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August 11 to August 17, 2010 www.scross.co.za R5,00 (incl VAT RSA)

Reg No. 1920/002058/06 No 4688 SOUTHERN AFRICA’S NATIONAL CATHOLIC WEEKLY SINCE 1920

Inside Soaring hope HE skies of Wentworth, Durban, her- Using the Internet for good alded a symbol of hope as kites dived The producers of a popular TV series with a Tand soared from the hands of eager values-driven message are launching a pro- youth. ject to help churches to use the Internet more Coached by the adult men of the com- effectively.—Page 3 munity, youngsters went out looking for bamboo and off-cuts of paper and fabric to Anglicans divided on split meticulously create their aerodynamic fly- A group of traditionalist Anglican bishops ing wonders, said Fr Merlin Ince OMI of has admitted that Anglo-Catholic clergy are Wentworth’s Christ the King parish. sharply divided over how to respond to the “The mentorship which they received ordination of women as bishops.—Page 5 from the adults was an affirmation of their potential. As the winds picked up and lifted Who cares for care-givers? the kites, the look of awe and wonder in Conversation on HIV/Aids tends to focus on the eyes of these youth was most inspir- prevention and research, but those who pro- ing,” Fr Ince said. vide care are often neglected, experts say.— The event was part of the Winter Holi- Page 12 day Programme, which was hosted by Christ the King parish in collaboration Holy stairs and karaoke with other churches and non-governmen- A Catholic radio presenter led a pilgrimage of tal organisations. About 800 youths took listeners to Italy, finding that there is space part. for the holy and edifying as well as for rock The kite-flying event followed weeks of karaoke and green sambuca.—Page 13 revenge attacks and murders that had taken place among rival gangs in the area. Exposing the hoaxes “When these kids came together to fly their kites, it was with a sense of letting go In his weekly column, Chris Moerdyk expos- Youngsters fly kites in Wentworth, Durban, as part of an initiative hosted by Christ the King es e-mail hoaxes with which Christians dam- and letting what is only natural to happen parish in collaboration with other local churches and organisations. The event followed weeks of among youth: to be joyful, to make friends, age their own cause.—Page 12 gang violence in the area. PHOTO FROM, MERLIN INCE OMI to live freely,” Fr Ince said. What do you think? In their Letters to the Editor this week, read- ers discuss parish politics, xenophobia and Samaritans, Johannesburg’s new chancery, incense and Chinese bishops.—Page 8 Easy access to drugs This week’s editorial: Keep the press free Pope ‘dropped ‘trivialises abortion’

BY CAROL GLATZ decision by US regulators to begin using women’ from embryonic stem cells in clinical tests on ROMOTING easy access to RU-486 and human patients. other drugs that induce abortion risks The destruction of human embryos Jesus’ friends Ptrivialising the termination of a preg- involved in such research amounts to “the nancy, according to the president of the Pon- sacrifice of human beings” and is to be con- OPE Benedict has been criticised for tifical Academy for Life. demned, said the president emeritus of the not mentioning female disciples in a Commercialising abortion medication can Pontifical Academy for Life, Bishop Elio children’s book about Jesus titled The turn “an unwanted pregnancy into being Sgreccia. P almost like an annoying cold to be gotten rid Friends of Jesus. The US Food and Drug Administration The British chapter of the Catholic of with a pill,” Mgr Ignacio Carrasco de Paula (FDA) gave final approval for a clinical trial of advocacy group We Are Church said that told the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore embryonic stem cells as a treatment for Pope Benedict highlighted only male disci- Romano in an interview. patients with spinal-cord injuries, making the The Spanish monsignor, who is also a ples in a new children’s book published in People take part in a protest against abortion United States the first country to allow the his name, saying it implied women are sec- medical doctor, recalled working in Armenia in Seville, Spain, after changes in Spanish law testing of such cells on human beings. ond-class citizens in Christianity. after the 1998 earthquake. He said many of made it easier for women to terminate a preg- Geron Corporation, the company which Pope Benedict is described by the Vatican the women patients he worked with had nancy. The banner reads: “We want to live. won the FDA approval, plans to perform tests Information Service as the author of the 48- already had more than 20 abortions and that No to abortion.” on a small group of patients paralysed by a “for them abortion had become like having a page book about Jesus’ 14 friends who are PHOTO: JAVIER BARBANCHO, REUTERS/CNS spinal cord injury. listed as Peter, his brother Andrew, James coffee”. The company had won FDA approval the older, John, Thomas, Matthew, Philip, Such a blasé attitude “is a serious phenom- early last year, but after mice treated with the Bartholomew, James the younger, Simon, enon” that could easily spread to other parts co said. He believes the academy’s role is to cells developed spinal cysts, the government Judas Thaddeus, Judas Iscariot, Matthias and of Europe. “always go beyond polemics in order to put the clinical trials on hold amid concerns Paul. However, no mention is made of Mary However, indiscriminate use of the abor- reflect on every single aspect of the issue, over the safety of the procedure. The new Magdalene or any other female friends of tion pill may increase the number of women even if it is uncomfortable to face. Internal or government-approved trials aim to test the Jesus, the English daily The Times reported. who experience post-abortion syndrome, he external debate does not scare us, rather, it therapy’s safety on humans as well as its Valerie Stroud of We Are Church said: said. enriches us”. effectiveness. “In giving children the idea that Jesus only Mgr Carrasco, who was named head of the Mgr Carrasco urged people to at least try In an interview with Vatican Radio, Bish- favoured men, Pope Benedict sends a very life academy in June, said scholars are work- to resist the large financial and ideological op Sgreccia said science itself recognises the strong message that women are second-class ing on a document focussing on the psycho- interests lobbying for pro-abortion legisla- human embryo “is a human being in the citizens in the Christian religion. This was logical and emotional aftereffects of abortion tion. He praised Nicaraguan President Daniel making”. Destroying embryos “receives a never Jesus’ intention. The Supreme Pontiff because “it is certain that abortion, beside Ortega for abandoning his support of limited completely negative judgment” from an ethi- completely abandons the modern idea of killing an innocent person, weighs heavily abortion laws and becoming a strong oppo- cal point of view, no matter what justifica- equality within relationships.” on the conscience of the woman who resorts nent of abortion. tions are given for their use. Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi to one”. The academy is also studying the issue of The Italian bishop said embryonic stem SJ said the book was put together by an edi- The academy will study the impact and umbilical cord blood banks. While the cells have not been proven to be effective in tor but admitted that the pope had sanc- nature of the syndrome more in-depth and Church supports the use of stem cells derived therapies. He said embryonic stem cells are tioned the use of his name on the cover. release its findings and recommendations in from adults and umbilical cord blood, the “totipotent”, that is, they tend to reproduce a “The Pope has done explicitly a cate- a document by October 2011, he said. academy will look at whether public or prof- whole organism or individual, but not spe- chism about the many women in the ser- “When abortion is being talked about, it-driven private facilities would better and cialised cells. vice of the Gospel who were disciples of unfortunately, it triggers many issues that more fairly conserve and use such cells, he However, even if there were positive Jesus and helped him in his life,” he said.— always spark a heated debate, sometimes said. results from the use of such cells, “morally it cathnews even within the Catholic world,” Mgr Carras- The Vatican has condemned the recent would still be a crime,” he said.—CNS 22 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 LOCAL Using the Internet, TV for good Fr Stefan Hippler is pictured on a big screen as he addressed the audience at a BY MICHAIL RASSOOL chord among South Africans, working, in which answers to rock concert by German star Udo paving the way for subsequent all kinds of questions on the HE successful television initiatives. medium will be provided. Lindenberg in Tübingen, Germany. Fr serial Hopeville made by Hippler, co-founder of the Aids organisa- Heartlines is also engaged in “The Forgood web platform multi-media production tion HOPE Cape Town and former chap- T enabling churches to connect will allow people to share infor- lain to German-speaking Catholics, Heartlines, which aims to pro- to one another and the broader mation and activities and form received the Herman Hesse award of the mote good values in South community by using social net- groups based on a member's African society, is to be featured Udo Lindenberg Foundation for Young working tools, and is the basis geographical location and inter- on the big screen next month Musicans, which launched a two-year for its Forgood “Virtual” Plat- ests,” Ms Peppler said. in theatres across the country. fundraising programme for HOPE Cape form and Website project. “Interests can be chosen by Town. Fr Hippler said it was “a different Heartlines spokeswoman Val Pauquet said the six-part Through it churches would be the individual and could world for a priest” to stand on a stage with able to promote “Kingdom val- include among others, environ- rock musicians in front of thousands of “Hopeville” serial, a story of redemption and hope set in a ues” and “values in action”, ment, HIV/Aids, mentoring, screaming fans. “One would wish that said Tracey Peppler, who heads personal finance, religious affili- reaction after a sermon. It was amazing, poor rural town, was so well thrilling and scary at the same time,” the received that the SABC public up the Forgood team. ation and community safety. priest said. broadcaster repeated it. Ms Pauquet explained that “Because it is location-based, Heartlines says that audience digital media and social net- when a member accesses the ratings for the repeat broad- working tools such as Facebook site, a map of the area where cast’s first episode showed that and Twitter are set to become that member lives will be avail- 46% of the audience watching ever more advanced, and even able displaying local, useful television at the time were more and more complicated for information and existing activi- tuned into Hopeville, a joint some. Thus, she said, sights are ties in the member’s selected FRANCISCAN NARDINI SISTERS production with the SABC. set on assisting churches and areas of interest,” she said. Ms Pauquet also referred to individuals to be informed  For more information on Heart- the eight award-winning Heart- about “cutting edge” communi- lines and its products and pro- lines films depicting good val- cation tools. grammes, or more information on ues that were also shown on the Ms Pauquet said Heartlines is Hopeville film screenings, Ms public broadcaster, which publishing a downloadable Pauquet can be contacted struck “a resoundingly positive” practical guide to social net- 011 771 2540. Miss PE: not just a pretty face BY CLAIRE MATHIESON sash and tiara the Sunday after being crowned. INCE being crowned The The Nelson Mandela Metro- Herald Spec-Savers Miss politan University masters stu- SPort Elizabeth 2010, Bianca dent of pharmacy has dedicat- Harper, 24, has been shining ed her reign to raising funds both on stage and in her com- for the Missionvail Care Cen- munity. tre, a local non-profit organisa- The parishioner of St James’ tion that provides care and church in Schauderville, Port support to the residents of one Elizabeth, says the title is not of Port Elizabeth’s poorest about looking pretty, but rather communities. getting involved in the commu- The centre, founded by Little nity. Company of Mary Sister Ethel “It’s hard work, but, it’s a Normoyle in 1988, has been privilege and an honour and close to Ms Harper’s heart.“I has been life-changing.” wanted to support a charity to Blessed Paul Joseph Nardini Four months into her reign, which I had a personal affilia- Ms Harper has been involved in tion,” she said. She intends to a variety of events, including continue to do “whatever possi- For more information, contact the Vocation Team at judging potjiekos competitions ble” to help Sr Ethel’s centre. and handing out soccer balls at Ms Harper has enjoyed get- P/Bag X9309 PO Box 194 PO Box 12 local schools. ting dressed up for formal occa- Vryheid 3100 Wasbank 2920 Nkandla 3855 She describes her reign thus sions but says she has no prob- far as “a humbling experience,” lem getting stuck in with her which has presented many Tel: 034 981 6158 034 651 1444 035 833 0033 Bianca Harper, Miss PE 2010. various projects and charitable Fax: 034 983 2012 034 651 1096 035 833 0317 opportunities to herself and the obligations. community. PHOTO: FREDLIN ADRIAAN “I’m not a model and I’ve Some of the changes she has never really had the time to seen include her parish’s now effects of her achievement, enter a pageant. But a friend E-mail E-mail: E-mail: describing how it had already [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] flourishing youth group. The encouraged me to try and it’s group was formed to give brought her own community changed my life. God works in youngsters in the area a safe closer. A youth leader herself, mysterious ways and it’s been and fun environment to spend Ms Harper says her parish has exciting to see the positive their Friday evenings. Ms Harp- made her feel very special, influence this can have on Port er speaks fondly of the positive blessing her while wearing her Elizabeth.” Mothers unite to feed hungry kids BY MICHAIL RASSOOL currently running five main community. This promotes sus- projects—a feeding scheme, an tainable food security in the HEN Carol Jacobs Early Childhood Development interests of sustainable develop- realised that many (ECD) Centre, a library with ment, Ms Gordon said. Wchildren in her neigh- story-telling, arts and crafts, Ms Gordon—who serves on bourhood were not receiving at and sports. the parish pastoral council of St least one meal a day, she and The organisation is based on Mary’s in Retreat—said that two other mothers started feed- a piece of vacant land in Laven- Mothers Unite gives preference ing about 30 children from her der Hill provided by the City of to children who attend school mother’s home. Cape Town, which has come on regularly and encourages them After first feeding only 30 board as a partner. to complete their schooling. children, the Cape Town Ms Gordon said containers The link to St Mary’s is fur- Catholic from Retreat is now have been provided for its ther compounded by having feeding 350 children between the ages of three and 18 in the library that has computers and Retreat’s pastor, Redemptorist Lavender Hill area. an Internet café, its ECD centre Father Cecil Dowling, and some Two years on, the communi- and kitchen, which are run by parishioners serving on its ty-based initiative, which arose volunteers. board and executive committee. from a Christian concern about She said the library provides Ms Gordon said the organi- a real social problem in the educational support for learn- sation does not focus on adults, area, is named Mothers Unite: ers, including basic computer but provides support to them Let’s Feed Our Children. literacy, while arts and crafts by assisting them with basic Gerry Gordon, a member of encourages creative expression needs for their children. It also its executive committee, said as well as emotional healing. provides opportunities for skills Mothers Unite is often the only Sporting and community transfer to adult male and expression of care that children outreach event promote posi- female community volunteers see amid grinding poverty and tive leadership among children who become involved in its crime. as well as responsibility, self-dis- work, including basic computer She said Lavender Hill is cipline and a sense of cama- literacy, she said. characterised predominantly by raderie and self-giving, Ms Gor- Much of Mothers Unite’s poverty and crime, and the don said. funding has come from Bread- unemployment level is high. She said some of the organi- line Africa, and Ms Gordon said “The children we serve have sation’s full-time volunteers are partnerships would hopefully many basic needs: physical, from the community itself, be formed with other stake- emotional, spiritual and educa- while others are either students holders, especially companies tional, and Mothers Unite or individuals giving of their with strong social investment embraces the children in an time to do community work. and responsibility portfolios. integrated manner,” Ms Gordon A patch of the ground is also  For more information on Moth- said. cultivated as a food garden, ers Unite, contact Ms Gordon on She said the organisation is which is taken care of by the 082 825 0511. LOCAL The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 33 Service brings support to men, women at sea BY MICHAIL RASSOOL can ministry, joined the worldwide responsibilities of the Vatican’s Pon- Catholic Apostleship of the Sea and tifical Council for the Pastoral Care CONGREGATION at the the Sailors’ Society (formerly the of Migrants and Itinerant People. annual ecumenical service British and International Sailors’ Patty Lange, who manages the Aheld at the Mission to Seafar- Society) to hold it annually in port Mission to Seafarers, told The South- ers, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape towns and cities across the world. ern Cross that she sees her role as a Town, gathered to offer prayers to Other denominations have since mission, because there is no other those working at sea. come on board. place in port where seafarers can go At the service, the congregation Kurt and Thea Schönhoff, who to address their problems. heard about the harsh and exploita- are part of a Christian ministry that She said the mission often hears tive conditions that many of the seafarers work under as they travel serves harbour missions across the horrendous stories of beatings and the high seas on sub-standard world, told The Southern Cross they bullying from supervisors; how the trawlers and container vessels, with offer several services including seafarers, mainly men, are lured no recourse for redress. And many counselling, pastoral ministry, giv- with empty promises and find are separated from their homes and ing lifts, referrals, prayer services. themselves on sea vessels often families for months at a time, the This is “a call from God who with no money. Often the mission congregation heard. wants us to be here,” said Mr will organise for a representative of In his homily, Anglican Rev Bev- Schönhoff, who once worked on a the International Transport Federa- erley Johnson spoke of added envi- mission ship distributing bibles, tion to come in to listen to the ronmental hazards such as oil said. (From left) Anglican Rev Beverley Johnson, Deacon Gerald Sobotker, men’s grievances, Ms Lange said. spillage, and other problems such The facilities of the Mission to Deacon Richard Croucher and Kurt Schönhoff at the Cape Town service “Their gratitude for what we do as robbery and piracy. Seafarers, which also incorporates for seafarers. PHOTO: MICHAIL RASSOOL here is genuine, given that they are The service was held on Sea Sun- the Catholic archdiocese of Cape so far away from home,” Ms Lange day, an ecumenical day to remem- Town’s Apostleship of the Sea, said. The mission receives no funds ber and pray for seafarers, their include a canteen, recreation room, lains—Scalabrinian Father Gerardo The Apostleship of the Sea oper- from outside and supports itself families and churches’ ministry to provisions shop, a library, mail ser- Garcia, Deacon Richard Croucher ates in 416 ports around the world, through the nominal amounts. them. vice and Internet services and and Deacon Gerald Sobotker, who including fishing ports, on all five  For more information on the Apos- Internationally, it was first cele- chapel. The chapel is also used for is based at the mission. The arch- continents, and its teams include tleship of the Sea and the Mission for brated in 1975, when the Mission baptisms and marriages. diocese of Durban has its own apos- priests and deacons, religious and Seafarers, Deacon Sobotker can be con- to Seafarers, an international Angli- The mission has three chap- tleship. lay people. It falls under the overall tacted on 021 419 3117. Special ministry brings The New priests boost Capuchin outreach Southern Cross to the blind BY MICHAIL RASSOOL NEW Capuchin foundation BY MICHAIL RASSOOL a better finish, thanks to the skills in Siyabuswa, Pretoria, in of Adrian Kettle, one of their tape Awhich four of the order’s LIND Catholics in South aids readers. priests from Tanzania have settled Africa have the opportunity Mr Kettle has set up a makeshift and assumed responsibilities as Bto catch up with local and studio with soundproof conditions pastors, is progressing well, a priest international Catholic news for recording sessions. No longer based at the order’s formation thanks to the help of a group of are headphones required and house has said. volunteers. unlike before readers can sit dur- Fr Kees Thönissen OFMCap, The Catholic group meets peri- ing recordings. who coordinated the process of odically and selects important arti- Ms Vieyra is no stranger to settling the Fathers at St Anthony cles from The Southern Cross, helping those with special needs. of Egypt, said the priests are set- which they then record for blind She trained, and for many years tling in well. people with an interest in their worked, as a teacher of deaf chil- The parish is in a semi-rural Church, both locally and across area in the north-eastern deanery dren in London, and is known in the world. that was formerly in the posses- the Cape Town archdiocese for Veronica Vieyra, parishioner of sion of the Missionaries of Africa Christ the King in Pinelands, Cape producing creative catechetical (White Fathers). Fr Paul Shewiyo, Fr Odilo Mroso, Fr Benedict Mtena and Fr Ewald Nangay at Town, latched onto the idea while and spiritual material for children Fr Thönissen said the Swahili- St Anthony of Egypt church in Siyabuswa, Pretoria. doing recording work and proof- and adults with special needs. speaking priests are learning Zulu, reading for Tape Aids for the It was in this role that she the main language of the area, to for some time, Fr Thönissen said. the pastoral work of the whole dis- Blind. It is one of a range of activi- taught catechetics to patients at enable them to evangelise their According to Fr Sean Cahill trict around Siyabuswa. ties she has been engaged in over Alexandra Hospital, a secondary flock better. He said they might OFMCap, vice-provincial of the “It will take some time before the years—helping those with spe- hospital for the treatment and also learn Pedi. Capuchins in South Africa, who the four Tanzanian fathers adjust cial needs. Ms Vieyra regards this rehabilitation of the intellectually He said the four—Frs Odilo facilitated the Fathers’ arrival, the to this new environment,” Mgr as a special ministry. disabled, in Maitland. Moroso, pastor and guardian of order is renowned for ministering Gabuza wrote. Since The Southern Cross tape She also had dealings with the the community, Paul Shewiyo, in situations that are challenging. “Some local social, economic aids service began about five year Helen Keller Society in Pinelands, Benedict Mtena and Ewald Nan- In a pastoral letter to Pretoria’s and political dynamics may be for- ago, said Ms Vieyra, requests have which provides board, lodging and gay—were formally welcomed at Catholics, Mgr Gabuza said the eign to them” he said. come from all over South Africa care to visually impaired people. Sacred Heart cathedral by Mgr Abel arrival of the new missionaries Fr Cahill said as part of their with special arrangements made The society also provides advice Gabuza, administrator of the arch- probably brought relief to Fr Her- pastoral outreach in Siyabuswa, with postal services for nominal and assistance to people of diocese. man Mole, who had been minis- the Fathers would promote voca- rates or free postage. impaired sight from the surround- The process of getting the tering alone to the Siyabuswa com- tions. He said the new situation The service has up to seven ing community. Capuchins to minister in Pretoria munity since the White Fathers’ also came about because the Tan- readers, and the sound has become  For details on The Southern archdiocese began with retired departure. He said with the arrival zanian Capuchin provincial had more technically proficient, with Cross tape aids service, contact Ms Archbishop George Daniel who of the new missionaries the arch- also been looking for missionary minimal noise, more polished and Vieyra on 021 532 0661. had wanted the Capuchins there diocese would have to restructure outreach.

