If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on APRIL 12, 2020 things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. TERHAD When Christ who is your life appears, then PP 8460/11/2012(030939) ISSN: 1394-3294 you also will appear with him in glory. Vol. 27 No. 14 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY Col. 3:1-4

The Publisher, Editor and Staff of HERALD wish all our readers a Blessed Easter. Live together as an Easter people Bishop Cornelius Piong’s Easter Message KENINGAU: Easter should not be taken “Through our Lenten encounters and ex- continue a way of living that is empowered as a transient celebration. Instead, as an periences, we are moved towards reconcil- and encouraged by the presence of the liv- Easter people, we should be Christ’s light iation with Jesus. Thus, encountering Jesus ing Jesus. He participates in, and cares for, in the world. through prayers, fasting and almsgiving, our personal well-being, our families and Bishop Cornelius Piong said this in his we are led to live in His joy. our society.” Easter message released April 9. “Celebrating Easter means we want to l See below for full text of the message The message of the Risen Christ to Through our Lenten encounters and ex- mind” (Acts 4:32) confident and diligent the women who met Him is the same periences, we are moved towards reconcili- in following Jesus’ teaching in the face of for us – Do not be afraid. Easter ation with Jesus. Thus, encountering Jesus many disturbances. Our confidence in the through prayers, fasting and almsgiving, living Christ drives us and enables us to should not be taken as only a come- we are led to live in His joy. Our Lord Je- live as a community that always puts God and-go celebration, because we are sus is with us. He cares about us, especially first, and makes us sensitive to the welfare celebrating Jesus, our Lord, who has when we are scared of the virus COV- of our fellow human beings and loving and risen from the dead and now is living ID-19, devastated by the political situation mindful of God’s creation. in our country and worried about the effects I hope that this experience of the COV- with us for all eternity. Alleluia (Matt of the various crimes such as the illegal use ID-19 pandemic will bring about a realisa- 28:20). of drugs and pornography that are on the tion that our joy cannot be separated from At the beginning of Lent, we received rise among our people and society. the unity and love we have for God, man the imposition of ashes as the expression Celebrating Easter means we want to and creation. May this experience help us of our desire to repent and admit that only continue a way of living that is empowered to appreciate and be made aware of the im- with a loving relationship with God, we and encouraged by the presence of the liv- portance of Jesus in our daily lives. The ex- are enabled to live in harmony with Him, ing Jesus. He participates in, and cares for, perience of the Movement Control Order among ourselves and with the natural (cre- our personal well-being, our families and has made us love and appreciate the pres- ation) environment. our society. We are confident that the Lord ence of others in our lives, especially our The experience of our journey of faith Jesus we believe in is “the same, yesterday, families and God’s creation. demands that we follow Jesus as he says: today and forever” (Hebrew 13:8). We wish and pray for a Blessed Easter to “be not selfish, take up the cross daily and But a life empowered and encouraged by all Bishops, Priests, Religious, Catechists, follow me,’ (Lk 9:23). This is not easy. the joy of Easter must be steadfastly guided lay leaders and the faithful. In the spirit of Many times, because of our selfish attitude, by the prayer that Jesus said to God the Fa- Easter, let us as members of the Church we neglect our responsibility to God, to ther, for us His followers, on the eve of the help one another to live as an Easter peo- each other and to God’s creation. Last Supper (Jn 17:11-19). Our unity with ple, always proud of our Christian identity We are grateful to God because, through- The Resurrection is depicted in this 19th-century painting Jesus enables us to foster a spirit of unity (Jn 13:35), committed to our mission (Matt by Johann Friedrich Overbeck. Easter, the chief feast out the season of Lent, through His Word in our families, communities and society. 15: 13-16) and confident in our destination in the liturgical calendars of all Christian churches, and the sacraments, the Lord has helped us Our fidelity to the will of Jesus will protect in life (Jn 14:6). commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Easter and reminded us of our commitment as His us from the deception of the evil one. The HAPPY EASTER! is April 12 this year. (CNS photo/Bridgeman Images) children. Easter is an opportunity for us to word of the Lord that we hear and reflect renew and establish our unity and loyalty on every day will help us to live in the light + Rt Rev Cornelius Piong Turn to Page 3 for the Easter messages to Jesus in all our callings and ministries. of the Lord (Jn 8:12). Bishop of Keningau Diocese by Archbishop Julian Leow and As His children, we are grateful for the With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Lord’s compassion towards us. may we always be of “one heart and one April 10, 2020 Cardinal Charles Bo

Pope Francis has composed A prayer to Our Lady of Good Health a prayer to O Mary, you shine continuously We are certain that you will provide, Our Lady, Health We seek refuge on our journey as a so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, under your protection, of the Sick, sign of salvation and hope. joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. O Holy Mother of God. to implore her We entrust ourselves to you, Help us, Mother of Divine Love, Health of the Sick. to conform ourselves to the Father’s will protection during Do not despise our pleas – At the foot of the Cross you participated and to do what Jesus tells us: the Covid-19 we who are put to the test – in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. He who took our sufferings upon Himself, coronavirus You, Salvation of the Roman People, and bore our sorrows to bring us, and deliver us from every danger, pandemic. know what we need. through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen. O glorious and blessed Virgin. 2 Forum / Reflection HERALD April 12, 2020 Resurrection — A new world beckons, but what kind of world? his year, we celebrate Easter amid the had to do both. extraordinary circumstances of triple “And if you look at Jesus Christ himself, Tcrises: a political crisis, an economic Sunday Observer I don’t think he just got millions of people crisis and the ongoing pandemic. By around him living in a castle and asking them It will take some time for us to emerge from to pray. He did that (get people to pray), of the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, the Anil Netto course he did. global economic slowdown could turn into a “But he also acted. When he went to the prolonged recession that could almost reach [email protected] Temple, and he saw that there were greedy the scale of the Great Depression of the 1930s. people who were making excessive profit The silver lining is that runaway global emis- by selling things, he said: Get rid of all these domination, it also housed the Treasury. Now imagine this Temple exploitation on sions has slowed, giving the planet something things! He went into action himself, spontane- The Treasury was the focal point for the a worldwide scale through the present global of a reprieve. ous action. collection of provincial tribute — which the financial system. Millions are already suffering from loss of “Now, I don’t think he was saying: You peo- priests were also responsible for collecting — On April 1, the renowned global intellectual incomes and jobs. And we are finding out how ple are finished and condemned. He was say- and the temple tax. It also stored a list of all the and activist Martin Khor passed away from the neoliberal system has left our underfunded ing you have to reform. And you have to re- debts in the territory. cancer. Martin had championed the cause of essential services like public healthcare strug- form the system itself. But if you don’t reform, Money changers in the Temple premises, developing countries of the South against the gling to cope with the crisis. the people have to reform the system. who also acted as bankers, would convert the global financial and economic domination by The crisis has also exposed the vulnerabili- “You are entering into new campaigns, pilgrims’ local currencies to the acceptable vested interests. ties of global economy built on an excessive whether it is for fair trade, whether it is for ac- shekels or half-shekels (the silver coins of I bumped into Martin several times while reliance on debt, speculation and the finan- cess to medicine or whether it is to overturn the Tyre) – for a fee, of course. Never mind that attending forums and talks after his return to cialisation of the economy. These have con- global financial system that is so corrupt today. these silver coins had pagan images, it was Penang in 2015, following a long stint at the centrated wealth in a tiny minority of people. “And what is important is to keep pace with good silver after all! The shekels were used to South Centre in Geneva. I was struck by his As evidence, we have seen the number of bil- current events as they take place and to analyse pay the temple tax, which raised money for the simplicity and humility despite being such a lionaires rising by the year in Oxfam’s annual the root causes ... so that we are able to address animal offerings. prominent figure globally. And he never failed reports. these root causes — rather than allow the situ- So for all intents and purposes, the Temple to give an encouraging word. Meanwhile, the workers are barely surviv- ation to deteriorate and then we just do good doubled up as the major financial institution of You wouldn’t guess he was a member of the ing. by helping the poor through charity. its time. UN secretary-general’s Taskforce on Environ- While our prayers and devotions during “The poor do not need charity. They need Jesus saw through the rank hypocrisy and ment and Human Settlements and vice-chair Holy Week focus on the suffering and death us to tackle the structural causes and the struc- corruption, as well as the domination and of the Intergovernmental Working Group on of Jesus on Good Friday and then his resurrec- tures that give rise to this very sinful situation exploitation of the ordinary people, oozing the Right to Development under the auspices tion three days later, it was Jesus’ actions in the that we have today.” through the Temple. It must have been espe- of the UN High Commissioner of Human Temple earlier in the week that sealed his fate. The world as we know it will no longer be cially jarring for Jesus to see how the people Rights. The man had no airs. This was the same temple that Herod ex- the same after the pandemic subsides. It is up were being exploited – all in the name of of- A video tribute compiled by filmmaker An- panded into something akin to a large Las to us: whether we want to carry the baggage of fering animal sacrifices to wipe out their sins, drew Ng captured Martin speaking at a forum Vegas-style mega-hotel complex, designed to an exploitative financial and economic system when it was the ordinary people of his time on his understanding of Jesus’ action in the draw in the masses, all of them bringing cash that has deadened the world, or do we shape a who were being exploited left, right and cen- Temple. with them. new, more egalitarian world that allows peo- tre. “When I was a student, I was in the Young The Temple itself was the epicentre of po- ple to live in harmony with the ecology while That was probably what enraged him — Christian Students movement, and we had this litical oppression and economic exploitation, empowering workers and ordinary people and when he knew in the depths of his heart that big debate among ourselves. Is it enough to all legitimised under the cover of a corrupt re- giving them new hope? God was a compassionate and loving Father pray or is it enough to do good works? And, ligious hierarchy. It was not only the seat of This is the challenge of the Resurrection in who wants Love and Justice to prevail. of course we came to the conclusion that we religious collaboration with imperial Roman 2020 – and one that Martin would approve of. The Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord, Easter: Happiness in Hope he restrictions on assembling prevent us paradox beyond our understanding, Jesus’ Tfrom celebrating Easter in the church. death was a means for restoring life to his Reflecting on our Sunday Readings But we still proclaim with our lives our joy brothers and sisters, to us. in the renewal of the world, our Easter joy. Jesus rose from the dead and became the that all will be well even if the future is un- Easter Sunday of the Lord’s Many are suffering from the corona virus, source of spiritual life to all who believe in certain. They represent all the people who are Resurrection and we keep them all in our prayers. No one Him. This is why we call out “Alleluia.” We in pain right now, all those who are suffering. is suffering from the loss of our Easter joy. are dead no more. We are alive in the Lord. They represent those who are fighting cancer Readings: Act of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43; No pandemic can destroy Easter. The sign of our acceptance of the Life of the and other serious ailments. I also think about, Colossians 3:1-4; The celebration of Easter stands in stark Lord is our baptism or, more properly, our and pray for, those whose marriages or fami- Gospel: John 20:1-9 contrast to our commemoration of Good Fri- living our baptismal commitment. lies have fallen apart, the single parents, the day. Think about the Good Fridays you have But how about those who have never been parentless children. All of these come up to hope of eternal life. Easter is the celebration experienced. On Good Friday, there were no baptised? What happens to the just Jew, like venerate the cross. All of these, like all seri- of hope. Our hope is that we will share in flowers or alleluias. There was solemn music. Martin Buber, or the spiritual Hindu, like ous Christians, have found happiness in their the fullness of the New Life Jesus won for And there was the Cross. Mahatma Gandhi, or the moral, humanitar- hope. us through His suffering and death. It is our Yet, both Good Friday and Easter, as well ian atheist, like so many we all know? How St Augustine loved that phrase, happiness hope in Christ that helps us endure challenges as Holy Thursday, are bound together into about these people? Do they have no future in hope. He used it several times in his great- like the coronavirus pandemic. one celebration, the celebration of the Pas- after death? We pray for these people in the est work, The City of God. He used it to de- Christ was raised so we can share His New chal Mystery. The name paschal refers to the ancient petitions of Good Friday. Why do scribe the Christian attitude in life. The soci- Life. We need to grasp our faith with both lamb who was sacrificed and whose sacrifice we pray for them? If they have no spiritual ety of man can only provide lasting happiness hands. Only our faith brings sanity, meaning, brought life. life, then they are dead. However, they are if it is united to God, if it is a City of God. and purpose to our lives. The coronavirus has Before Jesus’ sacrifice, mankind had lost not dead. Our faith teaches us that Jesus de- It is true that we have to do everything pos- brought sickness and death, turmoil, unem- the capacity to have a spiritual life. Man- scended to the dead. He called forth from sible to bring peace and justice to the world. ployment, and all sorts of other crises into our kind’s sin, his decision to push God out of his death those who desired to do what was right This is our way of serving Christ’s presence lives, but our faith gets us through because, life, destroyed his own spiritual life. God is and good, people of good will who, by choos- in the poor and the downtrodden. We have despite the suffering, we have happiness in the Lord of Life, but mankind decided that ing to be moral, were therefore choosing to to protect the lives of those who have been hope. No one can take the Risen Saviour he didn’t need God. His choice of sin was a have union with God no matter what concept conceived but have not yet been born. We from us. No one and no situation, no matter choice of death. His pushing God aside al- of God they had. Theologians have a name have to fight to end poverty in our country how terrible, can take His Presence from us. lowed the devil to have free reign on earth. for their salvation. They call it Baptism of and in our world. We cannot turn our backs This is the Gift of Easter Sunday! We have Without God, without a spiritual life, man- Desire. on people who are suffering, whether they entered the spiritual. Our life is hidden with kind’s existence was limited to the here and Every Good Friday, I marvel at the people be Americans or people in another country Christ in God. May our spiritual lives have an now. There was no hereafter for him. No eter- who come up to venerate the cross. I have or continent. We have to demand that those infinite precedence over our physical lives. nity. Life ended, and that was that. been pastor of St Ignatius for 28 years. I am in leadership use their authority justly, even, May the life of the Risen Lord flow through But, to use a biblical term, in the fullness blessed to know so many of our people’s sto- dare I say, in a Christ like way. And yet, we our veins, so that every thought, word and of time, which means when God saw fit, the ries, your stories. I see people come forward know that in the end, our society cannot pro- deed of our lives may shout out: Jesus Lives! Eternal Word of God came as the new Adam, expressing a deep faith that the Lord will care vide lasting happiness for anyone. And may we all be happy in the hope of the one who would choose life. Through a for them and their loved ones, a deep trust We Christians have, as our happiness, the eternal life. — By Msgr Joseph A Pellegrino HERALD April 12, 2020 Home / Pastoral 3 There is still hope My dear brothers and sisters in the Easter message gives us hope rection of the Lord must revive our My hope and prayer for all of Christ, in a bewildering world and hope to weakened hope and our shaky trust. us this Easter is that, even if we face the uncertainties of the future. Easter invites us not to be locked feel trapped in what feels like an This 2020 Easter will be remem- “Why are you cast down, O my soul, into ourselves, but to listen to God enduring exile, we shall have faith bered as an Easter in which we were and why are you in turmoil within and to see Him speaking and ac- that love will triumph; that a life unable to gather as one faith com- me? Hope in God; for I shall again companying every man, woman with deeper meaning is waiting for munity, to witness and participate in praise him, my salvation and my and child with the offer of His love all of us. May the undying hope of the customary rituals and traditions God.” (Psalm 42:11) and of eternal life. “Not only that, Easter reach deep into the life of of this Most Holy Week. An Easter in As Catholics, hope is one of the but we rejoice in our sufferings, everyone, especially those strug- which the baptismal fonts remained most important gifts that we can knowing that suffering produces en- gling most to find hope in what empty and dry. An Easter of empty give to the world today. In a world durance, and endurance produces seems a hopeless situation. pews and silent church bells. An where there is often the reality of character, and character produces May we all be renewed and Easter in which we were distanced suffering, violence and injustice, we hope, and hope does not put us to transformed this Easter and, in from one another physically and are called to be people of hope. This Christ; to be nourished and fed; and shame, because God’s love has been turn, renew and transform others. only united through online Mass is not ordinary human hope. This is then to be sent out once more to the poured into our hearts through the We, the Church, must be that bea- and social media platforms. We re- the hope that comes to us through people and places of our lives, to be Holy Spirit who has been given to con of Hope in our communities main comforted that even though the Resurrection of Jesus. In the face the Good News amidst all that peo- us.” (Romans 5:3-5) and in the world. May the Passion, this is an unprecedented Easter, one of sadness, difficulty and pain, we ple are facing in their lives so that In this time in which we are not Death and Resurrection of Jesus that has never been experienced by are called to look to, and rely on, the people might discover life in all its able to encounter Christ in the as- Christ inspire us to be life givers. any one of us before, the core mes- resurrected Jesus, and not just on our fullness. sembly or in the Eucharist, we JESUS IS TRULY RISEN! AL- sage of Easter remains the same own strength and resources. We are Crises also present opportunities always have the opportunity to en- LELUIA! year after year, that is of ‘Hope’ . the Church that tells the story of di- – to reconsider who we are, to be- counter Christ in the vulnerable. We “We know that Christ, being These past few months have been vine tragedy and hope to ourselves, come more self-aware, to be more can all do something, for someone, raised from the dead, will never a time of uncertainty and, for many to each other and to the communi- loving, more compassionate. The in this time. Many things have been die again; death no longer has do- people, Hope is something that ties around us. To those who are virus is a test – not of God but of cancelled because of COVID-19 but minion over him.” (Romans 6:9) seems to be in short supply. In many suffering, we are the storytellers of us. It challenges us to come out of love and compassion are not among I wish you all a blessed and joy- ways the world and the Church are Hope. To those who are overcome our comfort zones. The first Easter them. Do what you can to help oth- ful Easter. passing through dark times at this by systems of power, we are story- found the most faithful huddled ers, especially the elderly, the disa- moment, and the question is how to tellers of Liberation. To the systems away from their congregations, in bled, the poor and the isolated, and Yours affectionately, make sense of the darkness. Noth- of oppression, we participate in, we a room, hiding out with a differ- do not close your hearts to the home- ing brings hope back to life like are storytellers of Justice. Let’s tell ent fear. Instead of a pandemic, the less and the migrants who are suf- Easter — when Jesus triumphed the story Jesus would tell this Easter. disciples were afraid of the reli- fering more than others. Keep your over death and despair — so at this This Easter, as we are confined to gious and political authorities who heart open to all those in need. In- + Most Rev Julian Leow Beng Kim time, we choose to be hopeful and our homes, let us reorient ourselves; had crucified Jesus and were likely tercede for them, connect with them Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur joyful, above everything else. For refocus our hearts and minds on coming after them too. The Resur- through prayers or a phone call. April 12, 2020 Easter message in the age of anxiety afflicted and walking in their way message. Nothing will be same just heard begins like this. For Federation of Asian of the Cross be strengthened by the again. The way we worship, the weeks now it has been evening. Bishops’ Conferences faith that the Cross ends in Resur- way we relate with one another, the Thick darkness has gathered over Dear Friends in Christ, rection. way we work, will all change. We our squares, our streets and our So let us shout with joy – are at the dawn of a new conscious- cities; it has taken over our lives, Happy Easter! despite all challenges – “Alleluia! ness, a radically fresh approach to filling everything with a deafen- Jesus has risen!” our life as the human family in a ing silence and a distressing void, Let the hope of the Risen Lord con- But COVID-19 challenges our fragile world. Social distance risks that stops everything as it passes tinue to throw the light in our path. faith. The Catholic Church is about bringing social paranoia – fear of by; we feel it in the air, we notice Say with joy “Alleluia! Jesus is communion. In joy and fellowship, my brother and sister. Instead, we in people’s gestures, their glances risen!” Resurrection is our faith, in every mass we gather to affirm must insist that these measures give them away. We find ourselves resurrection is our hope. More than and celebrate our communion. Our arise from and lead to new forms of afraid and lost. Like the disciples any year we need more faith and mission is to build communion. solidarity. in the Gospel we were caught off hope in 2020. And yet in this time of crisis, we COVID-19, the invisible virus, guard by an unexpected, turbulent wait with hope that this Holy Sat- True, — these are dark days — A seem to surrender ourselves to iso- has already taught existential les- storm. urday will end with a victorious huge, suffocating cloud of fear and lation. Paradoxical as it may seem, sons: the richer and more powerful Our destiny, the Pope urges, is Easter. All long dark nights end anxiety engulfs the whole human- keeping distance from one another nations that have arrogantly stock- connected to each other. That is the with the dawn. Evil has an expiry ity. Like the ‘Dark Night of Soul’ means we truly care for each other, piled nuclear arms and weapons message of Easter: date. Good has none. The Church is experienced by saints like St John because we want to stop the trans- have been brought to their knees We have realised that we are in God’s hope-generating agency. So of the Cross, the whole humanity’s mission of the deadly virus. by a virus. World powers that arro- the same boat, all of us fragile and with joy and hope say: “Alleluia! hope is strangled by the darkness The most painful reality has gantly negate all transcendent pow- disoriented, but at the same time Jesus is risen! of despair that comes in the name been that churches are closed. ers are learning with humility that important and needed, all of us With the Psalmist let us sing with of COVID. These are tough times, Pope Francis once said the Church life is fragile and that we all need called to row together, each of us hope in these troubled times: abnormal times, these are peri- should be like a “field hospital”, one another. More than anything, in need of comforting the other. On The Lord is my light and my ods of trial in which our certain- available where human brokenness all powers can learn to acknowl- this boat… are all of us. Just like salvation; whom should I fear? ties, hopes for the future, beliefs and the wounded need the heal- edge the presence of a Power that those disciples, who spoke anx- The Lord is my life’s refuge; about God, and even faith itself are ing touch of Mother Church. Yet is above all. With great pain many iously with one voice, saying "We of whom should I be afraid? eclipsed. Half a million people are the places where we sought God, countries realise that they have are perishing” (v. 38), so we too For God will hide me in his infected, more than 22,000 people where we shed our silent tears of more soldiers in their countries in have realised that we cannot go on shelter in time of trouble, have died and 200 countries are af- brokenness and sought human the business of killing than they thinking of ourselves, but only to- He will conceal me in the cover fected. Italy has seen 63 priests and fellowship, are now closed. The have doctors who can save lives. gether can we do this. of his tent. Psalm 27: 1, 5 more than 20 doctors perishing in Vatican remains closed. In many Humanity itself is on the way of the Into that new world of human their service to the affected people. countries, the Sacrament of Com- Humanity and the Church have Cross. May this Cross lead all na- solidarity and love let a new Easter The Four Horsemen of Apocalypse munion, the Eucharist, is stopped. waded through valleys of tears tions to consign enmity and war to be Born! seemed to have arrived. What wars and persecutions could before: the various plagues men- fire and, rather, see resurrection in Yet we proclaim with joy not do, the invisible virus achieved. tioned in the Bible, the Black human solidarity. Now is the time So let us say with hope and “Alleluia! Jesus is risen!” This is painful. This is a long Plague of the Middle Ages, when for the Church to accompany the proclaim from the rooftops: COVID-19 is virtually the Way “Holy Saturday”, when the Church half of Europe perished and nearly world in this resurrection to justice “Alleluia – Jesus is really of the Cross for humanity. Thou- waits amidst all signs of death. half of the church personnel sacri- and human solidarity. Risen!” sands have been crucified in a cruel “Holy Saturday” when the Church ficed their lives. The ‘Spanish’ Flu Pope Francis, deeply pained by death by a viral organism that can- “abstains from the celebration of took more than 50 million people. the human suffering and the clos- not be seen by eyes. Thousands the Eucharist” meditating on the Nothing new now. ing of the churches, diagnosed to- Cardinal Charles Bo have been walking an excruciating passion of the Lord and awaiting COVID-19 will leave nothing day’s humanity’s problem in his Archbishop of Yangon, Myanmar Way of the Cross in many coun- his resurrection. unchanged. This angel of death, Urbi et Orbi exhortation : President of the Federation of tries. We pray that the thousands We, Catholics and all humanity, like the Seventh Seal of the Book “When evening had come” (Mk Asian Catholic Bishops of Revelation, brings a shattering 4:35). The Gospel passage we have March 31, 2020 4 Home HERALD April 12, 2020 Pandemic halts Holy Week rituals for Portuguese Catholics in Melaka KUALA LUMPUR: This year, traditional Veronica, unfolds a veil with the imprint of Holy Week rituals will not take place in Christ’s battered face. Melaka as the COVID-9 pandemic tightens On Good Friday, another extraordinary its grip on everyone’s life. representation of Christ’s Passion and Melaka is a city in the Malay Archipel- death is enacted with the life-size statue ago, where the first seeds of Catholicism of the lifeless Lord carried in procession were sown by Portuguese missionaries in on a wooden bier. Three women acting as the 15th century. the Tres Marias (The Three Marys) follow Portuguese Square, a settlement that is alongside while a mournful dirge in Latin home to about a thousand descendants of rises to a crescendo. the first Portuguese, is one of several ves- In his book, Survival Through Human tiges that testify to the successful Portu- Values, the late Fr Manual Pintado, who guese mission to the Malay lands. was St Peter’s parish priest, wrote that the Every year during Holy Week, time-hon- Augustinian missionaries introduced the oured Lenten processions, poignant cere- Holy Week cultural practices and ceremo- monies and colourful rituals are showcased nies that are still alive today. in honour of the holiest week in the Catho- Fr Pintado also attributes the formation lic calendar, says Gerard Pereira, 65, a Por- of the Irmaos de Igreja, who have been tuguese Eurasian who lives in the square. the custodians of the special Holy Week Gerard noted that all these celebrations celebrations since the 15th century, to the have stood the test of time. “They remind Augustinian missionaries. They are said to us of the glorious past when our Portu- be the oldest Catholic society in Southeast guese forefathers occupied the city from Portuguese Catholics from the Portuguese Settlement, Melaka. Asia. 1511 to 1641.” aimed at preserving the traditional dances the Church) with the banners of the Holy Portuguese Square is a stronghold for According to him, these unique Portu- and songs of the old Portuguese Malacca, Eucharist and the Mater Dolorosa (Mary, Portuguese descendants like Gerard and guese-styled Lenten activities usually at- said that some people perceive it as the Mother of Sorrows). his wife Mary, who strive to maintain their tract thousands of Catholics, other Chris- “Little Portugal of the East” and others A wooden statue reminiscent of Jesus, religion, language, culture and traditions. tians and even non-Christians, as busloads think that Malacca is a silent “re-evangeli- carrying the cross and another wooden fig- Although Gerard and his family will of foreign tourists come from as far north sation hub” for every Christian who returns urine representing the sorrowful mother of miss the age-old charm of their quaint Holy as Thailand and from Singapore in the to visit the city. Jesus, are carried around St Peter’s Church, Week rituals this year, he takes comfort south. On Palm Sunday, the procession com- accompanied by the faithful holding lighted that the local Church is providing lives- Pereira, who heads his own cultural mences in the evening, led by two mem- candles and green palms. A moving scene tream broadcasts of all Lenten Masses. — music company called “1511 O Maliao,” bers of the Irmaos de Igreja (Brothers of ensues along the way as a girl, representing By Joseph Masilamany, AsiaNews

