SEPTEMBER 2016 46/3 scholars who lamented the fact that its vague Such an approach requires people who and ambiguous statements have caused grief prepare the liturgy to be better educated in and confusion to many Catholics and liturgy and to have gifts of discernment. constitute a grave danger to Catholic faith What kind of assembly is this? What Liturgy in Nursing Homes and morals. The signatories ask the pope to resources do we have? How can we celebrate nail down nineteen propositions which they well? How can we achieve the purpose of the consider heretical or erroneous. They argue rite? This is much more than rubrical that the lack of precision contradicts Church choreography. We can copy here for the by Elizabeth Harrington, Jeanette Smythe, Ursula O’Rourke SGS teachings or justifies abandoning them. liturgy what Pope Francis wrote about Black-and-white clarity is the most important human relationships: It is true that general value in Church discourse. rules set forth a good which can never be The same kind of personality is operative in disregarded or neglected, but in their NAILING IT or the liturgy. There are some who would see formulation they cannot provide absolutely every detail of the liturgy nailed down in a for all particular situations. The principle NAILING IT DOWN rubric or an authorised interpretation of a will be found to fail, according as we rubric. Is this allowed? is a common descend further into detail. We have a long standing ritual of farewell when the question. The answer, according to the The rubrics of the Roman Missal must be  Mass. Is Mass fter two years’ consultation and body of the deceased rubricist, needs to be carefully conjugated read and implemented differently in a Roman celebrated? When and vigorous discussion in the two Synods resident is taken into the on family life, I think Pope Francis from liturgical and legislative documents or, Basilica, an Australian suburban parish church, where? Who organises it where these do not exist, from ancient care of the undertaker. nailed it in his Apostolic Exhortation Amoris or a tiny country church with a handful of and sets up? nailed it especially in chapter eight textbooks such as Fortescue and O’Connell’s participants. One size does not fit all. Residents who are able Laetitia –  Communion. Is holy where he talks about accompanying, Ceremonies of the Roman Rite Described. gather in the foyer of the This has been a disappointing development Then, if we take a step back and realise that facility with appropriate communion distributed discerning and integrating weakness. He the liturgy is not primarily something that shows how a pastoral response of mercy in recent decades. music playing. The paschal apart from Mass? When we do, but rather our immersion into the and how? accompanies people in irregular situations, The Second Vatican Council sidelined this profound mystery of what God is doing in candle is lit and held seeing what is good and heroic there, and approach with a more pastoral and our midst, we again realise how superficial is awaiting the procession.  Other Liturgy. Are there celebrations of the Liturgy discerning a way forward which may not theological direction, urging liturgists and a focus on precise rubrics which specify our The deep sound of a singing bowl announces the of Word, ecumenical worship, or other prayers? necessarily correspond to the ideal. The worshipping communities to understand the movements and gestures. Do we imagine arrival of the procession which includes members of How often? What format is followed? Where is it variety of circumstances in which people find dynamic purpose of the rite, its structure and that we can, in this way, nail down the the family, nursing and care staff, and the held and who organises and leads it? themselves cannot be pigeonholed or made to movement, so that the liturgy can become an mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection in a undertakers. The procession comes through the fit rigid classifications. eloquent expression of spiritual realities. This  Anointing the Sick. Is this sacrament celebrated? few prescriptive actions? I am genuinely grounds of the facility and through the residents new approach has been widely ridiculed on When and how? If we consider the immense variety of con- shocked that people sometimes approach the gathered in the foyer. It is led by a religious sister conservative blogsites under the banner of priest after Mass, apparently unaware of crete situations such as those I have who plays the violin. All sing a hymn as they join  The Last Rites. Does someone pray with the mentioned, it is understandable that The Spirit of Vatican II which is said to inexhaustible mystery of salvation experienced dying? Are they given communion as Viaticum? justify any kind of nonsense. But that is not the procession and then stand at the hearse to neither the Synod nor this Exhortation in the liturgical assembly, and can only Does someone lead prayers after death? the case. farewell the body of the resident. The undertakers could be expected to provide a new set of whine, You didn’t stand on the step or You have been instructed to walk the hearse part way  General. What issues and challenges do you general rules, canonical in nature and In the General Instruction of the Roman didn’t genuflect or You changed this word… down the road. This happens to the intermittent encounter regarding Catholic liturgy in this applicable to all cases. What is possible is Missal, for example, the first statement made Perhaps the most ambiguous and open sound of the singing bowl. institution? simply a renewed encouragement to about the Introductory Rites is that their moments in the liturgy are the periods of undertake a responsible personal and purpose is to ensure that the faithful, who silence. That is why they are so important in This moving ritual of farewell for deceased residents It is clear that there is a big difference between what pastoral discernment of particular cases, come together as one, establish communion the liturgy. Silence may be prayer or happens at one of the Catholic nursing homes in the is provided in the way of liturgy in large hospitals or one which would recognise that, since ‘the and dispose themselves properly to listen to recollection; it may be meditation; it may be Archdiocese of Brisbane. We surveyed a number of nursing homes with designated chaplains or resident degree of responsibility is not equal in all the Word of God and to celebrate the anguish and lament; it may be joyful praise institutions in an attempt to ascertain what the religious and what parishes are able to provide for cases’, the consequences or effects of a rule Eucharist worthily (GIRM 46). Whatever and thanksgiving. Among the most powerful current situation is with regard to the celebration of smaller institutions that are their responsibility. need not necessarily always be the same else is said about the elements which make images coming from Pope Francis’ visit to liturgy in hospitals and nursing homes. The purpose (AL 298). up these introductory rites or in the rubrics Poland for World Youth Day were those in of conducting the survey was to ascertain what The availability of Mass ranges from daily in some given in the Order of Mass, they are which he sat silently in the death camp at Catholic institutions to as seldom as once a year in Pope Francis points out that information, formation and resources might be it is true that subordinate to this purpose. When the Auschwitz. It is an immersion in an nursing homes which offer only monthly worship general rules set forth a good which can provided to assist and support those who are Entrance Chant is first mentioned we read: unspeakable mystery, ultimately beyond any involved in planning and carrying out this important provided in turn by different local Churches. never be disregarded or neglected, but in Its purpose is to open the celebration, foster words or rubric or ‘clarification’. It shows us ministry. Communion apart from Mass is available more their formulation they cannot provide the unity of those who have been gathered, how we should participate in the action of frequently, with parishes generally making great absolutely for all particular situations. introduce their thoughts to the mystery of the liturgy. The timing seemed appropriate since two of the The principle will be found to fail, the liturgical time or festivity, and Corporal Acts of Mercy in focus in this Jubilee Year of efforts to roster lay ministers of communion for the according as we descend further into detail accompany the procession of the priest and Mercy - visiting the sick and burying the dead – often sick and home-bound in their area. (AL 304). ministers (GIRM 47). This is how a happen in the context of hospitals and nursing homes. It was encouraging to see that several care homes There have been fierce critics of this logic of decision is made about what to sing at this Key people in four parishes and six aged-care homes offered residents opportunities to gather for worship pastoral mercy. Recently a theological moment in the liturgy. The question is no were asked: apart from Mass, including Morning and Evening critique of Amoris Laetitia was sent to every longer Is this allowed and by what rule? Prayer and the Liturgy of the Word. member of the College of Cardinals by 45 but rather Will this accomplish its purpose?

2 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 3 scholars who lamented the fact that its vague Such an approach requires people who and ambiguous statements have caused grief prepare the liturgy to be better educated in and confusion to many Catholics and liturgy and to have gifts of discernment. constitute a grave danger to Catholic faith What kind of assembly is this? What Liturgy in Nursing Homes and morals. The signatories ask the pope to resources do we have? How can we celebrate nail down nineteen propositions which they well? How can we achieve the purpose of the consider heretical or erroneous. They argue rite? This is much more than rubrical that the lack of precision contradicts Church choreography. We can copy here for the by Elizabeth Harrington, Jeanette Smythe, Ursula O’Rourke SGS teachings or justifies abandoning them. liturgy what Pope Francis wrote about Black-and-white clarity is the most important human relationships: It is true that general value in Church discourse. rules set forth a good which can never be The same kind of personality is operative in disregarded or neglected, but in their NAILING IT or the liturgy. There are some who would see formulation they cannot provide absolutely every detail of the liturgy nailed down in a for all particular situations. The principle NAILING IT DOWN rubric or an authorised interpretation of a will be found to fail, according as we rubric. Is this allowed? is a common descend further into detail. We have a long standing ritual of farewell when the question. The answer, according to the The rubrics of the Roman Missal must be  Mass. Is Mass fter two years’ consultation and body of the deceased rubricist, needs to be carefully conjugated read and implemented differently in a Roman celebrated? When and vigorous discussion in the two Synods resident is taken into the on family life, I think Pope Francis from liturgical and legislative documents or, Basilica, an Australian suburban parish church, where? Who organises it where these do not exist, from ancient care of the undertaker. nailed it in his Apostolic Exhortation Amoris or a tiny country church with a handful of and sets up? nailed it especially in chapter eight textbooks such as Fortescue and O’Connell’s participants. One size does not fit all. Residents who are able Laetitia –  Communion. Is holy where he talks about accompanying, Ceremonies of the Roman Rite Described. gather in the foyer of the This has been a disappointing development Then, if we take a step back and realise that facility with appropriate communion distributed discerning and integrating weakness. He the liturgy is not primarily something that shows how a pastoral response of mercy in recent decades. music playing. The paschal apart from Mass? When we do, but rather our immersion into the and how? accompanies people in irregular situations, The Second Vatican Council sidelined this profound mystery of what God is doing in candle is lit and held seeing what is good and heroic there, and approach with a more pastoral and our midst, we again realise how superficial is awaiting the procession.  Other Liturgy. Are there celebrations of the Liturgy discerning a way forward which may not theological direction, urging liturgists and a focus on precise rubrics which specify our The deep sound of a singing bowl announces the of Word, ecumenical worship, or other prayers? necessarily correspond to the ideal. The worshipping communities to understand the movements and gestures. Do we imagine arrival of the procession which includes members of How often? What format is followed? Where is it variety of circumstances in which people find dynamic purpose of the rite, its structure and that we can, in this way, nail down the the family, nursing and care staff, and the held and who organises and leads it? themselves cannot be pigeonholed or made to movement, so that the liturgy can become an mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection in a undertakers. The procession comes through the fit rigid classifications. eloquent expression of spiritual realities. This  Anointing the Sick. Is this sacrament celebrated? few prescriptive actions? I am genuinely grounds of the facility and through the residents new approach has been widely ridiculed on When and how? If we consider the immense variety of con- shocked that people sometimes approach the gathered in the foyer. It is led by a religious sister conservative blogsites under the banner of priest after Mass, apparently unaware of crete situations such as those I have who plays the violin. All sing a hymn as they join  The Last Rites. Does someone pray with the mentioned, it is understandable that The Spirit of Vatican II which is said to inexhaustible mystery of salvation experienced dying? Are they given communion as Viaticum? justify any kind of nonsense. But that is not the procession and then stand at the hearse to neither the Synod nor this Exhortation in the liturgical assembly, and can only Does someone lead prayers after death? the case. farewell the body of the resident. The undertakers could be expected to provide a new set of whine, You didn’t stand on the step or You have been instructed to walk the hearse part way  General. What issues and challenges do you general rules, canonical in nature and In the General Instruction of the Roman didn’t genuflect or You changed this word… down the road. This happens to the intermittent encounter regarding Catholic liturgy in this applicable to all cases. What is possible is Missal, for example, the first statement made Perhaps the most ambiguous and open sound of the singing bowl. institution? simply a renewed encouragement to about the Introductory Rites is that their moments in the liturgy are the periods of undertake a responsible personal and purpose is to ensure that the faithful, who silence. That is why they are so important in This moving ritual of farewell for deceased residents It is clear that there is a big difference between what pastoral discernment of particular cases, come together as one, establish communion the liturgy. Silence may be prayer or happens at one of the Catholic nursing homes in the is provided in the way of liturgy in large hospitals or one which would recognise that, since ‘the and dispose themselves properly to listen to recollection; it may be meditation; it may be Archdiocese of Brisbane. We surveyed a number of nursing homes with designated chaplains or resident degree of responsibility is not equal in all the Word of God and to celebrate the anguish and lament; it may be joyful praise institutions in an attempt to ascertain what the religious and what parishes are able to provide for cases’, the consequences or effects of a rule Eucharist worthily (GIRM 46). Whatever and thanksgiving. Among the most powerful current situation is with regard to the celebration of smaller institutions that are their responsibility. need not necessarily always be the same else is said about the elements which make images coming from Pope Francis’ visit to liturgy in hospitals and nursing homes. The purpose (AL 298). up these introductory rites or in the rubrics Poland for World Youth Day were those in of conducting the survey was to ascertain what The availability of Mass ranges from daily in some given in the Order of Mass, they are which he sat silently in the death camp at Catholic institutions to as seldom as once a year in Pope Francis points out that information, formation and resources might be it is true that subordinate to this purpose. When the Auschwitz. It is an immersion in an nursing homes which offer only monthly worship general rules set forth a good which can provided to assist and support those who are Entrance Chant is first mentioned we read: unspeakable mystery, ultimately beyond any involved in planning and carrying out this important provided in turn by different local Churches. never be disregarded or neglected, but in Its purpose is to open the celebration, foster words or rubric or ‘clarification’. It shows us ministry. Communion apart from Mass is available more their formulation they cannot provide the unity of those who have been gathered, how we should participate in the action of frequently, with parishes generally making great absolutely for all particular situations. introduce their thoughts to the mystery of the liturgy. The timing seemed appropriate since two of the The principle will be found to fail, the liturgical time or festivity, and Corporal Acts of Mercy in focus in this Jubilee Year of efforts to roster lay ministers of communion for the according as we descend further into detail accompany the procession of the priest and Mercy - visiting the sick and burying the dead – often sick and home-bound in their area. (AL 304). ministers (GIRM 47). This is how a happen in the context of hospitals and nursing homes. It was encouraging to see that several care homes There have been fierce critics of this logic of decision is made about what to sing at this Key people in four parishes and six aged-care homes offered residents opportunities to gather for worship pastoral mercy. Recently a theological moment in the liturgy. The question is no were asked: apart from Mass, including Morning and Evening critique of Amoris Laetitia was sent to every longer Is this allowed and by what rule? Prayer and the Liturgy of the Word. member of the College of Cardinals by 45 but rather Will this accomplish its purpose?

