussion on the death penalty. Just as St Paul who went into “all spaces” to proclaim the gospel, he commented the Church also had to do this, with social media being one of those spaces.

(Catholic News )

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A Christian Perspective on Social Issues

Slowing Economy Part I (Context)

By GHK Lall Today we begin a five-part series on what is being referred to as the slowing down in the local economy.

They are written by our regular columnist Mr. GHK Lall who is a former Wall Street Principal Chartered Financial Analyst and Charter Holder in the USA. He is also a Catholic and Minister of Holy Communion.

T

he lament from many quarters is that business is slow. From businesspeople to vendors to taxi drivers, it is same forlorn cry: business is bad. Why is this so?

Was it really good? And last what were the contributory factors that made it so?

An even cursory scrutiny of the local economy in the so-called prosperous (go-go) years reveals that it had few substantial underpinnings, and that some of the traditional linchpins were struggling.

There was rice, rum, timber, and gold. For its part, gold has suffered from a lengthy period of precipitous price declines, which has hurt considerably. In the same vein, bauxite has been a virtual noncontributor for decades now, and sugar is in the throes of a death rattle.

Talk of divestiture and scaling down operations has abounded.

In view of this convergence of assaults on the main sectors of the local economy for a protracted period of time, there are some questions that must be tabled: What was the source of all the massive spending? What accounted for the now fabled opulence that sparkled across the length of the land?

And why did a rollicking economy decelerate from a gallop to subdued trot in such a short space of time, almost overnight?

For a long time, astute observers and commentators have pointed to the presence of a large parallel or underground economy. It was one that prospered from and through the proceeds of mainly criminal enterprises and activities camouflaged as legitimate concerns, compliments of not-so -sophisticated laundering practices.

Everybody and anybody with a few functioning brain cells were familiar with what was no longer merely a public secret, but a running public joke. From presidents to paupers, and the uninvolved and the disinterested, it was a wink and a nod, and the shrugging of shoulders, if not rolling of eyes. It was a grand good time for the participants, which they thought and wagered would last forever.

But then there was an election a year ago, and everything became unpalatably acidic; a new reality came crashing down.

Now there is a DEA office present on these shores, thanks to the Americans.

Then, there is (please turn to page 10)

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

Linden says farewell to Brother Francis Xavier

O

From Eutol Wilson ur beloved Brother Francis Xavier, who arrived at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Linden on July 14th 2015, has completed his term with us and left on August 18th for Port of Spain, Trinidad for theological studies in preparation for his ordination to the priesthood.

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Journeying with the Word of God

During his stay with us, Bro. Francis has proven himself a very valuable asset to our community. He has worked with the youths, trained altar servers, organized Vocation Bible School, and has proven himself a very capable handyman and most of all the right hand to our parish priest Father Ron. His innovations have been innumerable and we have been left with his accomplishments that will last for many years.

We wish him the very best in his studies and may he soon come back to us as Father Francis.

Former Linden parishioners return with gifts From Eutol Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Ivor and Sandra Williams (nee Watson), now living in the USA, recently returned to their home parish of Saint Joseph the Worker, Linden on a mission of love and mercy.

This was in the form of dozens of pairs of spectacles which were distributed free to parishioners and non-parishioners alike. Both of the donors were born and grew up in Mackenzie where they attended primary and secondary school.

They were also loyal members of the Saint Joseph the Worker Parish where Mr. Williams was an altar server and where they received the Sacrament of Matrimony.

Members of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Wismar; Our Lady of Lourdes, Silverhill; and St. Joseph the Worker, Linden

MAKING THE WORD OF GOD YOUR OWN Step 1: Look at today’s Readings prayerfully.

1st Reading: Unlike what was expected by the Jews, Gentiles will also have a share in God’s blessings.

2nd Reading: Suffering is part of our training.

These are hard words to hear. Our hope lies in the belief that when God allows us to suffer, we are being treated as deeply loved children.

Gospel: The kingdom of God is being offered to peoples everywhere. However, conduct, not race or religious tradition, is the key to salvation.

Step 2: Applying the values of the Readings to your daily life. communities waited in anticipation on the afternoon of Friday August 12th to welcome the Williams’.

On arrival, Mrs. Sandra Williams gave a background of the project and inputs from other

donors who conceived the idea and made the gifts a reality.

Beautiful rosaries were also distributed as part of the donation.

Profound thanks were expressed by Fr. Ron and members of the community. 

Sacraments Corner Canto Sacramento

We are publishing a series on the Sacraments by Fr. Jerri Dias SJ. To benefit the Brazilian community, it is written in Portuguese as well as English. This week we bring you Sacrament of the Sick part 13.

Viaticum: Eucharist before death

In addition to the Anointing of the Sick, the Church offers those who are about to leave this life the Eucharist as viaticum. Communion in the body and blood of Christ, received at this moment of "passing over" to the Father, has a particular significance and importance. It is the seed of eternal life and the power of resurrection, according to the words of the Lord: "He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:54). The sacrament of Christ once dead and now risen, the Eucharist is here the sacrament of passing over from death to life, from this world to the Father.

