Quarter 1 2022 Readers are advised that this edition contains images of those who have recently passed
NATSICC VIRTUAL RETREAT DELIVERS ONLINE! NATSICC Spiritual retreats have been a popular event and have previously been held in Alice Springs and Stradbroke Island. We had planned to hold the 2020 event in Galong NSW. As with many other events, our plans were impacted by COVID, and despite efforts to move the date back several times, the decision was made to go virtual.
We have all had to embrace the digital world in order to communicate with our family and friends during the last few years, but spending 3 days with over 100 people is something all together different. Like most things, the challenges also presented new opportunities and allowed us and our presenters to share the word of God in a different way. Continued page 2
NATSICC Virtual retreat delivers online! Whilst hesitant at the response from the community regarding an online retreat, we are pleased that the first ever Virtual retreat hosted by NATSICC was a successful event that attracted 120 participants over its 4 days. By embracing technology, we were able to share in rich visual reflections which allowed participants to explore their own journeys of faith from the comfort of their own home. The virtual yarning circles were something that we had some reservations about, however the enthusiasm of the participants combined with the skill of the facilitators meant that they too were a great success. By randomizing the yarning circles in each session, participants had the opportunity to meet new people and listen to different stories. Speakers included: • • • • • • •
Bishop Columba Macbeth Green Aunty Dulcie Isaro Caroline Hughes (Ngunnawal Elder) Fr Steve Fletcher MGL Fr Dave Tremble MGL Archbishop Christopher Prowse Toby Whaleboat
Each Speaker brought with them a unique point of view that related to the theme – I am the Vine, you are the Branches. The result was a richness in content and a great starting point for conversations in the yarning circles. Presentations were recorded and can be found at https:// www.natsicc.org.au/2021-retreat.html Whilst we all look forward to coming together in person again in the future, we now know that the technology exists that allows us to connect on a spiritual level using zoom, skype etc.
The logo of NATSICC depicts a willy willy, the wind force as a symbol of God’s spirit in the centre. At the top are concentric circles as symbols of God and life while at the base are depictions of men and women receiving the Holy Spirit. The logo was designed by O. Boddington Published by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council: 80c Payneham Rd. Stepney SA 5069 www.natsicc.org.au 08 8363 2963
2
In January this year we lost a dear friend - Reg Carnamah. Reg was a valued and important member of the ACM in Perth and would be known to many across Australia. He was an integral part of the NATSICC Assembly in Perth in 2018 where he could be found shuttling participants back and forth in his trusty white bus. Always a willing tour guide, a short trip often turned into an hour or more as reg showcased his beloved Perth!
We were proud to present Reg with a NATSICC Service to Community Award last year. Donella Brown shares his pride upon receiving the award - “He achieved so much during his time at ACM and the most recent highlight was his NATSICC award. I speak for Reg in thanking NATSICC for that wonderful opportunity of recognizing his dedication to his ministry work at ACM.” As shared by a NATSICC Councillor upon hearing of Reg’s passing: In our way, we say that when a person dies, a star has fallen from the sky to go and tell life everywhere that something significant has happened. It announces that a being who was once upright has fallen down. It is a beautiful image. It says that at death something tremendous has happened in heaven as well as on earth.
Hospital Chaplaincy was another of Reg’s passions. All of us at NATSICC vividly remember the time when, on one of his aforementioned ‘tours’ during our planning for the Assembly, Reg took us all past the Royal Perth Hospital. As he rounded the bend in front of the emergency, he was greeted with a chorus of “Reeeeg” and “Hey Reggie!!!” by the community of people having a smoke out the front. He had helped them in his travels, like he helped many. From all of us at NATSICC we offer our deepest condolences to Reg’s family and friends, but are The fact that Reg was able to share his faith by Painting comforted by the fact that we know he will be waiting the Stations of the Cross in 2020, was a blessing. He to meet us and give us a tour of Heaven when we get drew from his own story and personal struggles to there! produce 14 paintings. Accompanying the paintings See overleaf for some of Reg’s artwork was a video produced by the Perth ACM called Take a Walk with a Yamatji Man. Thankfully, you can view it at https://youtu.be/pJzAZotkRoU.
3
As a tribute to the late Reg Carnamah, we have highlighted two of his artworks from the Stations of the Cross series.
4
5
Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. DO. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council issued a statement for Australia Day, reflecting on this year’s theme: Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. Australia Day is complicated for many First Australians, and we have a long way to go before all Australians feel comfortable celebrating Australia Day on January 26, or indeed at all. Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples feel that moving the date would be a starting point for creating a new dialogue and platform for Reconciliation. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council is in agreement and advocates that Australia Day should be celebrated on May 27 – the day in 1967 that Australians voted overwhelmingly to amend the Constitution to allow the Commonwealth to make laws for Aboriginal people and include them in the Census. In any case, our National Day provides an opportunity to come together (COVID permitting) and acknowledge the gifts that our Creator has bestowed upon us in this Great Southern Land. The theme for this year’s January 26 Australia Day celebrations – Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. – is short in length, but large on ideology. A natural response might be to approach the theme from a collective point of view and Reflect about the ways in which we, as a community, responded to the COVID pandemic; how we as a society Respect all Australians, including our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and Peoples; and how we, as a Nation, might best Celebrate Australia Day. After all, hasn’t the unofficial catchcry of the pandemic been that “we are all in this together”? What if, for this year, you were to reframe your responses to the theme as an individual and as a Catholic? Reflect How did I respond to the COVID pandemic? Was I empathetic and thoughtful towards others? Did I see a need and act upon it? Have I tried to include and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in my personal, parish or professional life? As First Nations Catholics, it is important to reflect upon the past – even though much was taken from us, we can reflect on our determination, our resilience, and our connection to our land. You might reflect upon how important it is to come together to be one again – our strength, our love and our connections to each other and to our forebears, our learning of who we were meant to be and who we are today. Respect Do I show my respect for First Nation Peoples? Have I encouraged my parish and school to conduct Acknowledgments or install an Acknowledgment Plaque? Do I seek knowledge from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in caring for our land? Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics show respect through honouring our ancestors and by keeping our Culture, the world’s oldest continuing Culture, alive. We respect and appreciate the nonindigenous people that are working to support our communities. Celebrate How do I celebrate the survival of the world’s oldest continuing Culture? Will I celebrate Australia Day with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples? Will I seek out Australia’s First Peoples and listen and learn from them? Where will I attend the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday celebrations?