Tony Wyllie & Co. “Eat the Scroll” Rev 10:9 Catholic Funeral Home Scripture’s Challenge to Church and Society Personal and Dignified The Catholic Theological Society of Southern Africa 24-hour service Annual Conference open to all: 469 Voortrekker Rd, Maitland Tel: September 20-22, 2010 021 593 8820 St Augustine College, Johannesburg 48 Main Rd, Muizenberg The Spirituality of the Bible Tel: 021 788 3728  Rt Rev Bishop William Slattery OFM Member of the NFDA Place and Pilgrimage: The Bible in a Time of Environmental Crisis  Bro Kevin McDonell Crossing I’s? Biblical Spirituality and Human Rights  Prof Christo Lombaard Angels, Suffering and a Collossae Challenge to the Church Today  Fr Gerhardus Hattingh “Beauty and Beast”: Deuteronomy as Benchmark for the Constitution of South Africa?  Fr Martin Badenhorst OP Democratisation of Bible Reading in the Church: An Uncalculated Risk?  Mrs Margaret Mollett A Sharing of Recent Theological Research in South Africa  Chaired by Fr Dr Rodney Moss Conference Fee: Two days R225  One day R175 For cost of meals, accomodation etc contact: Dr Nicky Luyckx on Tel/Fax (011) 463 9093 or e-mail [email protected] 44 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 INTERNATIONAL St Peter’s Roman prison rediscovered BY CAROL GLATZ ing St Peter and an 11th-century tion, sprang forth after St Peter fresco of Jesus with the oldest pounded on the stone floor”. Tradi- RADITION holds that St Peter known image of the Campidoglio, tion holds that after he miraculous- was jailed in Rome’s maxi- Rome’s city hall, behind him. ly made the water gush forth, he Tmum security Mamertine Patrizia Fortini from the city of converted and baptised his two Prison before he was crucified Rome’s department of archaeologi- prison guards as well as 47 others upside down and buried on the hill cal heritage led the excavation and while he was imprisoned there. where St Peter’s Basilica was later restoration project. She told jour- Near the basin, archaeologists built. And now after recent excava- nalists they found proof that the found a trough which, centuries tions in Rome’s oldest prison, site had been a place for venerating later, the faithful may have used to archaeologists say they have uncov- St Peter by the 7th century, lending sprinkle themselves with water. ered evidence that, while not pro- support to historical accounts that The stone walls had been paint- viding direct proof, does support he had been incarcerated there. ed, Ms Fortini said, but time and that belief. The prison has two levels: the humidity took their toll. There is The prison, which lies beneath upper chamber called the “Carcer” only one small fresco left in a dark the church of St Joseph of the Car- and the lower chamber called the corner under the stairs. The 9th- penters facing the Roman Forum, “Tullianum”, which was built in century image, discovered in 2000, was closed for the past year as the 6th century BC. In the Tul- shows the outline of the hand of experts dug up old floors and lianum, Ms Fortini said, they found God emerging from a white cloud picked away plaster. They found “traces of a basin that must have as he points down towards Earth. A portion of the marble column, and restored a 14th-century fresco been where water was collected— which tradition says Ss Peter and of Jesus with his arm around a smil- water which, according to tradi- Paul were chained to, stands A view of the lower level of the ancient Mamertine prison in Rome. Tradition next to a simple altar. holds that St Peter was imprisoned here before he was crucified. Archaeolo- One of the most interest- gists say that after recent excavations in Rome’s oldest prison they have ing finds, Ms Fortini said, uncovered evidence that, while not providing direct proof, does support the was discovering what the belief that St Peter was held at the jail, which previously had been a pagan site of worship. Tullianum had been used PHOTO: PAUL HARING,CNS for in pre-Christian Rome. Experts removed old brick and wooden floors, and healing powers of water and prison complex in 1598. digging down to the origi- turned it into a dungeon. The project to study and restore nal stone floor. Scholars had Ms Fortini said the underground the Mamertine Prison was a cooper- believed the domed prison water spring also conjured up many ative effort of Rome’s department was a cistern or a monu- negative and dangerous scenarios. of archaeological heritage, the mentalised fountain of For example, in pagan Rome it was Rome diocesan Committee for sorts. Instead, Ms Fortini thought the spring provided a Sacred Art and Cultural Heritage said it had been “an ancient direct channel to the netherworld. and the diocesan travel agency, place of worship” specifical- Archaeologists found an ancient Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi. ly devoted to a water divini- borehole which “put the inhabited After the Mamertine Prison ty such as “a nymph of world into contact with the under- reopened to the public at the end underground water”. They world and, therefore, there was the of June, the Opera Romana incor- found ancient remnants of possibility of having contact with porated it into a new tour called votive offerings to the deity, the beyond somehow”, she said. “Roma Cristiana Experience”. things such as small burned Enemies of the Roman empire Pilgrims hop on a methane gas- animal bones and floral or were thrown into the watery pit of powered minibus leaving St Peter’s vegetable matter dating the Tullianium through a hole in Square every 20 minutes and take a from between the 5th and the upper chamber of the Carcer. scenic route through Rome to the 3rd centuries BC. Romans believed the prisoners Mamertine Prison for a tour. would then be carried away or just The tour is meant to help peo- rom the ancient pagan disappear into the netherworld—a ple deepen their faith and recog- FRomans to early Chris- fate worse than death, she said. nise the site’s spiritual heritage: its tians, “this place was always The structure was used as a successive conversion from being venerated. It never lost its prison until the 4th century, when a sacred pagan spring, to being a Sr Bernadette Duffy Sr Geraldine Barry sacredness”, Ms Fortini said. Pope Sylvester I officially made it a dank place of suffering and death, P.O. Box 48775 P.O. Box 19564 It may seem odd, howev- place of worship and named it “San and finally, after St Peter made the er, that the ancient Romans HERCULES 0030 LENTEGEUR 7786 Pietro in Carcere” (St Peter in waters pour forth, to becoming a took a sacred pagan spot for Prison) in 314. The church of St place of renewal and rebirth.— Tel: 012 379 8559 Tel: 021 374 3486 venerating the life-giving Joseph was built atop the former CNS Cell: 072 871 7641 Pope lauds cluster bomb ban  OPE Benedict has praised isfaction with the the Conven- human life, to promote integral HOT POT PAINT the 108 nations that have tion on Cluster Munitions, human development, to estab- J.M.J Padopted a treaty banning which took effect on August 1, lish a peaceful international the stockpiling and use of clus- and reiterated his personal con- order and to achieve the com- AND HARDWARE ter bombs and encouraged other cern for “the numerous victims mon good of all persons and all nations to follow suit “for the who have suffered and continue peoples”. (PTY) LTD defence of human dignity and to suffer” serious damage A commentary issued by the human life”. “because of these insidious Vatican press office said the Vat- The pope said the weapons, weapons”. ican had been a member of the which release a cluster of small With the ban, he said, “the core group promoting the ban 46, 12th Street, Springs, 1559 international community has and an active participant in the bombs over a wide area, “pro- demonstrated wisdom, farsight- Oslo process, which led to the Tel: (011) 362 3071, (011) 362 4682/3, (011) 8121655/6/7 voke unacceptable damage on edness and the ability to achieve drafting and adoption of the civilians”. a significant result in the field of convention. BRANCHES: According to the United disarmament and international In addition, it said, the Holy Nations, “many cluster submu- humanitarian law”. See was one of the first countries Springs (011) 362 3071 nitions fail to detonate on The pope said he hoped to ratify it, out of a “conviction impact and become de facto nations that did not adopt the that the logic of peace is Vereeniging (016) 427 5525 antipersonnel mines killing and treaty—including the United stronger than the logic of war, maiming people long after the States, Russia and China—would which, in every case, must have Alberton (011) 907 8676 conflict has ended”. adhere to it and that the entire limits that cannot be crossed for After reciting the Angelus international community the protection and safeguarding Benoni (011) 422 2331 with visitors at the papal sum- “would continue on this path of the civilian population, par- mer villa in Castel Gandolfo, the with increasing energy for the ticularly the most vulnerable Heidelberg (016) 349 5886 pope expressed the Vatican’s sat- defence of human dignity and people”.—CNS Boksburg (011) 892 5186 Randburg (011) 678 2436 Miracle man to be at Newman beatification BY SIMON CALDWELL have been asked to assist at the Catholic roots, in Cofton Park in Lephalale (Ellisras) papal Mass as deacon, for it best Birmingham, England. N American who was inex- Mike or Annette (014) 763 3147 reflects my simple prayer, ‘Cardi- Fr Jan Nowotnik, the Birming- plicably healed from a crip- nal Newman, help me to walk so ham archdiocese’s coordinator pling spinal condition after A that I can return to classes and for liturgy, said that, besides pro- praying for Cardinal John Henry be ordained a deacon,’” he said. claiming the Gospel, “Deacon STOCKISTS OF: Paint, Hardware, Geysers, Roll-up Newman’s intercession will read the Gospel and serve as a deacon “For years I suffered as Sullivan and his wife, Carol, garage doors, Sink tops, Bosch Power Tools. when Pope Benedict beatifies the patiently as I could and was along with other representatives 19th-century cardinal in Septem- rewarded instantly by a simple will form part of a procession ber. prayer. I am most grateful now that will immediately follow the ALL AT THE VERY BEST PRICES! Deacon Jack Sullivan of that the Church has seen fit to Rite of Beatification when the Marshfield, Massachussets, said reward Cardinal Newman as he new Blessed John Henry New- he was asked to participate in courageously followed the light man is proclaimed”. the September 19 Mass by Fr of truth.” Pope Benedict is waiving his Looking to open franchises in ALL areas. Timothy Menezes, the master of Pope Benedict will beatify own rules to perform a beatifica- ceremonies for the beatification, Cardinal Newman, a 19th-centu- tion as pope for the first time, If interested please contact when the English priest recently ry theologian who founded the instead of sending a high-rank- Nero or Gerald on 083 4606650 visited the United States. Oxford Movement to bring the ing Vatican official to conduct “I am extremely excited that I Anglican Church back to its the ceremony.—CNS INTERNATIONAL The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 55

