Tui Motu InterIslands monthly independent Catholic magazine September 2014 | $7

New Zealand General Election 2014 . editorial elections! elections! elections!

hat a month this is for everything in common, sold their employment base for the young . us New Zealanders . goods and possessions and distributed Placing more money in the hands We’ve been thrown these among themselves according to of the majority of our people would Winto the midst of the ‘dirty politics’ what each one needed ’. (Acts 2:44) mean more money to spend and debate, with allegations and counter- This may seem amazingly ideal . But it more jobs created . And in the present allegations coming thick and fast, affirms clearly that only together can economic climate, government has and some tough but important our love inspire us in voting . wriggle-room to do this . points made . For example, ministers Undergirding this will be another A second theme we treat this do need to be accountable for their ‘heart’ principle: that of the dignity month is the centennial of World actions . Neither is the whole debate of each and every New Zealander, War One, a hugely seminal event to be dismissed as just some type of seen against our wider world . Now in the life and history of this conspiracy dreamed up to destabilize we want policies that will respect the country . In upholding the coura- the election . We must be aware of human dignity of each, not just the geous people who gave their lives the pressures of lobbyists, and their privilege of some . in battle, we also uphold those who dangerous relationships with people The third set of most pressing values gave their lives for peace (cf the in positions of power . are those of mercy and compassion . story of Ben Salmon) . War is never Despite this, each of us as voters We certainly see the need for these to be glorified for its own sake . As wants to go to the heart and core of more easily when looking at the world Archbishop Desmond Tutu says of what is there for us to take note of . scene (in Iraq, Gaza, Syria and West the present Israel/Gaza conflict, As Christians in an increasingly secu- Africa) and the ways governments and ‘Violence begets violence and lar society, there are three principal people are attempting, or not, to bring hatred, that only begets more vio- values that will help us in deciding sanity and grace into the global equa- lence and hatred’ . War will never our vote . tion . However, mercy and compassion solve our human problems . In fact, The core matter is the gift of remain absolutely crucial values for us he reminds us strongly of the futil- community . We need to look at the electors to ponder here also . ity of war — ‘there is no military whole of our society and its good first, From my privileged place as solution’ — and of our need to use before we look to the needs of each editor, one practical matter I see that a non-violent political toolbox to individual . Remember the situation may help our people the most would stop fighting wherever it occurs . in the original Jerusalem community be the giving of a living wage to all, Good thinking and good voting! where we are told the faithful ‘owned along with the creation of a suitable KT

Editorial...... 2 Prayer: God in whom we trust ...... 19 Neil Darragh Pleas to the people of Israel ...... 3 Ben Salmon, a ‘confessor of the faith’ . . . . . 20–21 Letters to the editor ...... 4 contents John Dear Exploiting migrant workers ...... 5 Commemorating the first world war ...... 22–23 Jim Consedine Tom Brooking How to vote? ...... 6–7 Catholics and the Great War ...... 24–25 Mike Riddell SeÁn Brosnahan Poverty, inequality, the bible and the election . . 8–9 A listening church ‘with large ears’ ...... 26–27 Chris Nichol and Max Rashbrooke Kathleen Rushton Gospel Manifesto 2014 overview ...... 10–11 Book and film reviews ...... 28–29 Vaughan Milner Crosscurrents ...... 30 Individualism in an election year ...... 12–13 Jim Elliston Gerard Aynsley Election 2014: what do we really want? . . . . . 31 Stepping stones to hope ...... 14–15 Robert Consedine Peter Matheson A mother’s journal ...... 32 Peace ...... 16–17 Kaaren Mathias Memory and guarantee ...... 18–19 Laetitia Puthenpadath Cover illustration: Donald Moorhead

2 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 . comment pleas to the people of israel

leas for help from two people that this tragedy in Gaza would not generations to violence and insecurity . involved with the people of have happened if the Israeli politi- A mind-set shift that stops regarding Israel and Gaza are vitally cians had opted for peace and gone legitimate criticism of a state’s policies Pimportant at present when life there on with the peace negotiations . as an attack on Judaism . A mind-set is extremely frayed . The first is from Some, particularly in Europe and the shift that begins at home and ripples Dr Bernard Sabella, who works in west, put the blame on Hamas for out across communities and nations Gaza with the Middle East Council shooting rockets into Israel . But what and regions — to the Diaspora scat- of Churches and their service to is the root cause for this, can we ask? tered across the world we share . The Palestinian Refugees, and who has If we Palestinians have to behave like only world we share . labored all his life to seek to find good boys, on Israeli conditions and People united in pursuit of a answer to the Israel/Palestine prob- accept all the infractions committed righteous cause are unstoppable . God lem . The second is a quote from a against us, are we really human? Who does not interfere in the affairs of remarkable piece by Archbishop can convince us that what Israel is people, hoping we will grow and learn Emeritus Desmond Tutu, com- doing with its siege on Gaza, its set- through resolving our difficulties and menting on the rallies around the tlements in the West Bank, its policies differences ourselves . But God is not world seeking an end to the Gaza and measures in East Jerusalem are all asleep . The Jewish scriptures tell us crisis, and supporting sanctions and for our good and for the future of that God is biased on the side of the divestment from Israel . Dr Bernard our children? Is Israel preparing the weak, the dispossessed, the widow, the is a concerned ‘insider’; Archbishop ground for good neighbourliness or orphan, the alien who set slaves free on Desmond is a concerned ‘outsider’ . is it creating the environment for fur- an exodus to a Promised Land . It was However, coming from completely ther war and bloodshed? When will the prophet Amos who said we should different viewpoints and parts of Israeli politicians wake up?’ let righteousness flow like a river . the world, there is a marked co- Goodness prevails in the end . The incidence of view pushing for a way Archbishop Desmond Tutu: pursuit of freedom for the people of forward . Pray for that new path to ‘My plea to the people of Israel is to Palestine from humiliation and per- humanity and freedom . see beyond the moment, to see beyond secution by the policies of Israel is a the anger at feeling perpetually under righteous cause . It is a cause that the Dr Bernard Sabella: siege, to see a world in which Israel people of Israel should support . ‘The times are difficult indeed and and Palestine can coexist — a world in Nelson Mandela famously said they will become more difficult in which mutual dignity and respect reign . that South Africans would not feel the coming weeks and months … It requires a mind-set shift . A free until Palestinians were free . While we tend to the wounds of our mind-set shift that recognizes that He might have added that the Palestinian brothers and sisters and attempting to perpetuate the cur- liberation of Palestine will liberate their children, we have to remember rent status quo is to damn future Israel, too ’. n

Tui Motu – InterIslands is an independent, address: Independent Catholic Magazine Ltd, Catholic, monthly magazine. It invites its 52 Union Street, Dunedin North, 9054 P O Box 6404, Dunedin North, 9059 readers to question, challenge and contrib- ute to its discussion of spiritual and social phone: (03) 477 1449 issues in the light of gospel values, and in fax: (03) 477 8149 the interests of a more just and peaceful email: [email protected] society. Inter-church and inter-faith dialogue website: www.tuimotu.org is welcomed. TuiMotuInterIslands

editor: Kevin Toomey OP The name Tui Motu was given by Pa Henare Tate. assistant editor: Elizabeth Mackie OP It literally means “stitching the islands together...”, bringing the different races and peoples and faiths illustrator: Donald Moorhead together to create one Pacific people of God. directors: Susan Brebner, Rita Cahill RSJ, Philip Casey (chair), Neil Darragh, Paul Ferris, Robin Kearns, Elizabeth Mackie OP Divergence of opinion is expected and will normally and David Mullin be published, although that does not necessarily ISSM 1174-8931 honorary directors: Pauline O’Regan RSM, Frank Hoffmann imply editorial commitment to the viewpoint Issue number 186 typesetting and layout: Greg Hings expressed. printers: Southern Colour Print, 1 Turakina Road, Dunedin South, 9012

3 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 letters to the editor suzanne aubert made in God’s image and a brother/ letters to the editor sister of Jesus has led to the violent Tui Motu is a read a wee bit beyond We welcome comment, death of billions . Given the violence my intellectual capabilities and I find discussion, argument, debate . that humans inflict on one another the Salvation Army’s War Cry easier But please keep letters under for whatever reason, we have a long to understand . way to go . 200 words . The editor reserves I have the book The Story of Peter was very sincere when he the right to abridge, while not Suzanne Aubert written by Jessie said that he would never deny his changing the meaning . Munro . It’s wonderfully done . The Lord . He reacted to his arrest by We do not publish anonymous historian, Michael King, who died far taking up the sword to defend him . letters otherwise than in too early, included this comment in He defended with violence and exceptional circumstances . his review of the book for the Listener probably was prepared to accept the Response articles (up to a (November 9, 1996): consequences . However when he was page) are welcome — but ‘In a telling cameo, Munro told this was not the Way, he gave way please, by negotiation . describes Aubert’s funeral cortege to fear . The alternative which Christ headed for Karori Cemetery on his Lord chose is the sort of fidelity October 4, 1926: “small square that at that stage of his faith Peter was cars threaded neatly like beads” . unable to achieve . However after the As the vehicles pass without a gap, Resurrection that grace came to him . a bystander asks, “What religion Jim Vercoe Austing, Dannevirke was that woman?” His companion, a workman leaning on a shovel, cross without redemption? answers, “That’s a question she would Paul Sorrell’s review of the film never have asked you or me” ’. Calvary (TM, August) is well titled, Lovely . Enough to bring tears to ‘The Cross without Redemption’ . In ‘Time to Share the Land’, my eyes . She was a saint, even before Clerical paedophilia is indeed the Cecily McNeill makes not the slight- her death . cross of the Body of Christ in our est condemnation of the terrorist Paul Cotter, Invercargill age, and redemption is nowhere organisation sthat is Hamas . All one god with us in sight . has to do is Google ‘Hamas Charter’ The photo of the German military What does history tell us? Did to find out everything you need to belt from WW1 in the August issue clerical paedophilia exist in the middle know about Hamas . reminded me of my time in Frankton ages? Until we have documentary In ‘Being Real Solid’, Shaun many years ago . I visited an elderly evidence to the contrary, the answer is Davison makes much of racism man who declared that he was an no; it is proper to our age alone . against African-Americans in the atheist . His affirmation came from It is not pure coincidence that USA, but I’d like to ask: Who shot his experience during WW1 — ‘We this poison reared its head at the Parnell Wilson’s cousin? The fact is, were stepping over bodies of Germans same time that obedience became black-on-black violence constitutes who had on their belt GOTT MIT the be-all and end-all of priestly life, the majority of the violent crime UNS . We thought that God was with and the divine balance of trust and taking place in America today . us too!’ obedience was knocked out of kilter . Felix Daniher, Omokoroa That was a lovely recollection in ‘Divine’ because the Father trusted the April issue of Teilhard de Chardin Jesus (John 10: 29 Knox trans) and (Mr tayer) by Jean Houston when she Jesus became obedient to the Father . If you really love encountered him as a young girl . He When the authorities of the reading your was man of vision and humanity . A Catholic Church are big enough Tui Motu, true son of God, in love with wonder and great enough to trust all their he was wondrous himself . priests, even as Christ trusted you might like to I believe that the greatest evo- Judas, then, and only then, will remember us in your will . lutionary leap that humanity has redemption appear . experienced and will ever experience Fr Max Palmer OSCO, Takapau is Jesus the Christ . Humanity has Tui Motu Interislands not even started to catch up with objective journalism P . O . Box 6404 the one who said, ‘you are gods’ . Two articles in August’s issue demon- Dunedin North 9059 The refusal to accept or the misun- strate once again that Tui Motu has derstanding of what it means to be no interest in objective journalism .