Thus, just as the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist form a unity called "the sacraments of Christian initiation," so too it can be said that Penance, the Anointing of the Sick and the Eucharist as viaticum constitute at the end of Christian life "the sacraments that prepare for our heavenly homeland" or the sacraments that complete the earthly pilgrimage.

Estamos publicando uma série sobre os Sacramentos por Pe. Jerri Dias SJ. para beneficiar a comunidade brasileira, e está em Português e Inglês.

Viático: A Eucaristia antes de morte

Àqueles que vão deixar esta vida, a Igreja oferecelhes, além da Unção dos Enfermos, a Eucaristia como viático. Recebida neste momento de passagem para o Pai, a comunhão do corpo ,e sangue de Cristo tem um significado e uma importância particulares. É semente de vida eterna e força de ressurreição, segundo as palavras do Senhor: “Quem come a minha carne e bebe o meu sangue tem a vida eterna: e Eu ressuscitá-lo‑ei no último dia” (Jo 6, 54). Sacramento de Cristo morto e ressuscitado, a Eucaristia é aqui sacramento da passagem da morte para a vida, deste mundo para o Pai. Assim, do mesmo modo que os sacramentos do Baptismo, da Confirmação e da Eucaristia constituem uma unidade chamada “os sacramentos da iniciação cristã”, também pode dizer-se que a Penitência, a Santa Unção e a Eucaristia, como viático, constituem, quando a vida do cristão chega ao seu termo, «os sacramentos que preparam a entrada na Pátria» ou os sacramentos com que termina a peregrinação.

1. The Second Reading is all about suffering and punishment. What do you think it is saying to us?

2. Isaiah presents us with an image of all nations gathered in unity. In what way do you personally experience a feeling of unity in your family, in your workplace, in your neighbourhood, in your church community?

3. On the other hand, in what way do you experience disunity in your life? What do you think is the reason for this?

4. The word Gospel means “Good News”. Do you think today’s message is “good news” or is it “hard news”?

Step 3: Accepting the message of God’s

Word in your life of faith.

The Good News we hear in the Scriptures is in reality sometimes “hard news” which invites us to live the Christian life without compromise and with a commitment beyond words.

Salvation belongs not to any one race or religion but to those who accept Christ and what he stands for. Baptism is no guarantee that we will automatically achieve the salvation that Christ offers.

Step 4: Something to think & pray about 1. Reflect on the ways you as an individual contribute to unity (and to disunity) among those in your home, your workplace, in your church community.

2. Speak to others with whom you come into daily contact about unity and disunity and their effects on your activities – at home, at work, at church, etc.

3. Name one concrete way you hear yourself being called to live the Gospel this coming week. Is there any change you feel you need to make in your life in order to better live out the Gospel?

4. Pray that you will always strive to be an instrument for unity in all your relationships. [From: Journeying with the Word of God, The Religious Education Department, Diocese of Georgetown, Guyana ]

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

FIRST READING: Isaiah 66:18-21 They will bring all your brothers from all the nations.

The Lord says this: I am coming to gather the nations of every language. They shall come to witness my glory. I will give them a sign and send some of their survivors to the nations: to Tarshish, Put, Lud, Moshech, Rosh, Tubal, and Javan, to the distant islands that have never heard of me or seen my glory. They will proclaim my glory to the nations. As an offering to the Lord they will bring all your brothers, on horses, in chariots, in litters, on mules, on dromedaries, from all the nations to my holy mountain in Jerusalem, says the Lord, like Israelites bringing oblations in clean vessels to the Temple of the Lord. And of some of them I will make priests and Levites, says the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116 Response: Go out to the whole world and proclaim the Good News.

1. O praise the Lord, all you nations, acclaim him all you peoples!

Response

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2. Strong is his love for us; he is faithful for ever.

Response

SECOND READING: Hebrews 12:5-7 The Lord trains the one that he loves.

Have you forgotten that encouraging text in which you are addressed as sons? My son, when the Lord corrects you, do not treat it lightly; but do not get discouraged when he reprimands you. For the Lord trains the ones that he loves and he punishes all those that he acknowledges as his sons. Suffering is part of your training; God is treating you as his sons.

Has there ever been any son whose father did not train him? Of course, any punishment is most painful at the time, and far from pleasant; but later, in those on whom it has been used, it bears fruit in peace and goodness. So hold up your limp arms and steady your trembling knees and smooth out the path you tread; then the injured limb will not be wrenched, it will grow strong again.

or behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last” (Luke 13:30). With those words Jesus makes it clear to us that there are no lines, no privileges in heaven.

Today’s Gospel from the Book of Luke — in fact all of our readings for today, this 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time — have to do with salvation. It is difficult to be faithful and Catholic without thinking about heaven on occasion,

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GOSPEL: Luke 13:22-30 People from east and west will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Through towns and villages he went teaching, making his way to Jerusalem. Someone said to him, ‘Sir, will there be only a few saved?’ He said to them, ‘Try your best to enter by the narrow door, because, I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed.