6
Image: ALEX ELLINGHAUSEN from Sydney Morning Herald
NATSICC will celebrate the amazing achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in spirituality, music, art, literature, dance, song, science etc. by continuing to introduce these gifts to the wider Australian Catholic Church. By reflecting upon the theme on a personal level, we are assuming the responsibility for action and not leaving it to others to create change. Combined with our innate desire, as Catholics, to become more like Christ, we are individually called to action to make Australia a country that more closely reflects our Christian beliefs of equality, respect and care for our poor and vulnerable. A nation built upon these beliefs is a strong and inclusive nation – something we all desire. However, a strong nation is built upon a strong foundation, and currently Australia’s foundations are undermined by its relationship with its First Peoples. Therefore, we propose an addition to the theme – Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. Do. – bringing us closer to the 2022 NAIDOC theme of Getup! Stand up! Show up! Words are easy and limitless, but actions require time, effort and commitment. We ask that you make 2022 the year of “Do”. Some things anyone can do in 2022 to strengthen Australia’s foundations by supporting Australia’s First Peoples include: • Support and sign up to support the Uluru Statement of the Heart (https://ulurustatement.org/thestatement), which endorses truth-telling and enshrining a Voice to Parliament in the Constitution; • Seek out your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to share their stories at your organisation, school or parish; • Attend Mass at an Aboriginal and Islander Catholic Ministry. A list of these ministries can be found at https:// www.natsicc.org.au/your-state--territory.html • Install an Acknowledgment Plaque in a prominent place in your organisation, school or parish • Acknowledge First Australians before Masses in your parish • Deepen your understanding of January 26 and what it means to be Australian through the upcoming NITV and SBS programming slate, Always Was, Always Will Be. https://www.sbs.com.au/nitv/article/2022/01/12/ nitv-and-sbs-invite-australia-join-them-deepening-their-understanding-january-26 • Undertake Cross Cultural Competency training to learn more about Australia’s First Peoples. 7
Lucy and Charlotte Cambridge proudly represent their culture at Daramalan College in Canberra
NATSICC extends our congratulations to Lucy and Charlotte Cambridge, who are young Yuwaalaraay women that have recently completed their schooling at Daramalan College in Canberra. Both Lucy and Charlotte received the Board of Secondary School Studies (BSSS) Award in recognition of their commitment and passion for Aboriginal Culture to be part of the school life! They became leaders and role models for all the Indigenous students at Daramalan over their school life. They stepped out of their “comfort zone” to ensure that the other Indigenous students were looked after and felt secure at the College. This was done on a daily basis and became part of their life. Both Lucy and Charlotte worked closely with the various teachers to incorporate more cultural activities/events at the College and that the history of Aboriginal people was incorporated into the curriculum . This ensured that all the nonIndigenous students gained an understanding of their Culture and history; and this was accepted by all! Lucy is now at University and Charlotte this year has commenced her “Gap Year” and we wish them both well and thank them for their commitment.
8
Synod a chance to be heard by Universal Church
In March 2020, Pope Francis announced that the theme for the XVI Ordinary General Assembly Synod of Bishops (in 2023) would be “For a Synodal Church: Participation and Mission”.
Communion,
The planning committee called for submissions from all Catholics, with responses to be collected by Diocesan contacts as well as via the Online portal. With responses being collated and sent to Rome, NATSICC sees the Synod as an opportunity for First Nations Catholic to have their voices heard by the Universal Church. The Council developed a Yarning resource to assist communities to reflect and respond to the questions - each focused on the theme set by the Pope. The process is ongoing and NATSICC will strive to keep all of our communities informed and advise of further opportunities for consultation and sharing of the Gifts of First Nations Catholics in Australia.