YOUYOU & TheSoutherSouthernn CrossCross Has The Southern Cross played an important part in your life? Have you written for The Southen Cross? Do you have a great anecdote involving The Southern Cross? If so, we would love to hear from you for our SPECIAL 90TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE in October.

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People stand next to a wooden cross as police guard an area in front of the presidential palace in Warsaw, Poland. Authorities said a cross commemorating Poland’s late President Lech Kaczynski is to be moved from in front of the palace despite protests by Catholic groups and Mr Kaczynski’s sup- porters. Tens of thousands of Poles have left flowers, lit candles and prayed at the wooden cross, put up outside the presidential palace in Warsaw by a scout group after the April 10 plane crash that killed 96 people, including Mr Kaczynski. PHOTO: KACPER PEMPEL, REUTERS/CNS Trad Anglicans divided over split BY SIMON CALDWELL Anglicans can be received into “cannot currently imagine the Catholic Church as a group themselves being anywhere else GROUP of traditionalist while retaining their distinctive but within the Church of Eng- Anglican bishops has patrimony and liturgical prac- land”. Aadmitted that Anglo- tices, including married priests. The clergy’s 2008 open letter Catholic clergy are sharply An application for an English to Anglican Archbishops Rowan divided over how to respond to ordinariate, which would Williams of Canterbury and the ordination of women as resemble a military diocese in John Sentamu of York asked the bishops. structure, has yet to be made by church to make “generous and Fifteen bishops belonging to a mainstream Anglican group in coherent provision for us” if the Forward in Faith, the largest Britain. synod pressed ahead with plans Anglo-Catholic group in the But the bishops said some to ordain women as bishops. Church of England, admitted Anglicans were already resolved The signatories had sought that the Anglo-Catholic faction “to join the ordinariate as the episcopal visitors, or “flying of the church could not decide place where they can find a bishops”, to minister to their collectively what course of home in which to live and pro- members, but the synod rejected action to take. claim their Christian faith, in this in favour of women bishops They said members faced a communion with the Holy agreeing to make alternative range of options in response to Father, yet retaining something arrangements for traditionalists the mid-July vote by the Gener- of the blessings they have through a code of practice. al Synod, the church’s national known and experienced in the In their letter, the tradition- assembly, to create women Anglican tradition”. alist bishops said that “those of bishops by 2014 without meet- They said: “Of course the us unable in good conscience to ing demands of objectors. ordinariate is a new thing, and accept that any particular Describing themselves as not all of us are trailblazers or church has the authority to bishops “united in our belief can imagine what it might be admit women to the episco- that the Church of England is like. Some will undoubtedly pate” were now facing “grave mistaken in its actions” they want to wait and see how that times”. wrote to more than 1 300 initiative develops before mak- The bishops also warned Anglo-Catholic priests and dea- ing a decision. Yet others will clergy against infighting. cons who in June 2008 regis- make their individual submis- “It would be a sad and tered their opposition to sion and find their future as destructive thing indeed if we women bishops in an open let- Roman Catholics.” allowed our unhappiness and ter to Anglican leaders. Some Anglo-Catholics, the wondering to drift into The bishops’ letter said it was bishops added, would remain in unguarded or uncharitable criti- inevitable that many tradition- the Church of England “per- cism of those who, in good con- alists, including some bishops, haps even reluctantly because science, take a different path would take up Pope Benedict’s of personal circumstances, fami- from our own. offer of a personal ordinariate ly loyalties, even financial “We must assume the best within the Catholic Church. necessity, but with a deep sense motives in one another, and That offer was contained in the of unease about the long-term where there are partings let pope’s November apostolic con- future, an unease that is surely them be with tears and the best stitution Anglicanorum coetibus. well-founded”. wishes of godspeed,” the bish- Under this arrangement They said such worshippers ops said.—CNS Congo cardinal was ‘a national hero’ RESIDENT Joseph Kabila of Archbishop Monsengwo. the Democratic Republic of Celebration initiatives have PCongo has been praised by included a series of conferences the country’s Church for pro- on different aspects of the Car- claiming a cardinal a “national dinal’s personality. hero”. “The Cardinal was one of the The Catholic Church in the first African theologians to pro- DRC is currently celebrating the mote the inculturation of Chris- Year of Cardinal Joseph-Albert tian values,” Archbishop Mon- Malula (1917-89), an initiative sengwo told a conference titled to commemorate the 50th “Cardinal Malula, a man of cul- anniversary of the late cardi- ture”. nal’s episcopal ordination and “He was an excellent writer, 20 years since his death. a man deeply committed to the The commorative year began political debate, an avid reader, last September and will run a great composer of music (he until September 20. composed many hymns for the Archbishop Laurent Monsen- Cardinal Malula (1917-89) Congolese rite), a lover of the gwo Pasinya of Kinshasa said arts and an admirer of African that Cardinal Malula was a lapidary statement, ‘a Con- cultural values such as matri- source of inspiration for the golese Church in a Congolese mony. activity of future generations nation’, for his search for an “The cardinal left an incom- and politicians, for culture, for African conscience…we are mensurable legacy to the the nation and for the Church. grateful to the government for Catholic Church in Congo and “For his tireless search for proclaiming Cardinal Albert in the rest of whole world.”— excellence and perfection, his Malula a national hero,” said CISA LEADER PAGE