2 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 3 Anointing of the Sick is held monthly in the majority ECUMENICAL COOPERATION RESOURCES of the institutions surveyed but in one or two places Jesus the carpenter probably built many tables during The concern that Christ showed for the bodily and Several respondents raised the issue of dealing with it occurs only when requested by residents or their his days in the trade, and doubtless would have been spiritual welfare of those who are ill is continued by the families of residents, especially those whose families. at home in any local ‘men’s shed’. Yet in his ministry the Church in its ministry to the sick. This ministry condition had deteriorated and were nearing death, Christians have the responsibility of expressing their there was only ever one table: inclusive, open, is the common responsibility of all Christians, who or those who had just died. Often family members union in Christ by joining the dying person in surprising and challenging. At his table all had a should visit the sick, remember them in prayer, and want to ritualise these moments but do not know prayer for God's mercy and for confidence in Christ. place. There all were welcomed, fed, offered healing celebrate the sacraments with them (PCS 43). what to do or who to ask. Occasionally they have If the priest or deacon is unable to be present and invited to change of heart. Through the simple unusual expectations or make unreasonable acts of gathering and talking, eating and drinking, While some facilities roster presiders from different because of other serious pastoral obligations, other Churches to lead liturgy, it seems that Churches are demands on staff at these times. members of the community should be prepared to Jesus made manifest the mercy and love of God. not routinely working together to provide liturgical It was the need to inform the wider community about assist with these prayers and should have the texts The sacramentality of this shared table is held for us ministry to local nursing homes and hospitals. A Catholic prayers at times of family illness and death readily available to them (PCS 213). now most strongly in the Eucharist. We gather in the body such as the Australian Consultation on the that prompted Liturgy Brisbane to publish two In most cases, members of the pastoral care team or Spirit, savour Christ’s word and eat and drink of his Liturgy could do well to encourage ecumenical brochures Pastoral Care of the Sick and Pastoral resident religious pray with the dying. Viaticum is Body and Blood. We are enveloped by God’s mercy cooperation in this area and provide principles, Care of the Dying. It was hoped that parishes, usually offered to those able to receive food or drink and the broad embrace of divine love. The Christian guidelines and resources. hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions for by mouth. Prayers of commendation and prayers community is built on the Eucharist, and older people the sick and aged would have these brochures on have an important place around that table. For them Working ecumenically requires an additional skills after death are generally said only if an ordained set: Catholics need a knowledge of the Ecumenical public display and make them freely available to minister is available and the family request this. it is a place of prayer and offering, comfort and residents and their friends and families. petition, hope and sacrifice. Directory and all ministers should understand the different beliefs and attitudes towards ecumenical Pastoral Care of the Sick contains Holy Communion ISSUES AND CHALLENGES The table offers belonging to the local community, a sharing in various Churches. for the Sick (an outline and prayers), Praying with the In response to the question about the issues and connection to the universal Church, and a sense of the Sick (a collection of readings and prayers), the presence of the saints and those who have departed. The responses show that those responsible for challenges that people face regarding Catholic liturgy arranging worship in aged facilities and nursing Sacrament of Anointing the Sick (when to celebrate in their particular institution, it was encouraging that At the Eucharist longstanding hurts are healed and this rite and what it does), and the Christian meaning losses and griefs consoled. The many graces of a life homes often come to the task from their own many respondents spoke of the great support they background and experience. They may not always of human sickness. receive from the staff. One pastoral care director lived are remembered and celebrated in a spirit of be aware of the practices of other Christian traditions. Pastoral Care of the Dying contains an explanation said: ‘There is a great amount of cooperation and thanksgiving. They may not even be aware of changes that have of the ‘Last Rites’, Holy Communion given as respect between all members of staff including When we gather with Christ around his table we are taken place in the liturgy in their own tradition. One Viaticum (an outline and prayers), Prayers for the doctors, the nursing and caring staff who recognise in a position to hear what he is calling forth from us, nursing home, for example, was using a resource to Commendation of the Dying, Prayer after Death, and the important of pastoral care and attending to the from the larger Catholic community, young and old celebrate the Liturgy of the Word that was no longer a Prayer for the Family and Friends. spirituality of all residents. Pastoral carers attend to alike. suitable because of revisions to the liturgical texts Putting these brochures into the hands of the sick, the spiritual needs of all residents regardless of their A Place at the Table: Social Justice in an Aging Society and because it presumed the presider to be a priest creed. ‘ Australian Catholic Bishops Conference which is now seldom the case. parish ministers and family members will help them understand the prayer and liturgical resources the Another common thread that came through was a 2016 Social Justice Statement Church offers in the various circumstances of illness concern about what the future holds. A rising COMMUNION AS PARTICIPATION and provide them with prayers they can use. demand because of the aging population coincides Both parishes and institutions often focus their with the aging of present volunteers who carry out carers to the number of residents is limited anyway, attention and resources on the important and Another resource that is designed to support those the ministry and the increasing difficulty in finding so our need for suitable volunteers is always present. demanding task of providing holy communion for who minister to the sick and dying is Liturgy new people to replace them. In many Catholic Pastoral care volunteers play an important role at those who are no longer able to participate in parish Brisbane’s Communion of the Sick. This booklet nursing homes, liturgy is organised and led by Mass (readers, altar servers, collectors, greeters, Sunday Mass. What is sometimes overlooked is the incorporates the Rite of Communion to the Sick, a resident religious but that situation is changing communion ministers, music leaders) and in bringing fact that these people are not only deprived of short form for use in hospitals and nursing homes rapidly as religious themselves age and their holy communion to residents in their rooms. Some receiving communion regularly but of celebrating and the Rite of Communion of the Dying (Viaticum). numbers decline. Likewise, retired clergy are very volunteers have been assisting us for many years.’ liturgy and ritual as part of the Christian community. As well as being essential for parish ministers, it is a generous in offering their services to nursing homes book which can be left with the sick person who will Apart from the difficulty of finding and training It is important that lay ministers of communion to the but that too will change as the number of priests in find rich spiritual support in the anthology of psalms, volunteers to undertake this ministry, parishes and sick be aware that bringing communion is more than active retirement declines. This will place an prayers and poems. institutions today have to deal with Government a pastoral visit with communion as an added extra. additional strain on parish pastoral staff. policies and regulations which require that all They are in fact celebrating the Church’s liturgy with CONCLUSION Priests have the special task of preparing the sick to involved have proper police checks and are aware of that individual or small group. It is vital that the celebrate the sacrament of penance (individually or the duty of care involved in their engagement with ministers be given adequate formation to enable The process of surveying liturgy in institutions for the in a communal celebration), to receive the Eucharist the elderly and housebound. them to carry out this responsibility with confidence aged and sick revealed two specific areas where work is needed: formation for all involved frequently if their condition permits, and to Finally the nature of institutions for the sick and and grace. (chaplains, pastoral care staff and volunteers, parish celebrate the sacrament of anointing at the elderly is changing. There is a move to establishing Those who visit the sick should help them to pray, clergy, and lay communion ministers) and resources appropriate time. To provide frequent communion retirement communities whose occupants range sharing with them the word of God proclaimed in to provide both information and appropriate for the sick, it may be necessary to ensure that the from those who live independently to those who are the assembly from which their sickness has liturgical rites for use in pastoral care. community has a sufficient number of ministers of bed-ridden. Catering for the liturgical needs of such separated them. In receiving the body and blood of communion (PCS 44, 72). diverse groups presents an organisational and Christ, the sick are united sacramentally to the Lord One respondent explained: ‘Pastoral carers are not logistical challenge to pastoral carers and local parish and are reunited with the Eucharistic community  The authors are members of the Liturgy News rostered here on Sundays and the ratio of pastoral staff. from which illness has separated them (PCS 46, 51). editorial board.