Kuching Archdiocese Archdiocese Pastoral Letter to Catholics for Mass Collection Holy Week in the Archdiocese of Kuching Parishioners are encouraged to contribute Dear People of God, Do remember that Good Friday is a to the Archdiocesan Mass Collection via Day of Fasting and Abstinence. Join the Sarawak Pay by scanning the QR code. Today, on Palm Sunday, we begin Holy Good Friday Service which will be live- Verify recipient is ‘The Archbishop of Week as we enter Jerusalem with Jesus on streamed to you. Together, we seek our Kuching’ before the transfer is done. his final days. We will join His Last Sup- God of mercy and compassion; receive his per on Holy Thursday, stand faithfully forgiveness, healing and life. at the foot of His Cross on Good Friday All Catholics are hereby given the Dis- and wait by the tomb for His Resurrec- pensation from the obligation to make tion. With the Movement Control Order a Lenten Confession and participate in (MCO) restrictions, for the first time in Masses during Holy Week and Sundays. our churches, our Holy Week is celebrated without the congregation in empty church buildings. Let us always remember that all of us are the living stones, being built into a spiritual house – the Church (cf 1 Today, I also encourage you to put up a Peter 2:5). WE ARE THE CHURCH – palm leaf or branch on the door or win- Disciples of the Word in Communion dow of your house to commemorate this for Mission! Palm Sunday. As we observe social dis- During this tancing, physically, we may be separated, MCO period, but we are united spiritually as one One we will LIVE- Body of Christ — the Church. STAY AT HOME and PRAY, practise STREAM all social distancing, maintain hygiene pre- the Masses and cautions with proper hand washing, etc. Good Friday Make this Holy Week a whole week of Services from prayer that will bring healing, hope and St Joseph’s Ca- life to our land, our nation Malaysia and thedral, Kuch- all the countries affected by the COV- I appeal to everyone to give generously ing. Here, I in- ID-19 pandemic. The Holy Week sched- to “e-collection” through Sarawak Pay vite our young ule for live-streaming of Holy Masses/ or online bank transfer as your weekly people — who There are also many Holy Week re- Services is as per attached. With prayer for contribution to support the Church. This are more tech (internet) savvy — to help sources available e.g. FORMED, Vatican the Holy Week and A Blessed Easter 2020. Collection money will be used to assist their family members to set up and access websites, KL Archdiocese, Holy Week Kit the running of rural parishes during this the live-streaming Holy Masses in their prepared by Penang Diocese, etc. I en- MCO period. When using Sarawak Pay, own homes. Let us celebrate God’s love courage you to use these resources as your always verify that the receipient is ‘The and mercy from the height of the satel- private devotional preparation, for family Archbishop Simon Poh Archbishop Of Kuching’ before the trans- lites. activity and prayer time in your homes. Palm Sunday April 5, 2020 fer is done. HERALD April 12, 2020 Home 5 Clergy Helping the Laity during the Movement Control Order Catholics at home Guiding the laity during the Movement Control Order 1 2 3 4

