“The heart of the catechist receives the gift of the kerygma, and in turn offers it to others as a gift. What a little word: “gift”! The catechist is conscious of having received a gift, the gift of faith, and he or she then gives that gift in turn to others. This is something beautiful” (Pope Francis) Page 5 Classroom Resources

Pg 8-9 Julian Tenison Woods

Page 10 Sacramental Life

Page 11 Story by Katya

SEEK UNITY | EDUCATE | PROCLAIM | CELEBRATE | SERVE | RESPOND PERSONALLY | LOVE EACH OTHER

CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 Daniel ang - Director, Office for Evangelisation

A Graced and Generous Way of Life

It is fitting that this issue of Connections should focus on the alongside them. The future sacramental life for there is an intimate relationship between the is bright in the Diocese of work of Special Religious Education (SRE) and initiation into the Broken Bay! life of Christ and the Church. As an evangelising ministry, the work You can play a part in this of catechesis involves opening the lives of the young people in vision of intergenerational our State schools to the Gospel in the hope that this might lead to proclamation, gathering deeper involvement and integration in the life of grace, offered by and sending by considering the sacraments and the community of the local parish. In hearing which young adults in your life and parish could well be invited the Word borne by the Church and by the witness of the catechist to become a catechist. As shared at our recent conference for as parishioner, young people (and we also hope their parents!) secondary catechists, young people are called to know more than receive a powerful invitation to a Christian life that is communal simply how to earn a living. As Christians we are called to offer the and ongoing, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and that leads to and witness and wisdom of what it means to live a life, an authentic life flows from the Eucharist that we celebrate, Christ among us. that can make our society and culture a little more transcendent It is this same hope of deeper and ongoing integration into the and, by that way, a little more human. The ministry of the catechist life of Christ and his Church that Church anticipates exemplifies the courage to take up such a graced and generous a ‘Year of Youth’ in 2018. In looking forward to this church year as way of life, serving and accompanying others in the Gospel which a wonderful opportunity, the work of our CCD team is excitedly we believe to be Good News for a hungry and restless world. focused on the recruitment of young adults to the ministry of SRE Catechesis is a mission that forms others but also forms us in the and the support of your parish for this outreach. process! This invitation to mission will begin at the As we enter the second half of the year, I thank you Australian Catholic Youth Festival later this for your dedication and passion for the work of year (7-9 December, 2017) but then carry SRE and pray for your ministry, growth and on well beyond through a fresh message generous outreach throughout the term and new look to reach this audience of ahead. potential young catechists. It is hoped a new generation of catechists will be With every good wish, greatly enriched by the experience and wisdom of those already serving, while our present catechists will be inspired and Daniel Ang further encouraged by newcomers serving Director, Office for Evangelisation

Sacramental images on page 2 & 3 belong to CDA Every Story has a Family: Telling the Christian Story of Family Life

A presentation on Marriage and Family Life by Most Rev Peter A Comensoli, of Broken Bay

“The Bible is full of families, births, love stories and family crises. This is true from its very first page…” (Amoris Laetitia #8)

Date: Tuesday 8 August 2017 Time: 7:30pm – 9:00pm Venue: The Light of Christ Centre, end of Yardley Avenue, Waitara RSVP: By Friday 4 August 2017 to [email protected] or 9847 0448 / 4332 9825

Date: Thursday 12 October 2017 Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm Venue: The Parish Centre, The Entrance Parish, 239 The Entrance Rd, The Entrance RSVP: By Tuesday 10 October 2017 to [email protected] or 4332 9825 / 9847 0448

2 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 alison newell - CCD, Diocesan Coordinator