4 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 comment exploiting migrant workers

Jim Consedine

s a member of a small task with their employers who seemed to sub-contractors will claim an hourly group based at the Catholic hold all the cards, they usually found rate of say $30 per hour for a qualified Worker in Christchurch, I have difficult, if not impossible . As a culture, tradesman and pay the worker only beenA working with some of the Filipino they are deeply religious and deferential $23 . Everyone appears to be clipping migrant workers who have come to to authority, be it employers, the State the ticket down the supply chain . The Christchurch to help in the re-build . or the Church . This doesn’t mean they worker usually does not know this . If They have left their homes and their don’t feel injustice or take it lying down . they do, there is nothing they can do families and travelled half-way around When you hear them talking on their ‘without muddying their own patch ’. the world to bring their skills to the own, they are passionate about such As I say, as a culture, they are unusu- re-build . What we have found after things . But because they perceive all ally deferential to authority . several months’ involvement has left the cards to be held by the authorities, Few are encouraged to join a trade us ashamed at some of the exploitative they are seen by some as being ripe for union and many feel discriminated practices being carried out by some exploitation . And too many have been against if they buck the trend and do so . construction companies in regard to exploited right here in Christchurch . This is despite the fact that belonging to their workers’ pay rates, rental accom- a union is perfectly legal and is usually modation and living conditions . New Zealand has the best thing they can do if their wages Recently, I was at a meeting in a small and conditions are not up to scratch . house with 21 Filipino workers, only a a proud heritage As First Union secretary, Paul Watson, few of whom had been given the jobs of giving people a says ‘The free market rhetoric promotes promised in their initial contracts . The fair go and treating the idea that supply and demand will rest still had no work, hence no income . push the cost of labour up and workers They had only the promise of work workers with decency will benefit from that . The reality is the sometime in the future . In addition to and respect . Foreign reverse for migrants, as some oppor- leaving their wives and partners, they left guests should be tunist employers seek to draw excessive nearly 40 dependent children of school profits by suppressing labour rates age back home . When we met with the treated no differently . often five to six dollars an hour below migrant workers here, they were broke, wages paid to New Zealand workers relying on charity to get by, uncertain Through pressure from outside doing the same job ’. as to what they were allowed to do in sources, the situation outlined New Zealand has a proud heritage relation to their two-year work visas, above has now been partially recti- of giving people a fair go and treating and worried sick about their families fied . But the same fate awaits other workers with decency and respect . and the fact that they couldn’t support groupings who are left at the mercy Foreign guests should be treated no them from here with their wages . The of unscrupulous employers . differently . This is particularly so with so tradesmen — they were all men — had Some treat their workers well and many coming to Christchurch to help us worked in a variety of countries all over have few problems . But others appear recover so much of what was lost in the the world for some years and were very to have a paternalistic approach to quakes and their aftermath . They bring mature and obviously hardworking . their workforce, displaying a sense of skills, energy and goodwill to the tasks None had experienced this uncertainty superiority to their ‘poorer’ foreign at hand . The Church has for 130 years before in countries like Qatar, Japan, workers, who happen to be primarily been insistent upon fair wages for work- Saudi Arabia, the Maldives and Dubai, Asian . Such attitudes are not apparent ers and their right to join trade unions to mention a few . Only in Christchurch in their dealings with Australians, the for the benefits they provide, not least of were they unplaced and unpaid . Irish, Scots or English migrant work- which is solidarity with one another and When they came to Christchurch ers . It reflects a deeply ingrained atti- the power to limit exploitation . they found themselves in the middle tude of racism, never acknowledged It is time employers in Christ- of winter, huddled into sub-standard but poisonous nonetheless . church took note and treated all accommodation in 60-80-year-old The company contracts many migrant workers justly . n houses with little heat, few modern sign at home in order to come to amenities, and no jobs . Being Filipinos, New Zealand, rarely tell the whole Jim Consedine is a priest of the Diocese they are often reserved, with English very story . They are often tightened up of Christchurch and editor of much a second language . So engagement upon arrival . For example, some The Common Good.

5 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 elections 2014 how to vote? Elections tease us into thinking. What are the kinds of policies that we really want to have? How are our policies formed? To serve self interest or the wider common good? Equality or inequality? What kind of society do we want to live in? Mike Riddell

reaking with all journalistic wonky . The whole political vehicle is paraded with all the subtlety of a conventions and possibly in such a state of disrepair it needs Harvey Norman ad . These tempt- contravening the Electoral ordering off the road . And yet we ing baubles are the result of careful BAct, I’m about to tell you how to vote keep patching it up and marvelling at research to discover what rocks the in the forthcoming election . Your the entertainment system, seemingly boat of people like you . Do you want bishops won’t direct you, and all oblivious to the fact we’re travelling a tax cut or more spending on health? the media can do is feed you a Is it parental leave or less red tape steady stream of propaganda in that rips your nightie? We have the hope you’ll work it out for what you want … yourself . Enough pussy-footing And therein lies the problem . around . I intend to lay it on the We’ve become a nation of political line for you . But first, allow me consumers, lured by self-interest . to provide some rationale for The vast majority vote for whatever my transgression of your politi- suits their personal circumstances cal autonomy . the most . Whereas the whole enter- The current system is prise of politics in a democracy is broken . I once had an old about so much more than that . It’s Vauxhall that developed an not what works for me, but who we engine knock . For a while I want to be as a nation . What sort of tried to convince myself that society do we want to live in? it was the fan belt, but deep For people of faith, the concept in my heart I knew it was of common good is a starting point . the fatal sound of bearings . As Pope Francis says, ‘the common Eventually, in a desperate act, good should not be simply an extra, I pulled the sump off, sanded simply a conceptual scheme of the crankshaft with wet and inferior quality tacked onto political dry sandpaper, fitted new programmes . The Church encour- bearing shells, and threw in ages those in power to be truly at the an intercessory prayer . I got a service of the common good of their few more miles out of the car peoples ’. Politics is not the marketing before it inevitably died . of wishlists to individuals, but the Neo-liberal capitalism is on shaping of a human community . a similar journey to the scrap- In New Zealand we have a trien- yard . The knocking in its engine toward a looming disaster . The New nial opportunity to participate in has been audible for at least the last Zealand politcal contest has become, determining the core values of our decade . But it defies death, propped to use the words of Saul Bellow, ‘a society . The work of voting is that of up by an alliance of self-interested cross between a popularity contest choosing what sort of land we would multinationals and partisan spin doc- and a high school debate’ . be proud to be citizens of, not that of tors . The only question is whether this asking what would ease our personal decrepit economic power train will the kind of society we want? circumstances . While the general come to an end gently or with a bang . Individualism is to politics what salt consensus of commentators is that the Once the basic engine parts are shot, air is to rustbuckets . During the cur- nation is sleepwalking toward more of it’s going to be one or the other . rent election campaign you will have the same, each and every election has But it’s not just the motor that’s been targeted with specific policies, the potential to be a circuit breaker .

6 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 No Humans Allowed! [Photo of cows in wetland: Dave Allen, NIWA] dream of a fresh start mountains to sea . It is part of my her- power train of the economy . Why else There was a dream at the heart of itage that I wanted my children and would overseas investors be buying our communal journey . It was that grandchildren to enjoy — a taonga of up our farms? Only people with no of a fresh start . A nation free from which we were kaitiaki. understanding of commerce would the entrenched powers of wealth, But now we are told that the abil- resist this boon . where birth did not predetermine ity to swim safely in a river is too high I confess my ignorance . I don’t your future . A society in which the a standard to achieve . The recently understand why dollar notes are chance to flourish was as fresh and released National Policy Statement more important than clear rivers . It’s raw as the landscape . A country for Freshwater Management aims to beyond my limited imagination why unbowed by precedent or status or make rivers safe to boat or wade in, casinos snatch our attention more foreign influence . Migration was an but not swim . It seems that two-thirds than children with rickets . I have opportunity to reboot the political of our rivers are currently unsafe to somehow failed to grasp that cyni- operating system . frolic in . We must revise our expecta- cal arrogance is a higher virtue than Somewhere it has gone horribly tions . It is toxicity that should be the simple kindness . In my ignorance, wrong . We have woken to rampant limit-factor, not recreation . I begin to doubt that businessmen inequality, where those who count in have a more accurate view of the millions scapegoat the most vulner- world than parliamentary cleaners . able members of society as a drain on Politics is not the Sometimes I even wonder if it’s really the national economy . Whole fami- marketing of wishlists inevitable that New Zealand should lies and communities are locked into to individuals, but the be a vassal of the United States . cycles of generational poverty, while But who am I to challenge ortho- a coterie accumulate assets beyond shaping of a human doxies? A single voter, with a pen and their capacity to enjoy . Our socially community . a paper, and a mind to make a differ- innovative population has grown ence . Which brings me back to the compliant to the numbing narcotic notion I started with . I promised to of foreign capital; we are lotus-eaters power of dollar notes? tell you how to vote . So here it is, in whose only goal is a larger screen to Swimming doesn’t earn export dol- words as plain as I can make them . feed our fantasies . lars . Perhaps if we could find a way Go into the privacy of your voting This year, the electoral symbol to monetise it and attract foreign booth, cross yourself, and follow that encompasses all of this for me is investment, then it would become a the instructions . n that of our rivers . I grew up swim- priority . For now rivers must remain ming in rivers, drinking from rivers, efficient drains to transfer the waste Mike Riddell is a writer and filmmaker, fishing in rivers . Their silver braid- from dairy farms away to the sea . It living in Cambridge. ing embroidered the land, joining is dairy farming that is the economic

7 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 elections 2014 poverty, inequality, the bible and the election

Here is another take on the link between poverty and ineqality as two of the principal issues facing New Zealand as the election looms. As christians, it is important to view these in the light of our scriptural tradition.

Chris Nichol and Max Rashbrooke

quarter of New Zealand’s one struggle and fail to make ends meet, who buy up the lands of the poor million children live below our shame at the way it drains life from cannot retain them permanently . the poverty line . Many go vulnerable people is nothing new . While these laws may not envisage toA school hungry, or without decent Inequality is a New Testament an egalitarian society they provided a shoes or a raincoat . Their parents headline . Mary, the mother of Jesus, redistributive mechanism that helped simply do not have enough money spoke of filling the hungry with address inequality . left at the end of the week . good things and sending the rich The early church had others . For the biblical writers, as for empty away (Lk 1:46ff) . Jesus him- The Jerusalem community shared many Christians today, this is self challenged people to sell their their goods to ensure everyone had an outrage . They understood the possessions and give to the poor enough . Through the metaphor of whole point of an economy was (Lk 12:33) . He saw inequality as an the body Paul insists that, in the to sustain community and protect affront, a disgrace . fellowship of Christ, social status the most vulnerable . Isaiah, Micah Why then have we been so willing has no importance . He charged the and Zechariah reserve some of their to accept the fact of child poverty? Corinthian church to share its goods sharpest criticism for rulers who Perhaps it’s because of a flawed the- with a poorer fellowship (2 Cor are not committed to ensuring ology that suggests the rich deserve 8:13–14) . Again and again the Bible everyone’s basic needs can be met . their wealth and the poor are so affirms the fundamental equality of But increasingly we seem intent on by their own bad choices . But this all people before God and the respon- securing the peace of the wealthy at misguided prosperity gospel flies in sibility of those with wealth to ensure the expense of the most vulnerable . the face of the insight of Genesis that all members of the community enjoy Income inequality is a primary all people are created in the image all the necessities of life . reason we have child poverty in of God and all entitled to enjoy the That insight remains true . Until this country . And while we may be fruits of God’s creation . income inequality is addressed the allevi- appalled at the power inequality The Jubilee laws in Leviticus pro- ation of poverty remains a pious dream . wields over New Zealanders who pose one way of achieving this . Those All of us, rich and poor, must rediscover we are in this together . We cannot build our success in isolation . If we want to see progress on poverty we will need change at the other end of the spectrum . If we take this seriously there are implications for what we might look for from our would-be political lead- ers as the election looms . What poli- cies will help close the gap between rich and poor in New Zealand? All parties have something to say about income inequality, positively or negatively, sometimes both . In trying to identify the most constructive of those it can be useful to distinguish between two groups of policies: those