The Editor reserves the right to shorten or edit published letters. Letters below 300 words receive preference. Pseudonyms are acceptable only under special LETTERS TO circumstances and at the Editor’s discretion. Name and address of the writer THE EDITOR must be supplied. No anonymous letter will be considered. Editor: Günther Simmermacher For heavens sake, isn’t a priest relationship with friends. It’s Parish politics allowed leisurely time with friends healthy to have friends, but Keep the press free or fellow parishioners be they unhealthy to control that friend- HRIS Moerdyk’s column (July female or male? ship. Control freaks are found in most Equally sad is that some mem- OUTH Africans must be compromise the media’s free- 21) makes for interesting reading, especially his com- organisations and the Church is no bers of the clergy find it difficult to deeply worried about the dom to comment, within the C exception. Normally they are trim the wings of this type of mooted statutory Media confines of the Constitution, ments on “control freaks” and the S “rumour-mongers”. retired leaders or managers who parishioner. They normally Appeals Tribunal and protec- must be opposed by those who find it difficult to let go of authori- respond with: “They love what they tion of information laws which subscribe to democratic princi- With regard to the latter, if a priest is seen in the company of a ty. In their enthusiasm, they quick- are doing. Don’t let us take it away effectively propose to exercise ples. ly offer their services before any one from them” or “don’t let’s rock their The Catechism of the female parishioner having coffee at state control over media and a local coffee-bar, the onlooker else can raise their hand. boat.” the flow of information. Catholic Church confirms the becomes suspicious. Immediately To offer assistance is more often Mr Moerdyk’s comment “…but There is little cause to pre- freedom of the press when it they concur that there is something than not met with suspicion of a it does help a lot if they [the priests] sume that South Africa’s media says: “Society has a right to “going-on” between the priest and “take-over” bid. Their response have enough people skills to keep are lacking in ethics, as the pro- information based on truth, the woman. They can’t wait to being, “No thank you, I’ve got it all those over-enthusiastic volunteers ponents of the tribunal idea freedom, justice and solidari- relate the scene to others. under control.” Sadly, these zealots’ under control” is worth noting. seem to suggest. The case of the ty.” The Catechism urges civil attitude spills over to their personal Peter Venter, Durban North corruption of Cape Argus authorities “to defend and safe- reporter Ashley Smith by politi- guard a true and just freedom ders, creeds, and ages can live Incense is also used at other litur- cians is significant precisely of information”. SA’s Samaritans together peacefully. gical celebrations of the Church. I because it is so unusual. Jour- The proposed tribunal could HE Church in South Africa— And we need to pray—for mercy, am sure the clergy do take into con- nalists are scandalised by Mr be abused to violate that free- not just as an institution or forgiveness, unity, peace, and for us sideration those of the community Smith’s breach of their profes- dom. Indeed, even the threat of Thierarchy, but we all as to love our neighbour. and of the faithful, who suffer from sion’s codes because most take being summoned by the tri- Catholics, Christians and South Chris Hill, Cape Town asthma and other allergies in the Africans—must speak out and act these ethics very seriously bunal could result in undue use of incense. When incense is against xenophobia. used, normally the doors and win- indeed. and undesirable self-censor- It is distressing to see a rise in God’s preferential dows are open and in some church- ship. There is little need to impose xenophobic attacks after the World es there are special rooms for those statutory control over a profes- However, journalists and Cup. We all spoke how this was option for poor who suffer from any ill-effects of sion that regards its integrity as editors themselves have obliga- Africa’s World Cup. We were cheer- WOULD not steal Johannesburg incense. an inviolable asset. In most tions which require periodic ing for Ghana, calling them our diocese’s thunder in committing Incense is a symbol and a sign of democracies, self-regulation revision. The Catechism sum- brothers. And now, we are driving Ito such a costly project as the our prayers rising to God and the through the offices of an marises these ethics: “Journal- out and threatening with violence new chancery. However I do share holy angels. impartial ombud works perfect- ists have an obligation to serve those very same brothers and sisters. the concerns of the letter writers in Holy water when we bless our- ly well. And when it fails, the truth and not offend This sounds so very much like your June 21 issue. Why? selves is a symbol of our baptism aggrieved parties have recourse against charity in disseminat- the Palm Sunday crowds welcom- The basic principle underlying into the death and resurection of to the law, as they presently ing information. They should ing the Messiah into Jerusalem as our Catholic social teaching is our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us not see have in South Africa. strive to respect, with equal King and then on the Friday calling “God’s preferential option for the incense as “abusive” but as a symbol The African National Con- care, the nature of the facts and for his execution. poor and the voiceless”. Does this of our Christian and Catholic faith. gress is not being subtle in its the limits of critical judgment We have heard at Mass the story mean God must do the work to Daniel Ambrose Manuel SCP, plan to impose some control concerning individuals.” of the Good Samaritan. This story is realise this preferential option or is Cape Town over the media, euphemisms Journalists, editors and their not simply allegorical. When Jesus it a challenge to those who believe such as a desire “to strengthen publications must be held told this parable, he too recognised in a God crying for social justice? and rejected the prejudices and Plight of detained media freedom and account- accountable when they exceed If we look at biblical history as a hatred—the xenophobia—of his whole, God has always called on ability” notwithstanding. the boundaries of what is own people, including his disciples Chinese bishops The suspicion cannot be dis- acceptable within the confines someone to spearhead this option. (Lk 9:51-56). In South Africa who is spearheading O where are the two Chinese missed that the ANC seeks to of a free press in a democratic Who is our neighbour? Who is bishops, James Su Zhemin and create an environment in society. this special option of God’s? The our Samaritan? It is the Zimbab- name that comes first to mind for SCosmos Shi Enxiang who from which it can intimidate jour- This accountability must wean, Nigerian, Congolese, and his endeavours on God’s behalf for the report in The Southern Cross nalists and editors who engage continue to find expression in Somalian brother and sister in our the poor, I am sure you will agree, is have been held in detention in in investigative journalism, as the right to reply, in arbitration midst. We need to speak out at in Bishop Kevin Dowling. China since 2007? well as prospective sources. The by an ombud, or, if necessary, our parishes and publicly—through Who will join me in challenging Is there still an active search for proposed legislation and tri- in the application of laws gov- the Southern African Catholic Bish- the fundraisers of Johannesburg dio- them or official requests from the bunal would help protect the erning libel and slander (and, ops Conference, the Catholic cese to raise an equal amount to Vatican for their release? I thought ANC and government from of course, treason). media, Justice & Peace structures— embolden Bishop Dowling’s it was very bold of the recently uncomfortable questions about It cannot be the function of and with the wider Christian endeavours (and any others consid- released bishop, Julius Jia Zhiguo, to conflicts of interest, arms deals, a government or a tribunal it Church. ered to be working for God’s prefer- resist attempts of being assimilated generally corrupt relationships, would effectively appoint and We must commit to taking a ential option). by such puppet government stand against xenophobic threats, approved organisations as “the Chi- dishonest tender processes and control to set these limita- Rosemary Gravenor, Durban dubious hotel bills. tions—especially not when that attitudes, and behaviours by col- nese Catholic Patriotic Association” leagues, neighbours, friends, family, There is no reason why the government’s ruling party has which in essence is nothing more the police, politicians and the gen- than a public façade for the Chinese been implicated in a succession public should trust the ANC’s eral public. We need to believe in In defence of government to display how tolerant protestations that this is not of scandals uncovered by the an South Africa shaped by cultural they are of Catholic bodies in their the intention. Even if this is press. diversity where people of different incense country, yet detaining without trial not the purpose for interven- When the ANC in its Sep- nationalities, languages, races, gen- N response to S Curror’s letter on anyone who dares voice an opinion tion now, it may well be the tember general council discuss- incense: “The smoke of incense about any of its policies and human effect tomorrow. es the proposals contained in Opinions expressed in The Southern rose before God, with the prayers rights abuses. Cross, especially in Letters to the Editor, I Moreover, the tribunal and the working document “Media of the saints from the hand of the Is the wonderful loyalty that law could be abused to intimi- Transformation, Ownership do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or staff of the newspaper, or of the angel”— (Revelation 8:4). Bishop Julius shows to the Pope rec- date commentators in the and Diversity”, it must be left Catholic hierarchy. The letters page in par- Incense is used during the liturgy iprocated by action on the part of media whose criticism the gov- in no doubt that the proposed ticular is a forum in which readers may of the hours, especially at solemn the Vatican to find the other two erning party finds discordant, tribunal and information law exchange opinions on matters of debate. vespers (evening prayer) with the detained bishops? Who does one unfair or otherwise undesirable. would wound South Africa’s Letters must not be understood to neces- exposition of the blessed Sacrament approach for information? I certain- Any legislation that might democracy profoundly. sarily reflect the teachings, disciplines or and in religious houses on a Sunday ly will pray for them. policies of the Church accurately. evening. Romina Rubin, Pretoria

KRUGER PARK MANAGER FOR SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE VIVA SAFARIS St Anthony’s Education Centre, an equal (Member of SATSA) opportunity NPO has a vacancy for a Manager of the Skills Training Centre. SCHEDULED DAILY SAFARIS TO KRUGER PARK Fly-in and overland tours. See www.vivasafaris.com The duties include the management of the Centre (both resource and financial management), marketing and fundraising for the Centre and Viva Safaris is engaged with overseeing the quality of the technical training. The successful candidate should preferably possess a qualification in a technical field and 4 projects aimed at the upliftment have an in-depth knowledge of the skills training sector. A of the Acornhoek community, minimum of three years experience in a management position is a Pregnant? requirement. Good leadership capability, good communication, writing including the COMBONI Help is as near as skills and computer literacy are also required. An understanding of the NPO sector will be an advantge. Salary - negotiable. MISSIONARIES’ OUTSTATION your telephone 011 403 1718 This appointment will be in line with the prevailing Christian ethos of the Centre. The Father Xico with partially 031 201 5471 application form and additional information on St Anthony’s Education Centre may be www.volunteersafaris.co.za completed church building www.birthright.co.za obtained at www.st-anthonyscentre.co.za. Donations and Closing date: 16 August 2010. If you have not received a response by 15 September 2010, 082 450 9930 Trevor volunteers and prayers please note that your application was not successful. Reservations: 082 444 7654 Piero 082 506 9641 Anthony always welcome PERSPECTIVES The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17 2010 77