‘Once the master of the house has got up and locked the door, you may find yourself knocking on the door, saying, “Lord, open to us” but he will answer, “I do not know where you come from”.

Then you will find yourself saying, “We once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets” but he will reply, “I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!”

‘Then there will be weeping and grinding of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves turned outside. And men from east and west, from north and south, will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. ‘Yes, there are those now last who will be first, and those now first who will be last.’ 

and the Lord and St. Paul often in his letters, remind us over and over that we are to be striving for that — that our thoughts should be as much on the next life as on this one. Yet when we hear that Gospel that the first will be last and the last will be first, we may think there is some lack of justice there.

Jesus does not state this as a definite.

He actually is telling us that the first may be last and the last may be first.

The truth is that it really is not important. Our faith, the Lord, our sense

of stewardship repeatedly remind us that what we think is important on earth may not be important in heaven at all. There is a Greek proverb that says, “Being first is good, but being last is perfect.” We are all called to discipleship and we need to answer that call. Responding before someone else does not make us better, but responding is very important. http://www.catholicsteward.com/blog/ ]

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016 Family Strife: How does it happen?

Let us picture this scene. Henry and his wife are visiting his wife’s parents home and they are in a conversation with the family group, which included her parents. Suddenly, for some unknown reason, his father-in-law started to shout at his mother–in–law who took offence and left the room.

When Henry asked why he had shouted at her like that, his father-inlaw declared that he did not have to answer to anyone. Next thing he knew, the father-in-law was shouting at everyone.

Perhaps, many of us too have observed how badly timed, or ill chosen words can cause much strife in the home. What may begin as a calm exchange of thoughts can quickly spiral into a verbal sparring match. Perhaps we do not even know how the disagreements started. Nobody can say exactly the right thing all the time, so it can be easy to misinterpret what others say, or misconstrue their motives. Nevertheless, it is possible to enjoy a measure of peace and harmony.

It is important to remember that differences of opinion do not necessarily mean that our family life is disintegrating. Not the disagreements themselves, but how we handle our disagreements can determine how peaceful or hostile our home environment will be.

What can we do when heated arguments erupt? What steps can we take to restore peace and serenity in the family? How can families maintain peace in the home? We would like to suggest the following: Stop Retaliating: It takes at least two to argue, but when we begin to listen instead of speaking, a heated exchange may start to cool down.

Therefore, let us try to resist the urge to retaliate when provoked. “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out, and where there is no slanderer, quarrelling ceases.” - Proverbs 26:20 Take time to cool down: If our emotions are volatile, it may be wise to

TitBits - - This Week’s Reflection: The word Gospel means “Good News.” The Good News we hear in the Scriptures is in reality sometimes “hard news” which invites us to live our Christian life without compromise and with a commitment beyond words. Salvation belongs not to any one race or religion but to those who accept Christ and what he stands for.

Baptism is no guarantee that we will automatically achieve the salvation that Christ offers.

Let us pray that we will always strive to be an instrument for unity in all our relationships.

God Bless You! Have a Great Week!

- - This Week’s Bible Question: Q. What little known judge of Israel had 30 sons?

(Answer below.)

Family Strife

By Chris & Noelma Lam ask for an excuse politely and walk away for a short while to cool down.

Maybe we can go into another room or go for a walk until we have regained our composure. “Before the quarrel breaks out, take your leave.” Proverbs 17:14 Carefully consider what needs to be said and how to say it: It will not improve matters if we focus our efforts on preparing a cutting rebuttal. Instead, let us try to say something that can help soothe our loved one’s hurt feelings. “Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a sword, but the tongue of the wise is a healing” - Proverbs 12:18 `Keep your volume down and your tone conciliatory: One family member’s impatience can easily rouse another’s anger. So, let us try to resist the urge to be sarcastic or insulting or raise our voice, no matter how offended we may feel. Let us try to avoid hurtful accusations such as “You don’t care about me.” Rather, we can tell our spouse in a calm manner how his or her conduct has affected us. “I feel hurt when you ...”

Shoving, slapping, kicking, or any other form of violence is never excusable. The same is true of name-calling or threats. “Put away from yourselves every kind of malicious bitterness, anger, wrath, screaming, and abusive speech, as well as everything injurious.” - Ephesians 4:31 Be quick to apologise: We should not let negative emotions cause us to - - This Week’s Teaser: Q: Why did the farmer feed his sheep iron-enriched vitamins?

(Answer below.)

- - Today’s Bible Verse: The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; By understanding He established the heavens;

By His knowledge the depths were broken up, And clouds drop down the dew. Proverbs 3: 19 - 21 - - Humour: Little Johnny was sitting down to eat his supper with the baby sitter when he saw the baby sitter sit down in his daddy's seat. “You can't sit in Daddy's seat.” Johnny exclaimed.

“Daddy's not home,” the baby sitter replied, “Since I'm responsible for you while he's gone, I can sit here. Today I'm the boss.”