4 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 5 Anointing of the Sick is held monthly in the majority ECUMENICAL COOPERATION RESOURCES of the institutions surveyed but in one or two places Jesus the carpenter probably built many tables during The concern that Christ showed for the bodily and Several respondents raised the issue of dealing with it occurs only when requested by residents or their his days in the trade, and doubtless would have been spiritual welfare of those who are ill is continued by the families of residents, especially those whose families. at home in any local ‘men’s shed’. Yet in his ministry the Church in its ministry to the sick. This ministry condition had deteriorated and were nearing death, Christians have the responsibility of expressing their there was only ever one table: inclusive, open, is the common responsibility of all Christians, who or those who had just died. Often family members union in Christ by joining the dying person in surprising and challenging. At his table all had a should visit the sick, remember them in prayer, and want to ritualise these moments but do not know prayer for God's mercy and for confidence in Christ. place. There all were welcomed, fed, offered healing celebrate the sacraments with them (PCS 43). what to do or who to ask. Occasionally they have If the priest or deacon is unable to be present and invited to change of heart. Through the simple unusual expectations or make unreasonable acts of gathering and talking, eating and drinking, While some facilities roster presiders from different because of other serious pastoral obligations, other Churches to lead liturgy, it seems that Churches are demands on staff at these times. members of the community should be prepared to Jesus made manifest the mercy and love of God. not routinely working together to provide liturgical It was the need to inform the wider community about assist with these prayers and should have the texts The sacramentality of this shared table is held for us ministry to local nursing homes and hospitals. A Catholic prayers at times of family illness and death readily available to them (PCS 213). now most strongly in the Eucharist. We gather in the body such as the Australian Consultation on the that prompted Liturgy Brisbane to publish two In most cases, members of the pastoral care team or Spirit, savour Christ’s word and eat and drink of his Liturgy could do well to encourage ecumenical brochures Pastoral Care of the Sick and Pastoral resident religious pray with the dying. Viaticum is Body and Blood. We are enveloped by God’s mercy cooperation in this area and provide principles, Care of the Dying. It was hoped that parishes, usually offered to those able to receive food or drink and the broad embrace of divine love. The Christian guidelines and resources. hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions for by mouth. Prayers of commendation and prayers community is built on the Eucharist, and older people the sick and aged would have these brochures on have an important place around that table. For them Working ecumenically requires an additional skills after death are generally said only if an ordained set: Catholics need a knowledge of the Ecumenical public display and make them freely available to minister is available and the family request this. it is a place of prayer and offering, comfort and residents and their friends and families. petition, hope and sacrifice. Directory and all ministers should understand the different beliefs and attitudes towards ecumenical Pastoral Care of the Sick contains Holy Communion ISSUES AND CHALLENGES The table offers belonging to the local community, a sharing in various Churches. for the Sick (an outline and prayers), Praying with the In response to the question about the issues and connection to the universal Church, and a sense of the Sick (a collection of readings and prayers), the presence of the saints and those who have departed. The responses show that those responsible for challenges that people face regarding Catholic liturgy arranging worship in aged facilities and nursing Sacrament of Anointing the Sick (when to celebrate in their particular institution, it was encouraging that At the Eucharist longstanding hurts are healed and this rite and what it does), and the Christian meaning losses and griefs consoled. The many graces of a life homes often come to the task from their own many respondents spoke of the great support they background and experience. They may not always of human sickness. receive from the staff. One pastoral care director lived are remembered and celebrated in a spirit of be aware of the practices of other Christian traditions. Pastoral Care of the Dying contains an explanation said: ‘There is a great amount of cooperation and thanksgiving. They may not even be aware of changes that have of the ‘Last Rites’, Holy Communion given as respect between all members of staff including When we gather with Christ around his table we are taken place in the liturgy in their own tradition. One Viaticum (an outline and prayers), Prayers for the doctors, the nursing and caring staff who recognise in a position to hear what he is calling forth from us, nursing home, for example, was using a resource to Commendation of the Dying, Prayer after Death, and the important of pastoral care and attending to the from the larger Catholic community, young and old celebrate the Liturgy of the Word that was no longer a Prayer for the Family and Friends. spirituality of all residents. Pastoral carers attend to alike. suitable because of revisions to the liturgical texts Putting these brochures into the hands of the sick, the spiritual needs of all residents regardless of their A Place at the Table: Social Justice in an Aging Society and because it presumed the presider to be a priest creed. ‘ Australian Catholic Bishops Conference which is now seldom the case. parish ministers and family members will help them understand the prayer and liturgical resources the Another common thread that came through was a 2016 Social Justice Statement Church offers in the various circumstances of illness concern about what the future holds. A rising COMMUNION AS PARTICIPATION and provide them with prayers they can use. demand because of the aging population coincides Both parishes and institutions often focus their with the aging of present volunteers who carry out carers to the number of residents is limited anyway, attention and resources on the important and Another resource that is designed to support those the ministry and the increasing difficulty in finding so our need for suitable volunteers is always present. demanding task of providing holy communion for who minister to the sick and dying is Liturgy new people to replace them. In many Catholic Pastoral care volunteers play an important role at those who are no longer able to participate in parish Brisbane’s Communion of the Sick. This booklet nursing homes, liturgy is organised and led by Mass (readers, altar servers, collectors, greeters, Sunday Mass. What is sometimes overlooked is the incorporates the Rite of Communion to the Sick, a resident religious but that situation is changing communion ministers, music leaders) and in bringing fact that these people are not only deprived of short form for use in hospitals and nursing homes rapidly as religious themselves age and their holy communion to residents in their rooms. Some receiving communion regularly but of celebrating and the Rite of Communion of the Dying (Viaticum). numbers decline. Likewise, retired clergy are very volunteers have been assisting us for many years.’ liturgy and ritual as part of the Christian community. As well as being essential for parish ministers, it is a generous in offering their services to nursing homes book which can be left with the sick person who will Apart from the difficulty of finding and training It is important that lay ministers of communion to the but that too will change as the number of priests in find rich spiritual support in the anthology of psalms, volunteers to undertake this ministry, parishes and sick be aware that bringing communion is more than active retirement declines. This will place an prayers and poems. institutions today have to deal with Government a pastoral visit with communion as an added extra. additional strain on parish pastoral staff. policies and regulations which require that all They are in fact celebrating the Church’s liturgy with CONCLUSION Priests have the special task of preparing the sick to involved have proper police checks and are aware of that individual or small group. It is vital that the celebrate the sacrament of penance (individually or the duty of care involved in their engagement with ministers be given adequate formation to enable The process of surveying liturgy in institutions for the in a communal celebration), to receive the Eucharist the elderly and housebound. them to carry out this responsibility with confidence aged and sick revealed two specific areas where work is needed: formation for all involved frequently if their condition permits, and to Finally the nature of institutions for the sick and and grace. (chaplains, pastoral care staff and volunteers, parish celebrate the sacrament of anointing at the elderly is changing. There is a move to establishing Those who visit the sick should help them to pray, clergy, and lay communion ministers) and resources appropriate time. To provide frequent communion retirement communities whose occupants range sharing with them the word of God proclaimed in to provide both information and appropriate for the sick, it may be necessary to ensure that the from those who live independently to those who are the assembly from which their sickness has liturgical rites for use in pastoral care. community has a sufficient number of ministers of bed-ridden. Catering for the liturgical needs of such separated them. In receiving the body and blood of communion (PCS 44, 72). diverse groups presents an organisational and Christ, the sick are united sacramentally to the Lord One respondent explained: ‘Pastoral carers are not logistical challenge to pastoral carers and local parish and are reunited with the Eucharistic community  The authors are members of the Liturgy News rostered here on Sundays and the ratio of pastoral staff. from which illness has separated them (PCS 46, 51). editorial board.

4 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 5 There is an abundance of youth and young adult initiatives 3. Embrace their desire to take initiatives and set in each diocese in Australia to help young pilgrims make them up for success connections on a local level. Youth ministry is alive and Pilgrims returning from WYD often have a desire to start or well across the country. For our Brisbane pilgrims, the grow a youth ministry, and initiate youth events and Youth Evangelisation Office recently launched a new ‘youth-led Masses’. If you do not already have a nominated website which showcases these initiatives, including parish youth coordinator, appoint someone to help your young youth groups, young adult groups, tertiary ministries, social people run these events. Do whatever you can to set them justice opportunities, along with a number of other faith up for success, and guide them to use their gifts and energy communities and events (www.catholiccollective.org.au). in an effective and sustainable way. It was a condition of application for the pilgrimage that 4. Encourage them to seek out people to support each pilgrim travelling with the Brisbane archdiocesan them in their faith group would connect with a parish, group or movement in the Archdiocese prior to and at least 6 months after World Young people returning from WYD will have lots of Youth Day. We made this a condition for our pilgrims to questions about their faith and will be hungry to learn ensure they would be supported by a worshipping more. A good way to assist them on this journey is to community to enable growth in their faith beyond World encourage them to meet regularly with a person who will Youth Day. support and challenge them in their personal faith life – a spiritual director, mentor or slightly older peer.

We recently returned to Australia from a 21 day pilgrimage discover the true power of these sacramental moments. through Poland for World Youth Day (WYD) 2016. The While WYD week can look like one big party, there are Archdiocese of Brisbane collaborated with Rockhampton always many opportunities for young people to encounter and Darwin dioceses to form a pilgrimage group to embark Christ’s mercy in the confessional or in the quiet of on this journey. We had an incredible time on pilgrimage adoration. which included visits to holy sites in Poland, Days in the Diocese in a Polish parish community, and the excitement In 2002, Saint John Paul II addressed the young people of of the World Youth Day festivities themselves. the world at WYD Toronto, and he said: When, back in 1985, I wanted to start the World Youth Days, I imagined One of the highlights for our pilgrimage group was the a powerful moment in which the young people of the Days in the Diocese week. This experience, offered at world could meet Christ, who is eternally young, and every World Youth Day, is a chance for pilgrims to be could learn from him how to be bearers of the Gospel to billeted in the homes of families in a local parish. The other young people. This is why we take young people to parish we were allocated was Zdzieszowice in the diocese World Youth Day. Our pilgrims encountered Christ in the What can you as a parish or faith community do to 5. Remember Kingdom mentality of Opole. As soon as we arrived at the parish we felt support pilgrims? welcomed and included. context of a pilgrimage with millions of other Catholics In the past young people have returned from WYD so full from around the world. There is no other experience quite If you have young people in your community who have of energy and passion for their faith that they have gone on There is a saying in Poland that translates roughly as When like this. returned from World Youth day, there are a number of to serve with youth ministries that take them away from a Guest is in the house, God is in the house. The ways you can support them to help sustain their faith and At the time of writing it has been roughly a month since their parish. Often the structure of tertiary ministries and hospitality we received proved this saying to be true. It prayer life. movements suit their time commitments better than their pilgrims from around the world returned home from their was a common story amongst our pilgrims that their host parish can. This is a reality. As long as they are connected WYD pilgrimage experience. The next important step is 1. Ask them about their experience family slept on the couch so that we could sleep in their with the Church, encourage them to seek spiritual supporting pilgrims so that the encounter with Christ they beds. Throughout these five days we prayed together, ate I mean REALLY ask them. They have just returned from a nourishment wherever they feel called to. Do not be wonderful Polish food, and exchanged songs, dances and experienced on pilgrimage, and the passion for their faith it mountain top experience and if you spend enough time discouraged if this happens to be outside of your parish sports. This was a true immersion experience into the stirred up, can be sustained in their everyday lives. listening and asking the deep questions about their community. Polish church and prepared us for our journey to Krakow experience, you may just be surprised at the depth of In 2014, Archbishop Anthony Fisher explored the This is by no means an exhaustive list. The most important city for the WYD week. sharing they give you. Young people have so much effectiveness of events like World Youth Day and the thing here is to show interest in your young people. passion and energy to give their faith communities – all WYD week was full of concerts, dances, catecheses with Australian Catholic Youth Festival. He wrote that in the Another important reality to note is that World Youth Day you need to do is ask. international Bishops, and large scale events with Pope long run, (their) effectiveness…depends hugely on the is not for everyone. There will be young people in your Francis. There were large crowds everywhere we went, formation that is offered in advance of attendance and 2. Encourage them to think about how they will communities who find spiritual nourishment in ways other and this often resulted in long lines for transport and food. the follow-up that occurs afterwards: what opportunities contribute to the global Church at a local level than WYD. I encourage you to listen to the young people On many occasions we ended up walking long distances there are for sharing, evangelising, worshipping, leading in your faith communities and give them a place to be because the tram line was overwhelmed. It was during World Youth Day pilgrims have just had an incredible and serving for those who will go and for those who actively involved. Young people have so much to offer the these times that we reminded ourselves: we are pilgrims, experience of the global Church. It is really important for return on fire with faith. Archbishop Fisher highlights Church, and often all it takes is an invitation from one not tourists. them to understand that their local Church community is a how essential is a thriving community of faith that both part of that. Empower your young people to be agents of person. Maybe that person is you. The sacraments play a big part in WYD week, particularly prepares pilgrims and welcomes them home. When these change in their local communities, with the understanding  confession and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. For opportunities are available, pilgrims are able to integrate that they are part of the global Church. Zach Woodward is the communications officer for the many young people, events like WYD and the Australian their ‘mountain top’ experience of WYD with the way they Brisbane’s Youth Evangelisation Office and coordinated the Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) are the first time that they live out their faith in their everyday life. Archdiocesan pilgrimage to World Youth Day 2016.