Thanks to the students at Corpus Christi (Bateman WA) for their lovely card and support of the Palliative Care Packages. The card was accompanied by a beautiful blanket (photo on card above) - which we are sure will be greatly treasured
Sad Passing of Miriam Dieudonne Miriam received a NATSICC Service to Community Award (nonIndigenous Category) in 2018 ... what a beautiful person she was. She lived a simple, humble and joyful life alongside the Arrernte people of Ltyentye Apurte (Santa Teresa). Miriam was already at Santa when I arrived there in the early 70s... I remember sharing her little stone house at one stage during school holiday time. Miriam hadn’t been well for some time, but she continued living in the community - as she’d done for so many years. Her death will be a shock for everyone, and such a sadness. There will be a deep sense of loss ... those in the school and parish community, those in the wider community . Blessings of peace and trust this day (If I was Pope, Miriam would be top of the list for canonization. I really mean that - she lived a full and wonderful life, a truly holy life). We will keep Miriam, her family and her friends in our prayers. Sr Robyn Reynolds OLSH
9
MY STORY
NATSICC Victorian Councillor Sherry Balcombe shares her journey to becoming a Catholic Interview by Sally FitzGerald
The Chapel at the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry in Melbourne
During a conversation with Sherry in January this year, we spoke about our Catholic Faith and the Catholic Church here in Australia. During this conversation Sherry touched on the fact that she is a convert to the Catholic Faith. So, I asked her if I could interview her at a later date for our NATSICC Newsletter. She agreed and below is what Sherry told me!
Sherry did not consult her family about wanting to become a Catholic-they “had no say in it”. This is what Sherry wanted to do! On Holy Saturday night in 2005 after Sherry was received into the Catholic Church, Ronald and Sherry received the Sacrament of Marriage-they were now “married in the Catholic Church”. Sherry said that this night was a very exciting night and it was “a big deal”! All of the family were there and dressed up-in their best Sherry was 39 years of age when she was received clothes and to make it more special, her Dad was into the Catholic Church on Holy Saturday night in beaming! 2005. This is her journey to the Catholic Church. When I asked Sherry what she did with her Catholic When Sherry was a young girl she did not have any faith she replied that nothing had changed as she formal faith. An Irish Catholic couple who looked was already practicing the faith by attending Sunday after Sherry used to take her to the RCIA classes Mass and helping at the Catholic school. However and Sherry loved listening to the stories. During she notes that “making it formal” felt like a natural this time Sherry also went to “Sunday school and progression! recalls that in Grade 2 “she knew all the theory” of Christian faith. Sherry’s Mum was a non-practicing When asked what she liked about the Catholic Church of England woman. faith, Sherry was very quick to respond with ”the mateship with Catholics- we are all in the same Sherry met and married her husband Ronald club-and we are part of the same club-through Holy “outside the Catholic Church” and they had 4 Communion”. Sherry also enjoys continuing to children who were Baptised in the Catholic Church, learn about, and develop her faith. When Sherry’s due to the fact that Sherry’s mother in law was kids were in Primary school she undertook a non – a Catholic and she insisted on this! Whilst not a denominational Bible Course with two girlfriends. Catholic herself, Sherry ensured that her kids were She found the course very interesting. sent to the local Catholic school where they made their various Sacraments. Sherry supported them Working in the ACM, and as a Catholic, Sherry came and she also attended Mass each Sunday with her to realise and understand the concept of ‘mission’ family. and saw the ACM as a branch of the “faith tree”. She knew a deeper knowledge of her faith would I asked Sherry why, as an adult, she wanted to enable her to better serve her people and set about become a Catholic. She said that it was because learning new terminology, such as Deacon, Diocese, of her job! Sherry was working at the Aboriginal Acolyte to name just a few. Interestingly, all of this Catholic Ministry in Melbourne and was also the information helped Sherry to “open her eyes to the Secretary for the Victorian Aboriginal State Council. real meaning of the Mass”. She said that she needed to understand her role and what everything meant in the Church. She “felt Sherry wanted her four kids Baptised as she wanted that it was the right thing to do”. them to know that there is “something higher”- God is always there! Even when she is “gone” God is there! So, her adult journey to the Catholic Church began. She has made sure that her four grandchildren are Her preparation was “great”! She met with Sister all Baptised - the services were beautiful, especially Joan Hamilton and Fr Ed Ryan once a week in the when each child received the candle-the Light of Office at the ACM in Melbourne and she loved the Christ, which will support the babies all through training that she had from these two amazing their lives. people. Sherry said that the training was personalit was on a one to one basis and Sr Joan and Fr Ed During the COVID lockdown in Melbourne there linked the Catholic teaching to Sherry’s Aboriginal were no Masses in the Chapel at the ACM, and Sherry Culture - this inspired Sherry and she could see the missed this. Before lockdown Sherry said that the links between her Culture and the Catholic faith. many people who did attend the Mass in the ACM Chapel were surprised that “their Masses were so Continued on next page 11
MY STORY continued from previous page...... beautiful and so different from the usual Sunday Masses. Many, many kids love coming to the ACM Masses as Sherry ensures that each child has a part to play in the Mass. Sherry told the story of a Grade 6 student coming to the ACM to be part of the RCIA Program as he wanted to go to a Catholic High School. To this day, this person is still connected to the Church and he became a leader at the High School, does Community work and is one of the FIRE Carriers. All this is due to Sherry reaching out to him and writing a letter of support to the Principal of the High School. We spoke about faith being a journey and whether there have been any tough spots. Sherry has trouble with the Sacrament of Reconciliation as she feels uncomfortable “sitting in a box with a stranger” and feels that God already knows her sins. Sherry is disillusioned, and deeply saddened, by the sexual abuse that has occurred within the Catholic Church. However, she said that we all need to remember that “people did this, not God!” and feels that anyone that has committed such acts needs to be adequately punished. “My belief is in God, not any priest”. I asked Sherry if, in this 21st Century would she encourage others to join the Catholic Faith. Quick as a flash, she said that she would, if they had the interest. She does not mind being with people from other denominations and how people arrive at their faith, as there is only one God, and He is at the top! She gave the example of a couple of members of her extended family - an uncle who is Hindu and her brother who is a Buddhist. Her brother is now looking at the Catholic faith - she reckons that it is to “spite her”!! She has actually found this rather hard as he has been a Buddhist all of his life and now he is reading the Bible and learning about Jesus. Sherry likes the teachings of Jesus-the caring of each other, the belonging together, and that there is a place for everyone. She feels and sees this particularly at funerals, as she said and quoted from the Gospel ”there are many rooms in My Father’s House….” this brings her so much comfort. Thank you Sherry for your honesty and passion!