Johnny quickly responded: “If you're the boss, you have to sit over there in Mommy's chair.”

lose sight of our main objective making peace. If we fight with someone, both of us lose. If we make peace, both of us win. So, let us try to take responsibility for our part in the dispute. Even if we are convinced that we have done nothing wrong, we can still apologise for getting irritated, responding the way we did, or unintentionally contributing to the upset. Peaceful relationships are more important than pride. And, if someone apologises first, let us be quick to forgive. “Go and humble yourself, and urgently plead with your neighbour.” - Proverbs 6:3 How important is strong family ties?

Most of us would agree that they are very important, crucial to the emotional health and the well being of all members of the family. “Praise God for the friend who sticks closer than a brother.” - Proverbs 18:24 As important as they are though, nothing is stronger than the ties that bind us through faith in Jesus Christ.

Therefore, even if one comes from a dysfunctional family, as many do, we can experience the love and unity of the family of believers, to which all of us belong. 

Mind Puzzler Corner Last Week’s Brain Teaser was: What do these words have in common?

Banana, Dresser, Grammar, Potato, Revive, Uneven, Assess.

The answer: In all of the words listed, if you take the first letter, place it at the end of the word, and then spell the word backwards, it will be the same word.

This Week’s Brain Teaser What nine letter word in the English language is still a word when each of the nine letters is removed one by one?

Look for the Answer next week.

- - A Card Hallmark Would Never Print: I'm supposed to respect you, but it's getting harder and harder for me to find a reason for one now.

- - Handy Hint: Smelly shoes! Put baking soda in a salt shaker and keep near your shoes. Before putting the shoes away, freshen them up by sprinkling baking soda in them. This is especially effective for sneakers and running shoes.

- - Confusing Church Signs: The minister unveiled the church's new giving campaign slogan last Sunday: "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours."

- - Answer to Bible Question: Jair - - See Judges 10: 3,4 After him, rose Jair, a Gileadite; and he judged Israel twenty-two years. Now he had thirty sons who rode on thirty donkeys; they also had thirty towns, which are called 'Havorth Jair' to this day, which are in the land of Gilead.

- - Answer to Teaser: He wanted to get steel wool. 

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Pope Francis’ Prayer for the Year of Mercy

Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful like the heavenly Father, and have told us that whoever sees you sees Him. Show us your face and we will be saved.

Your loving gaze freed Zacchaeus and Matthew from being enslaved by money; the adulteress and Magdalene from seeking happiness only in created things; made Peter weep after his betrayal, and assured Paradise to the repentant thief.

Let us hear, as if addressed to each one of us, the words that you spoke to the Samaritan woman: “If you knew the gift of God!” You are the visible face of the invisible Father, of the God who manifests his power above all by forgiveness and mercy: let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified.

You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error: let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by God. Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its anointing, so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord, and your Church, with renewed enthusiasm, may bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives and the oppressed, and restore sight to the blind.

We ask this through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy, you who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever.

Amen.

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016 nothing for granted, but making sure that we are (spiritually at least) like the people waiting with their sleeping bags and thermos flasks by the front door of the ticket office.

Notes for Readers

CORNER

Proclaiming the Word of God Speak, Lord, your servant is listening: you have the message of eternal life -1Sam 3:9;Jn 6:68

August 21st 2016:Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time (C) Men from east and west will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. The Word This Week It’s probably a nightmare we all share to some degree or other - being locked out of the house, the sales, the big match, or missing the train, the boat or plane. Contemplating watching the crowds that have got inside, while we can do nothing, can be unnerving. Complacency can leave us in this situation: today the Lord warns all who listen to him to be careful, taking

First Reading: Isaiah 36:18-21.

A wonderful, boisterous reading, filled with colour and excitement, as the prophet sees the procession of the nations of the Lord - strange sounding names (don’t worry about them - say them as they look), strange forms of transport, all flowing towards the Temple in Jerusalem. Just picture what Hollywood could do with this scene, and then try to read it! So your tone should be excited, confident, positive. Be aware of the shape of the reading: first, after a headline, the messengers are sent to all the strange sounding places; then they return, bringing with them the brothers from all the mountains. This is the gathering of the tribes of Israel - Isaiah would have proclaimed this with joy and gladness - so should you! Practice the lists - of places and of means of transport - so you can rattle them off fluently, and use them to create a picture. Underline the words all and every whenever they crop up. But above all enjoy this reading!

Second Reading: Hebrews 12:5-7.11-13.

At first glance this seems a rather negative and gloomy reading - but it isn’t.

The author is trying to explain why being a Christian sometimes seems rather hard and difficult: it’s because the Father loves us, and like any loving Father sometimes has to correct us, to bring us back (if we will listen) to the right path. It starts well, by engaging the congregation with a question - as always, don’t be afraid of letting you mean the people listen-

ing to you read. From then on there should be a tone of gentleness in this reading, since it is all about encouragement - even when it uses words like punishment. A key line is the one which talks about punishment being no fun at the time, but later bearing fruit in peace and goodness. Watch the last sentence – it’s a bit short of commas, so make sure you put the pauses in the right places. 