8 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 that directly reduce income gaps • A more progressive tax system people informed immediately, and those that reduce with higher rates for top earners • New ways for people to be the impact of those income gaps and • A capital gains tax so that tax is involved in politics, like devolving help prevent them recurring in future . paid on all income public funding to communities • Developing measures of progress closing the gaps now the impact of income gaps beyond GDP, such as national When it comes to policies that We can also invest more in softening well-being directly reduce income gaps, there are the present impact of inequality and three main areas to focus on . breaking the cycle of poverty . Three Many more things could be areas matter most here: education, added to this list . But parties ticking 1. Getting people into skilled jobs health and housing, and democracy . most or all of these boxes will make One of the first steps towards reduc- a significant difference in the battle ing income gaps is to create more 1. Education against inequality . well-paying and rewarding jobs — Schools can offer all children the It’s up to us what values we want and make sure people have the skills chance to realise their potential . This our economy and policy settings to to fill them . Policies to look out for helps reduce the influence of family cultivate . Policies reflecting a biblical here include: background on their life choices and vision, with genuinely human inter- • Shifting the economy into high- provides a long-term route out of ests at heart, will safeguard everyone’s skilled areas that employ lots of poverty . Policies to look out for here participation in society, including people include: poor and vulnerable people . Policies • More research and development • Support for a high-quality public that penalise the poor in the interests to stimulate new areas of job system encouraging schools to of the rich undermine this goal . But growth collaborate that’s the direction we’ve let ours • More skills and trade training, so • Boosting teachers’ training so drift . It’s time for a re-alignment . n people can take advantage of the they can maximise their students’ opportunities available potential Chris Nichol and Max Rashbrooke write • Supporting high-quality early on behalf of the New Zealand Council of 2. Closing the salary gap childhood education as a ‘head Christian Social Services. Once people have work they need to start’ in life receive a fair reward for their effort . The following suggestions would help 2. Health and housing For more information about income inequality see: ensure a narrower range of salaries: Good health is crucial to people’s www.closertogether.org.nz • Support for a Living Wage (pres- chances of earning a decent income . ently $18 .80) paid by organisa- Good quality health care should be tions that can afford it available to all . We need warm, safe • Encouraging stronger collective houses that don’t make us sick . That bargaining to give low-paid staff means policies like: Prayer for Aotearoa New more bargaining power • A Warrant of Fitness for all homes Zealand in an election year • Pay ratios linking top and bottom so children have somewhere safe God, give us a vision of our country pay, and more transparency about to grow up how high pay is set • Improving access to primary As a land of tolerance where all races healthcare so we can tackle more and creeds can live together in unity, 3. Tax and benefits health problems at source A land of justice where basic human There will always be people unable • A commitment to reducing health rights are respected, either to work or to find the right inequalities A land of compassion where poverty job right now . And there are tens of is unknown and oppression is ended, thousands of people doing important 3. Democracy unpaid work, like child-rearing . They Democratic participation in New And a land of peace where order does all deserve better support and this can Zealand is declining . But we are not depend on force. be achieved by increasing payments likely to move towards a fairer future God, help us to make this vision our to beneficiaries, especially those with only if everyone has a genuinely equal reality. children political voice . This means encourag- Amene. We can also use our tax system ing parties that offer: to ask those who can to contribute • Support for high-quality public — Ron O’Grady more through: broadcasting as a means of keeping

9 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 elections 2014 forming the cloak of community

This article provides an overview of the five priorities of the Gospel Manifesto 2014 which Tui Motu has brought to readers in its last five issues.

Vaughan Milner

n an increasingly secular soci- groups of shareholders . Similarly, ety with diverse ethnic groups The five priorities of pay differences between highest and and many faiths, a Gospel the Gospel Manifesto lowest paid within some sectors, IManifesto has to engage the spir- and between some sectors, have itual and a sense of inclusive com- • Every Child Counts become the subject of much debate munity to be relevant . and concern . Contemporaneously From this angle, it is often the • Healthy Homes Lead to benefit payments to those unable to heart-felt tug of community aroha or Healthy Lives work (apart from superannuitants), compassion that inspires the pursuit create a poverty trap . Somewhere of social justice . When we reach out • Gross Inequality Costs there must be a fairer balance able in love to others, we acknowledge Everyone to be achieved . The current national our interdependence and one-ness . government (or a new government) In Hildegard of Bingen’s terms, it is • Towards a Less Punitive is well positioned to capitalise on its through this empathy in action that and Fearful Society economic successes, provide ethical we recognize we are feathers on the social leadership, and do something breath of God . • NZ as a Better World about poverty . It is promoting bal- Neighbour anced budgets and making much shameful signs of breakdown of the performance of the economy . It is shameful in modern day Aotearoa Reform of health, education, justice that there are many signs of societal a call for action in 2007 . Many of and welfare is well advanced . breakdown and of gaps and fragmen- the issues still require attention . The Fundamental reform of the tation across society . Statistics and a Council promoted an injection of income and tax systems should now variety of international reports tell us Government funding to eliminate be a top priority . A capital gains tax we are not doing so well in raising our poverty by providing adequate would enable redistribution of money children, having affordable homes to income to those on benefits at 60 to the worse off . Regulatory control to live in, equitable access to adequate percent of median disposable income; reduce pay differences would free up income, or restoration and reconcili- strengthened control of gambling; some money to redistribute to lower ation . There is also a looming bulge low cost and culturally appropri- paid workers; employer tax incen- in the numbers of older people and ate credit alternatives for those on tives and penalties could similarly increasing evidence of social isolation low incomes struggling with debt; boost wages and enable retargeting and poverty particularly amongst increased investment and more social of some Government working for elders who don’t own their own and affordable housing; implementa- families funds to beneficiaries . homes . This graying group of the vul- tion of Te Tiriti in social policy . Everyone would be better off, and nerable will put greater pressure on some companies and individuals health services and increase demand adequate income and poverty would reap greater triple bottom for affordable housing and access to The issue of adequate income and line rewards from their increased adequate care and support . poverty has been put in the too hard social contribution . The breath of God needs freshen- basket by successive Governments ing and the feathered cloak of com- and business leaders . New Zealand’s affordable housing munity restored if New Zealand is to low wage economy relies heav- Unaffordable housing is one of regain its place as God’s own and be a ily on Working for Families and the major causes of poverty . The genuinely just and fair society . Tax credits yet at the same time Government is currently reforming The New Zealand Council of many large companies are return- the way it administers income related Christian Social Services publicized ing very healthy profits to small rental subsidies . There is further scope

10 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 belong, are respected and valued, and can contribute in a meaningful way . This personal engagement as part of community is not straightforward because everyone is so different, and liking and respecting others tugs at our emotional core — our hopes and fears .

the cloak of community There is however a wider collective sense that forms the cloak of com- munity . It is this sense that enables people to find a place, to be sup- Vaughan Milner ported and to take part . There is no doubt maintaining a sense of to reform this area significantly by community is an enduring challenge targeting the accommodation supple- for each generation . Poverty requires ment to benchmark rents related to more than charity . Poverty requires tenants’ income, and to housing that a response from hearts and minds, meets standards for energy efficiency a generosity of spirit and a willing- and health . This measure could be ness to make the money go round in used to incentivise rentals that cost a different way . Political and public 30 percent or less of income . Such a leadership alongside determined measure might also have the result of action is essential . driving highly geared or unscrupu- The election campaign creates an lous landlords out of the market and opportunity for everyone to debate freeing up housing for home owner- and do something about the people ship or for socially minded landlords . and groups who are being left behind . Perhaps some form of capitalisation We need a commitment to action on of accommodation supplement for child poverty, reducing inequality, low income earners could become affordable housing, and a valued and another mechanism for access to dignified life with positive choices for home ownership . our elders society’s — kuia and kau- matua . We should not only be kind effects of social isolation to one another but look to ensure One of the insidious effects of the blessings of being in community poverty is that of social isolation with one another are fairly shared . n and being alone . There is a vicious circle whereby lack of funds often Vaughan Milner is the Chief Executive accompanied by health or functional Officer of Presbyterian Support (Upper issues leads to withdrawal from social South Island). He lives in Christchurch. networks and loss of confidence and identity . Over time there is an The Gospel Manifesto 2014 has accompanying erosion of respect and been coordinated by a working acceptance from the wider commu- group within ‘Ecu-Action’, an nity, leading to greater vulnerability ecumenical grouping under the and marginalisation . We all have a convenorship of the Rev Dr John part to play in helping others to feel England . included so they can be aware and active in their community and accept Further information on ‘Ecu-Action’ their roles, functions and responsibil- can be obtained from John England, email: rmpe22@xtra co. .nz ities . Individual responsibility is built on the accountability that comes

through reciprocity, feeling that you [Detail of feather cloak - Wikipedia]

11 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 catholic social teaching individualism in an election year

The ideas of the individual and of community have undergone many changes over the centuries. Once again, in our post-modern environment they need to be examined and rejigged. Every human being has dignity and value in a community setting where noone is left out. Gerard Aynsley

s the date of the New Zealand The individualism that Taylor Election draws near we are critiques manifests itself in a variety once again given the oppor- of ways . Take for example some of Atunity to consider what our society the thinking that undergirds the should be like . It can seem for many arguments for a change in legislation of us that modern approaches to to allow for voluntary euthanasia: ‘If government and economics work on you’re Christian etc, don’t have eutha- the hypothesis that self-interest is the nasia … that’s your belief and kia primary driving force of the voting ora to that … but if someone wants public . Inherent in this approach is to end their life … [then that is their the belief that benefits will come to choice]’ states one respondent on the society and the wider community as Stuff website in response to an article a consequence of individual interests by Nathaniel Centre Director, John being met . However, there is a good Kleinsman . The suggestion made by deal of evidence to suggest that we Kleinsman that such legislation may should be rather sceptical about such Gerard Aynsley have a detrimental impact on society assumptions . Take for example the and in particular on the vulnerable evidence of growing inequality and arose in the Renaissance and the seems to hold little sway . Or consider the statistics around child poverty Enlightenment periods . These ideas how much emphasis is placed today and the growing numbers of young came to shape the Western mind . on the individual’s capacity to rise people failing to find meaningful While Taylor challenges common above their state in life as a result of employment . As well as doing things preconceptions, he does not propose their own enterprise, ability and hard differently maybe there is also a call to that liberal thought should be entirely work . This is indeed something noble . think differently, an urgent need for a abandoned, nor does he suggest that However, too often we down- new, less individualistic, mind-set to the Enlightenment ideals of liberty play the social context in which this be formed . Can our Catholic social and individual freedom are wrong . occurs . We then conclude that those tradition provide us with a new lens Rather, he challenges how liberalism who don’t manage to raise themselves with which to envisage what our soci- is interpreted and practised from an above a state of poverty are simply lazy ety should look like? Before exploring individualistic standpoint . or cowardly or unmotivated . Never this, I will draw upon the writings of mind about challenging the existence Canadian philosopher, Charles Taylor, fulfilling individual needs? of a level playing field; the playing in order to highlight how a modern Taylor proposes that liberal indi- field by this way of thinking is incon- individualistic mind-set has taken vidualism is logically and practically sequential . Interestingly, in the first of shape and why it is not only practically flawed because of the atomistic idea the social encyclicals, Rerum Novarum, flawed, but also logically unsound . of the human person that arises . This Pope Leo XIII challenged exactly this means that the individual is imagined way of thinking, insisting that poverty a critique of liberal thought as existing in isolation from others . was not a moral problem (the result of For close to half a century, Charles Society, with this way of thinking, is laziness, as was commonly thought to Taylor has provided a critique to seen to be formed merely from the be the case) but a social one . modern society’s interpretation of sum total of individual choices and liberal thought . He has addressed with the sole task of fulfilling indi- building positive community a great range of topics: secularism, vidual needs . For Taylor, it is incoher- As an alternative to liberal individu- individualism, morality and politics, ent that the individual be imagined alism, Charles Taylor proposes a form and comes with a profound grasp as somehow existing outside and of communitarianism . For Taylor the of the philosophies and ideas that apart from society . individual is embedded in society