From the Diocesan Coordinator Calling young adults to join the Ministry of SRE

For many years, we at CCD have been listening to Parish Priests, your class). The reception of Coordinators and Catechists say that ‘we need younger people to Sacraments provides a major join the Ministry of SRE to carry on the wonderful work that has point for God to intersect been happening for generations in our Church’. in the lives of the young, The Church in Australia is engaging with our youth and young so please be proactive in adult ministry over the next couple of years through the Australian ensuring that children from Catholic Youth Festival being held in in December 2017, the public schools are included Year of Youth being held in 2018 and in Panama in the invitation to the parish to prepare for the reception of the early in 2019. We at CCD thought it very timely to expose our Sacraments. wonderful ministry to this younger generation of adults in the hope Classroom Management and Safeguarding Children Training of calling more young adults to discern their role in the evangelising During the school holiday break, Classroom Management and mission of the Church. Safeguarding Children & Integrity in the Service of the Church CCD is working closely with Catholic Youth Broken Bay (CYBB) to workshops were held in all three regions of the Diocese. ensure that we are reaching young adults to encourage them to Attendance at these sessions was encouraging with around 130 be involved. We are inviting them to make a difference and Be the catechists from across the Diocese accepting their responsibility to Change in the lives of children and young people in our SRE classes. undertake ongoing training in these two important areas. Please pray for the success of this project and pray that the hearts and The Classroom Management Training that Michael Tebbutt minds of young adults will be opened to the invitation to spread the presented emphasised preventative discipline as a way to manage Good News to the children and youth in our public schools. behaviour. Michael’s training focused on using techniques and The Seven Sacraments of the Church putting strategies in place which reduce the opportunity for children to be distracted and off-task. Whilst there is no magic In this issue of Connections, you will find a classroom resource which wand which can be waved over the children to ensure they looks at the Seven Sacraments. This resource can be used to revise the are totally focused on their lessons, the use of preventative previous learnings of the students before starting a new unit of work on techniques hopefully is another addition to the toolkit of classroom a particular sacrament, or as a tool to reinforce what the students have management skills which catechists have in their possession. learnt in the current unit. There are Sacramental units across all stages of our curriculum for infants, primary and secondary students. The focus for the Safeguarding Children Workshops presented by Joe Pulis was on creating a safe working space for children and It would be timely to teach or review the Sacramental units catechists alike, through the exercise of professional boundaries and when the Parish is running its Sacramental preparation program practices, which align with current and Department for Confirmation, Penance or First Eucharist. Sacramental time of Education policies and practices. Joe also emphasised the provides an opportunity to invite and welcome Catholic families importance of reporting to the appropriate authorities in the event whose children attend public schools into the of a child disclosing an abuse. The mantra REPORT, RECORD, parish community. Parish Catechist and RING is a good way to remember your reporting responsibility. Sacramental Coordinators work together to Report to the Principal immediately; record the information; ensure that Catholic children from public and ring the CCD Diocesan Coordinator. The safeguarding schools have the opportunity to be of children, youth and vulnerable people must be at the included in Parish Sacramental forefront of our work in parish ministry and we must programs by ensuring that practice what we preach in this regard in the SRE adequate time is provided to classroom. connect with their families. My Both of these workshops will be offered again in experience is that public school the second half of the year (see page 7 for details principals are happy to approve the of training in specific regions). Please register if you distribution of parish notes about have not undertaken any training in these two areas Sacramental preparation to the in the past three years. Catholic students (a reminder to be sure to always seek the Wishing you every blessing for your SRE class during approval of your school before Term 3. distributing anything through Alison

Vol 22 Issue 3 | CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 3 classroom activity

Sacramental Grid INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING THE GRID: Here is a simple grid of the Seven Sacraments, Key Words, Actions and illustrations, symbolising each sacrament. This can be used as a game to revise the previous learnings of the students before starting a new unit of work on a particular sacrament or as a tool to reinforce what the students have learnt in the current unit. Using a photocopier, enlarge the grid so that each segment is approximately the size of a playing card. These should be laminated or printed on stiff card. The List of the Sacraments can be laid out vertically, while the words ‘Action’, Key Words’ and ‘Symbol’ can be placed along the top of the grid. Once this is laid out, have the students come and place the card or cards they have in the correct place on the grid. Sacrament Action Key Words Symbol