Screenshot of the Catholics at Home podcast. KUALA LUMPUR: Fr Dr Clarence Dass, 5 6 7 as the head of the Catholic Research Centre, started a podcast dubbed Catholics at Home recently. Hosted by Kevin Francis and Mark Darren Lee, its purpose is to help laity under- stand, prepare and tackle being an online Cath- olic during the current MCO. On the birth of the podcast, Fr Clarence said “One week into the MCO, I was speaking to KUALA LUMPUR: In the middle of the holi- has a series of videos titled United in Prayer “It’s to enable the laity to reflect on scrip- a former altar server and he suggested we do est time of the Church’s calendar, Lent enters before the Blessed Sacrament on their Face- ture, on the separation between the shepherd something to keep ourselves occupied. Since into Holy Week and Easter, the Catholic con- book page. This includes Gospel reflections in and the flock, and how it affects us in this there were already many ‘instructional mate- gregation in Malaysia and in many other parts Nepalese for migrants and the Sunday sermon time of the coronavirus. Parishioners feel rials’ online, we decided on something con- of the world are experiencing a new normal. in sign language for the deaf community. separated and abandoned when they are una- versational. He enlisted another friend and we No weekday or weekend Masses, no Stations ble to receive the Body of Christ. Invitations 3 Kluang worked on topics we felt would interest peo- of the Cross or penitential services to help To connect with their pa- to prayer and to online sessions help provide rishioners, Msgr Peter Ng and his assistant ple, especially during the MCO. Our podcast’s soothe weary souls. them with a valuable resource as they stay title is to reflect where Catholics are during the Fr Alexuchelvam Mariasoosai from the indoors. 1 Kepong Leading up to Holy Week, MCO … at home.” Church of St Louis Kluang broadcast live “They can meditate and mull on the Word Parish Priest of Jesus Caritas Catholic Church He said once the team narrows in on an idea, the daily Mass on Facebook as well as the of God. However, we must continue to chal- and Kristus Aman Chapel, Fr Michael Chua they then draw up questions to ask their guest Eucharistic Adoration and Night Prayers led lenge them and not simply spoon-feed them, guided his flock on an eight-day retreat via Fa- speakers and hope the Q and A engages their by both priests. session after session. It is time for them to cebook live, in preparation for the Great Pas- audience. At the moment they are recording 4 Kuala Lumpur come out of their “shell”, to be courageous, chal Triduum. Known as The Eight Sayings of Cathedral of St John one podcast every two to three days but will and to take the initiative to organise prayer Christ in the Passion according to St John, Fr the Evangelist Parish Priest, Msgr Leonard eventually settle on two sessions per week. and sessions with one another,” said Fr Chan. Chua said the retreat was based on the Good Lexson and Fr Biju, are hosting daily a one- He also conducted a three-day Catholic Friday readings and was a great way to pre- hour live session on the parish’s Facebook Marriage Preparation Course online for an pare ourselves for the Resurrection. page. It gives the faithful a great opportunity engaged couple. Weekly During the presentations, he reminded the to ask these learned priests pressing ques- faithful of how different Holy Week would tions which they may have never had the op- 6 Brickfields Fr Dr Clarence Deva- be for the priests – to be celebrating Mass portunity to broach before. dass and Assistant Parish Priest Fr Bernard pastoral letters without the assistance of the congregations, 5 Petaling Jaya As Parish Priest of Hyacinth of the Church of Our Lady of Fa- Penang Priests of the Cathedral of the likewise, for the rest of us, to participate in the the Church of the Assumption, Fr Gregory tima host rosary sessions with parish minis- Holy Spirit, Fr Joachim Robert and Fr Mi- liturgy by watching it on the screen. While it is Chan has been connecting with parishioners try leaders via a meeting app twice a week. chael Raymond OFM Cap, post weekly pas- a new experience for many, it can be a painful via several activities on Facebook, which in- 7 Cheras The Church of St Francis toral letters on their Facebook page. In their one. In this pain, we should remember not our cludes recitation of the Way of the Cross on Palm Sunday letter, they said Bishop Sebas- pain and suffering but direct our gaze on how of Assisi, Cheras hosts daily Facebook live Fridays, Novenas on Saturdays, a forum on sessions of a holy hour adoration before the tian Francis declared A General Absolution Christ suffered for us, and make that our focus Mass Without a Congregation followed by will be given to all Catholics in the Diocese instead of wallowing in self-pity. Blessed Sacrament, which is dedicated to a formation on Tenebrae, where both reflec- different intentions, together with a hom- of Penang on Good Friday at 3.00pm with the 2 Melaka Fr Lionel Thomas, from the tions were taken from Scriptural passages ily by Parish Priest Fr Andrew Manickam requisite of these conditions: a) To heartily re- oldest church in Malaysia St Peter’s Church, building up to the Holy Week Triduum. OFM Cap. — By Gwen Manickam pent of all their sins, b) To venerate a cross that is available to you (can also be a rosary, pen- dant) or if you do not have a cross, you may venerate the cross in your heart and c) To say Here to listen, here to talk seven (7) times “Lord Jesus, be merciful to me Butterworth The Church of the Na- a sinner,” which serves as your penance. tivity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints Chastan and Imbert is offering anyone in Johor Bahru Cathedral of the need a listening ear. Five priests and two Sacred Heart of Jesus, Parish Priest Fr nuns are available for a chat in English or Simon Yong SJ, also sends weekly pastoral Bahasa Malaysia, should you feel anxious, letters to parishioners via their website and trapped, overwhelmed or going through Facebook page. For the last Sunday in Lent, a dry patch in your spiritual life due to the Fr Yong asked those staying nearby to send Movement Control Order (MCO). Their palms to be blessed. Meanwhile, at the Church contact numbers and available time slots are of the Immaculate Conception priests blessed listed on the parish’s website. palms and sent them to their parishioners. Parish Priest Fr Dominic Santhiyagu said Kuala Lumpur Fr Christopher W they started this project a week ago to cater Soosaipillai of the Church of the Good to parishioners’ needs. Shepherd, tries to give strength to his pa- “On normal days, parishioners always rishioners via WhatsApp and the bulletin. For look for us to pour out their hearts and we Holy Week, he has given them a guide to pre- wanted to provide a similar opportunity, pare their hearts and homes to celebrate each even over the phone. The programme, called celebration with blessed uniqueness as one Here to Listen, Here to Talk, is headed by Fr family in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. Edmund Woon, who is a counsellor. “Let us remember to bow down in adoration “This programme isn’t just a one-way and humility to God who knows and controls street, as it gives priests the opportunity to everything in our interact with parishioners and gather en- very encouraging. “We feel that either peo- his assistant parish priest, Fr Louis Loi, have lives and world. couragement from them during these trying ple are unaware of this programme or most been calling their various ministry leaders to Believe me, God times,” said Fr Dominic. Catholics are still feeling ok about the cur- assure them of their prayers and to check up wants us to be They have been sharing the details of this rent situation in the country and do not need on everyone and enquire if there were any alive in faith and programme via WhatsApp, Facebook and someone to confide in.” pressing needs like shortage of food or fi- goodness to all. their web-site but the response hasn’t been Since the MCO began, Fr Dominic and nances. 6 Asia/Home HERALD April 12, 2020 Singapore launches day of prayer and fasting for an end to the pandemic SINGAPORE: “We are facing one their inadequacy “in containing the also ask God to be merciful to hu- of the most demanding crises of spread of the virus or in preventing manity who are suffering the loss our time,” because in recent history deaths”. “We have not yet found a of lives of their loved ones.” “no disease or virus” has affected vaccine for this virus and it could The Archbishop continued: “So such a large number of people in take several months for scientists please join me in praying for divine such a short period of time, kill- to find a way to stop the infection. mercy and intervention to save the ing thousands of them around the If men can do nothing, only God is world, not just from COVID-19 planet. able to do something ‘because, as but that through this pandemic, This is what the Archbishop of Matthew (19:26) says’ for men this the world may come to its senses Singapore, Msgr William Goh is impossible, but for God every- and recognise that man does not says, announcing a special event thing is possible.” have full control over the world, involving the whole diocese, to call Preventive measures, support regardless of how technologically for an end to the new coronavirus for healthcare workers and care for and militarily advanced he is. God pandemic that has also affected the Archbishop William Goh calls for 24-hours of prayer on April 7-8, 2020. sick people in COVID-19 “are not alone decides because He is the city-state. lion euro fund for the fight against ties have isolated two localities in enough” continues Msgr Goh. “We Lord of life and death.” “Indeed, “As your pastor, I invite you to Covid-19. The city-state had distin- which more than 20,000 foreign need to pray and intercede together Holy Wednesday is called Spy join me in 24 hours of prayer, fast- guished itself — along with South migrant workers reside. To date as Church for God’s mercy and Wednesday. We who have betrayed ing and penance that starts tonight Korea and Vietnam — among the there are 1309 total cases, six con- divine intervention in the world. the Lord by our sins and suffering at 7.00pm and ends tomorrow nations of the continent and the firmed victims and 320 recoveries. Whilst it is true that this disease has the judgment of God, must there- April 8, Holy Wednesday, at the world that best knew how to coun- Illustrating the day of fasting purified humanity of greed and ar- fore repent and pray for conversion same time.” ter the spread of the virus. and prayer, the Archbishop of Sin- rogance, removed many sins of the of humanity so that this Covid-19 In recent weeks, the local gov- However, in recent days, the dis- gapore stresses that governments flesh from humanity, and restored pandemic can be eliminated from ernment had allocated a 30 bil- ease has returned and the authori- around the world have understood the beauty of creation, we must the face of the earth.” — AsiaNews Perak parishes stay connected with the people during MCO IPOH: With the ongoing Move- St Michael’s Church (SMC), ment Control Order imposed by the through two ministries; namely Sa- Malaysian government, the Church habat Orang Asli (SOA) and Min- continues to listen to the silent istry of the Poor, has been distrib- pleas of the needy and moves for- uting food rations to poor families. ward to their assistance whilst stay- Parish priest Fr Anthony Liew ing in touch with their parishioners. shared that before the MCO, the Two parishes in the Silver State SOA also actively helped the of Perak have responded to this Orang Asli with medical camps, call, and it goes in line with the education such as kindergartens theme for the Penang Diocesan and economic development. Lenten Campaign which is Sent To “Besides their efforts, our pa- Heal. rishioners are also encouraged to