August 28th:Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (C) Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the man who humbles himself will be exalted.

The Word This Week Humble behaviour is the mark of the Christian, as it always was the mark of someone in favour with the Lord. In the Gospel, we see Jesus watching the Pharisees: its almost amusing to picture them shuffling for the best places, the polite After you! to put themselves in a better position. How would they have reacted to his teaching?

They may well have remembered the passage we read from the Old Testament, and realised that Jesus was teaching the teachers something they should be well aware of.

Notes for Readers First Reading: Ecclesiasticus 3:17-20.28.

This reading has a natural rhythm - it is phrased in two-line sections. You should see each couplet as a unit, and allow a pause after each one. This will allow the reading to flow in its natural rhythm. Each line has at least one key word which will be the point to lean on: for example, in the first couplet it could be: My son, be gentle in carrying out your business, and then you

Usain Bolt, his Catholic Faith, and his Miraculous Medal

On the evening of Sunday, August 14th 2016, famed Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt won gold in a characteristically dynamic and seemingly effortless 100-meter performance at his third consecutive Olympics, this time in Rio de Janeiro, making him the first athlete to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 100-meter dash.

Bolt’s rocketry on this celebrated night follows equally impressive performances in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012. There is little doubt as to why Bolt is easily regarded as the world’s fastest man.

However, perhaps not as readily in the spotlight is notice of Bolt’s deep Catholic faith. In August of 2012, in the days following Bolt’s participation in the London Olympics, the Catholic News Agency reported that the “Vatican invites Usain Bolt to address religious liberty conference.” The article mentions that “As a Catholic, Bolt is known for making the Sign of the Cross before racing competitively. He also bears the middle name [St.] Leo.” In addition to his other inspirational outward signs of faith, more encouraging than Bolt’s hard-earned gold medals is that he wears an even more

powerful medal: the Miraculous Medal, as promulgated by French Saint Catherine Labouré (1806-1876). By extension, it has been pointed out, based on Bolt’s wearing of the Miraculous Medal, the Blessed Virgin Mary is currently the most viewed woman in sprinting! The Miraculous Medal features an inscription invoking the prayerful intercession of the Lord’s Mother with these French words: “O, Marie, conçue sans péché, priez pour nous qui avons recours à vous” (“O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee”).

Usain Bolt is preparing to turn thirty years old on August 21, 2016, and in the full life ahead of him, he is sure to continue exhibiting his skillful athleticism. However, we should pray for him to continue leading others to Jesus Christ through the model of his faith, keeping in mind and heart the words of the monumentally courageous Saint Paul, as he wrote in his Second Letter to Timothy: “I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on, the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). (http://epicpew.com) 

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will be better loved than a lavish giver. In general the tone is itself gentle, encouraging and calm - though you may want to make a slight change in tone for lines 7 and 8 - which talk of the incurable malady of the proud man - this perhaps could be a little darker, a little more severe, before returning to the positive reflection on the sensible man. Be careful with the last line - dont hurry it, and watch the two last words: sages dream is rather difficult to enunciate clearly, and the congregation could easily miss this rather unusual expression: give it extra weight and extra clarity to make sure people get the point.

Second Reading: Hebrews 12:18-24.

Another special effects reading - but rather than pictures on the screen, here we deal with pictures in the mind. You, the reader, must take these words on the page and turn them into something exhilarating.

First: make sure you know what it all means: the glory of God is the most amazing thing possible, and we have come to it. This reading is meant to excite and to stimulate those who hear it. Second, look for the key words - those words that turn this into a dramatic reading: by using the power of the key words it will help the proclamation: such words are: blazing, trumpeting, beg, living, millions of angels, citizen of heaven, God himself and so on. These are the expressions that will take a flat piece of writing, and transform it into nothing known to the senses! Try and enjoy both your preparation and proclamation of this - it will make a difference.  [From: Office for Liturgy of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Salford http://www.salfordliturgy.org.uk/ ]

EDITORIAL

(From Page 2)

successes and failings. It will be effective in offering support to couples and families and in renewing and sustaining their efforts to live as Christ intends.

Of course, "Amoris Laetitia" isn't without its challenges. The eighth chapter alone, on "Accompanying, Discerning and Integrating Weakness," has been the cause of much immediate consternation within the Catholic community.

Some are concerned that the pope was too pastoral and still others that he wasn't accommodating enough.

Here, we echo the words of the pope himself, as well as many church leaders: that it is critical to read the document carefully, slowly and in its entirety. It is helpful, too, to remember that "Amoris Laetitia" is written fully within the context of Catholic teaching. Kurt Martens, a professor of canon law at The Catholic University of America, spells this out explicitly.

Perhaps the biggest loss, however, would be for Catholics to focus only on the controversy rather than on the majority of the content that is both rich and inspiring. "Amoris Laetitia" is an opportunity for evangelization. Let us embrace it.(Catholic News Service) 

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

Children’s Page

Dear Boys and Girls, How are your August holidays going? We hope that you are enjoying them, and, as the holidays begin to come to an end, start to prepare for the new school year.