12
Aboriginal Contemplation Life in 2022 moves at an incredible pace. Fuelled by the technology that allows us to be more productive and ‘online’ than ever before, there is one thing missing – silence. It is in the void that silence creates that the voice of God can be heard. That voice might be the rustling of leaves, chattering of pebbles under a wave or the crackling of a campfire. Our Victorian NATSICC Councillor Sherry Balcombe (her story is featured in this newsletter), has created a reflection entitled Aboriginal Contemplation to help you break away from the pace of life. It contains words and imagery that is designed to bring your spirit to peace. We used Aboriginal Contemplation during the NATSICC Virtual Retreat and the demand for copies was so great that we had to upload it to the NATSICC website. We would like to share it with everyone that needs some stillness in their lives. It can be downloaded at https://www.natsicc.org. au/2021-retreat.html A sample from the powerpoint:
2021 PLENARY COUNCIL In October last year, the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia brought together Catholics from all over Australia to a shared virtual space to talk about the future of the Australian Catholic Church.
On December 8, 2021, the document First Assembly Proposals from Small Groups and Individual Members was published, gathering together the fruits of the first of two Plenary Council assemblies.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members We have collated the responses and proposals of the Plenary Council were: that relate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and have included them on the following Erice Bernard pages. John Lochowiak Shirley Quaresmin We are looking forward to the second assembly that Sally FitzGerald is scheduled to take place in Sydney in July this year. Mary O’Reeri Sabrina Stevens Toni Janke
Question Three:
How might the Church in Australia open in new ways to Indigenous ways of being Christian in spirituality, theology, liturgy, and missionary discipleship? How might we learn from the First Nations peoples? “In our group’s discernment, we believe that the Spirit has been saying that it is long past the time for our Church to acknowledge and receive fully the gift of that contribution. In our discernment throughout the First Assembly, we heard the Spirit saying: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
our Church will be enlivened with a full participation of First Nations Peoples; that we acknowledge and celebrate the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council for its leadership and ministry across our Church; there is a need for Aboriginal people to be able to minister to their communities and to each other; can we help the nation do something to give place to First Nations peoples in both urban and country communities? being Indigenous and being Catholic are not two separate ways of being; they are two elements of spirituality that exist side-by-side for First Nations peoples within our Church community. there is an authentic point of connection for us all in the life of Jesus, in the experience of suffering, in our vulnerability, in the call to see the Spirit in each other and in the desire to be at home in our Church; the words of the Our Father – in whatever language we use – call us into relationship and connect us to culture, tradition and faith. The prayer is a type of ‘Songline’ for us, showing us who we are and leading us to reconciliation, forgiveness and boldness; the Missa Kimberley is approved, established and loved as a culturally appropriate liturgy; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including women, could receive formation in the ministry of preaching; engaging with and reaching out to unaffiliated youth in Indigenous communities needs further consideration; common prayer – in language – connects us with our shared identity; a mutuality of initiation and exchange between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics and others enriches our faith community.
13
SMALL GROUP PROPOSALS •
The Uluru Statement from the Heart: It is recommended that an appropriate process be determined for our Church to support the Uluru Statement from the Heart. A First Nations Voice enshrined in the Constitution and a Makarrata that would undertake a process of agreement-making between governments and First Nations and truth-telling about our history is important for our nation. It is suggested that the advice of Periti Rev Prof Frank Brennan SJ AO and Prof Greg Craven AO, would assist in shaping this recommendation.
•
NATSICC Submission: The five recommendations outlined in the NATSICC submission to the Plenary Council should be received and acted upon. The recommendations are the result of extensive consultation and listening to Indigenous people. They suggest practical actions for our Church as follows: • Cultural Awareness Training to be undertaken by clergy, religious and lay workers to enable more effective and appropriate ministry. • Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to undertake formation training. • Creating a Welcoming Space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The use of symbols and rituals in the Catholic liturgical context facilitate a welcoming environment for Indigenous peoples. • Acknowledgment of Traditional Custodians of the land prominently and appropriately; • Verbal acknowledgment prior to meetings and Mass is also encouraged.
AREAS FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION NOMINATED BY SMALL GROUPS •
• •
A strong connection between Q3 and Q 5 (Ecological Conversion). A “Theology of the land” may be worthwhile considering. The health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is intimately linked with land. In order for Aboriginal spirituality to be fully expressed, an understanding of and connection to Country is essential. A strong connection between our desire as a faith community to become more contemplative and the spirituality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. There is a need to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities (and the parishes, schools and agencies that engage with them) with appropriate resources to enable their full participation in Church and society. Limitations around personnel, funding, physical and capital resources currently restrict the supports that can be made available, particularly in regional, rural, and remote areas.