6 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 7 There is an abundance of youth and young adult initiatives 3. Embrace their desire to take initiatives and set in each diocese in Australia to help young pilgrims make them up for success connections on a local level. Youth ministry is alive and Pilgrims returning from WYD often have a desire to start or well across the country. For our Brisbane pilgrims, the grow a youth ministry, and initiate youth events and Youth Evangelisation Office recently launched a new ‘youth-led Masses’. If you do not already have a nominated website which showcases these initiatives, including parish youth coordinator, appoint someone to help your young youth groups, young adult groups, tertiary ministries, social people run these events. Do whatever you can to set them justice opportunities, along with a number of other faith up for success, and guide them to use their gifts and energy communities and events (www.catholiccollective.org.au). in an effective and sustainable way. It was a condition of application for the pilgrimage that 4. Encourage them to seek out people to support each pilgrim travelling with the Brisbane archdiocesan them in their faith group would connect with a parish, group or movement in the Archdiocese prior to and at least 6 months after World Young people returning from WYD will have lots of Youth Day. We made this a condition for our pilgrims to questions about their faith and will be hungry to learn ensure they would be supported by a worshipping more. A good way to assist them on this journey is to community to enable growth in their faith beyond World encourage them to meet regularly with a person who will Youth Day. support and challenge them in their personal faith life – a spiritual director, mentor or slightly older peer.

We recently returned to Australia from a 21 day pilgrimage discover the true power of these sacramental moments. through Poland for World Youth Day (WYD) 2016. The While WYD week can look like one big party, there are Archdiocese of Brisbane collaborated with Rockhampton always many opportunities for young people to encounter and Darwin dioceses to form a pilgrimage group to embark Christ’s mercy in the confessional or in the quiet of on this journey. We had an incredible time on pilgrimage adoration. which included visits to holy sites in Poland, Days in the Diocese in a Polish parish community, and the excitement In 2002, Saint John Paul II addressed the young people of of the World Youth Day festivities themselves. the world at WYD Toronto, and he said: When, back in 1985, I wanted to start the World Youth Days, I imagined One of the highlights for our pilgrimage group was the a powerful moment in which the young people of the Days in the Diocese week. This experience, offered at world could meet Christ, who is eternally young, and every World Youth Day, is a chance for pilgrims to be could learn from him how to be bearers of the Gospel to billeted in the homes of families in a local parish. The other young people. This is why we take young people to parish we were allocated was Zdzieszowice in the diocese World Youth Day. Our pilgrims encountered Christ in the What can you as a parish or faith community do to 5. Remember Kingdom mentality of Opole. As soon as we arrived at the parish we felt support pilgrims? welcomed and included. context of a pilgrimage with millions of other Catholics In the past young people have returned from WYD so full from around the world. There is no other experience quite If you have young people in your community who have of energy and passion for their faith that they have gone on There is a saying in Poland that translates roughly as When like this. returned from World Youth day, there are a number of to serve with youth ministries that take them away from a Guest is in the house, God is in the house. The ways you can support them to help sustain their faith and At the time of writing it has been roughly a month since their parish. Often the structure of tertiary ministries and hospitality we received proved this saying to be true. It prayer life. movements suit their time commitments better than their pilgrims from around the world returned home from their was a common story amongst our pilgrims that their host parish can. This is a reality. As long as they are connected WYD pilgrimage experience. The next important step is 1. Ask them about their experience family slept on the couch so that we could sleep in their with the Church, encourage them to seek spiritual supporting pilgrims so that the encounter with Christ they beds. Throughout these five days we prayed together, ate I mean REALLY ask them. They have just returned from a nourishment wherever they feel called to. Do not be wonderful Polish food, and exchanged songs, dances and experienced on pilgrimage, and the passion for their faith it mountain top experience and if you spend enough time discouraged if this happens to be outside of your parish sports. This was a true immersion experience into the stirred up, can be sustained in their everyday lives. listening and asking the deep questions about their community. Polish church and prepared us for our journey to Krakow experience, you may just be surprised at the depth of In 2014, Archbishop Anthony Fisher explored the This is by no means an exhaustive list. The most important city for the WYD week. sharing they give you. Young people have so much effectiveness of events like World Youth Day and the thing here is to show interest in your young people. passion and energy to give their faith communities – all WYD week was full of concerts, dances, catecheses with Australian Catholic Youth Festival. He wrote that in the Another important reality to note is that World Youth Day you need to do is ask. international Bishops, and large scale events with Pope long run, (their) effectiveness…depends hugely on the is not for everyone. There will be young people in your Francis. There were large crowds everywhere we went, formation that is offered in advance of attendance and 2. Encourage them to think about how they will communities who find spiritual nourishment in ways other and this often resulted in long lines for transport and food. the follow-up that occurs afterwards: what opportunities contribute to the global Church at a local level than WYD. I encourage you to listen to the young people On many occasions we ended up walking long distances there are for sharing, evangelising, worshipping, leading in your faith communities and give them a place to be because the tram line was overwhelmed. It was during World Youth Day pilgrims have just had an incredible and serving for those who will go and for those who actively involved. Young people have so much to offer the these times that we reminded ourselves: we are pilgrims, experience of the global Church. It is really important for return on fire with faith. Archbishop Fisher highlights Church, and often all it takes is an invitation from one not tourists. them to understand that their local Church community is a how essential is a thriving community of faith that both part of that. Empower your young people to be agents of person. Maybe that person is you. The sacraments play a big part in WYD week, particularly prepares pilgrims and welcomes them home. When these change in their local communities, with the understanding  confession and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. For opportunities are available, pilgrims are able to integrate that they are part of the global Church. Zach Woodward is the communications officer for the many young people, events like WYD and the Australian their ‘mountain top’ experience of WYD with the way they Brisbane’s Youth Evangelisation Office and coordinated the Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) are the first time that they live out their faith in their everyday life. Archdiocesan pilgrimage to World Youth Day 2016.

6 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 7 Let us pray. God of mercy, THE EPIPHANY BLESSING fill our home with the light and love of Christ o out to all the nations and spread the Good Marking Homes with Blessed Chalk that it may be a place of hospitality and welcome. WELCOMING May Christ be our shelter when we are at home, News, baptising them in the name of the Father, for the New Year our companion when we are away, G and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and know & RECEIVING and our welcome guest when we return. that I am with you always, yes until the end of time (Mt Through Christ our Lord. 28:19-20). This is the great commissioning for all Many parishes in the Church of England have adopted the Amen. Christians. These words of Jesus assume we are BAPTISED ancient custom of marking the door of their home with baptised, fervent in our faith, and wanting to join Jesus Let us bless the Lord. blessed chalk. This ancient rite is a beautiful way of in spreading the Good News of God to the world. incorporating the liturgical feast of the Epiphany as a Thanks be to God. CHRISTIANS domestic ritual into the prayer life of the family. It is a good In the name of the Father, and of the Son, Discerning the signs of the times, especially in the opportunity for parents and children to ask God’s blessing and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Western world where secularism dominates, the INTO THE on their home at the start of the New Year. Catholic Church at the Second Vatican Council saw the importance of reviving and renewing the Chalk is first blessed in the parish church at Masses for catechumenate. Out of this discernment came the Rite CATHOLIC Epiphany and then people are invited to take some home of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). and to mark the lintel of their front door as follows: Making a Distinction CHURCH In 1986 when I was seventeen years old, I was asked by by Bryan Roe 20 C+M+B 17 my parish priest to sponsor a young man by the name The letters C, M and B stand for the traditional names for of Peter who wanted to become a Catholic. I accepted the offer, met Peter, and then joined a group of men that the Three Wise Men who come seeking Jesus: Caspar, Handling the Distinction Graciously Melchior, and Balthasar. The letters also represent the met every Monday evening. In this group were three words Christus Mansionem Benedicat (May Christ Bless candidates (all baptised), three sponsors, and Tom the So how do we overcome confusion between the this Abode). During the rite, children may hold the figures catechist. baptised and the unbaptised who seek belonging to the of the three wise men from the family Christmas crib. The Catholic Church? What are we to do graciously and At our first gathering I was introduced to the RCIA for domestic rite goes like this: effectively to welcome and receive these brothers and the first time. When Tom told us that the ‘C’ in RCIA sisters? CHALK WORDS stands for Christian, I corrected him assuming it must MARK TO BE SAID stand for Catholic. Tom then assured me that it The first thing needed is general education in parishes. definitely stood for Christian, which prompted the As a lay person, seminarian and then priest, I have been Peace be upon this house and question, If these three men are already baptised, are involved with the RCIA in over ten parishes in the with all of us who live here. they not Christians already? Tom responded by saying Archdiocese of Brisbane. All these parishes treated Amen. that they were only partially initiated, and that they baptised candidates and unbaptised catechumens in the Matthew 2:1-2, 10-11 needed to receive the sacraments of Confirmation and same way; they participated in a common journey and received the sacraments at the Easter Vigil. Since this is The wise men from the East came to Jerusalem Holy Communion to be fully initiated. Once again I asking: Where is the child who has been born said, But that’s to become a Catholic; these men are contrary to what the Rite suggests, the Brisbane king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its THE PARISH BLESSING OF CHALK already Christians. Sensing some frustration from Archdiocesan Catechumenate Committee has run two rising and have come to pay him homage. at the end of Masses on the solemn feast of Epiphany those in our group, I decided to leave it at that. workshops recently on the best way to receive baptised sisters and brothers into the Catholic Church. When they saw that the star had stopped, they Over the next eight months, as we journeyed towards Introduction were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the the Easter Vigil when our three candidates would We found at these workshops that many people who house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, On this feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, we rejoice that become fully initiated into the Catholic Church, I can attended took a little while to understand what we were and they knelt down and paid him homage. the light of Christ has come into our world. Today, we remember thinking many times that the RCIA is talking about. Treating candidates as catechumens was The Gospel of the Lord. invite families to take home a piece of this chalk to mark definitely for the unbaptised. Another kind of journey is so ingrained in their thinking that the suggestion of not Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. the front door of your homes as a blessing for the New needed for our brothers and sisters in Christ who have including the already-baptised in the same journey was THE THREE WISE MEN Year. been baptised in another Christian tradition. totally foreign and was not making sense. Even after a thorough discussion of paragraph 391 of the Rite, there C CASPAR Prayer of Blessing Fast forward some twenty-five years. Now I discover were still reservations about a perceived lack of Let us pray. that the Australian and New Zealand version of the Rite M MELCHIOR inclusiveness because the already-baptised are not of Christian Initiation of Adults agrees with me! The Lord our God, we praise you for the light of creation: involved in the Rite of Election in the cathedral. We B BALTHASAR vast majority of this book is for those who are the sun, the moon, and the stars of the night. responded by explaining that we need to respect the FOLLOWED THE LIGHT OF THE STAR unbaptised. It is only in the concluding few pages of We praise you for the gift of Jesus, your Son, dignity of a candidate’s baptism and that this is exactly the Rite that special provisions are given for Christians TO FIND JESUS, THE SON OF GOD, the Light of the World. the reason why candidates are not to be included on the already baptised seeking membership in the Catholic WHO CAME TO LIVE AMONG US May your blessing be upon us same journey as catechumens. The penny dropped. Church. Even in this section the Rite makes it clear that as we carry this chalk to our homes. Participants started to understand the goal of the 20 TWO THOUSAND anything that would equate candidates for reception May its mark on our doorposts be a sign of your protection workshop. 17 AND SEVENTEEN YEARS AGO. and of the presence of the Light of Christ in our homes. with those who are catechumens is to be absolutely avoided (RCIA 391). That is, those who have been For Eastern Christians who enter into the fullness of  MAY CHRIST BLESS OUR HOME TODAY AND In the name of the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit. baptised in another Church or ecclesial community are Catholic communion, no liturgical rite is required, but  REMAIN WITH US THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. AMEN. already Christians and are not to be treated as simply a profession of the Catholic faith (RCIA 388). For catechumens. those who are baptised in other Christian traditions, the