BEC and Catholic Charismatic Renewal members gather for intercessory prayer via Zoom. reach out especially towards our The Church of Our Mother of flight cancellations, therefore we migrants and the Filipinos, such as Perpetual Help (OMPH), aid fami- have arranged with our parishion- by calling them to show concern lies with rations through the Soci- ers to become foster families to ac- and support,” he said. ety of St Vincent de Paul (SVDP) commodate them,” he said. Fr Liew is also reaching out to and help college students within Lam also said that BEC groups his parishioners through various their parish boundary. and the Catholic Charismatic Re- social media channels such as Fa- Fundraising committee member newal (CCR) group have been us- cebook and Whatsapp with daily Peter Lam said that the parish has ing the Zoom online meeting plat- reflections and messages. around 200 to 300 Catholic tertiary form for their prayer and worship. One such initiative is a guessing students from nearby campuses “Most of these groups have man- game with the parish priest on Fa- actively serving, especially in the aged to connect online, maintain- cebook, where SMC parishioners Bahasa Ministry. ing the usual prayer times they will view a photo to guess its loca- “Many of these students cannot would normally have when gath- tion and history within the church afford to go home due to hostel ering physically,” he said. — By St Michael’s Church has created an online guessing game for parishioners. building. closures, restricted movement and Aaron Lim Meditation to deal with MCO ALOR SETAR: As the country priests have taken to social media, like fear or worry, he provides con- recommends those who are interest- enters the fourth week of the Move- such as WhatsApp and Facebook to sultation through WhatsApp. He ed to join in the Art of De-stressing ment Control Order (MCO) there keep abreast of the current situation recommended meditation to a lady through Silent Meditation where he are many who are feeling uneasy and provide some form of spiritual who recently texted him for advice will teach in greater detail the tech- or frustrated with being restricted to guidance to their parishioners. On- as she was distracted with fear and nique of destressing and the tech- their homes. line streaming of Masses and reflec- worry. nique of meditation. Focusing on As many are holed up at homes, tions, as well as BEC gatherings can Meditation is basically silence God, on self and on nature, ie flow- tensions tend to increase as many become ‘family time.’ and focusing. Focusing on what? A ers, plants, the sea, the mountains. families, especially those in the B40 One priest, who is known to be good start is to focus on the Name Thank God for the gift of nature. as well as M40, find it hard to cope teaching the art of de-stressing of Jesus, and an easier way is to Those who need to speak to him with a restrictive lifestyle, more so through silent meditation has been turn the Name of Jesus into a man- may do so if there is an urgency. Fr if they are staying in a smaller house quite busy these past days. Fr tra. Rather like praying the Rosary Chin said those having a sense of or with limited facilities. Many are Charles Chin, Resident Priest at the where you repeat the Hail Mary 50 fear or tension could just keep on feeling worried and fearful about Church of St Michael has been pro- Fr Charles Chin times. So, just start by repeating the practising repeating the Holy Name not being able to go to work (espe- viding counselling through What- to some 400 people. His messages Name of Jesus, slowly and lovingly. of JESUS daily, in the morning and cially those self-employed or small sApp to those that approached him via WhatsApp are mainly spiritual, Fr Chin added that if you get dis- in the evening, but do so slowly. He traders or daily wage earners). for help, those going through fear inspiring and providing hope. This tracted, just return to repeating the claimed that this has helped the lady How are the youths and teenag- and worries. is his humble way of reaching out to Holy Name of JESUS. His advice mentioned earlier in this article. ers coping with the MCO? Here, Fr Chin said that his way of the faithful. was to limit each session to 15 min- He says you will feel God coming parents can play their role by pro- reaching out in these uncertain Fr Chin also shared that for those utes for a start. alive within you. — By Bernard viding care and direction. Many times is through his regular texting who are facing personal problems When this MCO is over, Fr Chin Anthony z HERALD April 12, 2020 World / Asia 7 During pandemic, overcrowding in prisons is a danger VATICAN: The danger posed by the that every family had good furniture, overcrowding of prisons in this time indicative of the middle class, with of pandemic was the intention of a a television set. But they wound up prayer expressed by Pope Francis there because they couldn’t pay their in the introduction of the Mass cel- rent. These are the new poor who are ebrated this morning at Casa Santa forced to leave their homes because Marta. they can’t afford them. This is the in- “Where there is overcrowding,” justice of the economic or financial he said, “there is the danger in this system that has left them like that.” pandemic that it winds up being a In conclusion, Pope Francis re- grave tragedy. Let us pray for those called that Jesus’ first question on responsible, and for those who need the Day of Judgment will be: “How to make decisions in this area, that did you treat the poor? Did you feed they might find a correct and crea- them? Did you visit those in prison, tive way to resolve the problem.” Pope Francis warned of serious consequences if the same measures aren’t applied to overcrowded prisons. in hospital? Did you help the wid- In his homily, the Pope reflected The Pope said there is always see on the street are only the tip of Pope Francis said many poor ow and the orphan? Because I was on the day’s Gospel reading (Jn someone with these characteristics. the iceberg. people are victims of economic and there.” 12:1-11) in which Mary – the sister “This story of the unfaithful ad- “The great majority of the poor financial systems, but are too embar- The Pope said we will be judged of Lazarus and Martha – anoints Je- ministrator is always current: they are those whom we do not see: the rassed to ask for help. They struggle “according to our relationship with sus’ feet with costly perfumed oil. are always around, even at a high hidden poor. And we don’t see them to make it to the end of the month, the poor.” The event provokes an indignant level. We think of some charitable because we enter into this culture of even if they have a job. “If I ignore the poor today, leav- response from Judas, to which Jesus or humanitarian organisations that indifference which denies their ex- The Pope then told a story from ing them aside and acting as if they replies with an enigmatic statement. have many, many employees, with istence. So, we say, ‘No, there aren’t his time as the Archbishop of Bue- didn’t exist, the Lord will ignore Pope Francis focused his homily a structure full of people and only that many. You don’t see many.’ And nos Aires in Argentina. me on the Day of Judgment. When on Jesus’ words: “You always have about 40 per cent of donations make we minimise the reality of the poor. “Once, someone told me about an Jesus says, ‘You always have the the poor with you.” it to the poor because 60 per cent But there are so very many.” abandoned factory in which around poor with you,’ He is saying, ‘I will He said Judas appears to think of goes to pay many salaries. This is a Even those who are not indifferent 15 families had lived for the previ- always be with you in the poor. I the poor, but not because they really way of taking money from the poor.” to the presence of the poor can come ous few months. I went there. There will be present there.’ And this is not matter to him. What he cares about is Pope Francis said Jesus’ words to see them as “ornaments in a city, were families with children, and acting like a communist. This is at money. He held the common purse about having the poor always with like statues,” said the Pope, “as if it each had claimed a part of the fac- the centre of the Gospel: we will be and was a thief. us are true. But, he said, the ones we were normal.” tory to live in. Looking closer, I saw judged on this.” — AsiaNews COVID-19 makes people yearn If coronavirus reaches for the Eucharist Rohingya camps in Cox’s MUMBAI: The lockdown in In- Bazar, it will be a disaster dia that began on March 25 is in its second week. We Indians are slowly COX’s BAZAR: One million most- settlement. “We live in fear,” said getting to grips with our situation. ly Muslim Rohingya refugees live one of them. “If any of us get sick, For practising Catholics and ar- in the tent camps all around Cox’s we will not get any treatment and dent churchgoers, the lockdown has Bazar after fleeing Myanmar - be will die.” proved a bit traumatic. They are cause of persecution by the coun- For Christian Rohingya, the situ- scrambling to find ways to replace try’s military. ation is even worse. On January 27, going to church. Nurul Amin, married father of 25 families (87 people) were at- Quite a menu of livestreamed and seven, lives in one of those camps. tacked by Rohingya extremists. recorded Eucharistic celebrations is “We live in a tiny house,” he said. Together with the government and available to choose from. There are “We don’t have good sanitary and some NGOs, Caritas is helping refu- online Masses and retreats, and last medical facilities. If this virus reach- gees protect themselves from the week, there was even a holy hour es the camps, it will be a big disas- pandemic. with Pope Francis imparting his spe- ter.” “We have handed out 200,000 in- cial Urbi et Orbi blessing. Fr P. Gnana Reddy holds palm fronds as he walks towards the altar to celebrate So far, the Bangladeshi govern- formation leaflets and thousands of While these are soothing to some a private Palm Sunday Mass at St Joseph’s Church in Secunderabad on April ment has quarantined 34 Rohingya posters in their language, as well as extent, I feel my faith shaken each 5, 2020. (ucanews.com/Noah Seelam via AFP) refugee settlements. About 70 peo- protective masks, disinfectant and morning when I turn on the news. at any moment … all these situations be safe at home and get my essential ple have been infected in the coun- hand soap,” said Ranjon Francis Thousands continue to die and the challenge my faith. My faith is in Je- needs during the lockdown. All I can try, with eight deaths. Rozario, director of Caritas in Bang- numbers are increasing each day. sus, who gave us just one command- do is pray that they will be protected, To contain the outbreak, the au- ladesh. When churches shut their doors ment: “Love one another as I have that they may not labour in vain. thorities have reduced assistance to Local authorities have also re- to worshipers, the first thought that loved you.” I pray that all those refugees living refugees to a minimum; however, ceived funds donated to deal with struck me was, “What is God saying When I think about missing a cele- in limbo in camps so cramped that a foreign humanitarian workers con- the crisis, and medicines were de- to us in this pandemic?” bration of the Eucharist, my thoughts single infection could be disastrous tinue to arrive to help in the camps. livered to health facilities run by Two weeks into the lockdown, go deeper — to what the Eucharist for thousands of innocent lives al- Some Christian Rohingya are the Catholic Church. — By Sumon watching the global pandemic un- really means to us. I realise it is Je- ready battered by war and years of among the refugees in a Cox’s Bazar Corraya, AsiaNews fold, the rate of increase in infections sus telling us, “What I have done for uncertainty. and deaths across the world is over- you, you should also do — wash one I lift in prayer all those who are not whelming and scary. another’s feet.” fortunate to have shelter, food and The heroic healthcare workers try- He broke bread and gave it to water — that they will reach places ing to save lives at the cost of their those gathered at table and said: and people where they can receive own; other essential services work- “This is my body, broken for you.” these essentials for life. I show my ing with little or no personal pro- Similarly, he took the cup and shared solidarity by donating towards the tective equipment; poor daily wage it with those at table, saying “this is services offered to people stranded. labourers trying hard to find ways to the cup of my blood shed for you. Do Beyond this, I feel totally helpless. survive, even to the extent of under- this in remembrance of me.” So I look for hope. taking a walk of hundreds of kilome- I am reminded of how the Eucha- I find hope in the fact that the lock- tres to reach their homes in remote rist is lived by all the healthcare pro- down has given a respite to nature. Indian villages in the hope of finding fessionals who are breaking them- Our atmosphere is free of so much at least shelter, water and some food; selves for the sick, those putting pollution because carbon emissions refugees fleeing war but caught in their lives on the line to serve us in are drastically reduced. — Virginia camps that could turn into death traps so many different ways, so that I can Saldanha, ucanews.com Refugees live crammed, without adequate healthcare. (Asianews photo) 8 World HERALD April 12, 2020 Pope Francis on Palm Sunday: Let us stand before the crucifix in our homes VATICAN: On Palm Sunday, Pope est measure of God’s love for us, us led him to sacrifice himself and securities that have now crumbled, Francis offered Mass in a nearly and before the God who serves us to to take upon himself our sins. This in the face of so many hopes be- empty St Peter’s Basilica and urged the point of giving his life, and let us astonishes us: God saved us by tak- trayed, in the sense of abandonment Catholics quarantined at home to ask for the grace to live in order to ing upon himself all the punishment that weighs upon our hearts, Jesus remember “what really matters” in serve,” he said. of our sins. Without complaining, says to each one of us: ‘Courage, life: loving God and serving others. Pope Francis said that the corona- but with the humility, patience and open your heart to my love. You will “The tragedy we are experiencing virus pandemic has allowed people obedience of a servant, and purely feel the consolation of God who sus- summons us to take seriously the to see that “the real heroes” are not out of love,” he said. tains you,’” Pope Francis said. things that are serious, and not to be the “famous, rich and successful The Pope asked: “What can we The Pope led the Angelus prayer caught up in those that matter less; people,” but those who “are giving do in comparison with God, who following the Palm Sunday Mass. to rediscover that life is of no use themselves in order to serve others.” served us even to the point of being He urged Catholics to learn from if not used to serve others. For life “May we reach out to those who betrayed and abandoned?” the Blessed Virgin Mary, who gazed is measured by love,” Pope Fran- are suffering and those most in need. “We can refuse to betray him for upon her crucified son with inner cis said April 5 in his Palm Sunday May we not be concerned about whom we were created, and not silence and “the gaze of the heart.” homily. what we lack, but about what good abandon what really matters in our “Beloved, let us set out with faith Holy Week liturgies at the Vatican we can do for others,” he said. lives. We were put in this world to this Holy Week, in which Jesus suf- are taking place without the pres- Pope Francis offered Mass at the love him and our neighbours. Eve- fers, dies and rises again. People and ence of the public this year because Altar of the Chair in St Peter’s Ba- rything else passes away, only this families who cannot participate in of the coronavirus pandemic. silica with the miraculous crucifix remains,” he said. liturgical celebrations are invited to During the Palm Sunday broad- of San Marcello and the Byzantine Pope Francis said that, just as God gather in prayer at home, also helped cast, the Pope said that Catholics icon of Mary, Salus Populi Romani, the Father sustained Jesus in his suf- by technological means,” he said. can look to the suffering Christ as an near the altar. Both icons were pre- fering during his Passion, the Lord “Let us cling spiritually to the example of a life lived completely in sent in St Peter’s Square during the also supports each person whose sick, to their families and to those the service of others. Pope’s extraordinary Urbi et Orbi love and service of others is a via who treat them with self-sacrifice; “In these holy days, in our homes, blessing on March 27. crucis in itself. let us pray for the dead, in the light Pope Francis prays during Palm let us stand before the Crucified One “Jesus ‘emptied himself, taking “Today, in the tragedy of a pan- of paschal faith,” Pope Francis said. Sunday Mass April 5, 2020. (CNA — look, look at the crucifix, the full- the form of a servant’ ... His love for demic, in the face of the many false — By Courtney Mares, CNA photo/Vatican Media) Australia’s High Court overturns Cardinal Pell’s abuse convictions WASHINGTON: After an ordeal such that there ought to have been a when robed in the Cathedral; and proceedings. In 2001 he denied to that began nearly four years ago, reasonable doubt as to the applicant’s (iii) the continuous traffic in and out his mother that any abuse occurred and more than 13 months of impris- guilt.” of the priests’ sacristy for ten to 15 while he was a member of the choir. onment, Cardinal George Pell has With regard to the jury, “The Court minutes after the conclusion of the Pell was convicted in 2018, in the been released from prison, after his held that, on the assumption that the procession that ended Sunday sol- second trial concerning the allega- conviction for five alleged counts of jury had assessed the complainant's emn Mass.” tions. The first trial ended in a hung sexual abuse was overturned unani- evidence as thoroughly credible and In their appeal, Pell’s attorney jury. mously by Australia’s High Court. reliable, the evidence of the opportu- argued that the conviction should After the conviction, the cardinal The court ordered that “the appel- nity witnesses nonetheless required have been overturned because it was was sentenced to six years in prison, lant’s convictions be quashed and the jury, acting rationally, to have based upon the uncorroborated testi- of which he had been required to judgments of acquittal be entered in entertained a reasonable doubt as mony of only one complainant. serve at least three years and eight their place,” in its April 7 decision. to the applicant’s guilt in relation to That complainant said that he and months before being eligible to ap- “The High Court found that the the offences involved in both alleged another choir boy were sexually ply for parole. Pell was to be eligible jury, acting rationally on the whole incidents,” the judgment summary for release in October 2022. Pell, 78, Cardinal George Pell abused by Pell after Sunday Mass of the evidence, ought to have enter- explained. while the cardinal was Archbishop has maintained his innocence. His defence has insisted that the alleged tained a doubt as to the applicant’s At issue in the appeal was whether The Court’s April 7 summary re- of Melbourne in 1996 and 1997. guilt with respect to each of the of- the jury that convicted Pell in De- “The assumption that a group of crimes would have been, under the lease added that “The unchallenged circumstances, “simply impossible.” fences for which he was convicted, cember 2018 of sexually abusing evidence of the opportunity witnesses choristers, including adults, might and ordered that the convictions be two choristers could have plausibly have been so preoccupied with mak- The cardinal was incarcerated in was inconsistent with the complain- HM Prison Barwon, a maximum- quashed and that verdicts of acquittal found Pell guilty beyond a reason- ant’s account, and described: ing their way to the robing room as to be entered in their place,” the court able doubt, having heard the case fail to notice the extraordinary sight security prison southwest of Mel- (i) the applicant’s practice of greet- bourne that holds some notorious said in a judgment summary April 7. presented by the prosecutors and the ing congregants on or near the Ca- of the Archbishop of Melbourne He was released from HM Prison defence mounted by Pell’s lawyers. dressed ‘in his full regalia’ advanc- crime bosses, for 13 months. thedral steps after Sunday solemn The cardinal is now expected Barwon on the same day, a maxi- The High Court found that the Mass; ing through the procession and pin- mum-security facility southwest of appellate court that heard Pell’s ap- ning a 13 year old boy to the wall, is to face a canonical proceeding in (ii) the established and histori- Melbourne. Pell celebrated a private peal last year had “failed to engage a large one,” the High Court said in Rome, overseen by the Vatican’s cal Catholic Church practice that Congregation for the Doctrine of Mass of thanksgiving, the first he with the question of whether there its decision. required that the applicant, as an the Faith. — By Ed Condon and celebrated since his incarceration in remained a reasonable possibility The other apparent victim died in archbishop, always be accompanied JD Flynn, CNA February 2019. that the offence had not taken place, 2014, and was unable to testify in the Freed from prison, will Cardinal Pell now face Vatican trial? WASHINGTON: The High Court restore faith in its ability to handle rum sanctitatis tutela. Unless there the lack of any supporting evidence as a farce. But it could also represent of Australia ordered the acquittal of accusations of sexual abuse fully and is pressing evidence on both sides of for the accusations of Pell’s lone ac- something of a setback for the Vati- Cardinal George Pell April 7. fairly – no exceptions – mean that the case, the CDF rarely convenes a cuser, it is entirely possible that the can’s aim to be seen to give every ac- While Pell’s criminal trials in Aus- there will have to be some kind of full trial – especially when the mat- CDF could chose to rule that the ac- cusation a formal examination. tralia are now at an end, the same canonical process. ter has received a full litigation in a cusations against Pell do not meet A more likely way ahead may be accusations which saw him first The necessity for some canonical secular court. even this most basic criterion and for the Congregation to open a pre- convicted, then denied appeal, then process to formally address the ac- The decision the CDF will face is dismiss the charges out of hand, as liminary investigation, the bulk of acquitted, must now be addressed by cusations against Pell does not, how- how, and if, to proceed with the pre- the Victoria police did with several which would likely consist of ex- the Church’s own legal process. That ever, mean it need be lengthy. While liminary investigation. of the more obviously false allega- amining the court documents from canonical process, on hold while the Pope alone is competent to deter- As a first step, the CDF will have to tions collected by its open-ended in- Pell’s trial and appeals. This inves- the Australian justice system ran its mine how a case against a cardinal determine if the accusations against vestigation into Pell. tigation could then conclude, as the course, can now begin. proceeds, in practice Francis is al- Pell rise to the level of “a semblance This would have the benefit of High Court did, that there is simply While many of Pell’s supporters most sure to depute the process to the of truth,” that is, they are not “mani- sending the most emphatic message no evidence to support the charges might consider any further legal or- Congregation for the Doctrine of the festly false or frivolous.” possible that Rome views the accu- against Pell, and a considerable di- deal for the cardinal to be unneces- Faith (CDF) – something provided Following the High Court’s deci- sations against Pell as absurd, and by versity of evidence arguing for his sary, even cruel, Vatican efforts to for in the motu proprio Sacromento- sion, which repeatedly pointed out implication, his original conviction innocence. — By Ed Condon, CNA HERALD April 12, 2020 World 9 Power of The Resurrection Patriarch Sako: Easter Resurrection stronger than coronavirus darkness BAGHDAD: Card Louis Raphael Sako sands, according to doctors and experts. conversion to God and the principles of issued a letter on the occasion of Easter The death toll stands at 61 with 279 peo- our faith, spirituality and real morals”. to Chaldean priests and the Chaldean ple recovered. Addressing the powerful, the prel- community in Iraq and the world. Despite restrictions and preventive ate calls on political leaders not to lose In it, the Chaldean Primate notes that measures taken around the world, the “their humanity”, and amid the deaths because of the novel coronavirus, Chris- novel coronavirus “is still killing thou- and the destruction, to have “a moment tians around the world are unable to cel- sands of people”. As the outbreak grows, of reflection” to review, analyse, criticise ebrate the liturgies as they do every year. “human health, social life and economy” and correct “policies and strategies”. However, they are still “praying in their are threatened. Citing Pope Francis’ encyclical Laud- homes,” keeping hope alive for a “Pass- In light of the situation, humanity must ato Si’, the cardinal calls for actions to Over”, a passage “from darkness to light, “make the right decisions” in the fight protect the environment, to fight pol- from fragility to strength, from illness to against the pandemic, and “needs an lution and climate change and to ban health,” for an “Easter of Resurrection”. awakening for its rebirth.” weapons, urging world leaders to respect In the letter, sent to AsiaNews, the car- To this end, Cardinal Sako urges eve- human rights and laws and to build a dinal focuses on the need for humanity to ryone to examine their behaviour, focus- world without wars, conflicts, death, fear reawaken, to go “from suffering to free- ing on morals that falter and lead to “cor- and poverty. dom; from selfishness to altruism and ruption, greed, stealing public money, Inspired by the pontiff’s encyclical, from isolation to fraternal solidarity,” so Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako violence, threats, murders, displacement, the patriarch ends his letter saying that that “people can live together with love, as Auxiliary Bishop Shlemon Warduni of divorce, abortion, etc.” it is time “for a comprehensive plan to respect, peace and joy.” Baghdad noted recently. “Since we have distanced God from build a peaceful and prosperous world, For Iraqi Christians, Holy Week cel- Overall, about 961 people have tested our world or hanged our mistakes on where social justice can be applied and a ebrations this year mean empty churches positive to the COVID-19 virus, but the Him,” the pandemic and Easter should clean environment can be sustained for a and the fight against an invisible enemy, true number probably runs in the thou- be seen as “an invitation for a full (re) better future”. — AsiaNews Wuhan picks up the pieces to crawl back to life HONG KONG: The Chinese government He said he no longer cares about luxuries is relaxing the more than two-month lock- and non-essential shopping. “It doesn’t down in Wuhan city, where the Covid-19 matter how much money you have. Safety pandemic emerged last December, but life of family is the most important thing.” will never be the same for most of its 11 million people. Pain of family members dying alone Ever since the novel coronavirus was Teresa Qiu, a clerk in the Hankou area, said first reported in the seafood market of this she was quarantined from Feb. 1 “because city, the capital of Hubei province in cen- someone in our building tested positive.” tral China, it has officially killed more than She was afraid to go out or even open the 3,300 people across the country. The city door until there was “really nothing to eat suffered most. About two-thirds of China’s at home. The community workers brought over 82,000 infections were in Wuhan. food to the door. But I was scared to even Wuhan residents, who have been indoors open the door,” she said. since Jan. 23 after infections began to kill And then, on Feb 9, she learned the most people, say they have been “adding oil” to disheartening news from her father — that others — a Chinese expression for encour- her mother in Wuchang was infected. The aging and supporting others. elderly woman was quarantined at home. Chinese authorities have relaxed con- Qiu could not go and meet her mother be- trols over Hubei since March 25, but Wu- cause of strict restrictions. The telephone han will wait until April 8 to open its doors was their only medium to comfort each to traffic from outside the city. other. Wuhan’s favourite breakfast noodles are A vendor wearing a face mask sells eggs at a market in Wuhan on April 2, 2020. The Chinese city, One day her father called and told her back, showing signs of the city coming where the coronavirus first emerged in December, partly reopened on March 28, 2020 after more that her mother had just died. They cried back to life. But in early March, authorities than two months of near total isolation. (ucanews.com/Hector Retamal via AFP) loudly. brought in a comprehensive law banning “On the 10th day of Chinese New Year she does nothing or does not want to do “It was at home because there were no the trade and consumption of wildlife, pre- (Feb 3), my father died. The govern- anything. Her whole life seems ruined,” beds in the hospital. We both were crying. viously part of the activities at the busy ment funeral home took his body away,” Zhao said. I didn’t know how to comfort Dad, and I Huanan Seafood Market. she said. There was not even a chance to Zhang Xiaohua, who runs a hardware didn’t know how to comfort myself,” she Chinese officials have identified wild mourn for the departed soul. store in central Wuhan, said he suffered said. animals sold at the market as the source of “I’m a Catholic but I could not conduct heavy losses from the city’s lockdown. His At the peak of COVID-19 in January and the coronavirus, which has in date infected funeral prayers for my father because of monthly rent was more than 10,000 yuan February, Wuhan’s overwhelmed hospitals more than 50,000 people in Wuhan, killed the epidemic. My heart is still heavy. I (US$1,400) and he had a housing loan to were forced to ration beds, tests and medi- more than 53,000 persons worldwide and cannot let go of the feeling that I failed to pay. cal supplies. sent the global economy into meltdown. conduct a proper funeral and burial for my He did not expect the epidemic to last for Overworked doctors witnessed hospitals Business and food apart, there are other father,” Zhao said. more than two months or cause so many crammed with affected patients, exhausted reasons why life will be far from normal The authorities rushed the cremation deaths. His family had not stocked food colleagues helpless to save the dying, and for many in Wuhan. Thousands have lost and asked her to collect the ashes when the items for two months, and money was also bodies lying around for hours before un- family members, and most were unable pandemic is over. tight. They “ate what they could.” dertakers could remove them. to arrange a decent funeral or even at- Zhao said hundreds of people whose rel- Prices have spiralled during the period. After the government undertakers took tend their burial or cremation. Many say atives died of COVID-19 are in the same “We had no choice other than buying food away Qiu’s mother’s body, her dad was they could not even mourn the deaths as boat of not having an opportunity to con- at a premium, but I really could not afford isolated at home. “I didn’t know what to they were busy taking care of themselves duct proper funerals and mourning to get it,” he said. do every day except call Teresa,” he said. or other family members stricken by the over their losses. Some are emotionally Zhang said he took a walk after authori- Qiu learned from social media about killer virus. wrecked, she said. ties relaxed restrictions in Hubei. “Passing the thousands of deaths and the need to be Take the case of Zhao’s classmate whose through the provincial gate, it felt like the quarantined until the epidemic was over. Wounded emotions husband and son died of COVID-19. road was empty, like a ghost town,” he “What matters is that my dad is still Mary Zhao arrived from Hunan before Her friends and relatives comforted her said. around. And I have a dad,” she said. Chinese New Year to take care of her fa- through phone calls and social media. But He said it is a “blessing from God” that She said she would quit her job in Hank- ther, who was bedridden because of cancer. those efforts did little to help the deeply he has no mental problems, even after ou and return to live with her father in Wu- Her brother also came to Wuhan to spend depressed woman. being inside his home for more than two chang. — By Elizabeth Lam, ucanews. the New Year days together with his father. “She now sits at home alone. Every day, months. com 10 Editorial HERALD April 12, 2020 HERALD Jesus’ Sacred Heart is open April 12, 2020 The Easter mystery for you, despite the ‘bitter in empty churches and around the world affliction’ of coronavirus aster has a strange flavour this year, one we are not used to. he novel coronavirus pandemic’s love,” said Gomez. of spreading the disease. The closures EThe pandemic emergency, which has yet to be brought un- effects on victims and the closure Let us pray the Litany of the Sacred have caused major economic and social der control, forces priests to celebrate Mass without the people. Tof churches have deeply pained Heart of Jesus for an end to the corona- disruption, putting millions of people out In most Asian nations, churches — and other places of wor- the Catholic faithful and clergy, but Holy virus pandemic. of work. ship, such as mosques — are open only to individual prayer, Week is a time to join together to seek “Let us join as one family of God in The closure of churches and restric- to avoid infection. Thus, the most solemn moment in the li- God’s mercy and love in the Sacred Heart asking our Lord for his mercy,” said tions on the administration of the sacra- turgical year for Christians, the Resurrection of Jesus, will be of Jesus. Gomez, who added that Pope Francis has ments have been especially painful for without the polyphonic chorus of choirs, devoid of the cascades “In the heart of Jesus, pierced as he granted a special plenary indulgence to some Catholics, a situation Gomez ac- of fragrant flowers, robbed of the splendour of blinding lights. hung on the cross on Good Friday, we those who pray the litany for an end to knowledged. The singing of the hallelujah on Easter night will, perhaps, be see the love of God for humanity, his love the pandemic. “My brother bishops and I are painfully whispered, to prevent the breath of the singers from spreading for each one of us,” said Archbishop Jose The novel coronavirus has created a aware that many of our Catholic people around coronavirus molecules by positive, but asymptomatic Gomez, president of the US Conference situation “almost without precedent” in are troubled and hurt by the loss of the individuals. of Catholic Bishops, in an April 3 mes- the Church, he said. Eucharist and the consolation of the sac- An Easter reduced to the essentials, bare, with an empty sage for Holy Week. The virus, formally known as COV- raments,” he said. “This is a bitter afflic- church. Yet, this very aspect — the void, closely resembles the “This Holy Week will be different. ID-19, has infected over 1.4 million peo- tion that we all feel deeply. We ache with first sepulchre in Jerusalem, the one into which the body of the Our churches may be closed, but Christ ple and killed 82,085 as of April 8. In the our people and we long for the day when crucified Jesus was laid. And the first night of Resurrection was is not quarantined and his Gospel is not US, about 400,540 have tested positive we can be reunited around the altar of the dominated by the same silence and the lack of public presence: in chains,” he said. “Our Lord’s heart and 12,857 have died since the epidemic Lord to celebrate the sacred mysteries.” no one witnessed the moment when Life began to flow again remains open to every man and woman. began. “In this difficult moment, we ask God into the body of the Redeemer, humiliated by suffering and an- Even though we cannot worship together, More contagious and deadly than influ- for his grace, that we might bear this bur- nihilation on the cross. In the empty and depopulated churches, each of us can seek him in the tabernacles enza, the virus has strained the resources den together with patience and charity, the mystery of that first night of Resurrection is renewed, with of our own hearts.” of hospitals in the US and worldwide. united as one family of God in his univer- the style, the absences and the silences that, for the first time in “Because he loves us, and because his Many businesses and social activi- sal Church,” he said. love can never change, we should not be ties deemed non-essential have been or- Gomez said we should ask the Virgin history, accompanied the victory of Life over death. afraid, even in this time of trial and test- dered closed by government authorities. Mary to intercede for us, that God “might The powerful triumph of Christ, although celebrated in the ing. In these mysteries that we remember Catholic churches closed, sometimes in deliver us from every evil and grant us near-silence of the churches, restores the faith of we Chris- this week, let us renew our faith in his advance of government orders, for fear peace in our day.” — CNA tians. But can this faith bring comfort and light to the rest of the world? The news and statistics that reach us every hour from the most diverse parts of the planet augment the perception of pain and death in everyone: more infected every day, more Coping with isolation e are all on a sharp learning curve. ices who were only too pleased to comply be open ended to receive what comes my corpses every day, more agony every day. WThe virus has reshaped what we with directions from authorities. way and respond to it. There is another worrying aspect: so far, the coronavirus had taken for granted in terms of our liv- Not my scene, I thought, and so I had to And what does this “command and epidemic has mainly affected countries in Europe and North ing. And the best-informed predictions of make a decision: remain or depart. I knew control” world sound like? It’s precisely America, or like China, Japan, South Korea, where there is an end to our constraints and containment there was much more ahead that had at- where we are globally right now. We are somehow a health system that, although collapsing, still man- are that we won’t see any change till a vac- tracted me to the Jesuits in the first place. in lockdown, with our activities and in- ages to assist, cure, and heal at least some of those affected by cine comes to our aid. But that won’t be I had seen them at work, leading lives that teractions restricted by all-commanding the virus. for 12 months by most estimates. were beneficial (to others) and enriching authorities (governments and police) and As I write these words, we are at the beginning of what could The fact is that old dogs are now going (to themselves). our mobility constrained by regulations become a tragedy: the spread of the coronavirus in countries to have to learn new tricks to manage our- So, I decided I would see this unhappy we have to follow or be punished if we like India, or like many African countries where the masses of selves, our mood swings, our productivity, experience through to get to where I want- disobey them. poor are in the hundreds of millions and where the health facili- our relationships and our general sense of ed to be. The Holy Spirit had some say The terrain of a total institution has ties are inadequate. coherence. too, as I will explain after describing the extended to encompass our whole lives – But even in developed countries, death is dominating the References to parallel experience for coping mechanisms I developed. work, education, recreation, exercise, and days of many, highlighting our impotence, even though the the human race reach back 100 years — The most helpful things I learnt – and most importantly interaction with others. commitment to treatment is constant. The whole world resem- the so-called Spanish Flu, because the I must say I am resorting to this way of Unlike my decisions in the Novitiate, bles one great tomb that puts our pretensions to happiness at all contagious infection started just before the coping through the spread of the virus – the situation the world is in now is not costs with its back against the wall. end of hostilities in World War I. So, the came to me through a book that had only one we have chosen to embrace. It is one “Son of man, will these bones be revived?” (Ezekiel 37, 3). world scored two knock out blows at the been recently published at that time: Total thrust upon us, and one over which we This question, of Yahweh to his prophet before the endless val- same time – the “war to end all wars” and Institutions by the Canadian author Erving have little or no control. In it, we are being ley full of bones, returns to me of late. The question precedes the deadly outbreak of influenza. Goffman. challenged to use our life experiences and the intervention of the Spirit who, from the dried up bones, The Spanish flu was an unusually dead- As one of Goffman’s commentators faith to see the hand of God in this new reconstructs the corrupt tissues and brings his people back to ly influenza pandemic. Lasting from Janu- puts it: A total institution is a closed social situation. life. But the Spirit waits for the prophet to announce it. The ary 1918 to December 1920, it infected system in which life is organised by strict I plan to follow the pattern I learnt under announcement of the Resurrection in empty churches needs 500 million people – about a quarter of the norms, rules and schedules, and what hap- such constraints 50 years ago: prophets to bring this hope to our global grave. world’s population at the time. pens within it is determined by a single 1. Stop reacting by rebelling; But for me, the experience now brings authority whose will is carried out by staff It is moving to learn of how many priests in Italy have lost 2. Place some order in my life with back memories of almost fifty years ago who enforce the rules. their lives in their ministry alongside coronavirus patients. And tasks that are planned and executed in my life. In 1971, I was a reckless, wilful Goffman examines institutions from it is striking that in front of the millions of day labourers left even if in a solitary condition; without work, without a home and without food, piled up in the and driven adolescent who had made up jails and concentration camps to psychiat- his mind of what he was going to do with ric hospitals and monasteries to establish 3. Spend more time in contemplation Indian megalopolises, the local bishops have mobilised to treat to find the depth of my heart and de- the sick, house the homeless, distribute food. All of this is an the rest of his life: become a Jesuit. the key features of total institutions, which In my adolescence, and in common with come down to being seen as places de- sire to stay as alive in my depths as I expression of solidarity that does not only come from the forces can; and above all of man, but is the result of the Resurrection of Jesus, who has young men attending the Jesuit school, I fined by a command and control manage- erased all of our differences and made us brothers and sisters. did, we did, things like that and believed ment structure rigorously enforced. 4. Keep hope alive by saying to my- that our decisions about what came next Bingo! My novitiate experience exactly. — By Bernardo Cervellera, AsiaNews self that “this too shall pass” and the after high school were determinative for The effect of such places is that your life good things I long to renew action on HERALD — The Catholic Weekly the rest of our lives. is in someone else’s hands, that your deci- will eventually happen again, if not Jointly published by the And the school I attended was the full sions about your life are made for you by for a couple of years…just as I had Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, flower of aggressively muscular tribal Ca- others, that you live in a world of isolation to keep saying to myself in the No- Diocese of Malacca Johore, tholicism. In my final year at school, 10 — away from the normal and natural flow vitiate. Diocese of Penang and Diocese of Keningau per cent of the graduates chose some form of human interaction. I wasn’t there the day the virtues were Editor: Fr Lawrence Andrew, SJ of clerical or religious life for their futures. Such places may be bearable for intro- handed out and so I never got my alloca- HERALD, 5, Jalan Robertson, 50150, KL But when I got to the Jesuit Novitiate, I verts who create their own lives, projects tion of patience. I will have to learn that Tel: 03-20268290/20268291; discovered more than I was prepared for. and activities for themselves and usually day by day. — By Fr Michael Kelly SJ, Fax: 03-20268293 And I hated the place – full of rules and all with themselves. It’s bad if you are like ucanews.com Online: www.heraldmalaysia.com. regulations about everything, full of peo- me — an extrovert who gets life from en- E-mail: [email protected] ple giving orders and many of my co-nov- gagement and interaction and likes life to l Fr Kelly is the CEO of UCAN Services. HERALD April 12, 2020 Focus 11 The Pope and the Plague t was perhaps the most liturgical- the Pope implored God, “that we ing,” Francis spoke into the camera. ciples in the gospel, we have been the plague in Rome. ly dramatic moment in the long might feel your fatherly presence.” “Thick darkness has covered our caught off guard by an unexpected, But as his reflection deepened, it Ihistory of the papacy. A solitary A camera shot from behind squares, our streets and our cities. It furious storm.” was clear Francis’ purpose was not figure in white, stumbling from sci- showed the crucified Christ’s head has taken over our lives, filling eve- He was there to impart an excep- just to halt the virus, but to help us atica, climbed the long steps to the hung in sorrow, as if looking out to rything with a deafening silence and tional blessing urbi et orbi — to the live with it. His task: to embolden dais above a rain-sodden St Peter’s the lit figure in white, who seemed a desolate emptiness that paralyses city and to the world — as popes God’s people to ride into the dark- Square. “Behold our sorrowful con- tiny between the vast colonnades. all that it passes.” before now had only ever done at est, most dangerous part of the dition,” Pope Francis began. Recov- Never had leadership looked so This was the Pope piloting God’s Christmas and Easter. To pray for storm, not by battening down the ering from a nasty bout of bronchi- lonely. Never had it been so essen- people through a storm like no an end to the pandemic, Francis had hatches, but by opening humanity tis, he fought for a moment to catch tial. other. The pandemic would be de- enlisted two resources that hung to the grace of conversion in its time his breath. The gospel reading was chanted: feated, not by fleeing but by staying close by. The sorrowful Christ of of trial. Millions watched on their TVs, Jesus, on a boat with his disciples, home, plunging the economies of the “miraculous crucifix” was from Francis’ mission — assumed phones and tablets as the Pope sleeps through a storm until his the world into the sharpest, deep- the Church of St Marcello in Via del at that moment, in the empty, wet spoke on March 27 into a deserted disciples wake him and he calms est recession in human history. The Corso; the icon was Our Lady “pro- square — was to help us embrace square, emptied by a virus that had it. The tempest takes place, in St news was relentless: death, panic, tector of the Roman people,” nor- mass quarantine not as a prison in- killed tens of thousands and was Mark’s telling, as the light was fad- fear. The world was in desolation. mally housed in the Basilica of St stead of a death sentence, but as a holding a fifth of humanity in lock- ing, as it seemed to be fading now. “We find ourselves frightened and Mary Major. In centuries past, they time of purification and choosing down. “Open our hearts to hope,” “For weeks now it has been even- lost,” the Pope said. “Like the dis- had both played a key role in ending that could incubate a new future. Why are you afraid? Have you no faith? God cares about us too much to wreak vengeance on us, yet respects us too much to remove the chance of a better future by short-circuiting our conversion o pray for an end to the pan- in charge at all. In a complex sen- tion on Amazonia: how technocrat- Mess with nature, and nature kicks truck drivers, security staff, volun- Tdemic is as natural for us as it tence, Francis notes how the tem- ic, profit-before-people attitudes are back. These are unforgiving laws. teers and others (including priests was for the disciples to turn to Je- pest of the virus has revealed “all destroying our ancestral intercon- The same is true of human ecolo- and religious) “who understand that sus in the middle of the storm. But the attempts to package and ignore nectedness, our soul and our cul- gy. The pursuit of power and wealth no one is saved alone.” prayer’s purpose is to build our trust what nourishes the soul of our peo- ture, and the ties that bind us to one pours acid on the bonds of belong- As our mentalities and priorities in the efficacy of God’s mercy; and ples,” the attempts at “anaesthetis- another, as well as our bond with ing. When disaster strikes, it is the shift, the paths of salvation open his mercy is never a quick fix that ing” through activity and routines nature. Our deracinated selves are very networks of solidarity and fra- up. What matters now, in the cri- we might go back to being the same, that detach us from our roots and the like that storm-tossed boat, a flimsy, ternity, long spurned as restraints sis caused by the pandemic, amid but a sanatio in radice, a deep-seat- memory of those who have gone be- vulnerable thing now that the sea on ambition that turn out to be the standstill factories and plunging ed cure that transforms us, individu- fore us. Now, in the tempest, we see has unleashed its power. In a March immune systems on which we all markets, are our solidarity, our hos- ally and as a people. It takes time who we are. Our masks fall away 22 interview with the Spanish news depend. The very people society pitality, our mercy. Our heroes and — as much time as it must. God and what is revealed is the thing we anchor Jordi Évole, Francis recalled ignored as unimportant, those per- saints are not in magazines but next cares about us too much to wreak cannot escape: “our belonging as the dictum that God forgives al- forming “essential services,” now door: the parents encouraging their vengeance on us, yet respects us brothers and sisters,” fellow crea- ways, human beings sometimes, turn out to be the ones who save us. restless confined children, the new too much to remove the chance of a tures created by a loving God. but nature never. With the extreme In returning to the Lord and to armies of volunteers — in the UK, better future by short-circuiting our We had been acting as if that were weather events, Francis told Évole, others, said Francis, “we can look 750,000 people have signed up — conversion. not true, as if there were no wars or nature is “kicking.” to so many fellow travellers who, who will phone the lonely, pick up This was Francis’ point. When injustice or climate crisis. Unmoved Was the pandemic another ex- in the face of fear, have responded a prescription, bring food for the the disciples wake Jesus and berate by the cry of the poor and our ailing ample of nature kicking? The word by giving their lives.” Now, sud- elderly. “Prayer and silent service,” him — “Teacher, do you not care if planet, we thought “we would stay “flu” comes from the Italianinfluen - denly, it is the life of the Spirit — of says Francis, “these are our victori- we perish?” — they believe in him healthy in a world that was sick. za degli astri, an old expression that love, kindness, and service — that ous weapons.” but have forgotten who God is, how Now that we are in a stormy sea” — attributes the disease’s mysterious emerges as the true life force of the Societies that pull together like God is. They felt in charge of the when we all face the risk of death arrival to the alignment of the stars. world, revealing to us that our lives this, putting the vulnerable first, can boat, steering it full-sail ahead, and and poverty — “we implore you: But these days we know too much are sustained by ordinary folk “who achieve extraordinary things. And if only now, when the sails are ripped ‘Wake up, Lord!’” about viruses and agribusiness — are today writing the decisive events we can do it to combat COVID-19, and the rudder has snapped, do they The language of roots and belong- factory farming, genetic cloning and of our story”: doctors, nurses, clean- why not also climate change, infant realise, hopelessly, that they are not ing recalled the Pope’s recent reflec- wet markets full of wild animals. ers, supermarket-shelf stackers, mortality, or war? The field hospital — the lazzaretto A hell hole made heavenly by the witness of the friars and the grace that abounds there want to pray for all of the priests, Manzoni’s powerful, carefully dead), was where the infected of the Rodrigo dies painfully as a power- “Ithe creativity of priests,” the documented description of the city were taken and quarantined. It less pauper but is forgiven by Renzo, Pope said in his March 15 Angelus plague comes in the form of a his- is almost certainly the inspiration who is reunited and reconciled with address, “who think of a thousand torical excursus midway through for Francis’ famous metaphor of Lucia by the saintly Capuchin Fra ways to be with the people so that the The Betrothed. He describes how it the Church as a field hospital. Man- Cristoforo. people don’t feel alone.” These are struck, at first in strange attacks of zoni describes it vividly, at one point In one scene Renzo, searching in “priests with apostolic zeal, who un- spasm and delirium accompanied with 16,000 people stricken with the lazzaretto for Lucia, stumbles on derstand that in times of pandemic, by telltale bubonic swellings, or the plague crammed into sheds and a sermon being given by the Capu- you shouldn’t be Don Abbondio,” he led to swift death without previous tents, its two “endless colonnades chin superior, Fr Felice, to a group of added. symptoms. Initially, the doctors and on either side overflowing with the recovered plague sufferers who are Everyone who knew Alessandro authorities denied that it was spread desperately sick and the dead, lying being led back to the city. The Capu- Manzoni’s novel I promessi sposi by human contact; it was blamed on together without distinction on palli- chin asks them to ponder the thou- (The Betrothed) — as almost every- black magic worked by foreigners asses or the bare straw.” Amid these sands in the cemetery and to consid- one in Italy does — got the reference who were accused of being “anoint- pitiful scenes — including of babies er why they have been saved. “And at once. Don Abbondio, the coward- ers” — intentionally spreading poi- of dead mothers being suckled by why did He make that choice, my ly curé (priest) who refuses to marry soned “ointments” along city walls she-goats — the Capuchin friars who children?” the friar asks them. “Was Renzo and Lucia after being threat- — and lynched. But gradually the The epic 1842 Italian novel I run the lazzaretto rush around feed- it not to keep for Himself a small na- ened by the thugs of a strongman, is city organised, and under its saintly promessi sposi (The Betrothed) ing and comforting the sick, consol- tion chastened by affliction and fired easily suborned, will do anything for Cardinal Archbishop, Federigo Bor- by Alessandro Manzoni. ing the dying and burying the dead by gratitude? Was it not so that the a quiet life and reacts to the plague by romeo, the Church was key to its there is a chance of gaining a soul — and of course becoming infected memory of our own sufferings might shutting himself away in his house. response. for Christ,” he wrote to his clergy. themselves. make us compassionate and helpful He is the foil to the saintly and Cardinal Borromeo resisted all According to Manzoni, around sixty The lazzaretto is a hell hole made to our neighbours?” He urges them heroic pastors of the novel: the car- pressure to seek refuge from the priests — eight out of every nine of heavenly by the witness of the friars to begin “a new life which shall be all dinal archbishop of Milan and the plague, urging his priests to be more the Milan diocesan priesthood — and the grace that abounds there. It charity. Let those of us who have got Capuchin friars who run the field ready to die than to abandon their died of the infection. is where the novel’s various plot back all their strength give a broth- hospital where the plague-wracked people. “Go out with love towards The lazzaretto, the vast field hos- lines converge, and scenes of recon- erly arm to the weak.” are brought (possibly) to get better or the pestilence, as if towards your pital cum tent city (named for La- ciliation and repentance take place: (probably) to die. reward, towards a new life, when zarus, whom Jesus raised from the where the wicked, wealthy Don l Continued on Page 12 12 Varia HERALD April 12, 2020 The meaning of Jesus’ death