The full response, including extensive notes can be found at https://www.natsicc.org.au/2020plenary.html
Question Four: How might the Church in Australia meet the needs of the most vulnerable, go to the peripheries, be missionary in places that may be overlooked or left behind in contemporary Australia? How might we partner with others (Christians, people of other faiths, neighbourhood community groups, government) to do this?
Source: PROPOSALS IN INTERVENTIONS BY INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
We need to urgently address some major issues, because we are called to do so through our mission of social justice, service and ministry. This is also true in light of the Gospel teachings and our preferential option to serve the poor and vulnerable in our community. In 2021 in Australia, the most vulnerable citizens in our community are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are grossly over-represented in jails and institutionalised care, living with poor or chronic health conditions, addiction, substance abuse, lower life expectancy, lower levels of education, homelessness, and poverty.
14
Question Five: How might the Church in Australia respond to the call to ‘ecological conversion’? How can we express and promote a commitment to an ‘integral ecology of life’ in all its dimensions, with particular attention to the more vulnerable people and environments in our country and region?
NOTES ON DISCERNMENT
Related recommendations include, but are by no means limited to: •
An open embrace of the ancient and eternal wisdoms of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples;
Question Fourteen: How might we recast governance at every level of the Church in Australia in a more missionary key? Governance structures at all levels need to avoid/prevent power imbalances inherent in hierarchical structures and ensure they give real voice to lay people especially LGBTIQ people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
SMALL GROUP PROPOSALS •
Governance structures at all levels need to avoid/prevent power imbalances inherent in hierarchical structures and ensure they give real voice to lay people especially LGBTIQA+ people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They also need to reflect our commitment to the continual improvement of Church governance so that we may be bearers of Christ’s love to those entrusted to our care.
AN INTERVENTION TO THE PLENARY FROM SABRINA ANN STEVENS (UN-PRESENTED) "My name is Sabrina Stevens and I am a proud Kuku Yalanji & Yidinji woman from Far North Queensland. Today I am putting this intervention forward on behalf of all our First Nation Plenary Members present: Erika Bernard, Aunty Shirley Quaresimin, Mary O’Reeri, Sally FitzGerald, Toni Janke and John Lochowiak. We want to speak about building an authentic Australian church together – one that is inclusive and full of life for God. The Spirituality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples is directly linked to our identity, our sense of self and our Place in this Great South Land. The same land we share together as Australians – the gift from God entrusted to each of us to care for. My identity as a Catholic and an Aboriginal is one and the same, it goes hand in hand. Our old people (our Elders) have lived on the land for thousands of years, therefore they have knowledge of Creation that is so intimately connected with the Creator. When we see the ritual/traditions within the Church (of the water blessing, the incense, the silence of sitting in adoration to feel the Spirit move) – we see more similarities than differences.
We want to give glory to God our father in the ways in which we can understand most - by using our cultural gifts – and we want to share this IN relationship WITH you. Saint John Paul II visited Alice Springs in 1986 and addressed the people stating: “You are part of Australia and Australia is part of you. And the Church herself in Australia will not be fully the Church that Jesus wants her to be until you have made your contribution to her life and until that contribution has been joyfully received by others.”. And here we are 35 years later: we have come so far yet are still waiting for our place, still trying to give our contribution… still waiting for our contribution to be received.. So I ask you: · When are you going to embrace the cultural gifts we want to share with you that give praise and glory to God our father? · And when are we finally going to start working towards building an authentic Australian church together – one where we all feel at home as one family under Christ?"
Cover of Centacare Canberra Goulburn 2017 - 2019 RAP
RECONCILIATION ACTION PLANS (RAPs)
NATSICC is heartened by the rise in development of Reconciliation Action Plans across the Australian Catholic Church. Since 2006, Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs) have enabled organisations to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation. Based around the core pillars of relationships, respect and opportunities, RAPs provide tangible and substantive benefits for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, increasing economic equity and supporting First Nations self-determination. NATSICC is pleased to be able to support the development of Reconciliation Action Plans. Our National Office and individual Councillors have worked with schools, parishes, and organisations to develop their own Reconciliation Action Plans. We have developed resources to assist groups in achieving the goals set out in their Action Plans – ie. custom Acknowledgment Plaques & Virtual Acknowledgments. We will continue to assist organisations and parishes to develop their RAPs, but also hasten to remind groups that local community members must also be involved in the consultation, planning and rollout of the plans.