In today’s Gospel, when someone asks Jesus how many will be saved, he answers by using the image of the narrow door.

Those who do not remain faithful to him will be left outside. Jesus is warning people of faith not to take their salvation for granted. Just because we go to Mass every Sunday, we cannot assume that we can squeeze through the narrow door. We may be surprised to discover that some who seem less worthy will enter the kingdom before us.

Jesus reminds us that we are not to judge others as "worthy" of the kingdom or not.

Our human judgment is faulty. We only see so much. God sees the entire person, heart and soul, past, present, and future. Some who seem to be "last" ("losers") may well be "first" with God. And some we look up to as "first" (the winners in our world) may turn out to be "last" in the kingdom. We just don't know. And where others are with God is really not our concern. The question is: where do YOU want to be with God? How can YOU stay close to Jesus? 

LUKE 13:22-30 [ NFC - Sources: http://www.sdc.me.uk , http://www.catholickidsbulletin.com/, http://www.sermons4kids.com & http://www.salfordliturgy.org.uk ]

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Slowing Economy

(From Page 4)

talk of extraditions, and all kinds of cooperation spoken of publicly between the government of Guyana and that of the United States. The new government has shown that it is serious; it has to be. The change in government, the change in environment, and change in tolerance levels have all combined to rush the now clumsy, now tainted money out of circulation.

The players and spendthrifts, once swaggering and obvious, have all done a lovely imitation of a turtle, through head tucked under helmet, and a carefully blank, unreadable shell presented to the world. This is to signal innocence and innocuousness. No one is fooled. It is the equivalent of capital flight, but within the confines of the national borders. The money and money people have burrowed deep underground in a self-imposed waitand-see posture.

Some of the swashbuckling players have been forced to retreat, and are singing the money blues with the chorus. It is because that which once propped up a shaky economy (recall: limited underpinnings), through the sheer scale of washing and associated spending now lies naked and exposed for the sensible and interested to view. The party is over. Cash is now suspect; that is, cash with hazy origins, and cash that piles to the rooftops. It is cash that is now on the run. Why? Next week: Part II: Slowing economy (Reality)

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CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

American Lutherans approve agreement with Catholic Church RELIGION NEWS SERVICE

N

early 500 years after Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the Castle Church door, the largest Lutheran denomination in the U.S. has approved a declaration recognizing “there are no longer churchdividing issues” on many points with the Roman Catholic Church.

The “Declaration on the Way” was approved 931-9 by the 2016 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Churchwide Assembly held last week in New Orleans, USA. ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton called the declaration “historic” in a statement released by the denomination following the Aug. 10 vote.

“Though we have not yet arrived, we have claimed that we are, in fact, on the way to unity,” he said.

“This ‘Declaration on the Way’ helps us to realize more fully our unity in Christ with our Catholic partners, but it also serves to embolden our com-

mitment to unity with all Christians,” Eaton said.

The declaration comes as the Lutheran and Catholic churches prepare to kick off a year of celebrations to mark the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation.

Most notably, the “Declaration on the Way” includes 32 “Statements of Agreement” where Lutherans and Catholics no longer have churchdividing differences on issues of church, ministry and the Eucharist.

Those statements previously had been affirmed by the U. S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs.

Last November, Pope Francis sparked controversy when he seemed to suggest a Lutheran could receive Communion in the Catholic Church, saying “life is greater than explanations and interpretations.”

The pontiff is scheduled to visit Sweden on Oct. 31 to preside at a joint service with Lutherans. 

Msgr. Montrose: 41 years of priestly life (From Page 3) Those who know Fr. Monty would know all too well how concerned he is about the environment. While in New Amsterdam, the garden flourished.

He loved to be on his feet all day, tending to the environment, tilling, planting and watering.

“If people can really begin to think of the beauty that we have and sustain that beauty and keep the place clean…. Every now and again some group comes out to clean, but the next day the place is dirty again… maybe we need an education drive to help people to keep the environment clean,” he once noted.

He was faced with a messy and horrible- looking burial ground but being a lover of the environment, Fr. Monty took on the task of cleaning it up.

“I would clean every morning, and weed and build up, and I used to go

and collect all my neighbours’ garbage to build up the pathway, and after a while the burial ground was so beautiful, clean and tidy– with drains and so on. I used to go up and down on the property collecting the grass, picking up all the papers. After a while, people stopped to look at the ground….I used to enjoy it myself and I cleaned and painted the tombs. It was a joy to do those things,” he recalled.

It should be noted that on hearing about Fr. Monty’s pastoral works and other contributions, Pope John Paul bestowed the title, ‘Monsignor’ on him in 1984. It was a proud moment for Fr. Monty.

May God richly bless Msgr. Montrose for all he has done, continues to do and will do to make our church in Guyana prosperous. 