Toni Rowland A spiritual resolve Wilfrid Napier OFM Family Point of

Friendly Michael Austin SJ Reflection Last week Fr Austin Mary as queen in introduced us to the early The Newman Commit to the days of Cardinal John Henry Chronicles Women’s month Newman, who will be seemed to see more and more my utter common good HE feast of the Assumption, August 15, as beatfied by Pope Benedict hollowness” he wrote in the apologia. HAT is the common good? According the patronal feast of South Africa is an “I felt God was fighting against me to Catholic teaching the principle of Timportant feature in Church life that per- in September. When we left because of my self-will.” Over and over Wthe common good to which every haps is underutilised. he reviewed his bitter struggle he had aspect of social life must be related if it is to I am well aware that some parishes have an off, Newman was a young had with the powerful structures at attain its fullest meaning, stems from the digni- all-night vigil or pilgrimage in preparation for Anglican vicar and chaplain Oxford, and it came to him that “I was ty, unity and equality of all people. the celebration of the feast (which this year fighting then for my own advance- The common good is the sum total of social needn’t be transferred). But I’m not sure what at Oxford unversity ment and not for the Lord”. conditions which allow people, either as groups the focus of the celebrations usually is and With the nature of his crisis now or as individuals to reach their fulfillment more how it can be applied to family life. This is, Church, St Mary’s. revealed, Newman came to terms with fully and more easily. after all, a core element and the basic building God and with self. He resolved never A society that wishes and intends to remain block of the Church as a whole and is the again to seek his own will, but only at the service of the human being at every level model for the African Church, given the image HE spiritual vacuum that Cardi- God’s, and to depend on God’s is a society that has the common good—the “Church-as-family”. nal John Henry Newman had strength, not his own, to accomplish good of all people and of the whole person—as In August we also celebrate Women’s Day, Tbeen experiencing within himself it. Besides the return of his physical its primary goal. The human person cannot which in fact has pretty well become Women’s and which pervaded Oxford existed to strength, he also felt renewed spiritual- find fulfilment in himself, that is, apart from Month, probably at the instigation of the a greater or lesser degree throughout ly. Confidently he wrote home, “God the fact that he exists with others and for oth- media who find that a useful hook to hang all England on the 19th century. The has work for me to do in England.” ers. kinds of promotions on. So we, in the Church, British considered themselves to be While becalmed off the island of The demands of the common good are can do the same. Christians, but most reserved religion Sardinia on the voyage home, he dependent on the social conditions of each his- The Family Life Desk uses hooks too, like for its proper time and place—on Sun- wrote the magnificent poem, “Lead torical period and are strictly connected to the Soccer World Cup and the theme for 2010 day in church. Kindly Light”, a distillation of the spir- respect for and the integral promotion of the of “Families Play the Game”. So then August’s Most of the clergy considered them- itual experience he had had. From person and his fundamental rights. game-related family life theme is “How Men selves to be professionals—men as nec- now on the “Kindly Light” was to be The common good therefore involves all and Women Play”. essary for the proper functioning of the beacon by which he steered his members of society; no one is exempt from Mary is honoured in the Church primarily society as bankers, doctors, lawyers life. cooperation, according to each one’s possibili- as Mother of God but has a whole litany of and teachers. Rather than challenging Immediately on his return to ties, in attaining it and developing it. Everyone other titles too. She is queen; of heaven, of their congregations with the Gospel, Oxford he regrouped his scattered also has the right to enjoy the conditions of angels and saints, queen of peace and in the the clergy of the established Church forces. The young scholars who had social life that are brought about by the quest Litany of Loreto, queen of the family too. preferred to view themselves as part of worked with him to revitalise Oxford’s for the common good. a society that accepted only those As regular readers of this column know, I spiritual life now raised their sights. The responsibility for attaining the common parts of the Gospel that accorded with am actively promoting the idea of a “family They aimed at nothing less than the good, besides falling to individual persons, English ways of thinking and acting. hour”, ideally as a time for family members to religious renewal of the whole of belongs to the state, since the common good is “How did we ever get that way?” spend together, “praying and playing”. This Britain. the reason that the political authority exists. was the question Newman and his means sharing their thoughts and concerns, The first target was the clergy of the To ensure the common good, the govern- young clerical friends who shared his and working out solutions to family issues established Church. They urged them ment of each country has the specific duty to concern for the spiritual life of Eng- in a pamphlet (called Tract) and in ser- harmonise the different sectoral interests with together as well as having some fun. land puzzled over. In our present social context, how is the mons and newspaper articles to the requirements of justice. To discover the answer, they began rethink their role in society. The clergy notion of queen perceived? What is our atti- The common good of society is not an end reading the history of Christianity were accused of resting their authority in itself; it has value only in reference to attain- tude and experience around the word queen as from the earliest times. Out of this on their own temporal distinctions ing the ultimate ends of the person and the a leader, an authority figure, a role model, a research came Newman’s first great and government support. universal common good of the whole of cre- figure-head? We may think of Queen Elizabeth historical study, The Arians of the Newman complained: “I fear we ation. II of England, who in her 80s is still a very Fourth Century, the first of many schol- have neglected the real ground on This means that in seeking to meet the respected figure. arly works on the early Church. It also which our authority is built—our demands of the common good, government Or we may think of Queen Nandi, the signalled the end of evangelical Angli- descent from the apostles… Did the must set out clearly the measures it can and mother of King Shaka, who overcame many canism for the Reverend Mr Newman, state make us? Can it unmake us? Are will take to ensure that its citizens have shelter, obstacles, including exile, and is regarded by M.A. (Oxon), Vicar of St Mary’s. we content to be the mere creation of security, food, clothing, healthcare; but its first the Zulus as a symbol of hard work, patience Late in 1832, Newman’s fellow the state?” priority is to respect, protect, defend, enhance and determination. tutor and comrade in arms in the fight Again and again the Oxford Move- and promote human life. Lineage is important to many, but generally to purify the Church of England of ment or Tractarians, as the group came This imperative derives directly and immedi- royalty does not command the same respect, political interference, Hurrell Froude, to be called, hammered out its basic ately from the Creator’s commandment, “love almost veneration, as it did half a century ago. contracted tuberculosis. Froude’s message: There can be no Christianity your neighbour as yourself”, or if you wish to Our leaders, women leaders included, are now father offered to take his son to Italy to in Britain as long as the church accepts narrow it down to Jesus’ expression of it: “Love more likely to have achieved their position escape the harsh English winter and worldly power and prestige as the one another, as I have loved you; and I have because of personal competence or influence invited Newman to accompany them. source of its authority. Its only true given my life for you.” rather than heritage. Newman accepted the invitation and authority is based on the fact that it I will now make brave to spell out a number It is accepted that women leaders tend to thoroughly enjoyed visiting Rome and came down through the ages from of consequences, which I will express in the have more of a difficult time rising to the top the major tourist attractions of Italy. Christ and the apostles. form of searching questions: and need to be even more motivated and While the Froudes returned to Eng- But the more Newman pursued his 1. How can any minister of government or inspired to achieve the goals they have set for land, Newman stayed on and followed researches into the history of the civil servant, if he/she is taking seriously the themselves. an urge to visit the island of Sicily church, the more he realised that it mandate given by the voters, sleep the sleep of Who the most respected woman leaders of with its rich settler history. He could was the Church of Rome and not the a clear conscience, when he/she knows there our day are depends very much on politics, never find a satisfactory reason for this Church of England that could trace its are people for who he/she is responsible who sometimes on economic achievements and at compulsion. He roamed all over the foundations directly to Christ and the do not have the basic necessities of life? times too on other personal, possibly more mountainous island and fell ill with a apostles. This conclusion took two 2. How can a minister of government or civil feminine and/or humanitarian qualities. severe fever. He became delirious and years to come to him. servant at any level make promises that are Mother Teresa was a leader, but who would experienced disturbing hallucinations.  This is the second in Fr Michael Austin unreasonable or unrealisable (half a million consider her a queen? Those whom she served In moments of clarity he prayed and SJ’s seven-part series on the life of Cardi- new jobs promised—at the height of one of the and cared for might not use the term, but searched his sensitive conscience. “I nal John Henry Newman. worst recessions in modern history! Collect would understand the concept. your ID next Monday—when it takes a mini- One of the aspects of the vocation of the mum of several weeks to process!) Such promis- laity, as the Church teaches us, is to share in es should just not be made! the kingship of Jesus Christ. In practice that 3. If government’s main task is to meet basic means guardianship, protection, defence, St Anthony’s parish, Pietermaritzburg needs at every level, and to do so it needs to set guidance and leading by example. is proud to launch its reasonable and achievable goals or targets, as Surely that applies to women too, women Commemorative Brochure of the well as to make radical readjustments in priori- leaders, queens in our homes and our work- tising and allocating resources, then how does places where we exercise that kingly role. changing Beatrice Street to Denis Hurley Street But that is where things get confusing. We celebration of the improve the living conditions of the homeless women still like to be treated as queens, espe- Golden Jubilee of the in the area? cially by those nearest and dearest to us, but Continued on page 15 then we ourselves might mean being spoilt Marian Centre with flowers and chocolates. The brochure traces the history of the I believe that the whole topic of queenship founding and building of the Landmark could be a fruitful one for family discussion Marian Centre, the Marian School for and sharing, and why not during this VALLEY VIEW TRAVEL Women’s month? It is an opportunity to look Boys and the Marian Hall. The build- to Mary as queen, as patron and as model; not ing’s founding Priest, Fr Leo Gabriel NEW FOR 2011• ALL WELCOME! just by virtue of her position, but also how she OMI, is also profiled. 24 September to 2 October played the game and the example of her life The brochure also celebrates EMMANUEL CATHEDRAL DURBAN that she provides for us. St Anthony’s Catholic Church, founded PILGRIMAGE During Women’s month let’s make that reflection a priority and hopefully a source of in 1862, and provides a nostalgic walk Visiting Assisi, Rome and Vatican City down memory lane, commemorating joy. Organised and led by Rev Stephen Tully Queen, assumed into heaven, patroness of the existence previously of South Africa pray for us. Queen of the family, St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School Cost: R15 520 pray for us. in Retief Street, Pietermaritzburg. Tel: (031) 266 7702 Fax: (031) 266 8982  Catch up with previous Toni Rowland columns at www.scross.co.za/category/ To order a copy of this full-colour 60-page brochure, please contact Email: [email protected] rowland/ the parish secretary, Therese Naidoo, on 033-342 5307 A list of current pilgrimages can be viewed by clicking on or email us [email protected] the Valley View Travel icon at www.catholic-friends.com 88 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 Advertisement Advertisement The Southern Cross, August 10 to August 17, 2010 99 1010 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17 2010 TRAVEL Where the pope goes on holiday HE Villa Pontificia at Castel housing for 21 employees, offices, hoping that its extra-territorial sta- Gandolfo, the papal summer farm buildings and animal stables. tus would provide protection. At Tresidence, south-east of Rome, The Vatican Observatory, entrusted least 12 000 people are estimated to has a long history of papal visits to the Jesuits, was moved to Castel have sought refuge there. dating back to 16th century—Pope Gandolfo from the Vatican in 1934, The papal apartment was Benedict XIV Lambertini (1740- because the glare of the lights in reserved at the time for mothers to 1758) became one of the pontiffs the Roman sky no longer allowed give birth to their babies and at most fond of Castel Gandolfo, for the observation of the heavens. least 40 children were born there which he liked to describe as a The observatory is now in the papal within a period of a few months. place where he could “extrapolate palace. Bombardments on the outskirts his soul from the grindstone”. The Villa Cybo has buildings set of the extra-territorial area did how- Indeed, others have found the aside for the religious community ever claim the lives of hundreds of same. Centuries earlier Emperor of the Maestre Pie Filippini and religious and lay people when con- Domitian (81-96 AD) built a mag- their school, and two cloistered vents and colleges were hit. nificent summer residence there, convents housing the Poor Clare The pope spends his time at Cas- the ruins of which can still be seen and Basilian Nuns. tel Gandolfo in prayer and study today. In the piazza in front of the and is writing another Encyclical The pontifical villas at Castel Papal Palace, the parish house Letter, this one focusing on Faith. It Gandolfo are situated on 55 assigned to the Salesians stands will complete his triptych on Love, hectares, of which 30 make up the alongside the pontifical church of Hope and Faith, the three Theologi- gardens and 25 are used for St Thomas of Villanova. cal Virtues at the heart of Christian farming. The surrounding area is steeped life, message and mission. It is fairly self-sustaining, with its in history—some of it not too It was announced that he would own electrical plant and water ancient. In 1944, the area around be starting a new encyclical, the piped from nearby Lake Albano. the town became a war zone and fourth of his Pontificate. The pope The properties which make up the inhabitants of Castel Gandolfo publically recites the Angelus the villas include the Papal Palace, and the surrounding areas flocked prayers on Sundays to the delight the Barberini Palace, apartment to the gates of the pontifical estates, of many a pilgrim. Many tourists visit Castel Gandolfo each year, taking in its rich history, breathtaking scenery and honouring its most important guest.

Left: Pilgrims wait outside the papal villa for Pope Benedict’s Angelus prayer at Castel Gandolfo. Since 1626, popes have retreated to Cas- tel Gandolfo, about 32 kilometres southeast of Rome.

Below left: The papal villa at Castel Gandolfo, is seen in the early morn- ing. The villa is the large building with an observatory dome.

Photos by Paul Haring CNS, except where indicated. Pope Benedict is reflected in a fountain as he feeds fish at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. PHOTO: (CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO VIA REUTERS)

Above: People read newspapers in the morning at a coffee shop outside the Left top: Anne Sixte of France wears papal villa. a garment on her head to stay cool as she waits to attend Pope Bene- dict’s Angelus prayer at the papal villa.

Far left: Pope Benedict greets pil- grims as he arrives to lead the Angelus prayer.

Left: A woman stops to talk with a friend while cleaning the street out- side her business in Castel Gandolfo.

Right: Sister Cecilia Ngati of Kenya eats a frozen treat as she waits in line to attend Pope Benedict’s Angelus prayer. REFLECTION The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17 2010 1111 Mary, our Lady of victory and glory

Blessed Virgin Mary, when the FR ALLAN MOSS OMI course of her earthly life complet- ed, was taken up body and soul looks at the significance of into the glory of heaven, where the Assumption of our Lady she already shares in the glory of her Son’s resurrection, anticipat- — South Africa’s patronal ing the resurrection of all mem- bers of his Body” (974). feast on August 15 — in the We see Mary in the full tradi- tion of the Church in terms of the Catholic faith and in our four pillars of our faith—scripture, lives as a shining example liturgy, doctrine and witness. From scripture, the Apocalypse of humility. portrays a “woman adorned with the sun”, an image of Mary, the perfect type of the Church. Is this N the resurrection of Jesus we the woman prophetic in Genesis, see our resurrection. Mary’s whose seed will crush the ser- Iassumption exemplifies our pent’s head? Is this the woman Christian destiny. She is the Jesus is referring to when he model of the Church on its jour- addresses his mother as ney with the Risen Lord. As we “woman”(Jn.2:4, 19:26)? Is this celebrate Mary’s glorious assump- the woman who has defeated the tion into heaven, we celebrate she dragon and death, Our Lady of in whom Christ was incarnate Victory, the Queen of Heaven? and is with Christ glorified. How often is Mary mentioned Mary’s life began on earth, like in the celebration of the that of us all. In her story we see Eucharist, for example in the con- the story of God in our lives, if we fiteor, creed and Eucharistic “Assumption of the Virgin”, painted in the 15 century by Italian Renaissance artist Francesco Botticini. The painting will walk with him. In Mary, we prayer? The opening prayer of the now resides in the National Gallery London. see a young Jewish girl steeped in liturgy honouring the Assumption the traditions of her faith with an of the Blessed Virgin Mary says: heaven to be the beginning and pray for us sinners “now and at us that like her, we are taberna- openness to the Holy Spirit. “All powerful and ever-living pattern of the Church. You would the hour of our death” that we cles, bringing Christ to the world. Her courtship with Joseph is God, you raised the sinless Virgin not allow decay to touch her may be with her in heaven. My little friend Angelina shows chaste and pure; that is why she Mary, mother of your Son, body body, for she had given birth to We travel far afield to visit the off her rosary to her friend. She asks how she can conceive. She and soul to the glory of heaven. your Son, the Lord of life” (pref- shrines of Our Lady. There is one said this is how she talks to Our accepts being chosen to be the May we see heaven as our final ace to the Eucharistic Prayer). not far from our family home- Lady. “What if she isn’t there?” mother of Christ and is married goal and come to share her The Church’s witness consists stead in KwaZulu-Natal, called enquired her little friend. “I know to Joseph, yet remains beate sem- glory.” Lex orandi, lex credendi. in imitating the Blessed Virgin in Ngome. Here, Sr Reinolda May, a she is there,” replied Angelina, per virgini. During her own preg- The doctrine of the Church is humbly being at the service of Benedictine nun, said she saw “she is waiting for us.” nancy, she sets out to serve the expressed in our profession of our Lord and of our neighbour. Our Lady, surrounded by a bright pregnancy of another. faith. As we say the creed, Mary’s How often do we pray the “Hail light, dressed in white. Upon her How can she not be there? It Having given birth to her son name is mentioned as the one Mary” with the richness, power breast was a big host, radiating may not be a proper ontological and raised him, she is his most who conceived and honoured as and meaning of the words? If life. It was as though she was a proof of existence but such is the faithful disciple, always there for the Mother of Jesus Christ, our only we could be empty of self as living monstrance. She called her- logic and faith of a child. How him, from his birth till his death. Lord. The Church goes on to she, so that God could fill us with self “Tabernacle of the Most does our faith compare? And so the Catechism of the teach us that “today the virgin grace. “God has exalted the High”, and that is the title of Our  Fr Allan Moss is the pastor of St Church teaches that “the Most Mother of God was taken up into lowly” (Lk 1:50). We ask her to Lady at the shrine. Mary reminds Mary’s parish in Pietemaritzburg.