12 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 (not separate from it) and is a prod- grounded in here-and-now realities CST helps expand our outlook beyond uct of community relationships . This that deeper truths will be forgotten . mere self-interest to a concern for the is not some form of ‘collectivism’; as CST, founded as it is on this tran- other . Therefore, what mind-set do we if expressions of individual freedom scendent vision of the human person bring to the polling booth? Can we and are to be curtailed . Rather, commu- and society, insists that just having the party we vote for seek something nitarianism advocates that a positive enough food in your belly is not more than self-interest? Are we voting community setting is crucial for the sufficient for a full human life; that for a political vision that upholds the individual to thrive and it is within economic prosperity cannot be our dignity of the individual while stressing this context that individual freedom sole concern; that peace is not simply the need for a society where the good is formed . Individual and societal the absence of war and that the work of all is sought? When we consider the interests are not, for Taylor, opposed we do needs to be meaningful . social challenges mentioned in the first or in competition . This mirrors the paragraph there is little doubt we need way that Catholic Social Teaching valuing every human being to do some things differently . Maybe (CST) envisions the relationship of The social teaching of the Church the gradual forming of a new, less the individual to society . reminds us that if society is structured individualistic mind-set, and making in such a way that each individual this our voting criteria, will assist us in the heart of cst is not valued and if society requires forging a new way forward . n The principle of human dignity that the participation of only some of her lies at the heart of CST urges us not members, then there is something Gerard Aynsley is a priest of the Diocese of to lose sight of the individual . At the fundamentally flawed with that society . Dunedin, and a philosopher. same time the individual is envisaged as one who lives within and finds meaning within a social framework Maureen Conroy rsm d min — as a family member, friend, Visit to NZ: 26th Jan to 1st Feb 2015 neighbour, workmate, etc . Individual All events at: choices occur in this framework and Home of Compassion invariably impact on the social fabric . 2 Rhine St, Island Bay, Wellington Similarly, although an individual has the capacity to form judgements and decisions, making choices that Maureen Conroy, RSM, D .Min ., is Co-director of the Upper Room Spiritual will affect them as an individual, the Center, Neptune, NJ, USA Her ministries include spiritual direction, the training of spiritual directors, giving retreats, and offering workshops on spiritual social fabric will in turn influence direction, discernment, supervision and holistic spirituality . Maureen also how individual choices are made . educates spiritual directors at Creighton University, Nebraska and Milltown The Church has long had a Institute, Dublin, Ireland . She has offered workshops in the US, Canada, theological language to express human Australia and Europe . dignity — drawing on the scriptural ideal that we are all created in the • “Healing Trauma” The gift of prayer and Spiritual Direction 5 day Course 26th Jan to 30th Jan 2015 . Detail and registration at image of God and on a natural law www.arrupe.org.nz understanding of humanity (the indi- vidual as well as society as a whole) as • “Love is the Greatest Healer” having a transcendent (divine) origin Friday evening 30th Jan 2015 (7:00-9:30pm) Public event suitable for all . and a transcendent end . An overplay- Cost $25 REGISTER ONLINE or door sales also available www.arrupe.org.nz ing of the transcendent end to which life is directed has resulted at times in • “The Healing Power of Meditation and Mindfulness” the ignoring of here-and-now realities . Saturday 31st January 2015 (9:30am- 4pm) Public event suitable for all . The Church’s social documents Cost $75 (Lunch Included) REGISTER ONLINE ESSENTIAL at counter this tendency by ground- www.arrupe.org.nz ing Christian thinking in the real • “Contemplative Healing Touch” concerns of the day — how workers Sunday 1 st February (9:30-5:30) Professional hands-on training limited are treated; alleviating hunger and to 20 participants . Cost $150 Application for this challenging its existence; uphold- course to be made to Lyn at [email protected] ing the environment, etc . It is also FOR ACCOMMODATION DURING THIS PERIOD the case, however, that if we lose a PLEASE PHONE HOME OF COMPASSION sense of the transcendence of the 04 383 7769 human being our concerns will be so

13 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 social justice stepping stones to hope

Peter Matheson

Using appropriate Aotearoan metaphors, the author seeks to draw us further in our dreaming about the needs and values which will be the stepping stones to a better future for our grandchildren.

ut of my study window can put a face on the problem . The stents here and there as each particu- high above Blueskin Bay, tough question, though, is how to lar crisis raises its head? It was seri- the eye wanders up the generate such energies in the wider ously suggested by one of our abler Ocoast as far as Matanaka, shrouded in social and political scene . On the local politicians when a therapeutic morning mist . Manuka fronds wave national level where has our moral pool lost its funding that patrons in front of me, pittosporum, akeake, imagination gone? What tran- would just have to pay their way . A broadleaf, the rustling cabbage trees . scends the push for sectional and typical market economy solution! The bird-life is a delight, their aerial personal needs and greeds in the But who are these patrons? We are traffic as much as their song . For political realm? talking about the vulnerable, the bib- medieval people birds signified the lical widows and orphans, those for soul . You can see why . How do we find a whom any half-decent society makes In these idyllic surroundings it is provision . Such cuts in services raise easy to light a candle for peace, for window of hope onto the question what our core values are . friends in trouble, for a breath of long-term, redemptive Our heads are down, though . graciousness to touch the ungracious policies, recover some Successive blows to corporate welfare world of politics . And, of course, have left us somewhat punch-drunk . you need only to watch programmes sense of our core Resignation Rules OK! How do we such as Campbell Live, to realize that values? lift our heads when it comes to plan- generosity, thoughtfulness, com- ning for equity, for sustainability, for munal spirit are by no means dead Our medical centres, childcare a healthy democracy? What are the in Godsown . People respond in facilities, old people’s homes, our stepping-stones for that journey? hordes when issues are personalized . schools, and social services are the Little point, I believe, in blam- Sympathy flows for individual victims arteries which channel life through ing the politicians . We know that of flooding, or insurance delays, or the body politic . But if such arteries they inhabit an anything but idyllic health breakdowns, because people start narrowing is it enough to insert world . John Key talked recently of

14 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 19-hour days . Clamant issues apart, as a constant reminder in the day-to- Remember the raw energy of settlers our political leaders have to cope with day business of living that we are part determined to hammer out a better the rasp of aggressive interviewers, of a quite wondrous creation . life for their children, to get away the urgent demands of constituents, So we have wells to draw on . But from a class-ridden, cap-doffing soci- the muck-raking of opponents . In surely we also have our beacons? On ety to a more equitable one . Practical, their world smooth-talking see-saws St John’s Day, midsummer, fires used if partial, utopias . with personal polemics . No place for to light up the hills in old Europe . Island. Every city needs an the soul there! You will have your own list of light- island . We leave home in order to So how do we bring hope, throwers, great prophetic figures, come home, to find — away from graciousness into their situation? such as Rutherford Waddell, Kate it all —where we really belong . To (Discourage these ludicrously long Sheppard, James K Baxter, and all the advance we must first retreat, gain work-days, for one!) Or into ours humbler men and women who took distance from the immediacies . as their constituents? Let’s drop our fire from them . Their craggy witness The way we spend our money, the habitual problem-seeking and analy- still flares out to inspire us . degree to which our taxation system ses for the moment . How do we find What is sacred for us? Where are is progressive, the priority we give a window of hope onto long-term, our altars? The network of marae to social and cultural projects is the redemptive policies, recover some across our land is a quite unique fea- best litmus test of our values . sense of our core values? ture of our country . Latin used to be Maybe we can use images like Cilla McQueen’s latest collec- the sacred language . Today, increas- these as stepping stones . There’s noth- tion of poetry, An Island, dances its ingly, to mark an occasion we call on ing wrong with dollars, with econom- way through a succession of images: te reo . It lifts us out of the habitual, ics, with accounting, with doing the coastline, shelter, altar, beacon, well, challenges the chit-chat and the profit and loss stuff, with enhancing island . Let’s ask some different ques- argy-bargy . Sacred space, threshold GDP . It just needs to be for some- tions: Where are the beacons of hope crossing … thing . So what are we really on about for our inner cities, our suburbs, our Shelter. Where are our sanctuar- as a little country at the far end of rapidly emptying country towns? ies, our safe-houses, refuges? One fine the world? What solidarity do we feel What is sacred for us, what altars do Iona prayer names the church as the with endangered island neighbours we worship at today? Where will the shelter-house of the poor . Many of such as Kiribati? Maybe a metaphor over-crowded families in Auckland our churches still deserve that name . or two will help us to sharpen up our find shelter, or the disabled folk We can be proud of that . But we can expectations as the election campaign in Dunedin, threatened with the all think of other sanctuaries as well . gets under way, and to nudge the can- removal of their precious therapeutic Coastline. Let’s trace in our head didates to rise above point scoring . pool, their one relief from stiffness the bays and inlets, the in-and-out- As voters, what do we see as the and pain . As the voluntary socie- ness, up-and-downness of our land . core values which need to be given ties struggle to keep going and the national priority not just in rhetoric churches empty out, how do we but in action? How does each can- locate the wells where we can slake didate’s party programme shelter the our thirst for justice, savour snatches vulnerable, steward the resources of of good news, nourish friendships? land and sea for future generations, Let’s start with the well . The offer work and creative vision to our Renaissance and the 16th century young people, draw on wells that Reformations were fired up by meet the thirst for human life in its Erasmus’s call to leave the muddy fullness? And let’s ask the candidates lagoon of contemporary culture and straight out: Why should we trust tap into the pristine sources of the you and your leaders? What code do apostolic age, of classical Greece and you personally live by? Where do you Rome . Where are our wells, our pris- see Aotearoa/New Zealand heading tine waters, here in Aotearoa? Well, in your grandchildren’s time? n we have unparalleled access in this land to beach and bush and hills, to Peter Matheson is a retired principal the crash of the surf and the awesome of Knox Theological College living and silence of the wilderness . If we drink writing in Blueskin Bay, deep from that it will slow us down, Waitati, Dunedin. sober us up, take us out of ourselves, Peter Matheson not just on holiday or at retreat, but

15 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 Maluhia Friður Vrede مالس Kapayapáa Pokój Smirom Friede Rauha Sìth Runyaro Vakaçegu Iow Maungãrongo Béke Miers Lâfí Keamanan Pasch

16 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 Maluhia Friður Vrede Rukun Heddwch Paco Khotso Filemū مالس Kapayapáa Pokój Smirom Friede Rauha Sìth Peoc’h Pace Mir Isithangami םולש Runyaro Vakaçegu Iow Maungãrongo Béke Miers Lâfí Keamanan Pasch PEACE Paix

Come let us go up to the house of the God of Jacob that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths .

Then God will judge between the nations and arbitrate between many peoples . They will hammer their swords into ploughshares and their spears into sickles. Nation will not lift sword against nation, no longer will they learn how to make war .

— Isaiah 2:3-4

“All [war] seriously offends God and seriously offends humanity . You cannot bring hatred in the name of God . You cannot make war in the name of God!”

— Pope Francis (7 August 2014, Angelus message)

17 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 spirituality memory and guarantee

It is in the bonds of communitaran spirit that the humane ‘other’ is revealed, just as Jesus at the Last Supper revealed himself to us in the deepest way as the infinitely loving and giving Other.

Laetitia Puthenpadath

ecently, while attending a that in a distant past, a place existed shared a meal with his disciples to conference, twenty of us on earth where the safety of her remember the past thereby making were taken out to dinner . people was guaranteed by the sover- sense of the present . In doing so, RWith me at the table were several eign himself . The other Jews at the Jesus attempted to guarantee his Jewish participants . When they table wanted to know my personal disciples a future in God . The dinner heard where I originally came from, memories of the Jewish people of I celebrated with my Jewish friends, one of them began to describe her my city . I told them that if I closed due to the sharing of memories, recent tour of the city Kochi in my eyes right then, I was back in created a spirit of trust between us Kerala, South India, where I was the beautiful streets where exclusive which guaranteed emotional safety born and where I spent my forma- Jewish shops did their trade and I for them while providing me with tive years . She was so touched by was able to evoke in my mind the a profound sense of meaning . They the historical fact that the Jews were sights, sounds and aromas of those were guaranteed the freedom to be totally protected in the ancient yesterdays . For me, this dinner visibly Jewish in my presence; I was kingdom of Kochi, to the extent became one of the most memorable no longer a stranger from another that the king, as a precautionary events of the conference . country, race and culture, but rather measure, built underground pas- a humane ‘other’ who unmistak- sages connecting his palace and the a eucharistic moment ably cherished their Jewishness . We Jewish quarter . In the case of any My experience of the dinner gave me shared an emotional bond with each unforeseen violence, the ruler was fresh insight into the mystery of the other guaranteeing the emergence of making sure that the Jewish com- Eucharist . In fact, this dinner became a communitarian spirit . munity could gain safe access into for me, in the terminology of Michael Later on, upon reflection, I the king’s palace . I was thrilled to Barnes SJ a ‘eucharistic moment’ . On realised that two millennia before, witness her delight in the memory the night before his passion, Jesus what Jesus did, opened for me this possibility of community . The sense of community that I was experienc- ing today was the realisation of the promise he made to his disciples . This was the future he wanted them to anticipate . Because only in the Spirit of Jesus are we attractive to one another and only in the Spirit are we able to create bonds of love .