esus’ death washes every- arrest in the Garden of Gethse- lation contained in Jesus’ death. can face our own deaths, given thing clean, including our mane, he tells us that immedi- Uttered in that context as God is our weaknesses. What’s the les- Jignorance and sin. That’s ately after one of his disciples about to be crucified by human son? Leon Bloy once wrote that the clear message from Luke’s struck the servant of the high beings, these words reveal how there is only one true sadness in account of his death. priest and cut off his ear, Je- God sees and understands even life, that of not being a saint. At As we know, we have four sus touched the man’s ear and our worst actions: not as ill-will, the end of the day when each of Gospels, each with its own take healed him. God’s healing, Luke not as something that ultimately us faces our own death this will on the passion and death of Je- intimates, reaches into all situa- turns us against God or God be our biggest regret, that we’re sus. As we know too these Gos- tions, even situations of bitter- against us, but as ignorance – not saints. But, as Jesus shows pel accounts are not journalistic ness, betrayal and violence. simple, non-culpable, invinci- in his death, we can die (even in reports of what happened on God’s grace will ultimately heal ble, understandable, forgivable, weakness) knowing we are dy- Good Friday but more theologi- even what’s wounded in hatred. akin to the self-destructive ac- ing into safe hands. cal interpretations of what hap- Then, after Peter denied him tions of an innocent child. Luke’s account of the passion pened then. They’re paintings three times as Jesus is being led In that context too, Luke nar- and death of Jesus, unlike much of Jesus’ death more so than away after his interrogation by Fr Ron Rolheiser rates Jesus’ forgiveness of the of Christian tradition, does not news reports about it and, like the Sanhedrin, Luke tells us that “good thief”. What Luke wants focus on the atoning value of good art, they take liberties to Jesus turned and looked straight Jesus’ trial, namely, Pilate send- to highlight here, beyond the Jesus’ death. What it empha- highlight certain aspects so as to at Peter a look that made Peter ing Jesus to Herod and how the obvious, are a number of things. sises instead is this: Jesus’ death bring out the essence behind it. weep bitterly. Everything in this two of them, bitter enemies un- First, that the man is forgiven washes everything clean, each Each Gospel writer has his own text, and everything that comes til that day, “became friends that not because he didn’t sin, but of us and the whole world. It interpretation of what happened after it, suggests that the look same day.” As Raymond Brown, in spite of his sin; second, that heals everything, understands on Calvary. from Jesus that caused Peter to commenting on this text puts it, he is given infinitely more than everything, and forgives eve- For Luke, what happened in weep bitterly was not one of “Jesus has a healing effect, even he actually requests of Jesus; rything – despite every igno- the death of Jesus is the clearest disappointment and accusation, on those who mistreat him.” and finally, that Jesus will not rance, weakness, infidelity and revelation, ever, of the incred- a look that would have caused Finally, in Luke’s narrative, die with any unfinished busi- betrayal on our part. In John’s ible scope of God’s understand- Peter to weep in shame. No, we arrive at the place where ness, this man’s sin must first be passion narrative, Jesus’ dead ing, forgiveness and healing. rather, it was a look of such Jesus is crucified and, as they wiped clean. body is pierced with a lance and For him, Jesus’ death washes understanding and empathy as are crucifying him, he utters the Finally, in Luke’s narrative, immediately “blood and water” everything clean through an un- Peter had never before seen, famous words: “Father, forgive unlike the narratives of Mark (life and cleansing) flow out. In derstanding, forgiveness, and causing him to weep in relief, them, for they know not what and Matthew, Jesus does not die Luke’s account, Jesus’ body is healing that belies every notion knowing that everything was they do.” Those words, which expressing abandonment but, not pierced. It doesn’t need to suggesting anything to the con- alright and that he was alright. Christians forever afterwards rather, he dies expressing com- be. By the time he breathes his trary. To make this clear, Luke And when Luke records Jesus’ have taken as the ultimate cri- plete trust: “Father, into your last, he has forgiven everyone highlights a number of elements trial before Pilate, he recounts terion as to how we should treat hands I commit my spirit”. and everything has been washed in his narrative. something that’s not recorded our enemies and those who do Luke wants us to see in these clean. — By Fr Ron Rolheiser, First, in his account of Jesus’ in the other Gospel accounts of us ill, encapsulate the deep reve- words a template for how we all rights reserved We will not be the same after this l Continued from Page 11 windows to listen to their lamentations, and to give them words of consolation and courage “People are going to take from this crisis les- in return.” The cardinal “sought out the pesti- sons to rethink their lives,” Pope Francis told lence and lived in its midst,” writes Manzoni, Jordi Évole. “We are going to come out better, “so that he himself was amazed, at the end of it although there will be fewer of us. Many will all, to find himself unscathed.” be lost on the way and it’s hard. But I have Francis has been careful not to issue in- faith: we are going to come out of this better.” structions; that task is context-dependent and In the midst of our trials, Francis said in so properly belongs to local bishops. But by his urbi et orbi, the Lord “challenges us and, warning against being Don Abbondio, Fran- in the midst of our tempest, invites us to re- cis is highlighting the temptation to withdraw. awaken and put into practice that solidarity The Church must be there for the sick and, and hope capable of giving strength, support, while taking precautions, must not allow fear and meaning to these hours when everything of contagion to keep it from doing so. At his seems to be floundering.” It is a time of test- morning homily on March 28, Francis said ing, he said, in the sense of a time for making Frontliners treating COVID-19 patients in Kuala Lumpur hospital. (FMT) he had heard people criticise bishops who choices, “a time to choose what matters and How must the Church choose? In 1630, the lie coughing and fighting for breath. To date, allowed their priests to go take food to poor what passes away, a time to separate what is ill were quarantined in the lazzaretto to avoid more than fifty Italian doctors have died in the people who were self-isolating. They argued necessary from what is not.” In our choosing the healthy becoming sick; the Church was battle against the disease. In a letter to an Ar- that priests needed to be retained for the sac- and expressing that choice in action, we are there, organising it, its pastors dying with the gentine judge, Francis said he was edified by raments; bringing food should be left to civil saved. The elderly are treated, the lonely are dying. But in 2020, containment was barely the doctors, nurses, religious and clergy who authorities. They were saying, in effect, “we visited, our roots are restored: we have built tried before it was declared a failure. The new “risk their lives to heal the sick and protect the mustn’t get our hands dirty with the poor,” said immunity. coronavirus had spread too fast, too widely, healthy.” Francis, likening their mindset to the doctors In this time of choosing, Francis has praised to be contained, forcing governments to The inclusion of religious and clergy in of the law who rejected Jesus because they had the policies of governments that have taken adopt a strategy of slowing its spread through this list is significant. Despite the restrictions contempt for the people. what he calls “exemplary measures, with mass quarantine (“self-isolation”) of sick and on the Church’s ministers, who must juggle Service, self-abnegation, solidarity, frater- clearly marked priorities to defend the popu- healthy alike, shutting down all activities — conflicting obligations, Francis believes they nity, courage: in the trial at hand, the grace of lation.” In a March 29 letter to a judge in Ar- like the Church’s — that involve people con- must be on the frontline. Each pastor must conversion is available to the whole of human- gentina, he acknowledged that the economic gregating. If priests and sisters are elderly or discern ways of being close, while always, ity — including the Church. It is a grace that crash and its associated ills were no small unwell, they must self-isolate to avoid infec- of course, supporting public-health policies. reveals that we are now all in the lazzaretto to- thing — it would cause hunger, unemploy- tion and to prevent the hospitals from being That, too, was Cardinal Borromeo’s stance in gether, and invites us to choose. — By Austen ment, violence, and usury, all of which would overwhelmed, but even fitter, younger priests The Betrothed. “He was scrupulous in observ- Ivereigh, Commonweal have to be dealt with — but their policy and religious might be asymptomatic carriers ing those precautions which would not inter- l Austen Ivereigh, a regular contributor to showed the government’s priorities: “people who infect even as they console. fere with the carrying out of his duties,” recalls Commonweal, is a Fellow in Contemporary first.” The contrary, he warned, would be to The lazzaretto of this pandemic is the COV- Manzoni. But his duty came first: to be availa- Church History at the Jesuit-run Campion create a viral genocide for the sake of the ID-19 ward at hospitals. Manzoni’s Fra Cris- ble for all who needed him, “hastening through Hall at the University of Oxford. His most economy. toforo and Fr Felice are today the exhausted the streets of the city to bring help to the poor recent book is Wounded Shepherd: Fran- Francis is highlighting the temptation to with- health workers battling with poor equip- wretches who were quarantined in their own cis and his struggle to convert the Catholic draw. The Church must be there for the sick. ment and a paucity of ventilators as people houses, stopping at their doors or under their Church (Henry Holt). HERALD April 12, 2020 13

Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis for Palm Sunday, April 5, 2020 How did Jesus serve us? esus “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (Phil 2:7). Let us allow Jthese words of the Apostle Paul to lead us into these holy days, when the Word of God, like a refrain, presents Jesus as serv- ant: On Holy Thursday, he is portrayed as the servant who washes the feet of his disciples: on Good Friday, he is presented as the suffering and victorious servant (cf. Is 52:13); and tomorrow we will hear the prophecy of Isaiah about him: “Behold my servant, whom I uphold” (Is 42:1). God saved us by serving us. We often think we are the ones who serve God. No, he is the one who freely chose to serve us, for he loved us first. It is difficult to love and not be loved in return. And it is even more dif- ficult to serve if we do not let ourselves be served by God. But – just one question – how did the Lord serve us? By giving his life for us. We are dear to him; we cost him dearly. St Angela of Foligno said she once heard Jesus say: “My love for you is no joke”. His love for us led him to sacrifice himself and to take Pope Francis carries palm fronds in procession during Palm Sunday Mass in St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican April 5, 2020. The Mass was upon himself our sins. This astonishes us: celebrated without the presence of the public as Italy battles the coronavirus. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) God saved us by taking upon himself all the dience of a servant, and purely out of love. him but, rather, strengthened him in his suf- The Lord served us to the point of expe- punishment of our sins. Without complain- And the Father upheld Jesus in his service. fering so that our evil could be overcome by riencing the most painful situations of those ing and with the humility, patience and obe- He did not take away the evil that crushed good, by a love that loves to the very end. who love; betrayal and abandonment. Jesus’ Betrayal and Abandonment etrayal. Jesus suffered betrayal by the many falsehoods, hypocrisies and duplici- bandonment. In today’s Gospel, Jesus find ourselves at a dead end, with no light and Bdisciple who sold him and by the dis- ties! How many good intentions betrayed! Asays one thing from the Cross, one thing no way of escape, when it seems that even ciple who denied him. He was betrayed by How many broken promises! How many only: “My God, my God, why have you for- God himself is not responding, we should the people who sang hosanna to him and resolutions left unfulfilled! The Lord knows saken me?” (Mt 27:46). These are powerful remember that we are not alone. Jesus expe- then shouted: “Crucify him!” (Mt 27:22). our hearts better than we do. He knows how words. Jesus had suffered the abandonment of rienced total abandonment, in a situation he He was betrayed by the religious institution weak and irresolute we are, how many times his own, disciples who had fled. But the Fa- had never before experienced, in order to be that unjustly condemned him and by the we fall, how hard it is for us to get up and ther remained for him. Now, in the abyss of one with us in everything. He did it for me, political institution that washed its hands of how difficult it is to heal certain wounds. solitude, for the first time he calls him by the for you, for all of us; he did it to say to us: “Do him. We can think of all the small or great And what did he do in order to come to generic name “God”. And “in a loud voice” not be afraid, you are not alone. I experienced betrayals that we have suffered in life. It is our aid and serve us? He told us through he asks the question “why?”, the most excru- all your desolation in order to be ever close to terrible to discover that a firmly placed trust the Prophet: “I will heal their faithlessness; ciating “why?”: “Why did you too abandon you”. That is the extent to which Jesus served has been betrayed. From deep within our I will love them deeply” (Hos 14:5). He me?”. These words are in fact those of a Psalm us: he descended into the abyss of our most heart a disappointment surges up that can healed us by taking upon himself our infi- (cf. 22:2); they tell us that Jesus also brought bitter sufferings, culminating in betrayal and even make life seem meaningless. This hap- delity and by taking from us our betrayals. the experience of extreme desolation to his abandonment. Today, amidst the tragedy of a pens because we were born to be loved and Instead of being discouraged by the fear of prayer. But the fact remains that he himself pandemic, in the face of the many false secu- to love, and the most painful thing is to be failing, we can now look upon the crucifix, experienced that desolation: he experienced rities that have now crumbled, in the face of betrayed by someone who promised to be feel his embrace, and say: “Behold, there is the utmost abandonment, which the Gospels so many hopes betrayed, in the sense of aban- loyal and close to us. We cannot even imag- my infidelity, you took it Jesus, upon your- testify to by quoting his very words. donment that weighs upon our hearts, Jesus ine how painful it was for God who is love. self. You open your arms to me, you serve Why did all this take place? Once again, says to each one of us: “Courage, open your Let us look within. If we are honest with me with your love, you continue to support it was done for our sake, to serve us. So that heart to my love. You will feel the consolation ourselves, we will see our infidelities. How me… And so I will keep pressing on”. when we have our back to the wall, when we of God who sustains you”. Behold my servant whom I uphold ear brothers and sisters, what can we do Behold my servant, whom I uphold. Din comparison with God, who served The Father, who sustained Jesus in his us even to the point of being betrayed and Passion, also supports us in our efforts to abandoned? We can refuse to betray him serve. Loving, praying, forgiving, caring for whom we were created, and not aban- for others, in the family and in society: all don what really matters in our lives. We this can certainly be difficult. It can feel were put in this world to love him and our like a via crucis. But the path of service neighbours. Everything else passes away, is the victorious and life-giving path by only this remains. The tragedy we are ex- which we are saved. I would like to say periencing at this time summons us to take this especially to young people, on this seriously the things that are serious, and not Day which has been dedicated to them to be caught up in those that matter less; to for thirty-five years now. Dear friends, rediscover that life is of no use if not used look at the real heroes who come to light to serve others. For life is measured by love. in these days: they are not famous, rich So, in these holy days, in our homes, let us or successful people; rather, they are stand before the Crucified One – look upon those who are giving themselves in order the Crucified One! – the fullest measure of to serve others. Feel called yourselves God’s love for us, and before the God who to put your lives on the line. Do not be serves us to the point of giving his life, and, afraid to devote your life to God and to – fixing our gaze on the Crucified One – let others; it pays! For life is a gift we re- us ask for the grace to live in order to serve. ceive only when we give ourselves away, May we reach out to those who are suffer- and our deepest joy comes from saying ing and to those most in need. May we not yes to love, without ifs and buts. To truly be concerned about what we lack, but about say yes to love, without ifs and buts. As Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss. what good we can do for others. Jesus did for us. 14 Inter faith & Cultural Dialogue HERALD April 12, 2020