Receive the Baptism Pouring water Light of Christ

Anointing Be sealed with Confirmation with Chrism the Holy Spirit

Eating and Receive the Body Eucharist drinking and Blood

Blessing and Your sins Penance Absolving are forgiven

Anointing of Anointing with Be healed and the Sick oil to strengthen made whole

Exchanging May the two Matrimony rings become one

Preach what you Receiving believe and teach the stole what you preach

4 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 classroom resource

As you return to your classes for Term 3, you might like to pray this with the children

back2school prayer “Dear Lord, use my eyes to see new friends. Open my ears to hear my teacher. Open my mind to learn new things. Let my heart rememberYOU are near when I’m afraid. Help me to love others like you do. I want to shine your light so bright in my school.” Amen. ~Courtney DeFeo

For more of Courtney De Feo’s resources visit: http://courtneydefeo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/back-2-school-prayer1.pdf

Vol 22 Issue 3 | CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 5 training and formation

CCD Ministry Induction Compulsory Training For New Catechists And Helpers & for those wanting a refresher course CCDL1-01MI The Mission and Ministry of the Catechist CCDL1-02MI SRE Teacher in the Parish and the School CCDL1-03MI Child Protection CCDL1-04MI Lesson Planning: Teaching the Authorised Curriculum CCDL1-05MI The Development of the Child and Adolescent I CCDL1-06MI Classroom Management: Positive Discipline CCDL1-07MI Introduction to the Bible

Central Coast Region - Course Type: CCDMI Safeguarding Children Venue: Lecture Room, OLR Parish, 12 Ashton Ave, The Entrance and Integrity in the Service of the Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Church Dates: Monday 23, 30 October, 6, 13 November 2017 Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm (13 November 9:30am – 12:00pm) RSVP: By Monday 16 October to [email protected] or 4332 9825 / 9847 0448 North Shore & Hornsby Region - Course Type: CCDMI Venue: Caroline Chisholm Centre, 423 Pennant Hills Road, Pennant Hills Diocese of Broken Bay CCD Ministry of Special Religious Education Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Date: Friday 20, 27 October, 3 10 November 2017 Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm (10 November 2017 9:30am – 12:00pm) RSVP: By Friday 13 October to [email protected] or 4332 9825 / 9847 0448 Northern Beaches Region - Course Type: CCDMI Venue: The Lakes Parish Hall, 21 Lagoon Street, Narrabeen (Only Street Parking available) Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Date: Tuesday 17, 24, 31 October, 14 November 2017 Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm (14 November 9:30am – 12:00pm) RSVP: By Tuesday 10 October to [email protected] or 4332 9825 / 9847 0448

FAITH FORMATION Christians in the Middle East & Interreligious Dialogue: Past & Present Situations A Presentation by Archbishop Michael Fitzgerald There has been much reporting on Date: Saturday 19 August 2017 the difficult situation concerning Christians in the Middle East. In this Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm presentation Archbishop Michael Venue: Caroline Chisholm Centre, Fitzgerald will consider the present Building 2, 423 Pennant Hills situation and the importance of Road, Pennant Hills (Vehicular religious freedom as a fundamental entry via City View Road) human right. Archbishop Fitzgerald will also consider the plight of other RSVP: By Thursday 17 August 2017 faiths, emphasising the importance to [email protected] of interreligious dialogue for or 4332 9825 / 9847 0448 the promotion of peace and understanding.