jesus’ last passover meal The first Eucharist was nothing like the celebratory dinner I shared with my Jewish friends . The ambi- ance of the last supper was dark and foreboding . A frightened and confused group of disciples gathered around the table for the An Indian Jewish family of Kochi (Cochin), India . [Wikipedia] Passover meal . Jesus was well aware of his disciples’ fragile state of mind

18 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 is ever present within the Eucharist because the very first Eucharist took place in the midst of a very frag- od in whom we trust mented group of disciples with the G master looking squarely at his own Enclose our simple hopes imminent violent death . Therefore In Earth’s delight-filled struggle within the Eucharist there is an ineluctable paradox of an ultimate love and a radical vulnerability . The first Eucharist was the meeting O God in whom we struggle place of the divine rendered vul- Let not our brief conceits nerable by its self-giving love, and Be Earth’s enduring pain. of humanity in its basic fault lines encountering the divine .

awakenened to mystery O God in whom we suffer In every celebration of the Absorb our fragile selves Laetitia Puthenpadath Eucharist, we are awakened to the mystery of the infinite love of the In Earth’s enduring trust. and of the imminent threat to his master, broken in death but risen to life . He had every reason to believe be the ‘new creation’ (Gal 6:15) and that all of them would leave him at his unfailing bond with the frag- Be close, Companion Teacher the dangerous moment and one of mented and still fragmenting com- them would even walk away from munity . The risen Jesus is someone Be close that we may know the eucharistic table as a traitor . the world had never experienced to live within wonder Under intense emotional distress, before . Because of his resurrection, to act with respect Jesus was drawn out of himself into we are guaranteed the completion to use without waste the extremity of symbolic thought . of Jesus’ redemptive act in the full- The institution of the Eucharist, ness of time . In the risen Jesus, the the better to know You with its radical symbolism, was guarantee of healing and wholeness the closer to seek You an unparalleled act of imaginative awaits the fractured world as its the gentler to touch You love . Jesus realised that the act of inheritance, even though it does and by You be touched. breaking the bread and sharing the not know that it is so deeply loved . cup was symbolic of how he him- Hence Eucharist is not a tri- self would be broken and his blood umphant celebration of the totally ­— Neil Darragh spilled within a few hours . He redeemed . The faith community is identified himself totally with the still ruptured and continues to be broken bread and the cup of wine cracked open . But as the second shared . He inscribed his identifica- letter of Peter proclaims, ‘What we tion in the mind of the fragmented are waiting for is what he promised: community of disciples present at the new heaven and the new earth the table . This foundational moment the place where righteousness will in time is etched in the collective be at home’ (2 Peter 3:13) . This memory of the community of faith is the pledge of Jesus, a world of all ages . Gestating within the redeemed, a universe coming alive womb of this memory is the guaran- with the Spirit of Jesus . tee that whenever the community This is our shared narrative . n gathers in his name, the enlivened Jesus is present . The guarantee is Laetitia Puthenpadath, a member of the ultimately about Jesus overcoming Anashim Community in Auckland, is death and entering into the reality a registered psychotherapist and a staff of Christ and thus achieving the member of Mercy Spirituality Centre, fulfilment of his earthly mission, a Auckland. world restored to God . Thus the brokenness of the world

19 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 social justice ben salmon, a ‘confessor of the faith’ This is the story of Ben Salmon, a barely known Catholic conscientious objector during the First World War in the USA. He faced opposition from government, the Catholic church and the military, but held out in an extraordinary example of non-violent discipleship. His story of ‘the army of peace’ deserves to be better known. John Dear

ne of the inspiring Christians A brave missive in those days . At Fort Logan Ben was ordered to of the last century was Ben Congress wasted little time getting a work . He refused . What to do about Salmon, the American Cath- new law outlawing activities ‘detrimen- this trouble-maker? Guards and other Oolic conscientious objector to World War tal to the war effort’ — public anti- prisoners nearly lynched him that I . His was a lonely, steadfast stretch of war statements, anti-war literature, night . And so the authorities trundled discipleship to the nonviolent Jesus . utterances that might encourage draft him, in chains, to Camp Funston in Imagine! Long before Mahatma resistance — all these punishable by up Kansas . There they told him he would Gandhi, Franz Jagerstatter, Dorothy to 20 years behind bars . The authori- face court martial for ‘desertion and Day — before the Catholic Worker ties arrested hundreds, harassed thou- propaganda ’. For desertion? ‘I’ve never or Pax Christi, before Archbishop sands . And the law was upheld by the actually been inducted,’ he said . On Romero, Vatican II or the Bishops’ Supreme Court; necessary for ‘national July 24, 1918 in his own defense, he Pastoral Letter on Peace — this lone security,’ they decreed . argued three points . 1) He had been man stood and said that because of Undeterred, Ben rose to leader- inducted illegally, 2) he was responsible Jesus, he would not be a soldier . ship in Denver’s ‘People’s Council for a dependent wife and mother, and The story begins on April 6, 1917, for Democracy and Peace,’ a national 3) conscription violated the first and the day President Wilson declared war anti-war organization . In defiance of fifth Amendments . on Germany, and Congress ratified law, he wrote letters, gave speeches, the decision . Two weeks later, Cardinal and distributed pamphlets catching the more imprisonment James Gibbons of Baltimore issued attention of The New York Times,which The court found Salmon guilty; the a letter: all Catholics were to support hotly denounced him . verdict came down in minutes . The the war . This was followed by the sentence: death .Second thoughts came, founding of the US Bishops’ ‘National refusing registration and before long the court commuted Catholic War Council’ — to mobilize On Christmas day, Ben’s Army the sentence to 25 years in prison . Catholics for ‘war work ’. Peacework? registration arrived . Ben returned it, More second thoughts came, with lures Peacemaking? That was never an option . accompanied by a letter explaining, and enticements . Be a legal clerk in an ‘Let those that believe in wholesale army office, they offered, and no more the crucial letter violation of the commandment, troubles . All charges dropped . His wife, As the darkness descended, on June 5, “Thou Shalt not Kill” make a profes- having just given birth, urged him to 1917, 28 year-old Ben Salmon took sion of faith by joining the army of accept, but the recalcitrant Ben again up his pen . He wrote to the presi- war . I am in the army of peace, and said no . Even non-combatant service, dent, saying he would refuse to fight . in this army, I intend to live and die ’. he said, entails cooperating with an ‘Regardless of nationality,’ he wrote, On January 15, 1918, Denver institution ‘antithetical to Christianity ’. ‘all men are my brothers … The com- policemen arrived at his door . The They hauled him under heavy guard mandment “Thou shalt not kill” is Knights of Columbus, the prominent to Leavenworth, Kansas . He arrived on unconditional and inexorable … The Catholic lay association, in a fit of October 9, 1918, and a month later an lowly Nazarene taught us the doctrine indignation revoked his membership . armistice was declared . The war was over . of non-resistance, and so convinced In March he was tried and convicted But not for Ben; his imprisonment had was he of the soundness of that doc- and sentenced to nine months’ jail . just begun . trine that he sealed his belief with While he was out on appeal, his Ben was assigned to a unit com- death on the cross . When human law draft notice arrived . Report for induc- prised of hundreds of conscientious conflicts with Divine law, my duty is tion, it ordered, in three days . A second objectors and there, with them, clear . Conscience, my infallible guide, refusal, a second arrest . And this time in expected to work . He was quickly impels me to tell you that prison, the clutches of the military authorities consigned to ‘The Hole’ — solitary death, or both, are infinitely preferable he was hustled into solitary confine- confinement — when he refused all to joining any branch of the Army ’. ment at Fort Logan, Colorado . orders . Five months he suffered in a

20 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 Conscientious objectors at Ft . Douglas (Utah), Oct . 18, 1919 . Ben Salmon is marked ‘54’ . [Swarthmore College Peace Collection] dark, rat-infested cell . No toilet but a days of it — then a one-way ticket to confessor of the faith pail, bread and water his only food . Washington DC to St Elizabeth’s Hospital Ben Salmon isn’t just a faithful Catholic, Matters grew worse yet when in June, for the Insane . While there he kept busy but a ‘confessor of the faith,’ a saint for 1919, the authorities transferred him to — thinking, praying and writing . the ages . He took on the nation, he took a military prison in Utah, where sadistic on Christendom . He took them on in guards took a dim view of conscientious ben’s theological thinking reverence toward the Christ of peace . objectors . The guards inflicted beatings, Much of Salmon’s thinking depended He shows us what allegiance to the withheld food and kept prisoners under- on the Apostle Paul, who admon- nonviolent Jesus looks like . dressed against the cold . ished . ‘Overcome evil with good,’ Since Ben’s days, little has changed . (Rom 12:21) . A handful of great peacemakers have ben’s appeal ‘We do not attempt to overcome been given us: Franz Jagerstatter and Still, Ben refused to buckle, and lying with lies; we overcome it with Dorothy Day, Philip Berrigan and instead pushed things to their logical truth . We do not try to overcome Howard Zinn . Yet most bishops and conclusion . A hunger strike . He wrote curses with curses, but we overcome priests, and following their lead, most of to the Secretary of War: ‘Unless you with silence or with words of friendship the laity, still cheer on state-sanctioned [release me], you will cause my death … And the successful way to overcome mass murder, especially when commit- from starvation, for I cannot honestly the evil of war is by the good of peace, ted in Jesus’ name . They go along, they continue to support [the God of War] a steadfast refuse to render evil for evil ’. rock few boats . as I have in the past . I now realize that A sad matter when faithfulness, Among our US military, a third are even the tiny bit of assistance that I nonviolence, sanity, as it was in Jesus’ Catholic . Vastly more theologians than was rendering in the way of accepting own day, is regarded as — insanity . not, pursue justifications for war . And your food was too much ’. Eventually, adamant feelings were today, as in Ben’s own day, an eloquent And he added: ‘Christ’s doctrine to assuaged . The New York Times, previ- president, elected on promises of peace, overcome evil with good’ is the ‘most ously Ben’s detractor, wrote about his has taken war-making to new heights . effective solution for individual and plight and hunger strike . The well- The times, Ben’s and ours, run paral- societary ills that has ever been formu- respected Msgr John Ryan of Catholic lel . And that being the case, one of the lated . It is a practical policy … My life, University personally lobbied the brightest beacons we have is Ben . my family, everything is now in the Secretary of War . His example urges us to refuse to hands of God . His will be done ’. The War Department, in a feeble cooperate with the war-making state . Two weeks later death loomed and way, finally relented — they would Is the stand costly? Are the stakes high? Ben asked to see a priest . The priest release 33 conscientious objectors, Ben No matter . ‘Peacemaking is hard, hard refused to offer him Communion, among them . Thanksgiving 1920, he was almost as war,’ to quote the poet . The hear his confession or anoint him . Two released and, from the army he had never vocation falls to us, Christians every- other priests arrived some days later . joined, dishonorably discharged . This where, to follow the nonviolent Jesus . After sizing things up, one of them was front page news across the nation . May we all be inspired to join Ben’s agreed to the request for Communion . Persona non grata thereafter, Ben strug- Army of Peace . It is the witness most The sacrament was done . When word gled to find work . With the Depression, required by our times . n made its way back to the diocese, a fury he and his family landed in deep poverty . descended . The priest was sent packing . His health never recovered — the forced John Dear is a priest and a life-long Off to minor and punitive assignments feedings had taken their toll — and in advocate of peace and non-violence. in Oregon for pitying a traitor . 1932 he caught pneumonia and died — a This is an abridged version of an article Force-feeding followed — 135 man all but unheard of in our day and age . published with the author’s permission.

21 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 world war one commemorating the first world war

Honouring those who died in war without glorifying war itself is an important historical task in order to help the present generation gain insight into the terrible reality that war is, and its immense costs on society.