8 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 9 Let us pray. God of mercy, THE EPIPHANY BLESSING fill our home with the light and love of Christ o out to all the nations and spread the Good Marking Homes with Blessed Chalk that it may be a place of hospitality and welcome. WELCOMING May Christ be our shelter when we are at home, News, baptising them in the name of the Father, for the New Year our companion when we are away, G and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and know & RECEIVING and our welcome guest when we return. that I am with you always, yes until the end of time (Mt Through Christ our Lord. 28:19-20). This is the great commissioning for all Many parishes in the Church of England have adopted the Amen. Christians. These words of Jesus assume we are BAPTISED ancient custom of marking the door of their home with baptised, fervent in our faith, and wanting to join Jesus Let us bless the Lord. blessed chalk. This ancient rite is a beautiful way of in spreading the Good News of God to the world. incorporating the liturgical feast of the Epiphany as a Thanks be to God. CHRISTIANS domestic ritual into the prayer life of the family. It is a good In the name of the Father, and of the Son, Discerning the signs of the times, especially in the opportunity for parents and children to ask God’s blessing and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Western world where secularism dominates, the INTO THE on their home at the start of the New Year. Catholic Church at the Second Vatican Council saw the importance of reviving and renewing the Chalk is first blessed in the parish church at Masses for catechumenate. Out of this discernment came the Rite CATHOLIC Epiphany and then people are invited to take some home of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). and to mark the lintel of their front door as follows: Making a Distinction CHURCH In 1986 when I was seventeen years old, I was asked by by Bryan Roe 20 C+M+B 17 my parish priest to sponsor a young man by the name The letters C, M and B stand for the traditional names for of Peter who wanted to become a Catholic. I accepted the offer, met Peter, and then joined a group of men that the Three Wise Men who come seeking Jesus: Caspar, Handling the Distinction Graciously Melchior, and Balthasar. The letters also represent the met every Monday evening. In this group were three words Christus Mansionem Benedicat (May Christ Bless candidates (all baptised), three sponsors, and Tom the So how do we overcome confusion between the this Abode). During the rite, children may hold the figures catechist. baptised and the unbaptised who seek belonging to the of the three wise men from the family Christmas crib. The Catholic Church? What are we to do graciously and At our first gathering I was introduced to the RCIA for domestic rite goes like this: effectively to welcome and receive these brothers and the first time. When Tom told us that the ‘C’ in RCIA sisters? CHALK WORDS stands for Christian, I corrected him assuming it must MARK TO BE SAID stand for Catholic. Tom then assured me that it The first thing needed is general education in parishes. definitely stood for Christian, which prompted the As a lay person, seminarian and then priest, I have been Peace be upon this house and question, If these three men are already baptised, are involved with the RCIA in over ten parishes in the with all of us who live here. they not Christians already? Tom responded by saying Archdiocese of Brisbane. All these parishes treated Amen. that they were only partially initiated, and that they baptised candidates and unbaptised catechumens in the Matthew 2:1-2, 10-11 needed to receive the sacraments of Confirmation and same way; they participated in a common journey and received the sacraments at the Easter Vigil. Since this is The wise men from the East came to Jerusalem Holy Communion to be fully initiated. Once again I asking: Where is the child who has been born said, But that’s to become a Catholic; these men are contrary to what the Rite suggests, the Brisbane king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its THE PARISH BLESSING OF CHALK already Christians. Sensing some frustration from Archdiocesan Catechumenate Committee has run two rising and have come to pay him homage. at the end of Masses on the solemn feast of Epiphany those in our group, I decided to leave it at that. workshops recently on the best way to receive baptised sisters and brothers into the Catholic Church. When they saw that the star had stopped, they Over the next eight months, as we journeyed towards Introduction were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the the Easter Vigil when our three candidates would We found at these workshops that many people who house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, On this feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, we rejoice that become fully initiated into the Catholic Church, I can attended took a little while to understand what we were and they knelt down and paid him homage. the light of Christ has come into our world. Today, we remember thinking many times that the RCIA is talking about. Treating candidates as catechumens was The Gospel of the Lord. invite families to take home a piece of this chalk to mark definitely for the unbaptised. Another kind of journey is so ingrained in their thinking that the suggestion of not Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. the front door of your homes as a blessing for the New needed for our brothers and sisters in Christ who have including the already-baptised in the same journey was THE THREE WISE MEN Year. been baptised in another Christian tradition. totally foreign and was not making sense. Even after a thorough discussion of paragraph 391 of the Rite, there C CASPAR Prayer of Blessing Fast forward some twenty-five years. Now I discover were still reservations about a perceived lack of Let us pray. that the Australian and New Zealand version of the Rite M MELCHIOR inclusiveness because the already-baptised are not of Christian Initiation of Adults agrees with me! The Lord our God, we praise you for the light of creation: involved in the Rite of Election in the cathedral. We B BALTHASAR vast majority of this book is for those who are the sun, the moon, and the stars of the night. responded by explaining that we need to respect the FOLLOWED THE LIGHT OF THE STAR unbaptised. It is only in the concluding few pages of We praise you for the gift of Jesus, your Son, dignity of a candidate’s baptism and that this is exactly the Rite that special provisions are given for Christians TO FIND JESUS, THE SON OF GOD, the Light of the World. the reason why candidates are not to be included on the already baptised seeking membership in the Catholic WHO CAME TO LIVE AMONG US May your blessing be upon us same journey as catechumens. The penny dropped. Church. Even in this section the Rite makes it clear that as we carry this chalk to our homes. Participants started to understand the goal of the 20 TWO THOUSAND anything that would equate candidates for reception May its mark on our doorposts be a sign of your protection workshop. 17 AND SEVENTEEN YEARS AGO. and of the presence of the Light of Christ in our homes. with those who are catechumens is to be absolutely avoided (RCIA 391). That is, those who have been For Eastern Christians who enter into the fullness of  MAY CHRIST BLESS OUR HOME TODAY AND In the name of the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit. baptised in another Church or ecclesial community are Catholic communion, no liturgical rite is required, but  REMAIN WITH US THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. AMEN. already Christians and are not to be treated as simply a profession of the Catholic faith (RCIA 388). For catechumens. those who are baptised in other Christian traditions, the

8 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 9 only liturgical requirement is the Rite of Reception of NATIONAL MEETING Baptised Christians into Full Communion with the Catholic Church within a Mass (RCIA 400-411). That is A national meeting of people involved in it! They profess a unity of faith with the Catholic liturgy is being planned for 24-26 March Church, they are received and share in the Eucharist. 2017 in Melbourne. It is a gathering of No Rite of Election, no scrutinies, no anointing with the members of the Bishops Commission for oil of catechumens, no exorcisms. This makes sense, Liturgy, National Liturgical Council, for these rites are for catechumens and catechumens National Liturgical Architecture and Art only! Board, National Liturgical Music Board, Of your own free will, you have RESPONSE TO THE EDITOR It was suggested in the workshop that candidates NLC liturgy and music consultants, and key people in celebrating Mass. He was should be treated on a case by case basis. For example, asked to be received into the full Fr Ken Howell sent this magnificent liturgy representatives of each diocese. The attempting to apply the practice of the if John, who was baptised in the Anglican tradition and communion of the catholic church. Madonna in response to the editorial in the Council and Boards hold one of their extraordinary (Tridentine) form to the has been going to Mass with his wife Mary every Sunday … in this faith you will be one last issue. It is Our Lady of the Vines meetings at the same time. It is an ordinary form of the Mass, arguing that for the last twenty years, decides he wants to become a with us for the first time at the which he found in a vineyard in France. opportunity to communicate across the having the priest and people all facing the Catholic, then it would make sense to confirm him and various entities and to review the liturgical apse was permitted, legitimate and a very eucharistic table of the Lord needs of the nation. welcome him to the table of the Lord as soon as Jesus, sign of the church’s unity. important step in reforming the liturgy. possible. However, if Betty, who was baptised in the He urged that it be implemented wherever Uniting Church and has been living by this Christian possible and as soon as possible, perhaps faith, sought to be part of the Catholic Church, some small group of friends journeying together is crucial. ICEL REVISIONS The story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus is the beginning in Advent 2016, especially in catechesis on beliefs specific to the Catholic faith would The work of revising our liturgical books model. Their hearts and minds are opened to the gift cathedrals, seminaries and large diocesan be needed before she was received into the Catholic in accord with the principles of Liturgiam events. Sarah told the conference that the Church. they have received, a journey which culminates in the breaking of the bread. Authenticam is proceeding. We recently pope had asked him to study ‘the question Certainly those who have lived as Christians should not received new editions of the Order of of the reform of the reform’ so that there be asked to undergo a full program parallel to the Small groups can be creative. The guiding principle is Celebrating Matrimony and the Order of could be a mutual enrichment between catechumenate. They need only to be integrated into building relationships with God and with each other in Confirmation. The bishops are currently ‘ordinary’ and ‘extraordinary’ forms of the Christ. It may be having dinner together once a week, the liturgical, spiritual and pastoral life of the Catholic examining draft (‘green book’) versions of Roman rite. community which would include catechesis in areas going out for coffee, joining activities within the parish, the Order of Baptism of Children, the or participating in liturgy together. Relationships need Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster specific to the Catholic Church. Perhaps, a baptised Blessing of Oils and the Consecration of to be built and God is the master builder. immediately sent a letter to all his priests candidate who had never been instructed in any Chrism, and parts of the Liturgy of the rejecting Sarah’s proposals, saying that the Christian faith or lived as a Christian would require Perhaps, to explore common ground, candidate and Hours. Meanwhile, the rite of dedication of Mass was not the time to ‘exercise personal more extensive catechesis. companion parishioner could participate together in the a church and altar which has been preference or taste’. Within days, Pope celebration of infant baptism in the parish to remind approved by the Australian bishops is still Francis had summoned Cardinal Sarah for Flexible and Personal each other what a wonderful gift our baptism is. This in Rome awaiting confirmatio of their a private meeting, and the press office I have a background in manufacturing engineering. The experience may help them to unfold the meaning of decision. their own baptism. We have become beloved sons and issued its ‘clarification’. After citing GIRM great paradigm shift in the late twentieth century was a 299 which says that the altar should be move from ‘mass production’ to ‘mass customisation’. daughters of the Father, embraced in the loving arms of free-standing such that Mass can be The first is represented by Henry Ford who made the Jesus the light, and filled with the Holy Spirit who calls NO ‘REFORM OF THE REFORM’ celebrated facing the people ‘which is first Ford automobile: the slogan was you could have us to be prophets and members of a royal priesthood. It would appear opportune to offer desirable whenever possible’, the press any colour as long as it is black. Now, stimulated by Growing participation in the liturgical, spiritual and clarification in the light of information vast advances in technology, we have myriad choices of pastoral life of the Church brings the candidate to the release continued: Pope Francis, for his circulated in the press after a conference part, on the occasion of his visit to the makes, models and colours. One size does not fit all. I point where it is natural for them to be received with joy held in London a few days ago by believe in developing pathways that are flexible, not Dicastery for Divine Worship, expressly into the full communion of the Catholic Church. When Cardinal Sarah, prefect of the Congregation rigid. a deep connection is made, candidates experience the mentioned that the ‘ordinary’ form of the for Divine Worship (above). Cardinal grace to continue their life with Christ in the Catholic celebration of the Mass is that expressed I also firmly believe in the power of small groups where Sarah has always been rightly concerned community as beloved brothers or sisters in Christ. in the Missal promulgated by Paul VI, personal relationships flourish. Whether it be preparing about the dignity of the celebration of parents for the baptism of their infant children, or To avoid confusing these candidates with [and] the ‘extraordinary’ form… must Mass, so as to express appropriately the not take the place of the ‘ordinary’ one. couples for marriage in the Church, or unbaptised catechumens, it is a good idea not to celebrate their attitude of respect and adoration for the adults participating in the RCIA, or baptised brothers reception into full communion at the Easter Vigil, but on Eucharistic mystery. Some of his Therefore, new liturgical directives are and sisters wanting to be received into the Catholic another suitable Sunday at the parish community expressions have however been not expected from next Advent, as some Church, personal caring relationships are essential. Eucharist. This will demonstrate more clearly that incorrectly interpreted, as if they were have incorrectly inferred from some of We need to connect with these people as individuals. baptised candidates are indeed Christian believers who intended to announce new indications Cardinal Sarah’s words, and it is better For baptised Christians wanting to become Catholics, have already shared in the sacramental life of the to avoid using the expression ‘reform of Church by their baptism. Their welcome into the different to those given so far in the our first step is to welcome them, perhaps with a simple liturgical rules and in the words of the the reform’ with reference to the liturgy, rite at a Sunday Mass to introduce them to the Catholic Church is never done with a sense of triumphalism, but always with humility and with Pope regarding celebration facing the given that it may at times be a source of community and to allow the parish to extend to them people and the ordinary rite of the Mass. misunderstandings. arms of welcome. Faithful parishioners can be thanksgiving for the Christian tradition that has formed nominated to be their companions and friends. These them and led them to this point in time (RCIA 389.2). In these words, the Holy See Press Office All the above was unanimously expressed parishioners would need to be willing to give time and clearly and swiftly rejected the call made by during a recent audience granted by the  effort to establishing connections for the candidates and Fr Bryan Roe, priest of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, is a Cardinal Sarah that priests were to face Pope to the same Cardinal Prefect of the member of the Archdiocesan Catechumenate Committee receiving them into the life of the Church. Having a east (ad orientem) with their back to the Congregation for Divine Worship.