BEC Family (1976) (1996) DIALOGUE Formation (1976) (1976) INTEGRAL Malaysian prisoners sew EVANGELISATION Poor Unity (1976) (1976)

Social Communication Youth (1986) (1996) protective gear for frontliners PETALING JAYA: Prison inmates perspective for the Malaysian pub- Department. in Pahang and Selangor have taken lic who are currently in the second “Currently, sewing workshops up the task of sewing personal pro- phase of the Movement Control Or- are also operating on Saturdays and tective equipment (PPE) as frontlin- der. Sundays, which is out of the norm ers are facing shortages in medical At Penor Prison in Kuantan, Pa- but we realise the urgent need for supplies in the fight to contain the hang, as many as 18 inmates are sta- PPE due to the increasing number Covid-19 pandemic. tioned at a sewing workshop to pro- of Covid-19 patients,” Abu Hasan In Kajang Prison, inmates work duce PPE suits for frontliners during said. diligently as they measure, cut and this crucial time. He added that several prison staff sew blue PPE suits for health work- The inmates work from 9.00am attended a PPE manufacturing brief- ers at Serdang Hospital. until 5.00pm and make the medical ing on March 25 to ensure the prod- The images shared earlier on protective suits that require five me- uct complied with standard operat- April 2 by the Malaysian Prisons tres of fabric per set. ing procedures. Department show a sea of inmates Penor Prison director Datuk Abu The Malaysian Association of clad in their blue uniforms and face Hasan Hussain told Bernama that Wives, Children and Members and masks completely focused on get- the inmates received 2,000 metres Prison Staff (Persiap) also produced ting the job done. of material to manufacture the pro- 525 face-protection units for the use “PPE sewing in progress for Ser- tective gear. of front-line personnel. dang Hospital at Kajang Prison,” “Our workshop began sewing last Penor Prison workshop supervi- the caption read. Friday and we can produce over 20 sor Sergeant Muhd Mulyadi Abd The post, which captured the sets of PPEs which are then sent to Ghani said it didn’t take long for the spirit of togetherness in the face of the Pahang State Secretary’s office inmates to understand PPE sewing A Kajang Prison inmate sews a PPE suit while his supervisor observes him. fighting a pandemic, put things into for distribution to the State Health methods. (Malay Mail/Malaysian Prisons Department via Twitter) The inmates honed their sewing rial was a small contribution to skills after receiving frequent or- the country. ders for uniforms. He found out about the pan- “For a smooth operation, we demic through his mother when created three special stations she visited him on March 15. consisting of materials distribu- Another inmate Saiful, 33, tion, cutting and stitching,” said hopes the PPE he and his fellow Mulyadi. comrades are producing can ease The completed PPE also under- the shortage of protective gear re- go quality control by prison staff. quired by health workers to help “The most difficult process is Covid-19 patients. inserting the rubber band that will Currently serving an 18-year tighten the wrist, chin area for sentence for robbery, Saiful face masks and shoe protection,” said he was happy to have mas- added Mulyadi. tered sewing while in prison as Man, a 26-year-old inmate it allowed him to help those in The inmates are tasked to measure, cut and sew the protective gear required by health workers treating Covid-19 patients. serving time for a drug offence need. — By Melanie Chalil, (Malay Mail/Malaysian Prisons Department via Twitter) said his task of cutting the mate- Malay Mail PJ mosque draws praise for helping Filipino seminary shelters non-Muslim residents affected by MCO tourists trapped on holiday MANILA: A Filipino seminary has PETALING JAYA: A mosque in opened its doors to over a dozen Petaling Jaya has been distribut- trapped tourists, who have been ing food to surrounding residents stranded since a mandatory lock- including non-Muslims, winning down was extended last month. praise from the public even as Ma- St Joseph Seminary in Puerto laysians put up with a barrage of Princesa is providing shelter to 18 racially charged narratives on so- people now stranded in Palawan cial media related to the Covid-19 province following a forced exten- pandemic. sion to their holiday. For several days a week, the The tourists began their vaca- Al-Islamiah Mosque in Kam- tion March 11, but government pung Lindungan, a working class orders placed Palawan on a more area in Petaling Jaya just a few enhanced lockdown, cancelling all minutes’ drive from the glitter- domestic and international flights ing lights of the Sunway Pyramid March 17-April 12. mall, has been handing out items Instead of returning home, the such as rice, eggs, biscuits, cook- travellers were staying at guest ing oil and chicken to surrounding houses until they ran out of money residents. for food and lodging. Local offi- Immaculate Conception Cathedral The items are donations from cials then asked help from the Vi- in Puerto Princesa, Philippines. the public as well as NGOs. A group of women receive food items donated by the public and NGOs at cariate Apostolic of Puerto Princ- (CNA photo/Jayzl Nebre-Villfania via Wikimedia) One photograph shared on Fa- the Al-Islamiah Mosque in Kampung Lindungan, Petaling Jaya. (FMT/Al- esa. Islamiah Mosque) cebook showed a group of non- “I told them that we are ready priest expressed hope for future do- Muslim women lining up in the the B40 category who comprise anyone who needs help should be to help and they can stay as long nations and gratitude to those who mosque compound, drawing the majority in the area, many of given help,” he said. as they need shelter. The seminary have been kind enough to share al- praise for the mosque manage- whom lost their income under the “We are grateful that we are able will be open to cater to the needs ready. ment from social media users. movement control order (MCO). to do something in such times.” of people in a similar situation, “Of course our resources are lim- “You are an example to all, es- Hafis said non-Muslims make Hafis also appealed for more especially in this time of crisis,” ited. So, eventually when they run pecially Muslims,” said one. up about 40 per cent of the resi- funds to purchase essential goods, said Father Roy Vasquez, the semi- out, we will ask for help or dona- Mosque spokesman Muham- dents there. saying the mosque has limited nary rector, according to the UCA tions. But so far people are sharing mad Hafis Asib said the initia- “We welcome them. We don’t funding. — By Sean Augustin, News. their blessings, so we are really tive was meant to help those from want to let them down. In Islam, FMT While resources are limited, the very thankful,” he said. — CNA HERALD April 12, 2020 Children 15 LLittleittle CCatholicsatholics’ CCornerorner

Help the disciples to find Jesus' in the cave by ALLELUIA! following the maze. Today is the day for rejoicing! JESUS IS ALIVE!

Dear children, COVID-19 pandem- that this coronavirus ic, which has caused pandemic will end soon. Today is the biggest so many people to be Children, let us glori- Christian feast of sick and others to die fy the resurrection of the year! Jesus rose all over the world. We Jesus, which gives us from the dead on the have to stay at home. Joy, Hope and Peace! first Easter Sunday. But we still can cel- Love By rising from the ebrate Easter Mass Aunty Eliz dead, He showed that through the Internet. He was God and that On Easter Sunday, everything He had do contact your friends said was true. or relatives via video Children, this year call or other social me- we can't go to church dia applications to wish to celebrate Easter them a Blessed Easter Sunday because of the and pray with them

Spot the Differences in Jesus Is Alive! Compare the picture on the top with the picture on the bottom. Circle the 13 things that are different. HERALD

Social BEC Communication (1976) (1996)

Dialogue Formation (1976) (1976) INTEGRAL EVANGELISATION Poor Unity (1976) (1976)

Family (1996) Youth (1986) YYOOUTHUTH April 12, 2020 Youth-Prep Centre helps stranded college students during the Movement Control Order LAMESRA, SABAH: They are stuck in their hostels and rented Disturbed by the suf- rooms at Alamesra University Apart- fering of students ments and Angkasa. It would have been A hard for them to travel home due to the who are experiencing hun- short notice of the order and also as most ger during the measures of them do not have the means to do so,” to contain the coronavi- she said. rus, nearly a dozen young Even before the MCO, the YPC had been providing food supplies for these Catholic and several Muslim students as they come from poor families. volunteers from the Youth- Youth-Prep Centre under the Good Prep Centre (YPC) mobilised Shepherd Services established a Food themselves to source food Bank in 2016 for college students. “Most donations and other per- of our donors are individuals and or- ganisations. Students can come and get sonal hygiene items for 150 food whenever they are in need,” said students from six local col- Andrew. leges and universities. “With the MCO in force, it has af- Dwana Andrew, a key person in YPC, fected their routine and restricted their said that the students were stranded be- movement to get food. Family members The youths sorting out the basic necessities. cause they could not go home due to fi- cannot afford to send them money. Some MCO ending Mar 31, the students were From the Food Bank, each student re- nancial and time constraints before the students had been working part time but somewhat convinced that they could still ceives food and personal hygiene sup- Movement Control Order (MCO) went now in this situation, they are unable to carry on with what provisions they had plies which can last them for 14 days. into effect in mid-March. do so. left. Now that the MCO has been extend- Food items consist of rice, Tiger biscuits, “Most of them are from the rural areas. “Upon announcement of the first phase ed to April 14, it is obvious that they do canned sweet corn, canned chicken not have enough. curry, soy sauce, dried raw anchovies, “So during the MCO, YPC has been fried rice seasoning, milk cartons, tomato actively requesting food aid from gener- sauce, 10 eggs, 3 in 1 drinks – 5 small ous donors and has been distributing this packets each of Nona Teh Tarik, Kopiko to the students in their hostels so they do and Milo. not have to travel out. Meanwhile for personal hygiene, each “We are connected through our Food student is provided with a toothbrush, Bank group chat which enables us to re- toothpaste, shampoo, anti-bacterial soap ceive updates on their condition daily,” bar, hand sanitiser, sanitary pads (la- said Andrew. dies) and washing detergent. Andrew added that Youth-Prep Centre The Youth-Prep Centre continues to is also in communication with their lectur- appeal for donations of such provi- ers, students’ representatives and coun- sions for the young students. Generous sellors and are currently doing a survey donors are urged to contact Dwana at among college students to identify more 010-9402033 or Cherlanne at 010- students who need help during this pan- 9301355. For more updates, follow demic and to know how COVID-19 has them in Facebook YouthPREP Centre affected them and how YPC can help in Alamesra and Instagram @ypcalamesra. The youths handing out the basic necessities to the students. the long term. — By Linda Edward, CS HERALD April 12, 2020 Youth 17 35th World Youth Day – Palm Sunday Messages from our shepherds City Parish youths

Archbishop Simon Poh’s Message to the Young People of celebrate World Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Archbishop We walk with Him, we journey Youth Day online Simon Poh, with Him, joining him at the the Bishop in- Last Supper on Holy Thursday, PENANG: It was supposed to be charge of the washing of the disciples feet, the that season of the year where Ministry for institution of the Eucharist, and youths would gather in the Young People be with Him in the Garden of church to animate Mass and of Malay- Agony. commemorate the Lord’s trium- sia, Sin- We stand by faithfully at the phant entry into Jerusalem. gapore, foot of the Cross with Him, faith- For the 30 youth members of Brunei, ful to the very end. On Easter City Parish, Palm Sunday and recorded Vigil, we wait at the tomb with World Youth Day this year was a message for the young peo- those preparing for Baptism. replaced with an online prayer ple in celebration of the 35th To the young people, I invite meet due to Mass suspension World Youth Day. you to do three things: and the Movement Control Or- This year, Palm Sunday will a. Place the palms outside der (MCO) which resulted from be very different. The young of your doors (we are cel- the global COVID-19 pandemic. people are so used to gathering ebrating as one community, Using the Zoom Cloud Meet- in church with families and to- we are the living stones that ings platform, parish priest gether waving our palms to wel- will help this Msgr Aloysius Tan personally come Jesus. Spend this Holy Church.) initiated the meeting to get in But this year, touch with youths of the parish City Parish WYD Zoom Call. b. Watch the when I celebrate Week as a time of and pray with them. The young people then prayed ening our prayer life and rela- online liturgi- Palm Sunday, it prayer and reflection It is a bittersweet reunion for together with Msgr Tan for the tionship with Christ and heed- cal celebra- will be in an the youths as they are able to Holy Father’s intentions before ing the call of our authorities to in deepening our tions together empty church. gather and catch up with one an- receiving a blessing from the diligently remain at home whilst with your fam- We know that relationship with one other as a family online, despite parish priest. practicing good hygiene and so- ily. we are a liv- another and God. not being present physically as They then made a pledge to cial distancing,” he said. ing Church, the c. Let us cel- they normally would be. remain in solidarity despite the For youth choir member Che- church buildings will be empty ebrate Holy Week and pray - distance, hopeful that they will ryll Cheah, she hopes that the but all of you who are watching for the nation and the whole word of this year’s theme, Arise, return to church after the MCO experience of this ongoing MCO the live stream, you are with us! world in the face of COV- wherebyMsgr Tan the reflected youths are on remindthe key- to serve with joy and fervent encourages young people to ap- During this Holy Week, we ID-19 pandemic. ed to be courageous in following faith. preciate the simple things in life invite all of you to watch the Let it be a week of prayer. God’s call for them despite the and count their blessings. live stream of the Palm Sun- Spend this Holy Week as a time challenging situation. said that the community spirit in day Mass. We welcome Jesus, of prayer and reflection in deep- journeyingAltar server towards Patrick Easter Nathan will that God has given us through Our Lord and Our King into ening our relationship with one surely be different, missing our be something hard to forego, but His“Besides grace andbeing love, thankful let us for also all our midst shouting Hosanna! another and with God. friends“This and year’s the Holy celebrations Week will in - church; but let us not forget that pated in the video call. and the needy in our prayers we are united in prayer and spir- he“The is thankful MCO is that a time many for particiyouths keepand in our our front-liners, thoughts,” she the poorsaid. Bishop Sebastian Francis’ message it,” he said. to set a good example, by deep- — By Aaron Lim to the Youth of Penang Diocese