16
Organisations that NATSICC has assisted in developing their RAPs: • Archdiocese of Brisbane • Caritas Australia • Catholic Mission • St Vincent de Paul South Australia • Calvary Hospital – Calvary North Adelaide, Calvary John James Canberra and the National Office • Christian Brothers College Adelaide • Sisters of St Joseph RAP RESOURCES Reconciliation Australia https://www.reconciliation.org.au/reconciliationaction-plans/start-your-rap/ Rap Information Webinars https://reconciliationaustralia.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_cKjJCyuiS9agtUiZtHqhvw Archdiocese of Brisbane RAP https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/life/reconciliationaction-plan/ Education focused Raps https://www.narragunnawali.org.au/raps/what-isa-rap
David Miller recognised for commitment to Justice David, our NATSICC QLD Councillor, was recently recognised by the Catholic Justice & Peace Commission of the Archdiocese of Brisbane for 18 years of service. Congratulations to David for his tireless work. The Commission’s long serving Executive Officer, Peter Arndt, expressed the Commissions thanks for David’s continued support: “The Commission thought it appropriate to recognise his contribution over many years to the Commission itself, but also to the Archdiocese as a whole. Uncle David has been available to deliver an acknowledgment of country and to support and participate in other ways at parishes, schools, Archdiocesan meetings and conferences for all this time. He was also a part of the Archdiocesan RAP Working Group and has co-chaired the Archdiocesan RAP Reference Group since its inception. Along with Aunty Ravina Waldren of the Murri Ministry Team, he took Commission members to the Aboriginal community of Cherbourg in 2017. This was the beginning of a shift in the way the Commission worked. The Commission began to cultivate a culture of encounter and have worked to promote this culture as the foundation for social action in the Church ever since. Notably, the Commission has collaborated with the ACBC Office for Justice, Ecology and Peace on the Signs of Our Times initiative which promotes a culture of encounter and offers resources to help Catholics to embrace this culture. Uncle David has participated in the work associated with this initiative. We are deeply grateful for Uncle David’s contribution and guidance over many years.”
ACM Minto welcomes Mandy Edwards - officially! Minto is located 40km south west of Sydney and is home to a bustling Aboriginal Catholic Ministry that is a hub for the community. For 15 years Mandy Edwards’ Connecting with the community is professional career spanned integral to building a relationship 3 companies – each focused of trust and respect with the on providing support and people and for Mandy, this is employment for Aboriginal and reflected in her actions. Several Torres Strait Islander people. years ago a young Aboriginal During this time, however, she man unfortunately lost his life felt that the level of assistance in a house fire. Mandy felt it was actually provided to the important to mark the occasion Indigenous clients was not and, on the Anniversary, she and adequate because it was not her neighbour cooked a Sausage meeting the needs and wants of Sizzle and then took it down to the people, and in some cases, the place where the young man was setting them up for failure. lost his life. Mandy sited an example where the system was putting people The ACM Office is located in Uncle into paid positions that they Stan Mitchell’s old cabin and is were not trained for and, as a the hub for a number of activities consequence, people failed and lost their jobs. “It and programs, including: felt like it was just to tick a box” said Mandy. • The ACM have a monthly Mass at Holy Trinity Disillusioned, Mandy was scanning the jobs Church, Minto and everyone is welcome. market when the Spirit spoke to her in the form of • A Women’s Group every Tuesday a position open advertisement. It was a paid part- • A Youth Group time position at the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry • The school kids can drop in to do their homework (ACM) Minto! This advertisement came at the right and Mandy and the ACM members feed the kids time! Mandy had worked as a Volunteer at the ACM afternoon tea. with Sr Kerry McDermott for approximately 20 years • They also help with food hampers for those who and she loved it. She immediately applied for the need them-this food is supplied from Coles and position with the ACM and following the application each family in need receives a hamper weekly. and interview process, she won the position and Mandy’s neighbour, an Aboriginal woman, she started in early 2022. “This is the job for the rest assists with this project. of my life!” Mandy exclaimed during the interview with ACT Councillor Sally FitzGerald. The ACM tries to be as welcoming and warm as possible so that everyone feels comfortable to drop Like many involved in Ministry with the Church, the in at any time. A sense of ownership is instilled in position with the ACM is not about the money - it the community through the sharing of jobs and is about who and how Mandy can assist! With the Mandy said that many kids come to the ACM to do Ministry an 11 minute walk from her home, the odd jobs such as weeding the garden – which also stresses of her previous employment are a memory. provides them a sense of pride in the ministry and When asked about what is it that she is doing now of purpose. that she is a paid employee, Mandy replied her first job was to let everyone know who she is and that In this new role, Mandy would love to know more she is there for them. “I am seeing more families about NATSICC, in particular the ‘ins and outs’ and and letting others know that I am here providing a she would like to be part of the NSW State Council. Service for all of them and for the people that don’t She is looking into this. Mandy is just beginning usually use the ACM”. on a new journey and she is thrilled to have this position. We wish her all the best and thank her for her passion and commitment to the Minto ACM. 18
Cultural Competency Course met with a positive response Evangelisation Brisbane was the first organisation to conduct a pilot of the NATSICC Cross Cultural Competency in a Catholic Context Online Course in late 2021.
Participant Responses Has the course expanded your knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture?
The pilot has continued across 2022 and has met with very positive responses from participants. Cynthia Rowan, the Evangalisation Brisbane RAP Coordinator has been instrumental in rolling out the course to interested parishioners and stakeholders within the Archdiocese. We are using the pilot program to ‘iron out’ any issues that end users may experience in the hope that once the course is made available more widely, it will be easily integrated into existing e Learning platforms.
How do you rate the course overall:
NATSICC is hoping that the course will be available to anyone that is working within the Catholic Church, including: • • •
Individuals Parishes / schools and organisations without an E- Learning Platform Parishes / schools and organisations with an existing e Learning Platform
We are collecting expressions of interest at https://natsicc.org.au/cross-cultural-training.html
Participant Comments: “It was my deeper learning about the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander spirituality that has encouraged me to see things differently and with a clearer understanding” “I learned very much and will put that knowledge into practice in my Parish”
19
Happy Birthday to Sr Kerry! Happy 80th Birthday Sr Kerry from all of us here at NATSICC! We would like to take this opportunity to thank you sincerely for all the work that you have done and are doing for the Aboriginal Community in the Macarthur Region of Sydney! And, we hope that you will be working there for many years to come! No retirement yet!!! We pray that God will bless you abundantly and that He will always hold you in the palm of His Hand!