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CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

BEAUTIFUL CORENTYNE Viewpoint

by Vibert Parvatan

in an economic and effective way of transporting commodities. It is not unusual to see a bag of padi or rice placed on the main frame of the bike and being pushed along the public road. Even lumber was being transported on a bicycle.

With limited drying floor facilities at rice mills, optimal use continues to be made of sections of the public road for the drying of padi.

Hard Working Culture The rural areas of Guyana remain unique in many ways and provide an environment conducive to contemplation and relaxation which often elude urban dwellers in their day to day situations.

A visit to the Corentyne re-enforced my endorsement of the statement that – “God made the country and man- made the town.” But what are the factors which attract attention and command admiration of the country side and its people? Using the Corentyne experience I focus on some of the considerations.

Self Reliance One recognizes less dependence on external sources. Molded initially by physical and other constraints which may have restricted accessibility to goods and services, the country folk developed a spirit of self reliance which propels them on. As I sat in a comfortable home-made hammock the lady of the house indicated that she was making coconut oil which was the hair oil used by members of the family. The kitchen garden was very evident and provided vegetables for the household and even the visitors. There were adults and children fishing.

Self Improvement Repairs to the house, the mending of the fence, the weeding of the drains, the concreting of pathways, reveled the ongoing efforts toward improvements. Garbage heaps were not evident and it was obvious that people were taking pride in their surrounds. The home-made benches were comfortable, well scraped and scrupulously clean.

Innovativeness The use of the bicycle goes beyond merely that of riding. It is being used

The digging of drains, feeding of animals, caring of crops, transportation of produce and other such activities mirrored a resolute and hard working people striving to achieve.

More Energised?

By way of general comparison, the country folk seem to be more energised. Maybe this emanates from their life style of retiring to bed early.

There is also clean air, less pollution and the quiet picturesque scenes which confer tranquility on its people.

Effective Services It was interesting to see Lorries and vans some of which had a public address system, offering for sale food items on a house to house basis.

With larger areas to cover, the ‘bell crier’ in some areas is giving way to the announcement of deaths and funeral arrangements being done from a mobile vehicle using a public address system.

Community Spirit Observing a large funeral attendance, I wondered as to the identity of the deceased. Curiosity and sympathy prompted me to enquire from a lady whose attire suggested that she had attended the funeral. Her answer was instructive. She stated that she did not personally know the deceased or the parents of the deceased. However, she learnt of their surname and where they lived.

What she did know was that the deceased was a twelve (12) year old boy who died by accident.

That feeling of neighbourliness and support and the community spirit are certainly qualities of rural areas which stand out.

Hospitality

While all over Guyana our people are known for their hospitality that flag flutters more majestically in certain areas such as the Corentyne. Kindness and hospitality seem to flow naturally in the country side.

Refreshing Corentyne The good roads, lush vegetation, cool breeze, clean air, large expanses of land, coupled with hard working and hospitable people make a visit to the Corentyne a refreshing experience.

Indeed, it is a fine example of the beauty and uniqueness of the country side.

Unfortunately, there were fears of robberies, especially at nights and some unoccupied houses of families now residing overseas reminded me that the country areas are no less affected by emigration which continues to aggravate Guyana’s human resource problem.

In that regard, the beauty of the country side is not enough to restrain many Guyanese searching for a better way of life in distant lands. 

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CAMP KAYUKA Camp Kayuka is available for rental to Groups, Organisations, Parishes and Families and can be used for retreats, picnics, parish feast days etc.

For more information, please contact the Roman Catholic Bishop’s Office, 27 Brickdam, Stabroek, Georgetown, Guyana. Our telephone numbers are: 592-225-0427, 592-226-4469 or 592-225-0420, Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 16:00 hours. 

ABP meeting (From Back Page) The participants emphasized “the spirit of communion that inspires our service in a synodal church (on which Pope Francis stresses as a Church that walks together), reflected in more participatory structures where we work as lay, religious and ordained ministers, men and women from different countries and cultures. At the level of communication, one of the main challenges we face is to incorporate indigenous linguistic wealth of the region as well as Portuguese, English, French and Spanish. concretions projects and the benefit of our peoples in cultural, political and economic areas.

The message concluded, “In the Jubilee Year of Mercy with Our Lady, Queen of Evangelization, we invite the bishops, priests, deacons, religious, pastoral workers and lay people to assume this mission to encourage and promote our entire our pastoral life based on the Word of God.

- St. Thomas Aquinas

Catholic Media Initiatives Television Please tune in to NCN Channel 11 at 8:30pm and DTV Channel 8 (New Amsterdam) at 6pm on Sundays for the Catholic Magazine.

Radio

You are invited to tune in to the Voice of Guyana (560 AM, 102.5 FM) on Sundays at 11:30am for the Catholic Broadcast.

Internet

You are also invited to subscribe to our Facebook Page and to YouTube for more programmes.