My Dear Young People in Please also continue with A different type of celebration the Diocese of Penang your education especial- KINARUT, Sabah: This year is a (Kelantan, Perlis, Perak, ly through the various challenging year for all of us Kedah, Penang) online media platforms as we face the COVID-19 pan- May I greet you all, and whatever means demic. For the youths of the as your Bishop and that are available to Church of St Augustine, this shepherd, with the same you. year’s World Youth Day cel- words of Jesus, “Young Please continue to ebrations will also be very dif- men, young women, pray together, with ferent from the previous years I say to you, arise, your families and by celebrations. get up!” Don’t wait yourself. Some of our previous years’ Of course, do not I ask the Lord Je- activities included ‘happiness’ disobey the Move- for anyone to sus Christ to rouse porridge, mini buns and giv- ment Control Order lead you, take up in you the Holy ing out bookmarks. This year, and get up and leave responsibilities Spirit, as the Lord due to the Movement Control your home or where did to the young for yourselves! Order, we are restricted in our ever you are! But re- Daniel in the Old celebration for World Youth member, we are all Testament (Daniel Day, but we give thanks that together, not alone, even if our 13). With the Holy Spirit, con- even though we are physically movements are controlled (at tinue to be Creative, Inclusive separated, we are in union in this point in time). and Build Bridges. Christ, we are still able to cel- We personally and strongly Don’t wait for anyone to ebrate World Youth Day with believe that the Holy Spirit of lead you, take responsibility for cards, wishes and selfies with the Risen Lord, Jesus, is within yourselves! our families according to the each one of us, even if you do And together we will move theme Young Man, I say to you not feel it right now! towards meeting the Risen Lord Arise! So, we will not live in fear, but at Easter and beyond! May the As we enter Holy Week, we share the mercy and compassion Holy Spirit be close to each one call on all youths, especially St of Jesus with whoever we meet, of you. Augustine Youths, to continue wherever we live, and even in Christ is Alive and He wants being witnesses of Christ, YOU virtual reality (social media). You to be Alive! (Christus Vivit) are the NOW of God. The youths with their cards and wishes. HERALD April 12, 2020 23 ‘It is not yet over’ Cardinal Pell: Prayer has been Wuhan picks up the pieces to crawl back to life the great source of strength to me HONG KONG: Ah Piao was WASHINGTON: After more than 14 who have prayed for me and helped me a part of a volunteer group months in prison, Cardinal George Pell during this really challenging time.” delivering medical supplies said he was always hopeful about the The cardinal said the number of letters to medical staff by car at the High Court decision which acquitted and cards he had received from people, beginning of the epidemic. him of all charges and released him from both in Australia and from overseas, was “It was a tiring time, but it incarceration on April 7. “quite overwhelming.” was fulfilling and more excit- Shortly after his release from prison, “I really do want to thank them most ing than when I used to work the cardinal said that, while he had kept sincerely.” for money.” faith he that would be eventually exoner- In a public statement at the time of his After the strict lockdown ated, he tried not to be “too optimistic.” release, Pell offered his solidarity with was imposed, Ah Piao stayed A police officer stands guard On April 7 morning, the High Court victims of sexual abuse. at home, gathering informa- outside Huanan seafood tion from the Internet with his market in Wuhan. (UCA News/ issued its decision, granting Cardinal “I hold no ill will to my accuser,” Pell Hector Retamalvia AFP) Pell’s request for special leave to ap- Cardinal George Pell leaves prison after said in that statement. “I do not want my wife and helping out when- peal, quashing his convictions for sexual his conviction was overturned by the acquittal to add to the hurt and bitterness ever he could. “A doctor friend told us to abuse and ordering that he be acquitted Australian High Court (Vatican News/ so many feel; there is certainly hurt and He believes that even if keep inside our home as long of all charges. AAP IMAGE) bitterness enough.” many of the restrictions are as possible, even if the gov- As the decision was announced by the clear they were delighted for me.” “The only basis for long term healing lifted, “we will not have full ernment relaxes restrictions, court, several hundred miles away, the After his release, Pell said he spent is truth and the only basis for justice is freedom and will have to go because there are still a lot of cardinal watched from his cell in HM the afternoon at a quiet location in Mel- truth, because justice means truth for out with medical credentials.” people infected. Hospitals are Prison Barwon, southwest of Melbourne. bourne, and enjoyed a steak for his first all.” Ah Piao’s advertising not confirming infections as “I was watching the television news in “free” meal in more than 400 days. The cardinal said that as he readjusts company was shut for two COVID-19,” Ah Piao said. my cell when the news came through,” “What I am really looking forward to to his life as a free man and prepares for months. He said he suffered Zhang Xiaohua in Wuhan Pell told CNA, in an exclusive interview is celebrating a private Mass,” Pell said, Holy Week, he is focused on what lies economically but pays his said his friend’s father died of shortly after his release on Tuesday. before he had the opportunity to do so. ahead, especially Easter, and not behind. employees on time from his COVID-19. Later his friend “First, I heard that leave was grant- “It has been a very long time, so that is a “At this stage I don’t want to com- savings. “It’s not easy,” he was also infected. But doc- ed and then that the convictions were great blessing.” ment further on the last few years, only said. tors at the hospital will not quashed. I thought, ‘Well that’s great. The cardinal said that he had lived his to say I have always said I am innocent Wuhan authorities have re- confirm his case as - COV I’m delighted.’” time in prison as a “long retreat,” and a of any such crimes,” he said. ported that there are no more ID-19. “Of course, there was no one to talk to time for reflection, writing, and, above “Holy Week is obviously the most im- new coronavirus cases in the “It looks like the govern- about it until my legal team arrived,” Pell all, prayer. portant time in our Church, so I am espe- city. But Ah Piao said it was ment is still hiding the truth, said. “Prayer has been the great source of cially pleased this decision came when “deceptive” because cases waiting for all the infected “However, I did hear a great cheer strength to me throughout these times, it did. The Easter Triduum, so central to cannot be reported when to die,” Zhang said. — By from somewhere within the jail and then including the prayers of others, and I am our faith, will be even more special for there is no medical testing for Elizabeth Lam, ucanews. the three other inmates near me made it incredibly grateful to all those people me this year.” — By Ed Condon, CNA patients. com

For more enquiries, please contact: Thanksgiving Email: [email protected] m e m o r i a m Tel: 03-2026 8290 / 03-2026 8291 Holy See responds to Prayers 11th Anniversary In Loving Memory of High Court’s acquittal of Thanksgiving to In Loving Memory of St Pio 1st Anniversary I thank you St Pio for the Cardinal Pell abundant blessings, graces VATICAN: The Vatican has wel- and protection bestowed comed the Australian High Court’s upon my family and me decision to quash Cardinal George during the course of my Pell’s sexual abuse conviction. life. These graces and A statement from the Holy See blessings were received press office, issued April 7, said: through your intercession “The Holy See, which has al- to Our Lord Jesus Christ. ways expressed confidence in the St Pio, you were my Mdm Elizabeth Samy MARY THOMPSON JOSEPH TERENCE Australian judicial authorities, guardian and light during Raj (PJM) NEE MARY TAN CHARLES THOMPSON welcomes the High Court’s unani- the darkest moments of my (Ex-teacher of Mak Mandin (25 April 1932 - 12 April 2019) (13 May 1912 - 16 October 1997) life. I am eternally grateful. mous decision concerning Cardi- Australian High Court. Tamil School) In Loving Memory of our beloved parents, nal George Pell, acquitting him of and has waited for the truth to be All honour and Glory Departed: 09-04-2009 Joseph and Mary, whose legacy of faith, hope, love and charity to Our Lord Jesus Christ had led a life of simplicity with fervent love for the accusations of abuse of minors ascertained.” Deeply missed and forever. Amen. Our Lord and devotion to Our Lady. and overturning his sentence.” “At the same time, the Holy See fondly remembered by — M. M. Chandapillai We humbly beseech Thee O Lord, absolve their souls from “Entrusting his case to the reaffirms its commitment to - pre Sons, daughters, sons-in-law, (Alex). Born: 28.7.1928. every bond of sin and by Thy grace receive redemption and court’s justice, Cardinal Pell has venting and pursuing all cases of daughters-in-law, Returned to the Lord: grandchildren, relatives, eternal happiness through Christ Our Lord. Amen. always maintained his innocence, abuse against minors.” — CNA 11.3.2009 friends and loved ones. Your memory lives on in our hearts forever! Universal: Freedom from Addiction We pray that those suffering from addiction may be helped and accompanied.

Download the Click To Pray updates now. THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY April 12, 2020 People are born to serve God and others, not to profit from power VATICAN: Everyone is born to be a who was released from prison just Peter recognised his failings and servant of God, yet they are also sin- a few hours before the Pope’s Mass began to “weep bitterly.” ners, Pope Francis said. began. Australia’s High Court over- “This is the path of a servant. What is important, then, is for turned the cardinal’s conviction on When he slips, when he falls, he asks people to recognise their sins, feel charges of child sexual abuse. for forgiveness,” Francis said. shame and ask for forgiveness, he In his homily at the Mass, the “However, when the servant is added. Pope reflected on the day’s Gospel not able to understand he has fallen, However, there also are also peo- reading in which Jesus tells his dis- when his passion seizes him in such ple who are innocent of a crime and ciples, “one of you will betray me,” a way that it leads him to idolatry, yet are sentenced unjustly, the Pope indicating Judas, and then telling Pe- he opens his heart to Satan,” just as said in his opening prayer at Mass ter that, despite his love for Jesus, he Judas did. April 7. would deny Jesus “three times”. Jesus was a faithful servant whose During the live broadcast of his Everyone has been brought into vocation was to serve, even to the morning Mass, the Pope began by the world by God in order to serve point of death on the cross, the Pope noting how Holy Week includes re- him, Francis said. said. Visitors look at Leonardo da Vinci's “The Last Supper” on a refectory wall at flections on the persecution of Jesus “Everyone has a destiny, a free Santa Maria delle Grazie Church in Milan. Pope Francis reflected on the day’s “Let us think about each one of by the doctors of the law who “had it destiny, the destiny of being chosen Gospel reading in which Jesus tells his disciples, “One of you will betray me.” us, a part of the people of God: We in for him”. by God. I am born with the destiny (CNS photo/Stefano Rellandini, Reuters) are servants, our vocation is to serve, Jesus was innocent, yet he was to be a child of God, to be a serv- not profit from our position in the tion to serve, he said, “they distance haviour before God, who has chosen persecuted and judged harshly, the ant of God, with the task of serving, Church. To serve. Always in ser- themselves from God’s love and me, who has anointed me as a serv- Pope said. building and edifying,” he said. vice.” they build their lives on other kinds ant. It should be the behaviour of a “I would like to pray today for all The Christian’s vocation is always The Pope asked that people pray of love, many times idolatrous.” sinner who is able to ask for forgive- people who suffer an unjust sentence to serve, he said, ‘not profit from our for the grace to persevere in being In life, people fall into sin. “Each ness, like Peter.” because of vindictiveness,” he said position in the Church.” a servant, “sometimes with slip- one of us is a sinner and can fall and Confronted with Jesus’ prediction, at the start of Mass. Serving entails giving oneself for ups, with falls, but for the grace to have fallen,” the Pope said. Peter swore he would never deny The Pope made no mention of God and others, and when people at least weep as Peter wept.” — By “But what is important is one’s be- him; however, when it happened, Australian Cardinal George Pell, distance themselves from their voca- Carol Glatz, CNS Saudi governor turns to the Mother Pope creates emergency of Jesus to overcome the coronavirus fund to tackle coronavirus RIYADH: In the middle of the in mission territories emergency caused by the novel VATICAN: Pope Francis has created coronavirus pandemic, “numerous an emergency fund for those affected success stories” have been record- by coronavirus in mission countries. ed, linked above all to “persever- The Pope has earmarked $750,000 ance, courage, strength and finding for the fund. strength in faith,” writes Turki Bin Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pre- Talal, governor of the province of fect of the Vatican Congregation for Asir (southern Saudi Arabia) in a the Evangelisation of the Peoples, long editorial in the Saudi Gazette. said that the Pope was seeking to The governor, a Muslim, calls mobilise “the Church’s entire net- on people to turn to Our Lady to work to face the challenges ahead”. find strength, courage and a path “In her task of evangelisation, the to overcome the COVID-19 out- Church is often on the front lines of break. major threats to human well-being,” If we look at the Virgin Mary and he said. Pope Francis established an emergency her son, Jesus, in the Quran, “we’ll “In Africa alone, there are over fund to help communities in the find one particular story that tells Catholic Church’s mission territories Part of the Great Mosque is closed in order to disinfect it. (Asianews photo) 74,000 religious sisters and over of perseverance” in the quest for 46,000 priests operating 7,274 hos- affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. “a road map” to “combat struggles power to “face the struggle with Saudi Arabia, Governor Turki pitals and clinics, 2,346 homes for established the fund to support the and pandemics.” courage and determination”. Bin Talal notes, is “at the forefront” the elderly and the vulnerable, and Church in mission territories as it re- “In her story, she had faced the “The story of Mariam (Mary),” of the fight against the worldwide educating over 19 million children in sponds to the coronavirus crisis. struggles of her pregnancy, self- the governor notes, “tells the story coronavirus pandemic. 45,088 primary schools. In many ru- “Through the Church’s activity of purification, family and history of every true victor [. . .]. The mor- He explains that “The fate of hu- ral areas they are the only providers preaching the Gospel and of practi- against a harsh society that had al of her story is clear; it’s through manity has raised a global citizens’ of healthcare and education.” cal aid through our vast network, we shown her no mercy. It was only these directives [from God] that response, the realisation that we The new fund will be based at can show that no one is alone in this through Divine directives that she success against all struggles and all must live as modern societies, the Pontifical Mission Societies, a crisis,” he said. was able to see the path to survival pandemics can be achieved.” awakening leaders into seeing the worldwide group of missionary so- Individuals can make donations to and success.” So far, Saudi Arabia has the high- bigger picture”. cieties under the Pope’s jurisdiction. the fund via the administration office Among the directives that Our est number of confirmed COV- “It is only through living in har- The Pope channels support to more of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Lady faithfully followed, Turki Bin ID-19 cases among the Arab Gulf mony, that we will see the power of than 1,000 dioceses, mainly in Asia, Rome. Talal points to the first, which is to nations. In view of this, it suspend- the strength that lies in coming to- Africa, Oceania and the Amazon, As of April 8, more than 80,000 “ascertain the belief in divine judg- ed the minor pilgrimage and asked gether as one.” Only “through the through the group. people had died from the coronavi- ment”. Others include finding “the the faithful from all over the world story of Aaron’s sister, Mariam the Archbishop Giovanni Pietro Dal rus and more than 1.4 million have strength to survive, no matter how to stop booking for this year’s Hajj, Virgin, will we find the lessons of Toso, president of the Pontifical tested positive for the disease. — weak one felt” and ultimately the which is now is in doubt. survival.” — AsiaNews Mission Societies, said the Pope had CNA