6 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 training and formation

Safeguarding Children & Integrity in the Service of the Church and Classroom Management The Department of Education requires all SRE teachers (catechists) and helpers to undertake initial and ongoing training in the areas of Child Protection and Classroom Management. It is mandatory for catechists and helpers to update this training every three years. Workshops are being made available in three separate venues across the diocese to allow all catechists easy access to this important training. Northern Beaches Region Venue: St Kieran’s Parish Centre, North Harbour, 2 King Street, Manly Vale Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Date: Wednesday 4 October 2017 Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm Register by: Wednesday 27 September 2017 Phone: 4332 9825 or 9847 0448 Email: [email protected] Central Coast Region North Shore & Hornsby Region Venue: Our Lady of the Rosary Parish Centre, Venue: Caroline Chisholm Centre, 429 The Entrance Road, The Entrance 423 Pennant Hills Road, Pennant Hills Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Morning Tea Provided, BYO Lunch Date: Monday 20 November 2017 Date: Thursday 5 October 2017 Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm Register by: Monday 13 November 2017 Register by: Friday 29 September 2017 Ph: 4332 9825 or 9847 0448 Phone: 4332 9825 or 9847 0448 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] encounter series Meeting Christ in The Eucharist: the Scriptures Nourished + Sent Presented by: Pina Bernard and Presented by: Professor Clare David Patterson, Catholic Life & Johnson, Director ACU Centre for Faith Formation Team Liturgy

Dates: Thursdays 20 July & 27 July 2017 Chatswood 10.30am Date: Thursday 24 August 2017 Naremburn 7.00pm Dates: Tuesdays 25 July & 1 August 2017 The Entrance 10.30am Date: Wednesday 6 September 2017 Terrigal 10.00am Dates: Wednesdays 26 July & 2 August 2017 Dee Why 7.00pm Living Faith: Prayer: Affirming the Relationship

Catholic Social Presented by Very Rev. Dr David Ranson, VG

Teaching Date: Tuesday 12 September 2017 Wyong 7.00pm Presented by: Dr Sandie Cornish, Private Secretary to Bishop Peter and Dr Cristina Gomez, Life, Charity, and Presented by Bishop David Walker, Bishop Emeritus, Diocese of Social Development Coordinator Broken Bay

Date: Tuesday 19 September 2017 Waitara 7.00pm Date: Thursday 28 September 2017 Epping 7.00pm Date: Wednesday 20 September 2017 Forestville 7.00pm Date: Thursday 5 October 2017 Mona Vale 7.00pm Date: Thursday 21 September 2017 Warnervale 10.00am

For further details, please visit www.dbb.org.au/News & Events/Calendar of Events or contact [email protected] 4332 9825 / 9847 0448

Vol 22 Issue 3 | CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 7 catechist spirituality

Julian Tenison Woods Cofounder of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart the Cross is noted for his sense of mission for evangelisation through a radical following of the counsel of the Gospel. This congregation aimed to minister pastorally among the local communities ‘in their need for spiritual renewal and a deeply contemplative spirituality, with a strong ascetic emphasis.’ (Rosa McGinley) Julian was to be later involved in this type of ministry during his later years. It can also be seen reflected in the ministry of the Sisters. Julian entered the Passionist novitiate and in February 1852 took his vows. Unfortunately, due to his poor health, he was released from his vows and returned to London, however, it can be seen that Julian’s time with the Passionist priests added to his understanding of his ministry and his spiritual growth. While in southern France seeking to improve his health, Julian was introduced to the French Marist Fathers and was permitted to join their community as a postulant. Once again, his poor health let him down and he was advised to leave the community but on leaving the community, he took up a teaching positon at a boarding college, with students of families with naval backgrounds. This was to prove an Fr Julian Tenison Woods invaluable experience for Julian, later in , . As the feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop draws near, it is fitting Whilst with the Marist Fathers, Julian met Fr Peter Julian Eymard that we consider the contribution Julian Tenison Woods, co-founder who was to found the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, had on the spiritual became Julian’s spiritual director. It was at this time in his life that development of this congregation and on the individual sisters. Julian’s Eucharistic spiritualty deepened. This was to find expression in the foundation of the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Brisbane, Julian has been described as ‘a man of education, science and an imparter . This religious community was founded in 1874 in the of faith’ (Basil Morrow) and as ‘an enigma, a sign of contradiction, a non- heart of the city of Brisbane. In 2009, the Sisters of St Joseph and the conformist, never a force to be ignored.’ (Margaret Press). Sisters of Perpetual Adoration were united, each maintaining its own Julian Tenison Woods (1832 – 89) was born to James Dominic Woods, charism and continuing its ministry. This was a truly historical moment. an Irish Catholic and Henrietta Tenison, the daughter of a minister of the Another influence on Julian’s spirituality that was to find expression Church of Ireland. His father was well connected and the family was through the Josephites, was his devotion to the Sacred Heart of close knit and lived a comfortable lifestyle. There were ten sons, 3 of Jesus. For him, it was a powerful image that enabled him to develop whom died in childhood, and one daughter. Julian was the middle son. a deep friendship with the Father, through Jesus. This devotion is Henrietta suffered from poor health, something which Julian appears to have inherited. It was also in Julian’s early childhood that his religious awareness grew and deepened. As a child, while baptised a Catholic, he was more exposed to the Anglican Church, due to the political and religious climate of Ireland. It was in his mid-teens that he experienced a definite conversion to Catholicism. After he and his sister made their First Communion during Christmas, 1848, Julian became interested in a tertiary or lay Franciscan group of young men. He was fully engaged with their religious formation programme and became an active member of this lay Franciscan community. This experience would later find expression in the lives of the Sisters of St Joseph. It was around this time another influence came to play in Julian’s life and spiritual search. It was the Passionist Congregation, newly arrived to England, whose founder was canonised St Paul of the Cross. St Paul of Mary MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods

8 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 catechist/spirituality formation

reflected in the name of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart at Penola in 1866. and in their spirituality. In the first rule written for the sisters were the words “(The sisters) do Another French influence which shaped the way the Josephite Sisters all the good they can and never see an evil without trying to see how they carried out their ministry was the Sisters of St Joseph of Puy. These may remedy it … (They) must do any good that they can, and make their women were not highly educated, lived in poverty and simplicity and charity all embracing.” (First Rule XIII) this was in great contrast to Julian’s prior experience of communities of The symbol of the Josephite sisters reflects the devotion that both . This model of French religious life was to be foundational in the Mary and Julian had for the Holy Family and the Blessed Trinity. Both of way Mary MacKillop and her sisters would live as exemplified by the these devotions can be traced to Julian’s contact with the priests of the Sisters of St Joseph of Puy – living in small communities, living a simple Congregation of the Passion and the Marist Fathers. lifestyle and going to where the need was greatest. Julian’ love of the natural world showed him great spiritual truths. All this time, Julian was still seeking ordination. In one instance he wrote that he marvelled at the regeneration of It was not until he met Bishop Robert Wilson, visiting England from Van the Australian bush after being ravaged by fire. Through prayer and Diemen’s Land that Julian had the opportunity to travel to Australia, reflection, he came to understand how God’s love and mercy would where two of his brothers had already established themselves, and to prevail despite the destruction. fulfil his desire to be ordained. In 1857, he entered the Jesuit College On reflection, Julian Tenison Woods was able to see how God at Sevenhill near Clare, and was ordained as a diocesan priest. Julian had directed his life, in paths he himself would not have chosen, then took charge of the large parish of Penola, in south-eastern South but nevertheless in ways that were to bring him much peace Australia. It was here at Penola that Julian continually visited the and understanding of God’s great providence. He called it ‘the parishioners in his parish of over 25,000 square kilometres. transformation of the heart which can only be achieved when we This was the time Julian became aware of the plight of the Indigenous open ourselves to the heart of God.’ people and the educational needs, both secular and religious, of the Michael Tebbutt impoverished bush children. With Mary MacKillop, he co-founded the CCD Regional Coordinator Central Coast Save the date Annual CCD Diocesan and Presentation of Awards Saturday 11 November 11:30am Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara

Central Coast CCD Office and resource Centre Open Monday - Friday 9am to 1pm Phone Colleen or Michael to arrange an alternate time to visit outside of these hours