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Want to know more about us? .... Contact Vocations Promoter LCM Sisters LCM sisters’ residence P.O Box 896 St. Annes Hospital Groenkloof P.O Box A640 Pretoria Avondale, Harare 0027 Tel: +263 11 877 893 [email protected] 1212 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 FOCUS HIV/Aids: who cares for the caregivers?

Just because you’re a woman faith that often motivates such Conversation about HIV/Aids doesn’t mean you should do every- selfless commitment has not tends to focus on prevention thing,” she said. always been well understood. “Men should contribute more, “The first thing we do when we and research, but those who but men tend to only get involved gather with our volunteers is pray, provide care are often neglect- when there is pay involved. It’s reinforcing their spiritual strength, time for that to change,” she because that’s usually their prima- ed, as experts told added. ry motivation. Only then do we PAUL JEFFREY. A study released at last month’s start talking about the medical International Aids Conference in aspects of their work. The success Vienna, Austria, by the interna- of a lot of faith-based organisa- LTHOUGH much of the tional Huairou Commission tions in combating Aids is that we news coverage of HIV/Aids showed that unpaid female care- keep that order of things,” Fr Afocuses on advances in givers in six African countries rou- Bauer said. research or controversies over pre- tinely donate an average of 69 “Donors and governments vention methods, those who strug- hours per month to care for the come to me constantly and ask gle on the frontlines of the pan- sick and vulnerable—a contribu- how we do homecare. I tell them demic say more attention needs to tion worth millions of dollars each that the volunteers are often moti- be on those who quietly care for month. The study examined care- vated by their own faith. And the people living with the virus. givers’ work in South Africa, government representatives “Home-based caregivers are the Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria respond: ‘Well, okay, but without unsung heroes of the Aids and Uganda. that faith stuff, how do you do it?’ Maryknoll Father Richard Bauer, executive director of Catholic AIDS Action in response,” said Ann Smith, the Ms Maluza said increased gov- What can I say? The faith motiva- Namibia, speaks during a press conference at the XVIII International Aids Conference in Austria. HIV corporate strategist of Cafod ernment support for home-based tion of the caregivers is key,” he PHOTO: PAUL JEFFREY, CNS (Catholic Agency for Overseas care was sorely needed. said. Development), an agency of the Caregivers in Malawi—where find ways to support the caregivers ners would say: ‘Why are you Bishops’ Conference of England the Huairou study showed care- n an era of declining financial while affirming their volunteer sta- doing all that? You should be out and Wales. givers donate an average of 8,2 support for Aids work, Ms tus. in the fields, or at home or caring “Caregivers provide basic hours per week—have organised ISmith said the value added by “Sometimes they take food for kids.’ Our initial idea was to get healthcare, but also show support an alliance to pressure the govern- caregivers makes faith-based from their own family to care for the men to support the women, and acceptance. Their visits to the ment for better support, she said. organisations an even better chan- other people. This can’t continue but the men said: ‘No, we want to homes of people living with HIV Yet caregivers will continue nel for responding to the continu- from a justice point of view. In do it ourselves.’ We started a cou- and Aids destigmatise the disease their work whether official support ing crisis. one recent food distribution for ple of pilot programmes of men and remove the fear and isolation is present or not, she said, because “One of the values of faith- orphans and other vulnerable chil- providing homecare for men. It that often accompany it. They are of the commitment and reach of based organisations is that they dren, I proposed taking 15% of the was unbelievable. We now have hugely important, but they’re faith-based organisations, which can mobilise huge numbers of vol- food and giving it to the volun- more men on the waiting list to be often ignored,” Ms Smith said. provide 40% of health services in unteers, yet these people aren’t teers, the ones who get it to those caregivers than we have a budget It is often women—usually Malawi. visible at more strategic levels, in who need it. That was a solution to train and supervise them,” Fr older women who are often grand- “Faith-based groups began part because they don’t cost the that everyone supported,” Fr Bauer Bauer said. mothers—who provide the care working with HIV and Aids before system anything. They should cost said. Dr Kathleen Foley, medical and compassion. governments got involved. We the system. Fr Bauer has also worked to director of the International Pallia- Activists in the field say that didn’t sit around waiting for “It’s a huge injustice, as care- involve men, and he said the tive Care Initiative of the Open work needs more visibility and resources, we just got started,” Ms givers are often expected to pro- response surprised him. Society Institute, said the situation given greater resources if vital Maluza said. vide all sorts of support out of “We started training men of caregivers and the people they health services are going to be Fr Richard Bauer, executive their own pockets, which are often because we had the idea that a few care for would benefit from more strengthened to better respond to director of Catholic Aids Action, a as empty as those of the people of them could help convince other training. the challenges of HIV/Aids. programme of the Namibian bish- they’re caring for. But they’re sel- men to support the women doing “Home-based caregivers are not “Home-based caregivers have ops’ conference, said caregivers dom factored into budgets or the work, because women care- professionalised, so the formal not received the recognition and have long been “at the core of grants,” said Ms Smith. givers often got in trouble with healthcare system…is worried visibility they deserve. If we’re quality programming”, yet the Fr Bauer said he has struggled to their male partners. The male part- about them because they don’t going to achieve universal access have any way to standardise the [to Aids treatment and preven- quality of their care. Palliative care tion], then appropriate attention has clear standards, and people are and adequate resources are long certified in providing that kind of overdue to those who provide care care. When we take home-based and support on the ground,” said care and make it have clear quality Hedia Belhadj, deputy director of standards, accountability and the Technical Support Division of transparency, then there’s enor- the UN Population Fund. mous respect for home-based care. Matilda Maluza, national health The caregivers have enormous secretary for the Catholic bishops’ common sense, and they have a conference of Malawi, said that clear understanding of family more than 80% of caregivers in her needs, but they need some help country are women, and they are from a psychological and medical not adequately compensated for perspective.” their work. Dr Foley said caregivers can “We are taking advantage of play a key role in monitoring the women, who are born to be care- responsibility of governments to givers. We’re violating the rights of provide healthcare to their citi- the woman, because she has other zens. roles. I’m a woman, but I also go “Pain relief and palliative care to work. When I come home, I are human rights issues, and gov- want to sit down and rest. But if ernments need to be held account- I’ve got a number of people to care able. The best people to hold them for, as a woman I’m expected to accountable are our home-based care for them. I have to cook and caregivers, because they see the fetch water and firewood, and needs every day on the frontline of then I’m expected to care for oth- Home-based care worker Olipa Mkandawire prays for a man living with AIDS in Matuli, Malawi. responding to the health crisis,” ers. When do I get time to rest? PHOTO: PAUL JEFFREY, CNS she said.—CNS

e-mail: [email protected] website: www.ursulines.org PEOPLE The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 1313 Pope Benedict’s costly UK trip BY CINDY WOODEN ernment’s efforts to strengthen the relationships among British ITH Pope Benedict’s visit faith groups. to Britain just a few Several individuals and groups Wweeks away, Sir Chris have announced plans to stage Patten, the government official protests while the pope is in Eng- working on organising the trip land, and Mr Patten said that said the pope’s visit will cost tax- peaceful protests would be payers more than originally fore- allowed since “we live in a free seen, but it would be an impor- society”. tant opportunity to highlight and However, he said, the govern- promote cooperation on issues ment wants “to ensure not only the British care about. the security of the Holy Father, The pope is scheduled to visit but also that the pastoral events Scotland and England from Sep- are not disrupted, because that tember 16-19, meeting Queen would give serious offence”. Elizabeth, Anglican and other reli- Sir Chris Patten, the prime minister’s gious leaders, celebrating public Mr Patten said intolerance or representative overseeing govern- even outright hostility towards Masses and beatifying Cardinal ment preparations of the pope’s visit John Henry Newman. religion is often directed more at to Britain, gives a briefing on the the Catholic Church than other Mr Patten, the former governor visit. of Hong Kong, told Vatican Radio PHOTO COURTESY OF BISHOPS’ faith communities “because of the CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES he had been appointed to coordi- Catholic Church’s prominence nate the government’s part in the and longevity and self-confidence planning because after a new to cost British taxpayers more in asserting some basic truths”. Lino Rulli, host of a US Catholic radio show, led a pilgrimage of 40 listeners British prime minister was elect- than R112 million, but he said “But I don’t worry too much to Italy. He is pictured here broadcasting from Vatican Radio studios. ed, “we were in danger of falling April’s one-day summit of the about that,” he said. “I think we PH OTO: PAUL HARING, CNS behind” in organising the visit. leaders of the world’s largest have to stand our ground, recog- “I think at the outset—and this national economies cost British nising when we do so that we’ve is no criticism, people had per- taxpayers more than R225 mil- often been intolerant to others haps underestimated the com- lion. ourselves in the past. We should plexity involved in fitting togeth- He said the pope’s visit is be arguing that it’s ironic that Pilgrimage to Holy Stairs er the state visit aspect and the important for Catholics and other some secularists—not all—are pastoral aspects as if they were a religious believers, but “I also being as intolerant of Church seamless whole,” he said. think it gives us the opportunity groups as Church groups were of “It’s incomparably more diffi- to demonstrate that the govern- them in the past.” and green sambuca cult arranging the state visit of ment of a largely non-Catholic One of the challenges that the Holy Father than arranging country still has a formidably members of every religion face in and toured cities in 38°C heat, the state visit, I suspect, of even large agenda to work with the Britain, a challenge the pope will A Catholic radio presenter led making it seem “like a Catholic President [Barack] Obama. Presi- Catholic Church on issues of con- share, “is getting across the mes- a pilgrimage of listeners to Survivor”, he said. But the partici- dent Obama doesn’t go out and sensus,” particularly regarding sage that religion is not a prob- Italy, finding that there is space pants still became friends. meet 80 000-100 000 people at an human rights and international lem, that faith is, for many peo- The pilgrims—from university open-air venue.” development aid. ple, the way they cope with the for the holy and edifying as well students to grandparents—came Mr Patten, a Catholic, said he Mr Patten said the pope’s visit challenges of living in the 21st as for rock karaoke and green from all over the United States. expected the four-day papal visit could also contribute to the gov- century”, he said.—CNS The only thing they had in com- sambuca, as CAROL GLATZ mon was listening to his show. reports. While almost everyone was Catholic, some did not go to church regularly, and a few LIMBING the Holy Stairs belonged to other Christian OLDE WORLD JEWELLERY cc Lawrence Steinfeld on one’s knees, getting a denominations. Cblessing from Pope Bene- What struck people on the We are well established jewellers skilled in the design and manufacture of all items of jewellery. The jewellery is dict, visiting dark catacombs and tour, Mr Rulli said, was that handmade in our workshop and is offered at wholesale prices. Engagement rings are our speciality. Enjoy the downing green sambuca and many of them were able to expe- comfort and privacy of our office/showroom in ROSEBANK while you select the item of your choice. mounds of pasta carbonara well rience for the first time both their past midnight. faith and having fun with IN ADDITION WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: That’s just a small sampling friends. Usually faith and fun are from the itinerary of a new and  The manufacture of crucifixes, Madonnas & St Christophers lived as separate entities, experi- in gold and silver rather novel Italian pilgrimage enced on separate days and with  The remodelling of old jewellery into classic modern elegant styles led by US radio talk show host different sets of people. “The Catholic Guy”, Lino Rulli. Fr Keighron, 29, opened up  We buy unwanted jewellery and old gold Mr Rulli and 40 listeners of his many people’s eyes, Mr Rulli said.  We offer a fine selection of pre-owned jewellery for sale including nationally broadcast radio show On the trip, he said, they saw sapphire, ruby, emerald and diamond rings, pendants and earrings travelled with Fr Rob Keighron of “the priest isn’t just the guy you  We undertake engraving and the restringing of pearl and bead necklaces Howard Beach, New York, to have see at church” behind the altar,  New and updated valuations are done on the premises whilst you wait. what Mr Rulli called “the best but also is a normal man who and the worst pilgrimage in the loves sport, will drink green sam- JHI House Office Block; 3rd Floor; Cnr. Baker & Hours: Mon-Fri: Tel: 011 880 5243; 011 788 7866; 011 788 6128 world”. buca liqueur at the end of the day Cradock Avenues; ROSEBANK; Johannesburg 11h00-16h00; Sat: 11h00-13h30 Fax: 011 880 1238 E-mail: [email protected] It was the best, he said, and can still be a strong spiritual because from last month they vis- leader. ited and prayed at holy sites in One pilgrim said he was going Rome, Florence, Assisi and Siena. to start going to church more reg- It was the worst because not ularly because he now saw “the many people would equate the priesthood in a different light”, not-so-spiritual moments of said Mr Rulli. singing Bon Jovi at a karaoke club Out of the dozens of holy sites and imbibing Italian wines and they visited, Mr Rulli said the liqueurs as being part of a proper place that stirred the most emo- on your computer pilgrimage, explained Mr Rulli. tion in the group was the sanctu- “I think people like the idea ary of the Scala Santa (Holy that to be a Catholic, to have a Stairs) in Rome. Digital Subscriptions religious experience does not According to tradition, the mean to have a sour puss on your Holy Stairs are the ones Jesus Receive the digital edition of The Southern Cross every week, and access face” before, during and after climbed when Pontius Pilate those intensely spiritual brought him before the crowd past issues. Subscribe for only R260 a year, wherever in the world you are. moments. and handed him over to be cruci- Contact [email protected] Rulli, who broadcasts on Sirius fied. The 28 marble steps have satellite radio’s The Catholic been covered with thick wood Channel, announced before panels, now worn smooth from Christmas last year that listeners centuries of human traffic. Many Website were invited to sign up for a climb the shrine’s stairs on their nine-day pilgrimage to Italy. knees, pausing to pray on each Discuss articles with other readers on our interactive and regularly updated He said he wasn’t sure how step. long they would have to promote Mr Rulli said his group mem- website: www.scross.co.za the trip to get all 40 spots filled, bers decided to climb the stairs but the trip was sold out on the on their knees because they felt it day it was announced, and more was “important to balance out all than 100 people were on the the fun we were having” and to Newsletter waiting list. remind themselves of the spiritu- “In radio you don’t get to al purpose of the trip. Receive the weekly Southern Cross’ newsletter with original content, Mass interact very much with your lis- At the top of the Holy Stairs, readings and more. teners,” he said. “So the idea of after climbing on their hands and spending eight days with people knees, Mr Rulli, a comedian and Subscribe for free at www.scross.co.za/newsletter-signup/ you don’t know was definitely known germaphobe, uninten- [daunting]—we weren’t sure it tionally elicited laughter from his would work, but it was by far the group when he immediately took greatest thing I had ever done in out his pocket-sized bottle of Facebook my career.” hand sanitiser. At the beginning of the trip, “We were doing something for Keep up to date with latest updates on The Southern Cross website by he joked with his guests that they our faith, we were doing some- becoming a fan on Facebook: were starting out as strangers, but thing penitential and yet at the might end the journey as ene- same time…we were still our- http://tinyurl.com/scross-fb mies. They put in 15-hour days selves,” he said.—CNS 1414 The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17, 2010 COMMUNITY