Tom Brooking

he term ‘lest we forget’ seen dominion status in 1907, an impe- wanted continued access to the great- on so many of our World War rialistic political mindset prevailed at est trading block the world had ever One memorials now relates the outbreak of war . seen and the lucrative London market Tto more than just observing anniver- During the Boer War (1899- we would have to earn our place . saries because capturing stories from 1902) we gained a reputation as the New Zealand’s agriculture-based the descendants of those who experi- most loyal of the self-governing colo- pre-war prosperity increased during enced war may help explain the legacy nies . Our troops were good horse- the war after the British introduced of this seminal, yet little understood, men suited to mobile warfare and the war commandeer system, which event in New Zealand’s history . rugged terrain, and we didn’t suffer guaranteed prices of produce at Local committees organising high losses . Accident and disease about 50 percent above market rates . events and exhibitions to show the accounted for most casualties, with Exports buoyed the economy and tax war’s effect on their communities only about 75 dying in combat and a did not increase to the same extent as are trying hard to catch the multi- further 153 dying from disease or as a it did in Britain under Lloyd George . ple meanings of Rudyard Kipling’s result of accidents . Hence memorials Inflated land prices, though, hurt famous phrase . Commemorations associated with this war tend to be returned soldier settlers and others are aiming to reflect the tragedy and triumphant expressions of imperial starting out in farming . scale of the loss of life, honouring the might, resplendent in white marble . soldiers’ sacrifice without glorifying it, The widespread desire to serve opposition to war in a manner that is relevant to current King and Empire was reflected in With the exception of small paci- generations and helps them to gain 1914 in the high rates of volun- fist denominations, most churches insight into the harsh realities of war . teers . About 37 percent of eligible supported the war . Some first- It’s a challenge, because it was such an men joined the New Zealand wave feminists and the socialists important event in our history . We Expeditionary Forces and other were other minorities that voiced must give some understanding of the armed services, a very similar level to strong opposition . impact on those who went, on the Australia and Britain . The tale of Brighton farmer home front and on post-war society . Despite a lack of modern equip- Archibald Baxter — father of poet ment, New Zealand was relatively James K Baxter — highlights the war’s beginning well prepared for hostilities; 30,000 treatment of the few conscientious Although now viewed in light of the troops were war ready in 1914, most of objectors . Despite imprisonment at tragedy and loss associated with the whom had taken part in school cadet Trentham Military Camp, transporta- conflict, patriotism and fervour com- programmes (introduced in 1877) and tion to France and brutal treatment, bined to create an almost jubilant mood compulsory military training (intro- Baxter’s resolve was undiminished and when New Zealand entered the conflict duced in 1909) . After 1910, British a Dunedin group is working to have a in late 1914, with perhaps more than General Alexander Godley had over- memorial erected recognising his coura- 80 percent of people, men and women, seen national training and, although geous stand against the establishment . supporting the war . Explaining this he had a mixed reputation as a wartime Later, the publication of casualty excitement 100 years on is complex . commander, he had organised the army lists, the return of the wounded, and Most recent migrants were from and prepared for deployment scenarios the failure of the Gallipoli campaign saw Anglo-Celtic countries and ‘New such as the occupation of German an element of ‘quiet disillusionment’ Zealanders’ in the early 1900s were Samoa, which was New Zealand’s first develop . Against the backdrop of major- British subjects who often referred act of war on 29 August 1914 . ity support a few regional newspapers to Britain as Home with a capital Most New Zealanders were keen began to voice criticism of the war . By ‘H’, even if they had been born here . to enter the war for ‘sentimental and war’s end about 18,800 of 103,000 New Although the former British colony pragmatic’ reasons; many felt it was Zealand troops sent overseas had been of New Zealand had been granted the country’s imperial duty but If we killed and over 40,000 wounded .

22 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 the gains of their Second World War sisters, who entered traditional areas of male employment . Post-war, there was a need to move on . However, the proliferation of war memorials throughout the country reflects the profound effect not being able to repatriate those casualties had on subsequent genera- tions . It indicates communal grieving marked in the most elaborate ways even if communities had to pay for these memorials themselves . Several publications in the 1960s and documentaries such as Gallipoli: The New Zealand Story (1984) in Infantry from the 2nd Battalion, Auckland Regiment, New Zealand Division in which 26 survivors of the campaign the Switch Line near Flers, taken some time in September 1916 . {Wikipedia] all aged in their 80s and 90s talked candidly about their experiences, were vital in reintroducing the public effects of war Richard Seddon’s three sons show to the realities of the conflict . Before Some argue we were already New how the fortunes of war could smile, then the ‘baby-boomers’, those born Zealanders by the end of the Boer War or otherwise, on those who served . just after the Second World War, and the war consolidated this sense of Richard junior was a professional grew up in a very martial society and national identity . We need to get away soldier who had served in the Boer a reaction to that came in the 1960s, from the notion that the nation was War and was killed in France in 1918 specifically in the form of opposi- born on the bloody slopes of Gallipoli while serving as an infantry Captain . tion to the Vietnam War . In the late — that is too simplistic . Also, one The second son Thomas returned after 1970s there was consequently very tenth of the population went to war, being decorated for bravery, served as a little interest in the First World War . what about the other 90 percent? In long-standing Member of Parliament Numbers attending Anzac serv- many ways we were more imperialistic and helped set up the Braille Society ices then took off in the 1990s, as the after the war and only about eight of with Clutha Mackenzie, son of former realization occurred that something the 450 plus memorials have any New Prime Minister Thomas Mackenzie . pretty extraordinary had happened . Zealand originality about them . Seddon’s youngest son, Stuart, spent Gallipoli remains the focal point As the colonial experiences of the rest of his life in psychiatric care as for Anzac involvement in the war, previous generations were incorpo- a result of trauma experienced at war . even though the majority of casual- rated into a more nostalgic view of They are roughly representative ties occurred in Europe; 2,752 New society, prominent interwar figures — about a fifth of those who served Zealanders were killed in Gallipoli, were vocal supporters of the British were killed or seriously wounded, a whereas more than 13,000 died on Empire . Before the war leaders such fifth had serious health problems the Western Front and 500 in Sinai . as Richard Seddon were nationalist and the remainder would have had a Many young people attend Anzac first, then imperialist . Later leaders range of experiences, from awful to services because of interest in the such as William Massey shifted the relative normalcy . human cost and the great tragedy balance to imperialist nationalist . of so many people losing their lives, Also, many educators, like Frank the costs of war rather than the greater narratives of Milner (headmaster of Waitaki Boys’ The social cost of the war remains rela- nationhood or Empire . That is why High School between 1906 and tively little understood . But the effect national and local commemorative 1944), were ardent imperialists . was somewhat muted as the bulk of events will emphasize the human Several hard-hitting books, pub- men killed were single; there were aspect, and why future efforts at lished in the 1930s – such as Robin more orphans and nearly as many remembrance are so important . n Hyde’s 1931 novel Passport to Hell, widows created by the influenza pan- The Silent Division and Baxter’s We demic of 1918 as by the First World Tom Brooking is a professor of history at Will Not Cease — also prompted a War . New Zealand women raised the University of Otago. reevaluation of the impact of the war . their public profile through their work The experiences of Premier in patriotic societies but did not make

23 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 world war one catholics and the great war Sectarian tension, charges against Catholics of ‘shirking’ and arguments over conscription were some of the matters which flared up during World War I. These facts are largely forgotten, and bring a sense of incredulity when recalled. Have you ever heard of the Green Ray? Read on!

Seán Brosnahan

s we commemorate the unity . Social and religious distinc- sources also reported growing Irish outbreak of war in August tions suddenly seemed petty and were support for the Republican aspira- 1914, it is worth recalling set aside . In Britain this extended to tions of the Sinn Fein (Ourselves theA special challenges war posed the Irish issue . A bill granting Home Alone) movement . This was further for New Zealand’s Catholic com- Rule for Ireland was passed, to come than most New Zealand Irish were munity . A recurring accusation was into force at the conclusion of hostili- prepared to go in 1916 . Small that Catholics weren’t enlisting in ties . To seal the deal huge numbers of groups of Irish radicals, however, proportion to their numbers (‘shirk- southern Irishmen volunteered for many of them recent immigrants ing’ at best, being actively disloyal to the British Army . Young Catholic to New Zealand, were committed Britain at worst) . There were sharp men in New Zealand likewise rolled to complete Irish independence . conflicts over Irish affairs, conspiracy up to recruitment offices to volun- They established the Maoriland Irish theories about papal responsibility teer for war service alongside their Society as a ginger group to advocate for the war itself, and arguments mainly Protestant countrymen . for the Sinn Fein cause . In late 1916 about the conscription of clergy and Priest chaplains accompanied them its Dunedin branch began publishing religious brothers . No other major overseas, with Auckland’s Bishop a monthly journal The Green Ray to religious group faced such pressures Cleary leading the way . provide a platform for their views . and from the distance of a century it So far so good . Catholic New Think of Al Qaeda sympathisers and might seem odd that Catholic New Zealand’s young men were paying post 9/11 Jihadi websites . Zealanders should have . ‘the price of citizenship’ with their Aggravating sectarian sensitivities Sectarian tension had been a blood . But then disaster struck . further, the human cost of the war minor theme in New Zealand life A small group of radical Irish was beginning to bite . Conscription from the country’s very beginning . Republicans staged a rebellion in was introduced in New Zealand Though part of the broader com- Dublin over Easter 1916 . Think of in late 1916 to enforce ‘equality of munity in most ways, Catholics held 9/11 to get a sense of the outrage sacrifice’ by balloting those liable themselves distinctly apart in others, this caused around the Empire . The to serve (using numbered balls like notably in education . This separate- position of Muslims in America Lotto but with a ticket to France as ness had become more marked in after the World Trade Centre attack the only prize) . New Zealand’s Irish the immediate pre-war years . A is also an apt comparison for the Republicans were not prepared to national organisation (the Catholic rebellion’s implications for New serve the British King . Many went Federation) had been established Zealand Catholics . All the old sus- ‘underground’, relying on a network to agitate for state support of the picions and sectarian enmities were of sympathisers around the country Catholic education system and suddenly reactivated . Protestant to avoid the police or stowing away oppose the pan-Protestant ‘Bible New Zealand stridently demanded on boats to Australia . Those who were in Schools’ movement . Meanwhile public demonstrations of ‘loyalty’ caught were imprisoned . Some were the Pope offended Protestant sen- from their Catholic countrymen . subjected to the same ghastly abuse sibilities with his Ne Temere decree Catholics were initially just as hor- in Army camps as pacifist objectors against the validity of mixed mar- rified as everyone else by the ‘stab in like Archibald Baxter . riages outside the Church . Ongoing the back’ in Dublin . Soon, however, Conscription posed an additional agitation in Britain over Irish ‘Home some were having second thoughts . threat to Catholics . By focusing on Rule’ also ratcheted up sectarian ill- They were privy to news from Ireland single men with no family commit- feeling here . of heavy-handed repression by the ments, the ballot system was stacked The outpouring of patriotic fer- British authorities in the wake of against Catholic priests, seminarians, vour that followed the declaration of the failed rebellion that mainstream and religious brothers . Protestant war created a new mood of national papers did not publish . Catholic clergy, mostly married with families,

24 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 were much less likely to face a call up . Unfortunately the government had made no provision for auto- matic clerical exemptions . When the name of Christchurch’s Bishop Brodie appeared in the very first ballot he had to make a formal appeal against his call up . So did every priest or brother whose name was gazetted thereafter . Eventually almost every Marist and Christian Brother in the country received a conscription notice . There were howls of protest when the religious were not forced to serve . Protestants simply could not understand why these fit and able single men should be excused from doing their duty . To Catholics, however, the Brothers’ vows precluded war service . More practically, New Zealand’s Catholic boys schools would have collapsed with- out the Brothers’ free labour . It was a bitter debate, which made the name of the Marist Brothers a recurring element in newspaper headlines through 1917, and not in a good way . The government was caught between pressure from irate Protestants and equally vociferous lobbying from Catholic interests . In the end they fudged the matter by effectively granting automatic exemptions for all school teachers . Meanwhile the NZ Tablet, under a fiery new editor Fr James Kelly, had caught up with the Green Ray in its support for the Sinn Fein cause by mid-1917 . This was dangerous ground in the con- text of wartime, when harsh sedition laws allowed for tight control of the news media . Both journals were skating on thin ice over the next few months and the government contemplated suppressing the NZ Tablet . Fearing Catholic reaction, it opted to prosecute the less popular Green Ray instead . Police detectives swooped on its Dunedin office and the editor and manager were arrested . They were to spend 11 months in prison doing hard labour for publishing ‘seditious utterances’ . While thousands of Catholic men served New Zealand with honour through WW1, their service did not protect the Catholic community from accusations of untrustworthiness . Deep-rooted sectarian enmities and controversy over Ireland proved a potent mix under the pressure of war- time . These long-forgotten controversies are a reminder of New Zealand’s dark history of intoler- ance for minority views . Through the war, and for some years afterwards, Catholics endured a storm of antagonism for their perceived disloyalty to a narrow view of Empire . n