Email: catmagguy@gmail.com Telephone: 226-2192 222 Wellington St., Lacytown, G/T

CATHOLIC STANDARD Friday, August 19th, 2016

Continental meeting launches ABP Orientation Booklet, approves 3 yr. prog. children, and brothers and sisters of each other. Biblical animators are witnesses of this Merciful God of the Bible and prophets who participate in the history of their people, seeking to orient and transform themselves and other according to the Word of God.” Reflecting on the Gospel hospitality and service of their Ecuadorean Hosts, the Participants saw it as a reflection of the identity of the Christian faith that so many evangelizers have sown across our continent. “We want this message to help spread that same missionary zeal of all those committed ABP evangelizers who carry out their service to the Word of God with joy, courage and passion.

The meeting was guided by the text of Luke Chapter 24, Jesus and the Disciples of the Way to Emmaus, one of the most familiar and cherished of the appearance Some of the 12 AEC participants at the ABP Continental Encounter narratives of the Risen Jesus, held in Quito, Ecuador from August 12th-14th. which is the basis for the document on "Guidelines for Biblical General Secretary of the AEC. Animation of all Pastoral Life in

By Mike James Latin America and the Caribbean" A Biblical Animation of all Pastoral Diocesan ABP coordinators repre- The seven chapters of the docusented Aruba, Belize, Dominica, Life (ABP) Continental Encounter ment follow the Emmaus narraheld August 12-14 in Quito, Ecua- Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, tive: the Journey, the Pilgrim, dor, saw the launching of a publi- while the Catholic Biblical Scriptures, the Lodging, the cation “Guidelines for ABP in Latin Institute based in Trinidad was Bread, the Heart and the CommuAmerica and the Caribbean” and represented by its Founder and nity, which are reflected in the approved a 3 year “Road Map” for Coordinator Deborah de Rosia.

ABP process and to which we are the implementing of ABP across The participants, in their closing all invited to share in our pastoral message to member organiza- ministry. the continent 2016-2019.

The 84 participants in Encounter tions and for distribution across The "ABP Road Map 2016-2019" under the Biblical theme the region, noted their reflections approved at the meeting was “THE MISSIONARY DISCIPLES RE- on the Gospel message that “In based on inputs received from TURNED FULL OF JOY” (Lk 10:17), many ways God spoke in the past members of the Catholic Biblical included 15 bishops, 30 priests to our ancestors through the Federation, (Episcopal Conferand religious and 40 lay repre- prophets; in these last days he ences, and other institutions, sentatives of Institutions across has spoken to us through his religious congregations and the continent, enthusiastically Son" (Heb 1,1-2.). dioceses that promote the bible, committed to the spread of the “The Word of God enlightens and covers 4 main areas of bible Love of the Word of God through every human being to understand ministry: training, communicathe Bible. 12 of the representa- the mystery of redemption and tion, coordination and material tives came from the AEC region salvation: Jesus Christ, through his aids needed to implement ABP led by Bishop Emmanuel Lafont, words and deeds reveals God as a effectively. (please turn to page 11) Chairman of the AEC ABP merciful Father who takes us from Committee and Fr. John Persaud, death to life and makes us his

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Saint of the Week

August 21st - St. Pius X Pope Pius X is perhaps best remembered for his encouragement of the frequent reception of Holy Communion, especially by children. Most Catholics at that time received Holy Communion only once or twice a year. He encouraged them to receive Holy Communion frequently, even daily, and lowered the age of first communion from about 18 to the age of 7. He promoted communion to be brought to the sick. He encouraged all Catholics to read Sacred Scripture each day, preached publicly every Sunday on the Gospel, and founded the Pontifical Biblical Institute to help in the understanding of the Bible. Pius also worked for the reform of Church music, began the reform of Canon Law, and fostered Marian devotion. During his 11 years as pope, he brought renewal to almost all areas of Church life. Describing Pius X, a historian wrote that he was “a man of God who knew the unhappiness of the world and the hardships of life, and in the greatness of his heart wanted to comfort everyone.” Pius X died on August 20th 1914 and was canonized on May 29th 1954.

He is the Patron Saint of First Communicants and Pilgrims. 

On the Lighter Side

Former prostitutes get special visit from Pope Francis (CNA/EWTN News)- Pope Francis has visited a special community for women freed from prostitution and violent abuse as his latest ‘Mercy Friday’ initiative during the Jubilee.

On Aug. 12 he met the 20 women, all of whom have suffered severe physical violence and live under protection, who are cared for at the “Pope John XXIII Community” in Rome. Pope Francis has met with members of the community at the Vatican on several occasions.

The women present at the meeting are from all over the world. The average age of the women is around 30 years.

A Vatican communique giving details of the visit stressed that the visit is a concrete sign of the Pope’s repeated criticism of human trafficking, which he has called “a crime Pope Francis meets with former prostitutes assisted by the against humanity” and “a plague in the Pope John XXIII Community in Rome Aug. 12, 2016. contemporary body of humanity, a wound in the flesh of Christ.” Credit: L'Osservatore Romano.

Published by the Catholic Standard Ltd. • 222 South & Wellington Sts., Lacytown, Georgetown• Telephone: 226-2195 • email: catholicstandardgy@gmail.com