An excerpt from the Minto community’s application for Sr Kerry to receive a NATSICC Award: While it could be true to say that she lives her life in the service of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait community, Sr Kerry’s life is more than that, she simply lives her life with the community she knows as her friends and neighbours. In this, she is truly Jesus made present to others. Sr. Kerry is a gentle but very strong leader. She advocates for justice and encourages those around her to live justly. She is a spokesperson for those who have no voice, but more than that, she encourages their voice. She challenges the status-quo and expects that anyone can be a leader. It is important to note that Sr. Kerry, while being guided at all times by her Order’s ministry of service to others, is first and foremost guided by the advice of the Elders of the community. A tireless worker in the Holy Family Parish, Ingleburn, Sr. Kerry is based at a humble, little secondary churchHoly Trinity at Minto which has been her spiritual home, and that of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry for many years. Once a month an Aboriginal Mass is held with participation by the community as readers and Eucharistic Ministers and frequently babies are baptised during the Mass. It is a joyful occasion with so many reflections of Catholic, Aboriginal life, including hymns, cloths, flowers, candles and paintings. The presiding Priest is usually the Chaplain to the Aboriginal community, guided and mentored by Sr Kerry. Sr. Kerry has been instrumental in the formation and continued work of the Winga Myamly Reconciliation Group. ‘Winga Myamly’ means ‘sit down and talk’ in Wiradjuri and that is what the group does. However, the ‘talk’ has led to some amazing achievements. Sr Kerry is an inspiration, a friend and a living example of kindness and compassion and is very deserving of the non Indigenous 2021 NATSICC Service to Community award.
20
A snippet from the Bishop
Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green is the Bishop for the Diocese of Wilcannia Forbes - which covers 52% of NSW. He shares with us his thoughts on connecting with country and his community. One of the things that I really love about being the Bishop of the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes is visiting the many parishes and communities in 52% of NSW. When I go to the more isolated places I take the caravan and set up camp - well really it is glamping (nothing rough about my rig - bishop excepted!). As I am writing this, I am in my Van on the backs of the Darling River in a little village called Louth (1 hour west of Bourke). I have a wedding tomorrow of a couple of locals. I think it is important for a Bishop or Priest or any Pastoral worker to actually spend some time with the locals and not just doing ‘Church’ things. I like going for a walk around the place and just saying G’day to random people in the street. Having a meal at the Pub is good value as well - this is where you find out what is going on in the community (and it is also where you will find some characters!). I would really like to do more of this but my administrative duties in my office also need to be done.
Unfortunately, I don’t have any particular expertise or previous experience relating to the Aboriginal Peoples of my Diocese (I wish I had!) I just treat them the same as anyone else, I always go up and say G’Day and see if they are on for a yarn - I do find humour works well for me - I am a bit more cheeky talking to them and they to me! I am just ‘Bish' which I love. I do believe that it is a particular role of Bishops and Priests to make Christ present to people - but you’ve got to be present to people yourself if you are to make Christ present! I was talking to the kids at Wilcannia a couple of years ago and I inadvertently scandalised them! I confessed that I hadn’t been fishing in the Darling River or “Barka’’ as the locals call it. The kids were stunned, they told me all about the “Barka” and how special it was and how their people had fished in it for thousands of years. Then they felt great pity for me that I had missed out on one of the great pleasures of life.
Then they wanted to organise a fishing trip for me One of the things that I really love is the magnificent so I wouldn’t miss out. I hope those kids never lose countryside that I drive through. The diversity is that care and concern for others and the pride they amazing! When you stop for a breather you are had of their culture - but heh! That’s a good start. aware of the silence - it is almost overpowering at first. You then notice sounds like a faint breeze or I hope this gives you a snippet into my life. May God a distant bird call or a bloody fly buzzing around Bless you all! you. Enveloped in silence there is sound - if you are attuned to listening for it. I find I can’t help thinking of God in the vastness of His creation and what a privilege we have to walk on it.
21
22
23
NATSICC Palliative Care Packages We are blessed to work in partnership with Hospitals and Organisations that provide care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Janarri and Ayshia, whose messages are featured below, are recipients of a Palliative Care Packages via Calvary Mater Hospital.