Seán Brosnahan is Curator of the ‘Dunedin’s Great War’ exhibition at Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. Cover images supplied by Seán Brosnahan

25 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 scripture a listening church ‘with large ears’

Matthew 18:15-20 and 18:21-35 23rd and 24th Sunday of Ordinary Time – 7 and 14 September 2014

Kathleen Rushton

mong the Manja of the a time of his passion (17:22-23) . To children is a paradox of greatness in Central African Republic live the way of the cross which Jesus the against the grain alternative life of the totem for the chief is the outlines is difficult (16:21-17:27) . So the cross . Their social status is one of rabbitA . Why? This unassuming animal in Matthew chapter 18, Jesus talks insignificance, being on the margins has ‘large ears ’. The chief’s ‘large ears’ about ‘the church’ (18:15, 17, ekklesia and powerlessness . This is the conver- bring him close to God, to the ances- cf 16:18; see Tui Motu, July) as a sion of the church into ‘the little ones’ tors and to the conversations taking community of sustaining relation- (10:42; 18: 6, 10, 14) where rank and place in the community . He speaks ships and practices . In this status disappear . In this difficult way last as he has listened, assimilated way, they are to sustain each of living, disciples are not to cause and digested the Word in the com- other in the demanding one another to stumble (vv . 6-9) . munity . The Word is ‘too large’ way of the cross . They are to be active and vigilant for the mouth of individuals with in caring for each other as God ‘small ears ’. Nigerian theologian does in the parable of the sheep Elochuwu Uzukwu in his book, that goes astray (vv .10-14) . A Listening Church, draws on this They are to embody the love tradition critically as a challenge of God . Yet disciples are not to be ‘a listening church perfect (v .15) . Conflict is with large ears ’. He takes inevitable . How the church care to underline that he deals with such conflict is not talking about ‘the is crucial to its life and bastardization of the integrity . image of the chief by African dictators’ or ‘the reproof and imported Roman and restoration feudal autocracy’ that Jesus sets out what could is the dominant model be called a three step of the Roman Catholic process of communal Church today . reproof and restoration (18:15-20) . Step one is the way of the cross initiated privately, one My last two monthly scrip- to one, by the person ture reflections have focused wronged . A broken on Peter . Across the water, relationship needs Jesus called: ‘Come!’ (Mt restorative action . The 14:29) . Later Jesus declared: wronged one is to act as ‘You are the rock on which I does the shepherd who shall build my church ’. (16:16) . Soon seeks the strayed sheep (18:10-14) . afterwards is the first prediction of In step two, if the one wronged is the suffering, death and resurrection not listened to, Jesus requires another of Jesus (16:21) . If a title for Matthew As an alternative community, visit with, according to legal princi- chapter 17 is wanted, ‘the way of the they are ‘to change and become like ples, two or three witnesses (18:16; cross’ would fit . Then Jesus speaks for children’ (18:1-5) . The image of Dt 19:15) . The purpose is to seek

26 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 agreement on what has happened and a church of repeated that heals.’ (Italics Uzukwu’s) . This work towards reconciliation through forgiveness ‘suggests a renewal of the struc- forgiveness as shown in the words Spokesperson Peter chimes in again tures of church through listening of Jesus elsewhere (Mt 6:14-15; asking how often one is to forgive and hearing the other, through 18:12-14; 21-35) . The emphasis is (18:21) . His question focuses on consultation and deliberation, on listening . Jesus uses this verb three the offender . Without taking from through real decentralization .’ times here and elsewhere (13:10-17; the seriousness of the offence, Significantly, Uzukwu recalls the 17:3) . The hope is that the offence Jesus focuses on the one who is to remarkable history of the North will be acknowledged, repented of forgive ‘seventy times seven,’ that African church in the time of and forgiven . There is no guarantee is, forgiveness which knows no Cyprian . The writings of this mid- about the outcome . limits . Then Jesus tells a how-not- third century bishop of Carthage In step three, if the member has to-do-it parable (18:23-35) . A basic on the relationship of the African not listened, tell the community of point permeates the parable of the church with Church of Rome are church . Once again the outcome is unforgiving-but-forgiven slave: ‘suffused with this principle of not certain . If the person refuses to God requires disciples to forgive oneness and multiplicity manifest listen even to the church (18:17), one another . The image of ‘king’ in communion .’ Jesus said: ‘let that one be to you is a common one for God . To this May this call for a listening as a Gentile or a tax collector .’ This point of Matthew’s gospel, however, church ‘with large ears’ reverber- seems to be about not dismissing ‘king’ has been used negatively ate within each person in our that person but rather about not for a tyrannical and oppressive local churches and in the Church giving up! These two are representa- rule (1:6-11, ch 2; 6:29; 14:1-12; in Rome where the Synod on the tive of wider groups whom the dis- 17:25; 20:25) . This autocrat is not Family begins in October . The invi- ciples are to surpass in inclusive love an image for God . In contrast, God tation for the faithful to contribute (5:43-48) . Jesus moves among tax has been presented as a merciful to the synod through the question- collectors — Matthew and several loving God . naire was a step . For the next step, others — and is their friend (9:9, profound life-giving reflection and 10-13; 11:19) . The centurion and listening ‘with large ears’ prayer on Matthew 18 would offer the Canaanite woman are Gentiles Through the vivid image of ‘large hope for action towards the re-birth who are people of faith (8:5-13; ears,’ Uzukwu calls for the African of ‘a listening Church with large ears’ 15:21-28) . Isaiah is quoted as asso- churches to listen to their people because Jesus assures all: ‘For where ciating Gentiles with the coming and for the Church in Rome to two or three are gathered in my of the Messiah (12:18, 21) . These listen to the churches in Africa . name, I am there among them .’ n represent the focus of the mission This way of living Church is ‘to of Jesus and are to become part of listen fully in order to release the Kathleen Rushton is a Sister of Mercy the church . Word that belongs to the community, working in adult education in the The mandate given previously the Word that is too large for the Diocese of Christchurch. to Peter (16:19) is given here to the mouth of one individual, the Word whole community of the church which has a role in the binding and loosing of offences (18:18) . Lectionary For Masses With Children Jesus uses the phrase ‘truly I tell Contains readings for Masses with children you,’ an indication of authoritative on Sundays and weekdays. It features speech, twice in the context of the special layout and convenient arrangement, community of the church, forgive- including large easy-to-read type, clear two- ness and prayer . Further, in this color printing and magnificent illustrations. context a special characteristic of Matthew’s gospel reoccurs — Jesus Red hardback liturgical finish book. as Emmanuel, God-with-us (1:25): $ .00 ‘Again truly I tell you if two of you 145 +P&P agree on earth about anything you Freephone 0508 988 988 ask, it will done for you by my [email protected] Father in heaven . For where two or 38 Higginson Street, Otane three are gathered in my name I am Central Hawke’s Bay there among them .’ (18:18-19; cf . www.christiansupplies.co.nz 25:43, 45; 28:20)

27 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 book review the foundation story

Antonio Rosmini – Persecuted Prophet By John Michael Hill IC Published by Gracewing, 2014. ISBN 978-0-85244-831-1 Reviewer: Carmel Walsh OP ichael Hill’s recently published biography of Antonio Rosmini is not the first to be written – but this new work is the fruit of a small north Italian town in the Trentino Alpine pilgrimage,M research and reflection to enable readers to district . Six months earlier Napoleon had defeated the understand a modern approach to this gifted, saintly, Austrian army at Rovereto, though the Alpine district complex character and prolific writer . remained under Austrian rule until 1918 . This meant Rosmini lived an eventful life, from his privileged that Rosmini was legally an Austrian citizen . At heart upbringing in a period of political instability; his uni- he was an Italian patriot and loyal to the Pope . versity education; his response to his vocation as ‘priest, After studies at Padua, he returned home for six philosopher and patriot’; his role as founder of a new reli- years instead of joining the seminary in Trent . There gious order, the Institute of Charity, and later the Sisters his spirituality deepened, his involvement in charitable of Providence; his experience as a teacher, a writer, a loved activities increased and his serious philosophical studies parish priest (his first sermon to his people bears striking were leading to a political awareness of the possibility resemblance to similar utterances by Pope Francis); his of a united Italy in conjunction with the Papacy . On capacity for friendship; his fateful mission to Rome in 21 April 1821, he was ordained ‘in his own patrimony 1848 and his final years of acceptance of God’s will . so he was not directly under the authority of the local The author succeeds in placing his subject in con- bishop ’. However, this meant he was still available to text, and in admiration grants him a further deeply the local church for pastoral duties . significant title — that of Persecuted Prophet . Each successive chapter enables the reader to build a Antonio was born on 24 March 1797 in Rovereto, portrait of Rosmini and the establishment and growth of the Institute of Charity, whose members were com- mitted to becoming better persons and carrying out works of charity offered to them by God’s providence . Later missions were to Ireland, England, the United States of America, East Africa, India and New Zealand . Sixteen pages of high quality coloured photographs and three appendices provide further insights of Rosmini as the writer, the philosopher and the coun- tryman . Three maps by David Moorhead are most helpful . I would have appreciated a few more . The Support Through Solidarity Afterword leaves the reader and the Church at large Peace in the Middle East - Crisis in the Holy Land with ongoing challenges to ponder regarding justice Almost two million Palestinians in Gaza and people in Israel have Donate to the Peace in the and love of neighbour . been affected by a devastating Middle East Fund: war since early July. Join us in Fr Michael Hill’s critical evaluation of the founder offering both hope and care • Online at www.caritas.org.nz of the Institute to which he belongs is exceptional in its to the most vulnerable in this • Phone 0800 22 10 22 (office hours) conflict. to donate by credit card balanced portrayal of Blessed Antonio Rosmini’s genu- We are working in partnership • Phone 0900 4 11 11 to automatically with Caritas Jerusalem to supply donate $20 from your phone ine goodness in the face of injustice over the Church’s healthcare, food, blankets and account comfort. Please help us to help • Post a cheque to Caritas condemnation of his writings . The impact on the two those in need. PO Box 12-193, Thorndon Wellington 6144 Institutes was devastating but their perseverance was www.caritas.org.nz rewarded a century later . The years 2001 and 2007 are of special significance for all Rosminians . This beautifully written book will bring enlighten- ment and inspiration to many readers . n

28 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 film review saving paris

Diplomacy (Diplomatie)

Director: Volker Schlöndorff Reviewer: Paul Sorrell hink of Paris without the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and Notre DameT Cathedral, not to mention its famous bridges and railway stations . Yet these irreplaceable monuments were threatened with destruction by the retreating German army of occu- pation in August 1944 . This arresting drama tells the story of how Paris was saved by the courage and humanity of two very different men . Many already know the story through the bestselling book (and all his urbane charm and powers of and cultural values are still largely film) by Lapierre and Collins, Is Paris persuasion to appeal to von Choltitz’s intact beneath an uncompromising Burning? This was Hitler’s question humanity: ‘You will be remembered exterior . Yet his decision is not an easy after he had ordered the razing of as the man who saved Paris ’. At first, one, as Hitler has one final hold over the city; if Berlin lay in ruins, Paris von Choltitz dismisses his overtures, him that means that disobeying orders could not be left standing . Focussing asserting his authority as a German will come at enormous personal cost . squarely on the two protagonists in general and commandant of Paris . Although Diplomacy largely takes this dramatic story — Swedish consul When the consul hands him a letter the form of a conversation between Raoul Nordling and German general from a French general outlining peace two men holed up in a sumptuous Dietrich von Choltitz, the military terms, he tears it in pieces . However, apartment in a Paris hotel, the ten- governor of Paris — the film shows von Choltitz is no Nazi fanatic, but sion never flags and the issues at stake how the tide of history was turned in a rather the product of an aristocratic are still alive in our conflict-ridden single day in what many would regard military family, a man whose human world . See it if you can . n as the world’s most beautiful city . Wisely, scenes of military action are L i v i n g t h e D o m i n i c a n M i s s i o n kept to an essential minimum, and the focus falls on the developing relation- i n A o t e a r o a N e w Z e a l a n d ship between the two men . The con- b u i l d i n g c o n n e c t i o n s | s h a r i n g p a s s i o n summate diplomat, Nordling’s job is to convince von Choltitz to abandon his dOMINICAN LAITY GATHERING plan of blowing up the city — literally S pushing the plunger to level the build- nOVEMBER 2014 | AUCKLAND ings, monuments and historic bridges that have been wired for destruction . D o D o m i n i c a n s a n d t h e D o m i n i c a n c h a r i sm Seen from the general’s luxurious head- a p p e a l t o y o u ? W o u l d y o u l i ke c l o se r l i n ks w i t h t h e D o m i n i c a n f a m i l y a n d t h e i r m i ssi o n ? W e quarters in the Hotel Meurice, the city’s w a r m l y i n v i t e a l l l a i t y i n t e r e st e d i n t h e famous skyline echoes to the sound of D o m i n i c a n f a m i l y t o j o i n u s f o r t h e se c o n d desultory explosions and small-arms fire n a t i o n a l D o m i n i c a n L a i t y g a t h e r i n g i n A u c kl a n d as resistance fighters take to the streets . o n 2 1 - 2 3 N o v e m b e r . R e g i st r a t i o n f o r m a v a i l a b l e The Germans are reduced to increasing f r o m d o m i n i c a n sa o t e a r o a @ g m a i l . c o m o r f r o m t h e panic as French and American forces w e b si t e . E a r l y r e g i st r a t i o n s c l o se 2 9 S e p t e m b e r . enter the suburbs . As the crisis unfolds, Nordling uses w w w . d o m i n i c a n s . o r g . n z