Young parish- ioners of St James parish in Cape Town, after their First Communion. With them is parish priest Mgr Jock Baird.

Fr Ignatius Heer CMM is greeted by well wishers outside Mariannhill monastery church in KwaZulu-Natal, where he celebrated the golden jubilee of his ordination to the priesthood. Fr Heer, who is from Würzburg, Germany, has spent most of his ministry serving parishes at Park Rynie, Umzinto and Ixopo in KwaZulu-Natal. PHOTO: SYDNEY DUVAL

Members of the St Patrick’s parish’s Catholic Women’s League in East London arranged a special birthday breakfast for parish priest Fr Vales Dania at the East London Golf Club. Fr Dania (seated) is pictured with members of the group.

SUBMITTED BY ANN KENT

Matthew Ross of the College of Magic in Claremont, Cape Town, entertains young sisters Erin (left) and Logan Maritz at a parish high tea at Corpus Christi in Wynberg which was jointly organised by the Catholic Women’s League and the Knights of da Gama. PHOTO: MICHAIL RASSOOL

Archbishop Stephen Brislin of Cape Town IIN FOCUS edited by Nadine Christians has been Send photographs, with sender’s name and appointed to address on the back, and a SASE to: The Southern the board of Cross, Community Pics, Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000 directors of St or email them to: [email protected] Joseph’s Home for Children with Chronic Medical Condi- tions in Mon- tana. This year St Joseph’s Brothers Tanith celebrates 75th and Akita During the visit of the relics of St Thérèse of Lisieux to Ali- year of service Francis, and wal North, Holy Cross parish Sisters in Fatima House had to medically sisters Noa and the privilege of praying in the presence of the relics. fragile children. Aerin Solomon, on their way to SUBMITTED BY SR BEATRIX MARIA SUBMITTED BY LUIS MEDINA children’s liturgy during the early morning Mass at Sacred Heart parish in Port Elizabeth.

Children at St Francis Care Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg were visited by Princess Takamado of Japan. It was the first time that a member of the Imperial House of Japan has visited South Africa. The centre has had a long relationship with Japan and its citizens who have donated various items and money to the centre. The Southern Cross, August 11 to August 17 2010 1515

Commit to the common good Continued from page 7 4. How do racial quotas in the structures of 9. How can we instill love and respect into mar- Classified Advertising power or industry give jobs to the unemployed, in riage and family life when our HIV/Aids policy says Births • First Communion • Confirmation • Engagement/Marriage • Wedding anniversary • particular those whose jobs were lost because the nothing about self-control or discipline. Or when Ordination jubilee • Congratulations • Deaths • In memoriam • Thanks • Prayers • Accommodation • department, industry or business was incompetent- the women’s rights philosophy is used to destroy ly run? human life more than to protect it? How can we Holiday accommodation • Personal • Services • Employment • Property • Others 5. How does Zimbabwe-style land reform, which expect anything other than the shocking rate of Please include payment (R1,05c a word) with small advertisements for promptest publication. has cost thousands of farm workers their jobs, solve murder, of violence or of abuse? Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000. Tel 021 465 5007 Fax 021 465 3850 our problem of poverty? I guess the list could go on and on. e-mail: [email protected] 6. If human life is the primordial value on our By taking a religious kicking off point, I hope I scale of values, how can we continue to allow our have been able to show that the project of govern- hospitals and clinics to degenerate into health haz- ment and civil administration as a God-given call- ards instead of fountains of wellbeing? ing and a mission, which derives directly from our BIRTHDAYS Mary, I place this cause in rates for pensioners and 7. If we are really serious about giving our chil- nobler nature which seeks to express the image and your hands. Say this clergy. Tel: Malcolm Salida dren a better start in life, how can we continue to likeness of God within us, by acting out of justice BIRTHDAY wishes to my dad, Cecil Davids, August prayer for 3 consecutive 082 784 5675 or allow our schools and the education system to and fairness, love and mercy rather than some 13, 2010. God’s richest days and then publish. [email protected] become almost totally dysfunctional? political ideology imposed from outside our essen- blessing on this SPECIAL Sylvia. MONTAGU, Rose Cot- 8. If respect for human life and the human per- tial nature.  day, and always. Love you tage: A luxurious self-cater- son is our top value, how can we allow sexual This is the third and final part of Tina, Basil, Taryn and PERSONAL ing “home away from morality to lose all meaning other than the passing Cardinal Napier’s series on religion and the Bronwyn Langley. ABORTION WARNING: home”; stylishly deco moment of pleasure it gives? common good. ‘The Pill’ can abort, unde- rated, the “coolest” place DEATHS tected, soon after concep- in town! Sleeps 6. COLBACK—Our dear sis- tion (a medical fact). The most peaceful COMMUNITY CALENDAR ter Therese (born Goller) LARGE collection of surroundings, mountain Thoughts for the died at St Oswald’s Hos- Catholic booklets, holy views, www.rosecottage pice, Newcastle, England, cards, statues, rosaries montagu.co.za or e-mail: BETHLEHEM: Week on the Family in July after a long illness for sale. E-mail info@rosecottagemon  Shrine of Our Lady of Bethlehem at Tsheseng, Maluti and many difficulties. She [email protected]. tagu.co.za or Tel: Christa mountains; Thursdays 09:30, Mass, then exposition of FAMILY CALENDAR shared her last days at 084 409 0044 the Blessed Sacrament. 058 721 0532 2010 FAMILY THEME: “Families ST CATHERINE’S Con-  peacefully with her sons, vent, Florida are updating NEWLANDS—THE CAT- JOHANNESBURG: Play the Game.” their partners and children. NAP: Self-catering accom- August theme: HOW MEN AND their records and are miss-  Our thanks to Fr David ing Matric Class pho- modation available First Friday Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 10:30. WOMEN PLAYTHE GAME First Saturday: Devotions: Our Lady’s Cenacle, Adoration Smith. All our love from tographs from the following December/January.For of the Blessed Sacrament and Rosary, 15:00–16:00. Spe- 15th 20th Sunday of the Year C, The Rosemary and Paul years: 1964 and 1966 to details phone Leslie Preto- cial devotion to Our Blessed Lady for her priests. Our Assumption. The patronal feast of South 1975. If anyone is able to rius 021 685 2821. IN MEMORIAM Lady of the Angels, Little Eden, Edenvale,  Africa of Mary Queen, assumed into heav- help, please contact Rose SEA POINT: Double room, 011 609 7246 en is celebrated in many ways across the BLAIS—André Joseph at St Catherine’s Convent, own bathroom in heart of  First Saturday of each month rosary prayed 10:30-12:00 country with pilgrimages and vigils and Very Rev Fr OMI (1902 – The Highway, Florida, 011 this prestigious suburb, outside Marie Stopes abortion clinic, Peter Place, special Masses. Let Mary also be queen in August 7, 1992) Father 472 3384 or email near all amenities. Tel: 072 Bryanston.  Joan Beyrooti, 011 782 4331 our families and invite her to reign togeth- and founder of the Secular [email protected] 236 2996. Institute of the Servants KRUGERSDORP: er with her son for all young people, boys SOUTH COAST: 3 bed- and girls. and the religious Congre-  Culture of Life / Anti-Abortion campaign fund raiser, 22 gation of the Handmaids of EMPLOYMENT room house, Marine Drive, August 15:00, AFM Church Noordheuwel Krugersdorp. Christ the Priest. You con- OFFERED Uvongo Tel: Donald 031 Also Celtic Praise Sing along with “One Accord” singers 465 5651, 073 989 1074. and musicians. Safe parking, for more information or to tinue to watch and pray DATA entry with Data book tickets  011 660 4814 or 082 360 4815 Mass readings for the week over us, your sons and WorX. Get paid in dollars, STELLENBOSCH: Five daughters. You will always with or without a computer. simple private suites PRETORIA: Sundays year C, weekdays cycle 2 be greatly remembered Earn up to R1 444 per day. (2 beds, fridge, micro-  First Saturday: Devotion to Divine Mercy. St Martin de before the Altar of the Easy step-by-step tutorials. wave). Countryside vine- Sun August 15, Assumption of our Lady: Porres, Sunnyside, 16:30.  Shirley-Anne 012 361 4545 Lord. From your beloved Own hours. SMS name yard/forest/moun CAPE TOWN: Rv 11:19,12:1-6, 10; Ps 45:10-12, 16; 1 Cor 15:20- Servants and the Hand- and address for a full infor- tain walks; beach 20 26; Lk 1:39-56  Adoration Chapel, Corpus Christi church, Wynberg: maids of Christ the Priest. mation brochure to 082 minute drive. Affordable. Mon-Thurs 6am to 12pm; Fri-Sun 6am to 8pm. Adorers Mon August 16, St Stephen of Hungary: DIAB—Cecil M, 1929 – 576 6741. Christian Brothers Tel: welcome  021-761 3337 Ez 24:15-24; Ps: Dt 32:18-21,; Mt 19:16-22 2000. Cecil, 10 years ago 021 880 0242 / cbc [email protected] To place your event, call Claire Allen on 021 465 5007, or Tue August 17, feria: we sat beside your bed- ACCOMMODATION — e-mail [email protected] Ez 28:1-10; Ps: Dt 32:26- side. Our hearts were OFFERED UMHLANGA ROCKS: Fully 28,30,35-36; Mt 19:23-30 crushed and sore, we CAPE TOWN, Cape equipped self-catering 3 Wed August 18, feria: could not do more to save Peninsula: Beautiful bedroom, 2 bath you. You left us broken Ez 34:1-11; Ps 23:1-6; Mt 20:1-16 homes to buy or rent. room house, sleeps 6, sea hearted with lots of tears. view, 200 metres from Thur August 19, St John Eudes: Maggi-Mae 082 892 We loved you so dearly. 4502. Colliers Internat- beach, DStv. Tel: Holiday Ez 36:23-28; Ps 51:12-15,18-19; We can never forget all ional False Bay Division, 031 561 5838, Mt 22:1-14 your love and kindness Tel: 021 782 9263, holidays@lighthouse. Fri August 20, St Bernard: you showed us. Please [email protected] co.za Ez 37:1-14; Ps 107:2-9; Mt 22:34- Pope Pius X, keep on praying for us and WILDERNESS: Self- who died 100 guide us. May our dear 40 HOLIDAY catering house, 4 bed- years ago on Lord and His beloved Sat August 21, St Pius X: ACCOMMODATION rooms, 3 bathrooms. August 21 Mother protect you and Sleeps 8 to 10, indoor Ez 43:1-7; Ps 85:9-14; Mt 23:1-12 CAPE WEST COAST keep you in their loving braai, pool table, DStv. Sun August 22, 21st Sunday of Yzerfontein: Emmaus on hands. We love and miss Contact Julia, e-mail the year: Sea B&B and self-catering. you. Always pray for us. [email protected] Is 66:18-21; Ps 117:1-2; Heb 12:5-7,11-13; Your loving wife Bunny, Holy Mass celebrated Lk 13:22-30 children Gerald, Belinda, every Sunday at 6pm. Tel: Gary and Charlotte, grand- 022 451 2650. daughters Lee-Anne and FISH HOEK: Self-catering UPHOLSTERER Kayla. RIP accommodation, sleeps 4. CONGREGATION Secure parking. Tel: 021 More than 50 years of PRAYERS 785 1247. OF experience guarantees you satisfaction. O GREAT St Joseph of FISH HOEK, Cape Town: Cupertino, by your prayers Self-catering holiday PO Box 2372, CAPE TOWN, 8000 MARIANNHILL Ph 021 6371938 you obtained from God the accommodation from bud- Tel: (021) 465 5007 Fax: (021) 465 3850 grace of being asked at get to luxury for 2 to 6 peo- www.scross.co.za after hours 021 7012692. your examination, the only ple. Special pensioners’ MISSIONARIES Editor: Günther Simmermacher questions you knew. rate from May to October. ([email protected]) Obtain for us a like suc- Tel/fax 021 782 3647, e- Advisory Editor: cess in the examinations mail:alisona@xsinet. Michael Shackleton for which we are now co.za Editorial staff: preparing and waiting, and GORDON’S BAY: Beau Claire Mathieson in return we promise to tiful en-suite rooms ([email protected]) make your name known Nadine Christians available at reasonable ([email protected]) and cause to be invoked in rates. Magnificent views, prayers. Amen. O Mary Claire Allen breakfast on request. Tel: ([email protected]) bring to our minds the 082 774 7140. E-mail: Manager: Pamela Davids Ora et Labora unknown and forgotten. St [email protected] ([email protected]) Jude and O Little Flower Advertising: Elizabeth Hutton The Congregation of the Missionaries of Mariannhill, CMM, sprung from show us your power. Lee- IFAFA BEACH—KZN ([email protected]) the Trappist Monastery of Mariannhill founded by Abbot Francis Pfanner in Anne and Kayla Diab. South Coast:. Self-catering Subscriptions: Avril Hanslo cottage on the beach ([email protected]) South Africa in 1882. We believe that: “Our missionary field is the King- CASA SERENA O MOST beautiful flower of R100pppn. Min rates Dispatch: Joan King dom of God and that has not boundaries!” Faithful to the example of Abbot The retirement home Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, apply. Fantastic facilities. ([email protected]) splendour of Heaven, 5 min to Church. Ph 079 Accounts: Desirée Chanquin Francis Pfanner, the Mariannhill Brothers and Priests try to be of service to with the Italian flair. ([email protected]) blessed Mother of the Son 547 9980. the local church through pastoral, social and development works. We make Located in 7A Marais of God, Immaculate Virgin, Published independently by the our contribution to the call for renewing, uplifting, developing and sustain- Road, Essexwold, in assist me in my necessity. KNYSNA: Self-catering Catholic Newspaper & Publishing garden apartment for two Company Ltd, Cape Town ing the human spirit, as our response to the signs and needs of the time. In the elegant suburb of O Star of the Sea, help me and show me where you in Old Belvidere with won- Opinions expressed in this newspaper do Bedfordview. Provides not necessarily reflect those of the editor, our missionary life of Prayer and Work (Ora et Labora), we try to effective- are, Mother of God. Queen derful lagoon views. 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21st Sunday – Year C (August 22nd) Readings: Isaiah 66:18-21, Psalm 117:1-2 Expanding our reality Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13, Luke 13:22-30 the “Letter to the Hebrews” invites us to see trading on being “the right sort of people”, ILL there be foreigners in Heaven? ourselves as sons (and daughters) of God, but and shouting, “We ate and drank with you, We tend unreflectively to assume to realise at the same time to recognise that and you taught in our public squares”. To Wthat God has the good taste to Fr Nicholas King SJ the Lord’s discipline is a sign of affection. So this rather snobbish appeal the response is include only “People Like Us” in the King- we are to keep going, “Strengthen your devastating, “I have no idea where you come dom. The readings for next Sunday rather Scriptural drooping hands and your paralysed knees”. from—get out of here, all you evil-doers”. challenge that too-comfortable prejudice of Reflections No one said it would be easy. Then those who rely on their ancestry ours; God has a broader gaze than ours, and In the gospel, Jesus is well into the jour- find that very ancestry used against them, we in South Africa have learnt that we need ney that Luke has constructed out of his “There is going to be weeping and gnashing to look beyond our easy racial (and other) priests and Levites, says the Lord”. Our too- sources. The word “journey” is used twice in of teeth, when you people see Abraham, and stereotypes. narrow focus on reality will have to be force- the first line, and we are reminded that the Isaac and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the In the first reading, an unknown prophet fully expanded. journey will end in Jerusalem, where, we Kingdom of God, and you lot flung outside; is meditating on the experience of returning The psalm for next Sunday continues this already know, Jesus is to die. That should and they’ll come from East and West and to Israel from Exile, and the discovery there startling message, “Praise the Lord, all you shake up our complacency; and if it did not, North and South and lie down to eat in that foreigners can speak to us of God; and Gentiles, give him glory, all you peoples”. we have a good religious person asking Jesus God’s kingdom.” some Israelites will have been astonished to The fact is that God’s love is bigger than any- a pietist’s question, “Lord—it is only a few So God’s view of things is very different hear him putting on God’s lips the claim thing that we can possibly imagine: all people who are being saved?”. The response from our rather narrow racial, religious and that these “nations of all languages will human beings are entitled and invited to is not such as to encourage us unduly¸ social stereotypes, as Jesus underlines with come and see my glory”, and the further, “Praise the Lord”, and we should rejoice “Make every effort to go through the narrow his final remark, “Look —there are back- perhaps rather alarming, suggestion that when they do so. door, because, I’m telling you, many will markers who are going to come first, and “they shall bring all your brothers and sisters The second reading for next Sunday also look to go in—and they won’t have the front-runners who will come last”. from all the nations as an offering to the invites us to see God in a different way, power to do so.” God’s race is very different from anything Lord...to my holy mountain, to Jerusalem, though here it is the God who is a strict dis- Then the complacent (ourselves?) are that we could possibly imagine; to return to just like the children of Israel bring their ciplinarian, not because he hates us, but warned, “You’ll begin to stand outside and our original question, there will indeed be offerings in pure vessels”. And, astonishing- because he loves us, “My son, don’t disdain knock on the door, saying, ‘Lord —open up!’ foreigners in Heaven, but we shall greet ly, these foreigners are going to have a sacred the Lord’s discipline”; the distinguished the- and he’ll answer you, ‘I have no idea where them as brothers and sisters and find great ministry, “I shall even take some of them as ologian who penned the treatise that we call you come from’.” And he imagines them joy in doing so. Exposing the hoaxes Southern Crossword #404