10 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 11 only liturgical requirement is the Rite of Reception of NATIONAL MEETING Baptised Christians into Full Communion with the Catholic Church within a Mass (RCIA 400-411). That is A national meeting of people involved in it! They profess a unity of faith with the Catholic liturgy is being planned for 24-26 March Church, they are received and share in the Eucharist. 2017 in Melbourne. It is a gathering of No Rite of Election, no scrutinies, no anointing with the members of the Bishops Commission for oil of catechumens, no exorcisms. This makes sense, Liturgy, National Liturgical Council, for these rites are for catechumens and catechumens National Liturgical Architecture and Art only! Board, National Liturgical Music Board, Of your own free will, you have RESPONSE TO THE EDITOR It was suggested in the workshop that candidates NLC liturgy and music consultants, and key people in celebrating Mass. He was should be treated on a case by case basis. For example, asked to be received into the full Fr Ken Howell sent this magnificent liturgy representatives of each diocese. The attempting to apply the practice of the if John, who was baptised in the Anglican tradition and communion of the catholic church. Madonna in response to the editorial in the Council and Boards hold one of their extraordinary (Tridentine) form to the has been going to Mass with his wife Mary every Sunday … in this faith you will be one last issue. It is Our Lady of the Vines meetings at the same time. It is an ordinary form of the Mass, arguing that for the last twenty years, decides he wants to become a with us for the first time at the which he found in a vineyard in France. opportunity to communicate across the having the priest and people all facing the Catholic, then it would make sense to confirm him and various entities and to review the liturgical apse was permitted, legitimate and a very eucharistic table of the Lord needs of the nation. welcome him to the table of the Lord as soon as Jesus, sign of the church’s unity. important step in reforming the liturgy. possible. However, if Betty, who was baptised in the He urged that it be implemented wherever Uniting Church and has been living by this Christian possible and as soon as possible, perhaps faith, sought to be part of the Catholic Church, some small group of friends journeying together is crucial. ICEL REVISIONS The story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus is the beginning in Advent 2016, especially in catechesis on beliefs specific to the Catholic faith would The work of revising our liturgical books model. Their hearts and minds are opened to the gift cathedrals, seminaries and large diocesan be needed before she was received into the Catholic in accord with the principles of Liturgiam events. Sarah told the conference that the Church. they have received, a journey which culminates in the breaking of the bread. Authenticam is proceeding. We recently pope had asked him to study ‘the question Certainly those who have lived as Christians should not received new editions of the Order of of the reform of the reform’ so that there be asked to undergo a full program parallel to the Small groups can be creative. The guiding principle is Celebrating Matrimony and the Order of could be a mutual enrichment between catechumenate. They need only to be integrated into building relationships with God and with each other in Confirmation. The bishops are currently ‘ordinary’ and ‘extraordinary’ forms of the Christ. It may be having dinner together once a week, the liturgical, spiritual and pastoral life of the Catholic examining draft (‘green book’) versions of Roman rite. community which would include catechesis in areas going out for coffee, joining activities within the parish, the Order of Baptism of Children, the or participating in liturgy together. Relationships need Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster specific to the Catholic Church. Perhaps, a baptised Blessing of Oils and the Consecration of to be built and God is the master builder. immediately sent a letter to all his priests candidate who had never been instructed in any Chrism, and parts of the Liturgy of the rejecting Sarah’s proposals, saying that the Christian faith or lived as a Christian would require Perhaps, to explore common ground, candidate and Hours. Meanwhile, the rite of dedication of Mass was not the time to ‘exercise personal more extensive catechesis. companion parishioner could participate together in the a church and altar which has been preference or taste’. Within days, Pope celebration of infant baptism in the parish to remind approved by the Australian bishops is still Francis had summoned Cardinal Sarah for Flexible and Personal each other what a wonderful gift our baptism is. This in Rome awaiting confirmatio of their a private meeting, and the press office I have a background in manufacturing engineering. The experience may help them to unfold the meaning of decision. their own baptism. We have become beloved sons and issued its ‘clarification’. After citing GIRM great paradigm shift in the late twentieth century was a 299 which says that the altar should be move from ‘mass production’ to ‘mass customisation’. daughters of the Father, embraced in the loving arms of free-standing such that Mass can be The first is represented by Henry Ford who made the Jesus the light, and filled with the Holy Spirit who calls NO ‘REFORM OF THE REFORM’ celebrated facing the people ‘which is first Ford automobile: the slogan was you could have us to be prophets and members of a royal priesthood. It would appear opportune to offer desirable whenever possible’, the press any colour as long as it is black. Now, stimulated by Growing participation in the liturgical, spiritual and clarification in the light of information vast advances in technology, we have myriad choices of pastoral life of the Church brings the candidate to the release continued: Pope Francis, for his circulated in the press after a conference part, on the occasion of his visit to the makes, models and colours. One size does not fit all. I point where it is natural for them to be received with joy held in London a few days ago by believe in developing pathways that are flexible, not Dicastery for Divine Worship, expressly into the full communion of the Catholic Church. When Cardinal Sarah, prefect of the Congregation rigid. a deep connection is made, candidates experience the mentioned that the ‘ordinary’ form of the for Divine Worship (above). Cardinal grace to continue their life with Christ in the Catholic celebration of the Mass is that expressed I also firmly believe in the power of small groups where Sarah has always been rightly concerned community as beloved brothers or sisters in Christ. in the Missal promulgated by Paul VI, personal relationships flourish. Whether it be preparing about the dignity of the celebration of parents for the baptism of their infant children, or To avoid confusing these candidates with [and] the ‘extraordinary’ form… must Mass, so as to express appropriately the not take the place of the ‘ordinary’ one. couples for marriage in the Church, or unbaptised catechumens, it is a good idea not to celebrate their attitude of respect and adoration for the adults participating in the RCIA, or baptised brothers reception into full communion at the Easter Vigil, but on Eucharistic mystery. Some of his Therefore, new liturgical directives are and sisters wanting to be received into the Catholic another suitable Sunday at the parish community expressions have however been not expected from next Advent, as some Church, personal caring relationships are essential. Eucharist. This will demonstrate more clearly that incorrectly interpreted, as if they were have incorrectly inferred from some of We need to connect with these people as individuals. baptised candidates are indeed Christian believers who intended to announce new indications Cardinal Sarah’s words, and it is better For baptised Christians wanting to become Catholics, have already shared in the sacramental life of the to avoid using the expression ‘reform of Church by their baptism. Their welcome into the different to those given so far in the our first step is to welcome them, perhaps with a simple liturgical rules and in the words of the the reform’ with reference to the liturgy, rite at a Sunday Mass to introduce them to the Catholic Church is never done with a sense of triumphalism, but always with humility and with Pope regarding celebration facing the given that it may at times be a source of community and to allow the parish to extend to them people and the ordinary rite of the Mass. misunderstandings. arms of welcome. Faithful parishioners can be thanksgiving for the Christian tradition that has formed nominated to be their companions and friends. These them and led them to this point in time (RCIA 389.2). In these words, the Holy See Press Office All the above was unanimously expressed parishioners would need to be willing to give time and clearly and swiftly rejected the call made by during a recent audience granted by the  effort to establishing connections for the candidates and Fr Bryan Roe, priest of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, is a Cardinal Sarah that priests were to face Pope to the same Cardinal Prefect of the member of the Archdiocesan Catechumenate Committee receiving them into the life of the Church. Having a east (ad orientem) with their back to the Congregation for Divine Worship.