I wanted to thank Margaret from the Calvary Mater. Once I received my pack with my blanket, throw over, mask and diary I felt more at home. I felt as comfortable as I could be. Having something so precious given to me was amazing and I am so grateful. My Blanket reminds me of my Culture and keeps me connected to my Country when I am away from home and Family. Janarri Flett, 23 years old
I am thankful for Margaret and her support over my stay at Calvary Mater. When I saw the pack I was shocked and incredibly grateful to have been given something so close to home. I felt like I had my family with me my entire stay. I had something to keep me company. I have also enjoyed wearing my scarf around the hospital, I always get asked where I got it from. I tell people that it was a gift from NATSICC and the Hospital AHLO. Ayshia Petrie-Maytom, 28 years old 24
NATSICC PALLIATIVE CARE PACKAGES
In 2020, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) launched the Palliative Care Packages Project – an initiative designed to support all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people deemed palliative, regardless of religion or beliefs. More information is at: https://www.natsicc.org.au/palliative-care-packages.html The Packages have been designed to address aspects of the end stage of life that are important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The need to share stories through verbal, written and artistic forms, the desire to reconnect with land and a need to ensure that cultural needs are considered. The Packages contain a blanket, beanie, Aboriginal shawl, paint canvas, brush and paints; notebook and pen; Aboriginal Psalm 23, a mask and a small container for the soil/water from the patient’s Country. We are appealing to all people who would like to participate in these Packages by knitting or crocheting blankets, squares and beanies or via financial donations. For more information on the Project please contact Sally FitzGerald on 0422 066 080 or salfitz50@live.com If you cannot knit or crochet but would like to contribute, we are happy to accept financial donations-no matter how big or small using the following details: 25 NAME: NATSICC | BSB 085 005 | ACCOUNT NO 55331 6507 | REF: PALLIATIVE
New Norcia Healing and Reconciliation Pilgrimage
NATSICC was pleased to support the New Norcia Healing Reconciliation Pilgrimage weekend held from the 3rd to 5th December 2021 and was organized and led by Donna Ryder and Reg Carnamah (RIP) - the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Perth Pastoral workers. The Pilgrimage was for people who had been in the New Norcia Mission Orphanage or in care in other institutions. We gathered to share personal stories of grief, loss, trauma and tragedy relating our experiences in care. During the weekend past students, family and extended family members supported and comforted each other. In this place of peace, it was an opportunity to reflect on what matters we were able to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, to return to nature and experience a sense of serenity, stillness and community that is sometimes hard to find in the modern world. Our souls and spirituality continued healing over the weekend.
prayer; Anointing- prior anointing for people who attended the Mass. To close the celebrations Sr Margaret invited everyone to lay hands on Abbot John as we sang the Blessing Song. This was very powerful and moving for Abbot John as he had not been in the best of health. It was a beautiful moment seeing Abbot John crying and rocking back and forth. The healing power of the laying of hands over Abbot John was powerful.
In the afternoon Sr Veronica together with Margaret Drayton, Mary Nannup, Deborah Nannup, Karen Ryder, Paul Willaway and Helen Indich prayed the Rosary. Each person led the Rosary at different stations and at each location Reg Carnamah Friday was a gathering day, to organise (RIP) blessed the old buildings. Sr Margaret and accommodation and meals and to welcome the Sr Veronica then blessed all the graves in the pilgrims and to allow them to catch-up and relax. cemetery. The final prayer outside the old infirmary Catholic Mission has been recording Sister Veronica in the St Joseph’s Orphanage, concluded the Rosary Willaway’s personal story, so it was an opportunity procession. for the film crew to film her as she walked around New Norcia, reminiscing and reflecting on her Later Abbot John attended a meeting with connection to New Norcia as a child, student and participants to discuss how the New Norcia her formative years leading to her decision to join Aboriginal Corporation could assist him to identify the Benedictine Order. and honour the unmarked graves in the cemetery. There were also discussions with Abbot John to The film crew also had the opportunity to speak assist in renovating the old shop for future use by with other past students of New Norcia. These the New Norcia Aboriginal Corporation. participants were very happy and appreciative of the time given to listen to their stories abut life at The weekend concluded at Holy Trinity Parish in New Norcia. New Norcia where we joined with the local town people to celebrate Sunday Mass. Despite the very In the afternoon, to start the weekend, Sr Veronica high temperature we experienced this was a truly Willaway OSB, as one of the Elders in residence, enjoyable weekend, one that could be an annual together with Sr Margaret Scharf OP, opened the event. Pilgrimage with an official Welcome to Country. On Saturday the pilgrims gathered at the Rock of We would like to thank NATSICC, the Dominican Remembrance in the church grounds to celebrate Sisters and the Perth Catholic Archdiocese who a special reconciliation with the Right Reverend contributed to funding the retreat. Father John Herbert (OSB) presiding over the Mass. The Reconciliation Mass included the Anointing of Donella Brown the Sick; a Litany; Laying on of hands; thanksgiving
26
Helen Indich, Mary Nannup, Angie Ryder, Margaret Drayton, Roslyn Drayton, Donna Ryder.
Helen Indich, Margaret Drayton, and others
Karen Ryder, Sr Veronica Willaway, Fr Anscar McPhee, Margaret Drayton, Angelina Ryder, Roslyn Drayton.
27
Aboriginal Stations of the Cross ‘John Dunn’, the artist, is a member of the Stolen Generations. These Stations are an exploration of his own journey and they illustrate beautifully how Aboriginal people really do resonate with the sufferings of Jesus. The story of hurt, pain and suffering spiritually is one that many Aboriginal people can identify with but it also tells the story of coming out the other side a stronger person. The story of new beginnings and where there is faith there is always hope! This is such a beautiful way of praying we thought Parishioners, Churches, Congregations and Schools could use this Resource as part of their prayer preparation. So as you follow the Aboriginal Way of the Cross look deeper into the untold stories all around you and have compassion for those suffering.
Available from: Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Melbourne Size: 10 x 16cm Price: $15.00 a set Email: Odette.LoCastro@cam.org.au
SAVE THE DATE! HOLY SPIRIT IN THIS LAND
NATSICC NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TOWNSVILLE, QLD MON 19 SEPTEMBER FRIDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2022 MORE DETAILS AT WWW.NATSICC.ORG.AU/2022-ASSEMBLY