29 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 comment Crosscurrents Jim Elliston not their fault as a first step towards healing the rift, principle of a combined game of skill It has long been acknowledged that including lifting the mutual excom- and chance in which the resource NZ is a low wage society . The reason is munications . Francis celebrated the from each individual may be as low productivity . Therefore it follows fiftieth anniversary with the current much determined by circumstances that if workers were more productive Patriarch, Bartholomew . The two wholly beyond his control as by his it would be possible to increase their leaders have a close relationship and skill or effort . Each is remunerated pay . The natural assumption is that are working to overcome differ- according to the value his particular the problem lies with the workforce . ences . Francis is reported as calling services have to the particular people In April the NZ Herald published a for meaningful progress by 2025 to whom he renders them, and this summary of a report by the Productivity — Nicea’s 1700th anniversary . And value of his services stands in no nec- Commission in which three OECD Bartholomew has spoken of a ‘second essary relation to anything which we economists made known their findings Council of Nicea in 2025’ . could appropriately call his merits on the NZ scene . The main culprit A major obstacle is the Russian and still less to his needs ’. He sees seems to be insufficient investment in Orthodox Church’s desire to sup- ‘no reason why a rich society should such things as software and databases, plant Constantinople as leader of the not provide, outside the market’ so- research and development, designs, Orthodox . Attempts by John Paul II called ‘charity’ for the victims of the market research, brand equity, worker and Benedict XVI to develop relations market economy . training and organizational change . with the Russians met with a brick wall . Thus the primary value is not the An essential factor in improving per- person; productivity determines one’s formance is for management to adapt poverty worth as a citizen . business practices to ensure that these Why are some people seriously poor? changes are not simply add-ons to their NZ Herald Economic’s Editor, Brian faith and politics traditional way of doing things; for Fallow, recently pointed out there is a At the beginning of last century the example, it is useless to buy a computer need for proper longitudinal studies church in America was regarded by and carry on as before . In other words, to provide a sound basis for analysis . Rome as too liberal . By the time the basic problem lies with manage- However, he said a 2012 Treasury of Vatican II it had become more ment — and some regulatory matters report on a study done between 2002 authoritarian and inward looking . — not the worker . and 2009 gave some clues . Under Paul VI men were appointed It appears that income levels bishops who were predominately nicea 2? alone don’t provide an answer . People pastoral, to the dismay of the old In the first few centuries of Christianity suffering deprivation need far more guard . This changed with the advent there were various disputes between than just financial assistance; in gen- of John Paul II, who replaced Paul’s sections of the church — often eral they cannot cope for a variety of US Delegate Jean Jadot with some- doctrinal, often ‘political’ dressed up reasons, and their children grow up one who chose more authoritarian as doctrinal — with temporary or likewise . This is hardly surprising, men . Some current bishops have even permanent effects . Constantinople but the remedies are complex and refused Communion to prominent (Istanbul) regarded the apostle Andrew ultimately depend on the general Obama supporters . as its founder, just as Rome regarded attitude of society . Archbishop Joseph Tobin recently his brother Peter as its founder . The In this context it is salutary to warned about serious divisions today . Patriarch of Constantinople is the read the philosophy underpinning ‘What I’ve seen is how disruptive ‘primus inter pares’, or honorary leader our economic system, introduced by Pope Francis has been within the of the various Orthodox churches . A Roger Douglas in 1985 — a date that hierarchy of the United States,’ he schism began in 1054, ostensibly over coincides with the beginning of our said . ‘… a couple of brother bish- the nature of the Holy Trinity, arising rapid increase in inequality . It derives ops a while back [remarked to me] from subsequent misinterpretations ultimately from von Hayek, the that bishops and priests were very of who said what at the Council of patron saint of ACT, whose apostle is discouraged by Pope Francis because Nicea in 325 . This led to a reciprocal Milton Friedman . he was challenging them … I think excommunication . In his Studies in Philosophy, Politics there is some resistance to a different In 1964 Pope Paul VI met with and Economics Hayek wrote: ‘… the way of doing the Gospel mission of Patriarch Athenagoras in Jerusalem market order … operates on the the church ’. n

30 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 comment election 2014: what do we really want?

Robert Consedine

have just received a letter from yet Labour and National signed NZ welfare — the list is endless! the Prime Minister which informs up for another American war . In the Prison population: New Zealand me how well off I am under this last seven years NZ has spent NZ$220 has the second highest incarceration NationalI Government . I won’t argue million and sacrificed eight kiwi lives . in the OECD — doubled since the with that . I’ve got a gold card . Vote Next year we will commemorate the 1980s — 10,300 prisoners projected for us they say! The economy is in 100th anniversary of Gallipoli . We rate by 2017 . good shape and we will make you appear to have learnt nothing . The separation of economic from safe and rich . When I scrutinize the The Christchurch Earthquake and social policy: Before 1984 economic Government policies I discern no Pike River: Both tragedies abandoned policy was social policy . The politi- ethical compass . The corporate world by the National Government ‘to cal system had full employment as a — oil-mining companies, alcohol the market’ except for regular photo primary economic goal . Inequality was industry, casinos, foreign investors, rich opportunities! No Government elec- relatively modest . Now the economic immigrants, low corporate tax built on toral backlash — all Labour elector- growth has a separate life regardless of a low wage economy . ates . 115 deaths in the CTV building the social and environmental conse- National and Labour economic collapse; 29 deaths at Pike River Mine quences . Oil drilling, environmental policies should be studied . The differ- — no prosecutions despite massive degradation, massive corporate profits ences are significant . negligence in both cases . Thousands of and low wages are separated from the Christchurch taxpayers are still waiting consequences on the lives of ordinary what’s missing? for EQC settlements . New Zealanders and future generations . Child poverty: is simply not on the Rogernomics economy: corrupts We are living in a society led by political horizon . ‘In 2012, 27 percent almost everything . The Public Service people with no principled or ethical of children (285,000) were poor . now serves ministers — not the sense of themselves in a global eco- Hardship gaps between children and public; donations to political parties nomic system which, I believe, is older people in New Zealand are the are exchanged for favourable policies; destroying the planet . largest in the OECD . New Zealand corporate welfare to Hollywood stu- Pope Francis, in his powerful comes 18th out of 27 countries in dios and law changes in exchange for proclamation The Joy of the Gospel, terms of child hardship ’. The social foreign investment; crooked finance urgently exhorts us to demand consequences are horrendous! companies, dodgy businesses and ‘thou shalt not’ to an economy of Demonising the Poor: ‘In 2011 tax sports celebrities, rich boys get millions exclusion and inequality . n evaders cheated the country of $7 4. of tax-payers’ money to go sailing; mil- Robert Consedine billion ($1500 per New Zealander) . lions of dollars granted in corporate [email protected] Welfare fraud cost $22 million in 2010 ($5 per New Zealander) . Tax evasion InterIslands is 25-50If you know times a friend the financial who might amount Subscribe to Tui Motu enjoy reading — and maybe $33 for five issues (unwaged $28) of welfaresubscribing fraud to with Tui Motu only —a one fill in1 in 5 Name chance of being jailed ’. $66 for a one-year subscription their details and send it to us at: Address ‘From 2008-2011 people found 11 issues (unwaged $56) Freepost 97407 guilty of tax offences of over $800,000 Overseas P O Box 6404 Australia & S. Pacific $80 received a non-custodial sentence while Post code Sub No Dunedin North All other regions $85 thoseDUNEDIN found guilty9059 of benefit fraud of I am enclosing an additional donation to secure the future of Tui Motu...... over– and$67,000 we will sendwere them imprisoned a free back ’. copy The prejudice of society against the I have included a cheque for $...... GST No: 68.316.847 or, please debit my credit card (Visa/Mastercard) poorName is reflected . . . . in. .the . . courts...... Afghanistan: Nicky Hager summed Card No: Signature Address ...... it up when Willie Apiata received his Name on card Expiry date VC . . . ‘A . . . . good ...... guy ...... in . . . .a . . bad ...... war . . . . . ’ . . The. invasion ...... of . . . Afghanistan ...... has . . . . . nothing ...... to or, pay by direct credit to: BNZ, University of Otago branch, Tui Motu-Interislands, 02-0929-0277471-00. (Please use subscriber number and name, and confirm by do with fighting terrorism or making email that payment has been made.) our country safer . What are we doing post to: PO Box 6404 Dunedin North, Dunedin 9059 Email: [email protected] there? No Afghan was involved in 9/11

31 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014 a mother’s journal

earth — all of us facets of God’s image? perspective of myself, does not feel But representing the divine surprised at personal weakness but image is one thing . Divine character neither do I need to settle into believ- is much more elusive . In this last ing I am incapable of change or month, I have several times found renewal . It is a challenge for me not my words disappointingly out and to sink into despair at how slowly I unable to be retrieved . Words that learn — and to believe that God still by Kaaren Mathias were hurtful, distorting truth and loves me unconditionally despite my thoughtless of others . I feel so disap- many failings . ade in the image of God . pointed at how far I am from being Being a parent helps me to believe What an audacious able to control my tongue, let alone in God’s generous benevolence when concept! becoming like Christ . I think about how I respond when MYesterday morning on a crowded my children disappoint . When my train in Delhi, pressed on all sides son doesn’t do the dishes with will- by the warm skin and busy-new-day ingness or grace, or when my young- commuting, were thousands of people est is ungracious in sharing toys, I — each made in the image of God . A am not unduly surprised at their sermon, a book and a devotions book personal weakness — and of course I have all colluded and talked about continue to love them hugely and to this preposterous core concept of retain hope that they can do a better Christian faith in the last few weeks . It job next time . So maybe God is at had just alighted upon me, and I was least as gracious a parent when it looking at other travellers in comes to me? this new light . This carefully So as I write now, on another turned out young woman in a train, surrounded by uptight, dark skirt and jacket, tapping animated, tired, chirpy and bored texts into her smart phone . faces, I am struck by the delightful A reflection of God’s image . absurdity that all of us are made Four slightly spaced-out in God’s image . While all of us youths in low-slung skinny are also flawed in many ways, this jeans, sitting in a row sharing Richard Rohr in in no way means we are less loved or ear phones . Each an image Immortal Diamond valuable . There are many invitations of God . An older man with a reminds me, ‘The for forgiveness and renewal . And long henna red beard leafing “true self” lives in I am so glad to be part of this ‘vast through the newspaper, also made in the big body, puts little trust in its horde rumbling toward heaven’, as God’s image . The woman in her 60s private virtue, and feels no undue Flannery O’Connor says so well . n with over-plucked eyebrows, clutch- surprise at its personal weakness …’ ing her handbag close to her chest . These words I find hugely help- Kaaren Mathias lives with her Another made in God’s image . ful when I feel self-recriminating, husband Jeph and four children So what must God be like — with and disappointed with myself and in North India, where she currently over seven billion people on my words or actions . A realistic works in community health and development. Her email address is: kaarenmathias@gmail .com

32 Tui Motu InterIslands September 2014