10 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 11 LITURGY ASSEMBLY IN TIMOR-LESTE MANDORLA ART AWARD SYNOD OF BISHOPS 2018 CREATIONTIDE in his encyclical. Spring, the time of renewal, is the perfect time to make them The unlikely winner of the 2016 Mandorla Art Award was New The next Synod of Bishops is scheduled for Following the encyclical Laudato Si on the key intentions in our prayer. We have South Wales artist, Megan Robert. Responding to the theme of The Spring 2018. Topics have been suggested Care of our Common Home, interest established the first Friday in September as Resurrection, she painstakingly rolled up the pages of three bibles to the Pope, but no decision has yet been continues to grow in favour of a ‘season of an Ember Day to focus our stewardship of and sewed them together to make a basket. The title of the work made. Professor Andrea Grillo of creation’. The first day of our Spring, 1 creation and the World Day of Prayer on 1 references the event on the road to Emmaus: The Bread Basket at Sant’Anselmo in Rome has suggested that September, has been adopted as a World September will be a worthy companion for Emmaus – then Flesh returned to Word. After the disciples’ it might look at ordained ministry in the Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. It is it. There is scope for special prayer hearts burn within them as the stranger opens the Scriptures to Church. This could cover: suggested that the Time for Creation would services or vigils on this theme, organised them on the way, they recognise him as the risen Lord in the  the collegial exercise of the episcopate then run for five weeks until the feast of St ecumenically if possible, but we must stop breaking of the bread and he is taken from their sight. The and the restitution of the bishop’s authority Francis of Assisi on 4 October. short of dismantling the cycle of the artwork, made in a long meditative process, brings together the in matters such as liturgy – collegiality and The proposal has received the support of liturgical year and the Lectionary. Word and the Bread, expressing the mystery of presence and decentralisation have been discussed by the organisations such Catholic Earthcare absence in the disciples’ experience of the risen Christ. The basket cardinal advisory group to Pope Francis. Australia and religious orders such as the incorporates five openings which recall the five wounds which HOLY WEEK ANNIVERSARY  the formation of priests and the Columbans and Franciscans. It also has mark the body of the risen one. ecumenical dimensions. The idea was first Did you realise that this year’s celebration possibility of ordaining married men. th established in 1989 by the Eastern of Holy Week marked the 60 anniversary  the theology of the diaconate and the Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch Demetrios I of its restoration? Liturgical reform did not possibility of women deacons – Pope and is supported by his successor Patriarch begin after the Second Vatican Council. Francis has created a commission to study Bartholomew. Other Churches have After some years of experimental use of a women in the diaconate and it was treated created liturgical resources including reformed Easter Vigil, the liturgy for by the International Theological collects and readings for such a season. Palm/Passion Sunday, Holy Thursday, Commission in 2002. Good Friday and the Vigil were revised and The proposal to establish a Season of formally introduced at the end of 1955. Creation in the Catholic Church alongside For the first time at Easter 1956, the rites IN MEMORIAM Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter however were celebrated at the correct time of day is misguided. It would mean the Paul J Philibert OP with the full participation of the people destruction of the Lectionary cycle and (1936-2016) taught (not early in the morning on each day disrupt the semi-continuous reading of the pastoral theology, with just the clergy and a small Gospel and epistle; it would change the liturgy and congregation). Lost practices were meaning of a liturgical season. The spirituality in restored such as the people carrying palms, Catholic liturgical year is structured around various places the washing of feet at Mass in parish the mystery of Christ, from the For the first time, the Church in Timor-Leste has held a major including churches and people’s communion on incarnation, through the Paschal Mystery liturgy conference. In July, about 500 enthusiastic priests, religious Washington, Good Friday. The Easter Vigil was of his death and resurrection, to the and lay people came together at the seminary in Dili for the four- Berkeley, Notre celebrated during the night of Holy sending of the Spirit at Pentecost (See day conference. It addressed questions of liturgical inculturation, Dame and St Louis. Saturday with simplified rites and fewer Universal Norms on the Liturgical Year the harmonisation of liturgical practices, private devotions and the He translated and readings. These reforms prepared the way 17). liturgy, music for the liturgy and the liturgical calendar. The published the work of Yves Congar for the for the Council and the new Holy Week gathering recognised that liturgy is central to our life in Christ and English-speaking world and wrote on the Ecology, the environment and the integrity liturgy was incorporated with little revision participants resolved to undertake further formation and training Megan commented, The resurrected Jesus walking with two priesthood of the faithful. of creation are however crucial issues of into the Roman Missal of 1969-1974. so that they can learn from the mistakes of the past and promote disciples on the road to Emmaus captured my imagination, May he rest in peace. social justice, as Pope Francis has indicated good liturgical practice in the future. One of the speakers was Fr especially the part where he is recognised as he breaks the Yohanes Rusae, executive secretary of the Indonesian bishops’ bread. The world of the disciples had fallen apart, the script as commission on liturgy. ST TERESA OF CALCUTTA they knew it had come undone and, as Jesus walks with them, 1910-1997 It was hoped that the conference would mark a turning point for he takes their undone script and stitches it back together again; the local Church. Bishop Basilio do Nascimento, chairman of the the rolled up pages of death open, but in a new way... The Texts have been provided for the Timor-Leste bishops conference, said the conference was like vessel is a great metaphor for capturing both absence and celebration of St Teresa of Calcutta’s feast breaking a big stone into pieces. The next task is to go into detail presence. In trying to raise Jesus in the work by ‘stitching him on 5 September (The Holy See has not by conducting regular meetings for instance, and setting up a back together’, I also created his death by taking out each page used the spelling Kolkata). It is not liturgical agenda for Christmas, Easter and other services. It of the Bible and rolling them up so they can’t be read. known at this stage if she will be needs evaluation and profound analysis. Dioceses, he said, incorporated into the General Roman must involve basic ecclesial communities to help build cooperation. Judges (above, left to right) were Dr Petra Kayser (National Calendar and with what rank. If this Gallery of Victoria), Rev Dr Tom Elich (Liturgy Brisbane), the artist His comments gave tantalising insight into local practice: Priests happens, it will flow through to the should set a good example by dressing accordingly, wearing an Megan Robert and Professor Ted Snell (University of West Australian ordo automatically. If not, the Australia). Highly commended awards went to Camilla Loveridge God, who called the virgin Saint Teresa alb, stole and cassock. Also, there is no more funeral Mass at Australian bishops may ask that she be Over Jerusalem and Libby Byrne Resurrection: A daily to respond to the love of your Son thirsting on the Cross home, even if the deceased is a relative of a priest, nun or included in the Australian calendar. There navigation. The people’s choice award honoured Julie Davidson catechist. Funeral Masses must be done in churches, chapel or is a full set of prayers and antiphons, a with outstanding charity to the poorest of the poor, Don’t Be Afraid. grant us, we beseech you, by her intercession, at the cemetery. proper preface, three readings for the feast, For further information, see www.mandorlaart.com. readings for a votive Mass and a hymn text. to minister to Christ in our suffering brothers and sisters.

12 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 13 LITURGY ASSEMBLY IN TIMOR-LESTE MANDORLA ART AWARD SYNOD OF BISHOPS 2018 CREATIONTIDE in his encyclical. Spring, the time of renewal, is the perfect time to make them The unlikely winner of the 2016 Mandorla Art Award was New The next Synod of Bishops is scheduled for Following the encyclical Laudato Si on the key intentions in our prayer. We have South Wales artist, Megan Robert. Responding to the theme of The Spring 2018. Topics have been suggested Care of our Common Home, interest established the first Friday in September as Resurrection, she painstakingly rolled up the pages of three bibles to the Pope, but no decision has yet been continues to grow in favour of a ‘season of an Ember Day to focus our stewardship of and sewed them together to make a basket. The title of the work made. Professor Andrea Grillo of creation’. The first day of our Spring, 1 creation and the World Day of Prayer on 1 references the event on the road to Emmaus: The Bread Basket at Sant’Anselmo in Rome has suggested that September, has been adopted as a World September will be a worthy companion for Emmaus – then Flesh returned to Word. After the disciples’ it might look at ordained ministry in the Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. It is it. There is scope for special prayer hearts burn within them as the stranger opens the Scriptures to Church. This could cover: suggested that the Time for Creation would services or vigils on this theme, organised them on the way, they recognise him as the risen Lord in the  the collegial exercise of the episcopate then run for five weeks until the feast of St ecumenically if possible, but we must stop breaking of the bread and he is taken from their sight. The and the restitution of the bishop’s authority Francis of Assisi on 4 October. short of dismantling the cycle of the artwork, made in a long meditative process, brings together the in matters such as liturgy – collegiality and The proposal has received the support of liturgical year and the Lectionary. Word and the Bread, expressing the mystery of presence and decentralisation have been discussed by the organisations such Catholic Earthcare absence in the disciples’ experience of the risen Christ. The basket cardinal advisory group to Pope Francis. Australia and religious orders such as the incorporates five openings which recall the five wounds which HOLY WEEK ANNIVERSARY  the formation of priests and the Columbans and Franciscans. It also has mark the body of the risen one. ecumenical dimensions. The idea was first Did you realise that this year’s celebration possibility of ordaining married men. th established in 1989 by the Eastern of Holy Week marked the 60 anniversary  the theology of the diaconate and the Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch Demetrios I of its restoration? Liturgical reform did not possibility of women deacons – Pope and is supported by his successor Patriarch begin after the Second Vatican Council. Francis has created a commission to study Bartholomew. Other Churches have After some years of experimental use of a women in the diaconate and it was treated created liturgical resources including reformed Easter Vigil, the liturgy for by the International Theological collects and readings for such a season. Palm/Passion Sunday, Holy Thursday, Commission in 2002. Good Friday and the Vigil were revised and The proposal to establish a Season of formally introduced at the end of 1955. Creation in the Catholic Church alongside For the first time at Easter 1956, the rites IN MEMORIAM Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter however were celebrated at the correct time of day is misguided. It would mean the Paul J Philibert OP with the full participation of the people destruction of the Lectionary cycle and (1936-2016) taught (not early in the morning on each day disrupt the semi-continuous reading of the pastoral theology, with just the clergy and a small Gospel and epistle; it would change the liturgy and congregation). Lost practices were meaning of a liturgical season. The spirituality in restored such as the people carrying palms, Catholic liturgical year is structured around various places the washing of feet at Mass in parish the mystery of Christ, from the For the first time, the Church in Timor-Leste has held a major including churches and people’s communion on incarnation, through the Paschal Mystery liturgy conference. In July, about 500 enthusiastic priests, religious Washington, Good Friday. The Easter Vigil was of his death and resurrection, to the and lay people came together at the seminary in Dili for the four- Berkeley, Notre celebrated during the night of Holy sending of the Spirit at Pentecost (See day conference. It addressed questions of liturgical inculturation, Dame and St Louis. Saturday with simplified rites and fewer Universal Norms on the Liturgical Year the harmonisation of liturgical practices, private devotions and the He translated and readings. These reforms prepared the way 17). liturgy, music for the liturgy and the liturgical calendar. The published the work of Yves Congar for the for the Council and the new Holy Week gathering recognised that liturgy is central to our life in Christ and English-speaking world and wrote on the Ecology, the environment and the integrity liturgy was incorporated with little revision participants resolved to undertake further formation and training Megan commented, The resurrected Jesus walking with two priesthood of the faithful. of creation are however crucial issues of into the Roman Missal of 1969-1974. so that they can learn from the mistakes of the past and promote disciples on the road to Emmaus captured my imagination, May he rest in peace. social justice, as Pope Francis has indicated good liturgical practice in the future. One of the speakers was Fr especially the part where he is recognised as he breaks the Yohanes Rusae, executive secretary of the Indonesian bishops’ bread. The world of the disciples had fallen apart, the script as commission on liturgy. ST TERESA OF CALCUTTA they knew it had come undone and, as Jesus walks with them, 1910-1997 It was hoped that the conference would mark a turning point for he takes their undone script and stitches it back together again; the local Church. Bishop Basilio do Nascimento, chairman of the the rolled up pages of death open, but in a new way... The Texts have been provided for the Timor-Leste bishops conference, said the conference was like vessel is a great metaphor for capturing both absence and celebration of St Teresa of Calcutta’s feast breaking a big stone into pieces. The next task is to go into detail presence. In trying to raise Jesus in the work by ‘stitching him on 5 September (The Holy See has not by conducting regular meetings for instance, and setting up a back together’, I also created his death by taking out each page used the spelling Kolkata). It is not liturgical agenda for Christmas, Easter and other services. It of the Bible and rolling them up so they can’t be read. known at this stage if she will be needs evaluation and profound analysis. Dioceses, he said, incorporated into the General Roman must involve basic ecclesial communities to help build cooperation. Judges (above, left to right) were Dr Petra Kayser (National Calendar and with what rank. If this Gallery of Victoria), Rev Dr Tom Elich (Liturgy Brisbane), the artist His comments gave tantalising insight into local practice: Priests happens, it will flow through to the should set a good example by dressing accordingly, wearing an Megan Robert and Professor Ted Snell (University of West Australian ordo automatically. If not, the Australia). Highly commended awards went to Camilla Loveridge God, who called the virgin Saint Teresa alb, stole and cassock. Also, there is no more funeral Mass at Australian bishops may ask that she be Over Jerusalem and Libby Byrne Resurrection: A daily to respond to the love of your Son thirsting on the Cross home, even if the deceased is a relative of a priest, nun or included in the Australian calendar. There navigation. The people’s choice award honoured Julie Davidson catechist. Funeral Masses must be done in churches, chapel or is a full set of prayers and antiphons, a with outstanding charity to the poorest of the poor, Don’t Be Afraid. grant us, we beseech you, by her intercession, at the cemetery. proper preface, three readings for the feast, For further information, see www.mandorlaart.com. readings for a votive Mass and a hymn text. to minister to Christ in our suffering brothers and sisters.