12 Ashton Ave, The Entrance (behind OLR Church) Resource Borrowing: Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm Resource Deliveries: We deliver to all Central Coast Parishes. Orders to be received by 4pm each Monday to ensure prompt end of week delivery. Visiting Resource Centre: If you are making a special trip to visit the CCD Resource Centre, we suggest phoning ahead to confirm that the office is opened, as at times the CCD staff are required elsewhere in the diocese. Smartboard: We offer the use of the interactive smartboard to assist with the preparation of lessons for catechists who have been trained in the use of the smartboard. (Bookings are essential to use the interactive smartboard) Contact Colleen for more information PH: 4334 3367 Email: [email protected]

Vol 22 Issue 3 | CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 9 around the diocese

depth of their understanding of the Last Supper, Christ’s death and Sacramental Life God’s promise of redemption and their remarkable appreciation of the Holy Spirit in their lives. It illustrated the impact the SRE Program has in Woy Woy Parish in the State Schools through the level of comprehension the children Throughout Eastertide and then again on 9 June, the cooperative demonstrated during both Sacramental training programs. efforts of St John the Baptist SRE teachers (catechists) and the A number of SRE catechists also facilitated the Sacramental Sacramental team were evident as 77 children received their First preparation and attended the numerous ceremonies and celebrations. Holy Communion and 68 children were Confirmed by Bishop Peter It was another example of the solidarity these men and women share Comensoli. in bringing the Word of Jesus Christ to our young Catholics. Children from St John the Baptist Primary School were joined by These were most clearly “Happy Days”. youngsters from Woy Woy, Ettalong, Woy Woy South and Umina Susan Simmons Primary schools. They shared classes and their sacramental initiations Parish Catechist Coordinator, Woy Woy Peninsula Parish in a spirit of joy and cooperation. Their preparations reflected the

Fr Paul Roberts keynote speaker 2017 CCD Secondary Catechists’ Conference

On Tuesday 20 June 2017, CCDs from the Archdiocese of Sydney, the Diocese of Broken Bay and the Diocese of Parramatta came together Catechists provide feedback at a Conference for high school catechists. at the evaluation forum Approximately 170 catechists are the presence of God in our public responding to Jesus’ invitation to be part of his mission. Apostles schools across the three Dioceses. Over 75 of these catechists are sent to proclaim the mission. Both disciples and apostles are gathered at the Caroline Chisholm Centre, Pennant Hills for a day of not responsible for God’s plan. They are simply responding to God’s learning, sharing and fun. mission. We, as catechists, are responding to God’s call for help. Father Paul also focused on the importance of building trust through good The day began with a keynote address by Fr Paul Roberts, Director of relationships with students and to meet them where they are on their the Institute for Mission at Blacktown in the Diocese of Parramatta. journey of faith as we joyfully spread the Good News with both our Fr Paul both formed and entertained the conference participants, by actions and words. combining his deep spirituality with his lively wit, as he addressed the catechists on Creating Intentional Disciples within the context of the Following the keynote address, a choice of six workshops was offered at secondary SRE classroom. the conference - Understand Gen Zs; Classroom Management; Dealing with Difficult Ethical Questions; Prayer in the Classroom; Breaking Open Fr Paul took us through a journey of accompanying students towards the Word with Teenagers and Creative Use of the Curriculum. intentional discipleship. He spoke about the five thresholds of conversion – initial trust; spiritual curiosity; spiritual openness; spiritual The day provided ample time for networking, sharing and gathering seeking and intentional discipleship. As his presentation unfolded, it of ideas. Catechists left for home enthused to continue their became obvious that ‘intentional’ was the trigger word. ‘Intentionally’ wonderful work. Feedback indicated that catechists felt affirmed that we have responded to God’s call. ‘Intentionally’ we responded to they are responding to God’s call to plant the seed of God’s love in the the calling to be a catechist. ‘Intentionally’ we are called to be Jesus’ hearts and minds of our young people as they live what they proclaim disciples. Fr Paul described what he sees as the difference between in the SRE classroom. a ‘disciple’ and an ‘apostle’. Disciples are friends of Jesus who are Katya Polimeni and Alison Newell