VERY year, round about this time, It is not something that is easy to an e-mail starts circulating in the do. Certainly from my own perspective, my 25% Irish blood tends to boil pretty EChristian community in South Chris Moerdyk Africa, warning about an offensive, quickly when the likes of author Dan anti-Christian movie about a gay Jesus Brown makes a mockery of everything I called Corpus Christi which is supposed The Last hold dear. Not to mention greedy to be due for imminent release. Word newspapers, TV stations and movie Ignore it, it is a hoax. And an old makers who home in on something hoax at that. It has been around for that involves Christian-bashing about 18 years now and keeps surfacing these hoax e-mails do is extensive because they know that it will generate with just the release date of the movie because they all ultimately end up as a lot of publicity and won’t get them continually changing. Corpus Christi “crying wolf” to the point that when into any sort of trouble. once was a controversial play, but there real outrage is required, there is none. My immediate reaction is to go out are no plans to make a movie of it. On the subject of outrage, just how and toyi-toyi in front of parliament or There is a similar hoax e-mail which should we Catholics or the greater seek out those cretins and smack them Southern Cross editor Günther Simmer- Christian community respond to in the face. Hardly Christian, I admit, macher told about. In that e-mail an attacks on our beliefs, our God and our but a natural human reaction. atheist called Madeline Murray O’Hare institutions? I usually restrain myself from these wants to cancel all manner of Christian A common argument is that the radical and impetuous actions by TV programmes. Murray O’Hare is not news and entertainment media as well reminding myself of Christ and the made up, but the trouble is, she disap- as authors, very rarely lampoon, criti- way he accepted crucifixion when, in ACROSS DOWN peared without a trace some 30 years fact, he could have brought all manner 1. Kitchen stoves (4) 1. The angel’s prayerful cise or belittle the Jewish or Islamic 3. Had enough money for greeting (4,4) or so ago. faiths because the response is both of horrendous retribution on everyone church dues (8) 2. Abraham's place for The problem with these hoax e- swift, hard-hitting and in some cases from Pontius Pilate to the entire Jewish 7. He knows what’s hap- Lazarus (Lk 16) (5) mails is that we Christians can become violent. and Roman nations in one fell swoop pening in the Vatican (7) 3. Very keen in safer video our own worst enemies by perpetuating Why is it that we Christians just rant at the mere suggestion that he was 9. Search for Holy Grail (5) (6) 10. High-level practice of their circulation. I agree entirely with and rave among ourselves but very some sort of charlatan. But he didn’t. 5. His brothers’ name for He turned the other cheek. contemplation (9) Joseph (Gn 37) (7) the wise Mr Simmermacher who sug- rarely show any public demonstration 12. Road is around receiv- 6. Fruit on the calendar (4) gests that as Catholics, our very best of outrage, or even mild annoyance? I have come to the conclusion that ing sets (6) 8. Curses I do about dis- friend in these situations is a website Why is it that our Christian church this is not a bad strategy. As a fellow 14. St Peter the French- cussion (9) called www.snopes.com that specialis- leaders always seem to take a long time Christian wrote in a letter to a Sunday man (6) 9. Governor of Syria (Lk 2) es in hoaxes and is an excellent guide to reflect on these attacks and then newspaper recently, the reason Chris- 16. Treacle I’m making for (9) the nun (9) 11. Liturgical robe (8) in terms of ferreting out all scams and respond with what is never more than tians don’t react in the same way as many of the eastern religions, is 19. Did it swallow Jonah? 13. Die (7) urban legends. mild admonishment? (5) 15. You can borrow from You will find out about the Well, there are a number of reasons. because it is not in our Christian 20. Posse I’d get rid of (7) him (6) Madeleine O’Hare hoax by going to The most important of which is that nature. 21. Jesus, the good one (Jn 17. Methuselah’s father www.snopes.com/politics/religion/fc perhaps as Christians we tend to try Quite apart from that, our Church 10) (8) (Gn 5) (5) c.asp and the Corpus Christi movie on and follow the teaching of Christ as has survived for more than 2 000 years 22. Informal conversation 18. Inspires with reverence (4) (4) www.snopes.com/politics/religion/ much as possible, most of which and has endured far worse onslaughts gay/jesus.asp than the likes of Hollywood and the involves turning the other cheek (Mt SOLUTIONS TO #403. ACROSS: 3 Penitents, 8 Baal, 9 Smalltalk, In my opinion, the damage that 5:38-42; Lk 6:27-31). news media is able to inflict on us. 10 Themes, 11 Stall, 14 Ideas, 15 Sill, 16 Exalt, 18 Enid, 20 Error, 21 Another reason is based on some- Logos, 24 Poorly, 25 Container, 26 Lama, 27 Beardless. DOWN: 1 thing my father taught me about Abstainer, 2 Dare-devil, 4 Elms, 5 Inlet, 6 Extols, 7 Tell, 9 Sense, 11 CONRAD Shahs, 12 Librarian, 13 Clergyman, 17 Tenor, 19 Doctor, 22 Oriel, 23 school bullies. The best way to react to Cope, 24 Pews. a bully, he said, was to ignore him, because what bullies want is some sort of reaction to justify their nefarious ends. But most of all, I believe that the CHURCH CHUCKLE ploy of ignoring these attacks against us, is beginning to work. TOPPING a car full of nuns, a policeman asked The extremely prominent headline the nun who was driving why she was travelling in an issue, late last year, of the The Sso slowly. The nun replied: “All the signs say 25”. Sunday Times over an article on the Da The officer explained: “That is the route number, not Vinci Code sequel, Angels & Demons, the speed limit.” read simply: “Flogging those Catholics “My goodness!” she exclaimed, “Thats the reason again”. all the nuns were screaming when we got to Proof positive that even the news route 160!” media is getting sick and tired of Catholic-bashing movies. Send us your favourite Catholic joke, preferably clean and brief, to The Southern Cross, Church Chuckle, PO Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000.