12 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 13 Donna M Eschenauer, catechesis, because the Eucharist is NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL essentially about our response to the call to be Eucharist for each other (p. 61). Diocese of Créteil on the outskirts of Paris First Communion The parents’ session aims to give renewed Architects: Architecture-Studio (2015) Liturgies: Preparing First- awareness that they should not depend The new nave and tower were added to the existing diocesan centre. Class First Celebrations entirely on others to teach their children (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 2014) 103 pp and help them discover their need to acquire the ‘tools’ to make formation in faith part of their everyday life (p. 64). It BY JAMES CRONIN must go beyond the practicalities of the actual day – dress, medals, seating There is a widespread preoccupation MY opinion is that if the parents are arrangements, with banners, attire, photography, bringing their children to Mass regularly, photography – even certificates, and special performances by no sacramental preparation program is though these might (p. 88). Ain’t that the truth! required and, if not, no program will the children be the parents’ focus. suffice. I was pleased to note that this The danger is that we turn the liturgy into It’s a challenge, but author places Sunday Mass at the centre: a performance. We should avoid the ‘every this book gave me Although the role of the family never child wins a prize’ mentality, providing new heart. loses its significance for formation in each one with a role or ministry in the first faith, the parish celebration of the communion Mass. Trust the liturgy; let At the final Eucharist teaches children, week after the symbols and words speak. Tell the rehearsal, we are week, what it means to be a baptised stories of old with a new enthusiasm. Let advised to reiterate member of the Church; what it means to the homily open new doors of possibility. the importance of be in communion with one another; Allow moments of silence to whisper in participation in the liturgy what it means to be one with Christ (p. each heart, ‘God is here’. Fill the space and gently remind families that the Mass 36). To keep the balance, however, when with music that bathes the assembly with for first communion is primarily about outlining the kind of parents’ night one wonder and awe. Help the assembly coming together to pray (p. 64). Of might run before first communion, she appreciate that they are gathered together course, a great source of distraction from advises meeting people where they are on in a unique way (p. 87). So we avoid the prayer is photography. She warns: It may their spiritual journey without being fripperies and concentrate on the essentials be worth noting that once a person clicks judgmental or condescending (p. 63). In of prayer, music, hospitality and a camera, they become disengaged from my better moments, I too recognise sin in recollection. Children come to know the the prayer ...preoccupation with myself, and wonder at the goodness of Lord in the midst of a community of cameras and other devices actually many who never attend church. believers who gather on Sunday to give makes one miss out on the event ...it is best to hold the memory in one’s heart (p. This is a short well-written book. The text thanks and praise to God. ...one of the 67). My own experience is that a solemn is broken up with many headings and this most powerful ways to show children who request for ‘no photos during the makes easily accessible the author’s rich we are as Roman Catholics is to place ceremony’, coupled with a promise for theology and pastoral experience. It will liturgy at the centre of their catechesis, group and individual photos after the final send parishes back to basics. particularly as they prepare to celebrate their first communion (p. 47). song, usually does the trick. The reason Sunday Mass is central to both The real beauty of this book is that it gives sacramental preparation and celebration is Having cut her teeth on the RCIA during a range of perspectives on first that we learn how to do liturgy through years of parish ministry, Eschenauer NEW PUBLICATIONS FOR 2017 communion: pastoral, theological and repeated participation in it (p. 57). situates first communion at the apex of [email protected] initiation. A careful reading of the historical. It is interesting to learn that Sacramental preparation should be based first communion in the Western churches LITURGY BRISBANE on breaking open the liturgical rites introduction of this ritual, the fullest flowering of the reform of Vatican II, has had a checkered career ever since the themselves, the ritual symbols and disintegration of the ancient format now actions that spark the religious shows that head, heart, and behaviour must all be engaged to inculcate real restored in the RCIA, and that there has imagination (p. 58). I remember once a never been an official ritual for first catechesis on the Mass in which each of us change. Only community and prayer fan the emotions, and only working alongside communion as for other sacraments. The in turn held and silently prayed over the practice of children dressing up and sitting empty chalice, figuratively filling it with others to relieve suffering and seek justice can make us fit for heaven. together as a group was meant to make our hopes, dreams and disappointments. the day memorable for the children and When the chalice was shown and offered Given the number of non-practising inspiring for the adults. But this can easily at the next Mass, the effect was powerful. parents, the author’s outline of a parent become sentimental and superficial. First We experienced offering not only through night is hopeful and helpful. Eschenauer communion liturgies should echo the the hands of the priest but also with him, advocates using the foot-washing scene in deep meaning of what it means to be a and so learned to offer ourselves... (SC John’s Gospel as part of the prior member of the Body of Christ (p. 32). 48).

14 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 15 Donna M Eschenauer, catechesis, because the Eucharist is NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL essentially about our response to the call to be Eucharist for each other (p. 61). Diocese of Créteil on the outskirts of Paris First Communion The parents’ session aims to give renewed Architects: Architecture-Studio (2015) Liturgies: Preparing First- awareness that they should not depend The new nave and tower were added to the existing diocesan centre. Class First Celebrations entirely on others to teach their children (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 2014) 103 pp and help them discover their need to acquire the ‘tools’ to make formation in faith part of their everyday life (p. 64). It BY JAMES CRONIN must go beyond the practicalities of the actual day – dress, medals, seating There is a widespread preoccupation MY opinion is that if the parents are arrangements, with banners, attire, photography, bringing their children to Mass regularly, photography – even certificates, and special performances by no sacramental preparation program is though these might (p. 88). Ain’t that the truth! required and, if not, no program will the children be the parents’ focus. suffice. I was pleased to note that this The danger is that we turn the liturgy into It’s a challenge, but author places Sunday Mass at the centre: a performance. We should avoid the ‘every this book gave me Although the role of the family never child wins a prize’ mentality, providing new heart. loses its significance for formation in each one with a role or ministry in the first faith, the parish celebration of the communion Mass. Trust the liturgy; let At the final Eucharist teaches children, week after the symbols and words speak. Tell the rehearsal, we are week, what it means to be a baptised stories of old with a new enthusiasm. Let advised to reiterate member of the Church; what it means to the homily open new doors of possibility. the importance of be in communion with one another; Allow moments of silence to whisper in participation in the liturgy what it means to be one with Christ (p. each heart, ‘God is here’. Fill the space and gently remind families that the Mass 36). To keep the balance, however, when with music that bathes the assembly with for first communion is primarily about outlining the kind of parents’ night one wonder and awe. Help the assembly coming together to pray (p. 64). Of might run before first communion, she appreciate that they are gathered together course, a great source of distraction from advises meeting people where they are on in a unique way (p. 87). So we avoid the prayer is photography. She warns: It may their spiritual journey without being fripperies and concentrate on the essentials be worth noting that once a person clicks judgmental or condescending (p. 63). In of prayer, music, hospitality and a camera, they become disengaged from my better moments, I too recognise sin in recollection. Children come to know the the prayer ...preoccupation with myself, and wonder at the goodness of Lord in the midst of a community of cameras and other devices actually many who never attend church. believers who gather on Sunday to give makes one miss out on the event ...it is best to hold the memory in one’s heart (p. This is a short well-written book. The text thanks and praise to God. ...one of the 67). My own experience is that a solemn is broken up with many headings and this most powerful ways to show children who request for ‘no photos during the makes easily accessible the author’s rich we are as Roman Catholics is to place ceremony’, coupled with a promise for theology and pastoral experience. It will liturgy at the centre of their catechesis, group and individual photos after the final send parishes back to basics. particularly as they prepare to celebrate their first communion (p. 47). song, usually does the trick. The reason Sunday Mass is central to both The real beauty of this book is that it gives sacramental preparation and celebration is Having cut her teeth on the RCIA during a range of perspectives on first that we learn how to do liturgy through years of parish ministry, Eschenauer NEW PUBLICATIONS FOR 2017 communion: pastoral, theological and repeated participation in it (p. 57). situates first communion at the apex of [email protected] initiation. A careful reading of the historical. It is interesting to learn that Sacramental preparation should be based first communion in the Western churches LITURGY BRISBANE on breaking open the liturgical rites introduction of this ritual, the fullest flowering of the reform of Vatican II, has had a checkered career ever since the themselves, the ritual symbols and disintegration of the ancient format now actions that spark the religious shows that head, heart, and behaviour must all be engaged to inculcate real restored in the RCIA, and that there has imagination (p. 58). I remember once a never been an official ritual for first catechesis on the Mass in which each of us change. Only community and prayer fan the emotions, and only working alongside communion as for other sacraments. The in turn held and silently prayed over the practice of children dressing up and sitting empty chalice, figuratively filling it with others to relieve suffering and seek justice can make us fit for heaven. together as a group was meant to make our hopes, dreams and disappointments. the day memorable for the children and When the chalice was shown and offered Given the number of non-practising inspiring for the adults. But this can easily at the next Mass, the effect was powerful. parents, the author’s outline of a parent become sentimental and superficial. First We experienced offering not only through night is hopeful and helpful. Eschenauer communion liturgies should echo the the hands of the priest but also with him, advocates using the foot-washing scene in deep meaning of what it means to be a and so learned to offer ourselves... (SC John’s Gospel as part of the prior member of the Body of Christ (p. 32). 48).

14 LITURGY NEWS September 2016 September 2016 LITURGY NEWS 15 OUR COVER Children’s Art for the Jubilee Year of Mercy We sing at Mass: “Be merciful, as God is merciful to you”. No parable encourages us to show the The Good merciful face of God to one Samaritan another as powerfully as the story of the Good Samaritan. Love and mercy overcome not only our own self- centredness, but also the great divisions in society. 2015 Grade 4 students from Sts Peter and Paul, Bulimba help us visualise this parable. On the front cover, ANNA OSTWALD focusses on the central relationship between the wounded traveller and the Samaritan. The flasks of oil and the donkey on the road show how the story will unfold. On this page KAILA COLLINS offers us a moving portrait of the miserable victim and a happy Samaritan. The sun of mercy rises in the background. TOM DRUVE shows the bleeding traveller and the hand of the robber snatching his bag. This picture of the man’s vulnerability challenges the viewer directly to step in and become the good Samaritan.

IN THIS ISSUE ... EDITORIAL BOARD Rev Dr Tom Elich (editor) 2 Editor: Nailing it Sr Maree Byron OSU 3 Liturgy in Nursing Homes Mrs Elizabeth Harrington 6 Returning Home from World Youth Day Ms Julie Moran 8 The Epiphany Blessing Sr Ursula O’Rourke SGS  LITURGY PLANNING CALENDAR 2017 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY Mr James Robinson 9 Welcoming Baptised Christians Mrs Clare Schwantes 11 News Mrs Jeanette Smyth 15 Books: First Communion Liturgies Articles for publication are welcome. 16 Our Cover: The Good Samaritan We reserve the right to edit material Volume 46 Number 3 in consultation with the author. September 2016 CONTACT Liturgy News SUBSCRIPTIONS GPO Box 282, Brisbane Australia 4001 Imprimatur:  Mark Coleridge DD DSS Mrs Christy Gracias Telephone (07) 3324 3314 Archbishop of Brisbane Magazine by Mail $27 per year Facsimile (07) 3324 3313 (overseas $34) © Liturgy Brisbane. All rights reserved [email protected] Magazine by Email $22 per year ISSN 1039-0464 www.liturgybrisbane.net.au

16 LITURGY NEWS September 2016