10 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3 around the diocese A few words from the New CCD Regional Coordinator Northern Beaches It is with a smile that I hope a ray of my enthusiasm can reach you important or urgent enough to disturb the CCD. I kept thinking that and stay with you. It is quite a big change for me having moved from they would be far too busy. the front-line to the front-line support. As you may know, I have been Please, please, please, do not make your new Regional Northern working as the Chatswood Parish Catechist Coordinator for the past Beaches Coordinator the last person on your list of people to call for five years and only this April, I applied for the full time position of the help. Please use and allow me to be your well of resources. Let’s work Northern Beaches Regional Coordinator. together. Always remember my job is to serve you to serve the little On my first day with the Diocese, when I walked into the chapel here ones in the public schools. If you allow me to support you, together at Caroline Chisholm Centre, I heard a voice whispering: “Do you love we will pass on what God meant for YOU and for ME to BE with HIS me? Be who I meant for you to be”, and so with the whispering of Children - “welcoming, inviting, accompanying” (the words of Bishop God’s presence in my heart, my day begins. Peter Comensoli) each other in the To the team here at the Diocese - you have been extremely warm journey to love and be loved by our God. and patient with me in learning the ropes of my new role in the past Let me be, with you, the hands of our God. month; thank you! Always grateful, To all the front-line catechists - I have to admit when I was working as a Parish Coordinator, whenever I needed support, calling the CCD Katya Polimeni, team was sometimes my last resort. Most of the time, I would speak CCD Regional Coordinator, Northern with senior catechists and the Parish Priest searching for answers. Beaches. Most of the time I would have used up all my available resources Katya Polimeni before I would call CCD in the Diocese for support. The reason I had acted this way was because I felt that my questions were not A story by Katya John Donnelly workshop presenter from Chatswood Last Sunday, I visited a retired catechist - 90 years old ‘Young at Heart’ (and in mind) Maria Fernandez. As I was leaving Maria’s house a young lady was passing by and waved at Maria. Maria and I were puzzled as to who this young lady was so I asked her how she came to know Mrs Fernandez. To our surprise, she came towards us and started singing (with action) a children’s song she learned during “scripture classes”, which Maria recognised immediately with a loud laugh of appreciation. The girl introduced herself as Emily who was studying for her HSC, and was taught Catholic SRE by Mrs Fernandez in Kindergarten at Mowbray Public School. God is constantly present in our life. My dearest friends and catechists, whenever we think the children are not responding, just remember Emily, who after 12 years stopped by to say thank you for teaching her about God. Please let us Catechists buzz during the pray for never doubting what we have been called to be - the Classroom Management Workshop voices and hands of God. Go and evangelise!!

Contact Details for CCD

Diocesan Offices Regional Offices

Sharon da Roza Alison Newell North Shore Northern Beaches Central Coast Region Dioccesan CCD Admin Diocesan CCD Coordinator Hornsby Region Region P: 02 4334 3367 / 02 4334 2622 [email protected] [email protected] P: 02 9847 0228 P: 02 9847 0494 M: 0407 218 677 P: 02 9847 0492 P: 02 4334 3367 M: 0438 229 541 M: 0447 901 531 F: 02 9847 0501 M: 0419 123 096

Vol 22 Issue 3 | CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 11 7 – 9 DECEMBER 2017 SYDNEY

STUDENTs over 18s REGISTER at REGISTER at YOUR SCHOOL trybooking

registrations open www.trybooking.com/PQKW

SYDNEY2017 For more information visit www.dbb.org.au/youth

Most Rev David L Walker Rev Dr Chris Monaghan CP Bishop Emeritus of Broken Lecturer in Biblical Studies Dr Debra Snoddy Bay, ACBC Representative and President, Yarra Lecturer in Biblical Studies to the Catholic Biblical Theological Union Catholic Institute of Sydney Federation The Gospel of Matthew: Journey into Discipleship Registrations open www.trybooking.com/QDGZ Friday – Saturday 6–7 October 2017 Contact: [email protected] or 9847 0474

12 CCD Newsletter Term 3, 2017 | Vol 22 Issue 3