JOHN HALDANE RICHARD PURDEN COMMUNITY OF on and on Henrik THE RISEN CHRIST Evangelii Larsson in his welcomed into Gaudium new book the Church Page 12 Page 8 Page 3

No 5547 VISIT YOUR NATIONAL NEWSPAPER ONLINE AT WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK Friday December 6 2013 | £1

Catholics called to help plan for the future

GLASGOW Archdiocese has launched a consultation with its parishioners to find out how to best use its resources in the decades to come. Though the process will involve amalgamations and closures of some parishes, an archdiocesan spokesman said the intention was to find out how to best create ‘vibrant parishes and communities’ and no decisions have yet been made. Ronnie Convery, director of communications for Glasgow Archdiocese, said the move was being driven by the city’s falling population and a shift in where Catholics live in Glasgow. “It is a consultation about re- arranging our resources to match our buildings and priests to where people are,” he said. “At the moment, it’s largely based on a model from the 1950s and the emergence of new housing schemes all over the city. These areas grew in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s but by the ’80s they were beginning to depopulate, so we ended up with areas with churches but virtually no population, and the population has moved to another area of the city where it’s bursting at the seams.” Glasgow mourns after tragedy Mr Convery said the Church was clarifying where its resources lay I presently and where they needed to Pope sends message of support after police helicopter crash; archdiocese helps community be in the future. “We want to get By Ian Dunn (Above) Nine candles have been placed on the whole archdiocese thinking the altar of St Andrew’s Cathedral, Glasgow, about how to reconfigure for the in memory of Clutha Vaults (inset) 21st century,” he added. “The pop- THE Holy Father this week led trib- helicopter tragedy victims Robert Jenkins, ulation of the city of Glasgow has utes to the people of Glasgow as the 61, Mark O’Prey, 44, Colin Gibson, 33, John dropped from 1.1 million to city rallied to cope with the fatal McGarrigle, 57, Samuel McGhee, 56, Gary 585,000 in the past 40 years.” police helicopter crash in to the Arthur, 48, and the helicopter pilot David Last Sunday, parishioners across Clutha Vaults bar last Friday, which Traill, 51, and PCs Kirsty Nelis, 36, and Tony the archdiocese were urged to take claimed nine lives. Collins, 43. Philip Tartaglia home a leaflet, called This Affects expressed his ‘closeness’ welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Nick You, which asks them to help plan to Glaswegians in a message to Arch- Clegg, Scottish Secretary Alistair the future of the archdiocese. bishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow on Carmichael and Gordon Matheson, leader of There are 200,000 Catholics in Monday. Catholic chaplains and priests Glasgow City Council, along with Fr Jim the wider archdiocesan area, which from St Andrew’s Cathedral in the city, Thomson and the Rev Gordon Armstrong has 93 parishes and 200 priests. which is only 400m from the crash site, Church of Scotland, chaplains to Scottish Fire and Rescue, on Tuesday The leaflet asks people to think have been comforting and consoling the PICS: PAUL McSHERRY about their local and what bereaved, members of the emergency would be the ideal set-up and asks: services and the public since the accident. in how we respond to adversity and UK, Archbishop Antonio Mennini. ‘when was the last time you saw Archbishop Tartaglia celebrated a tragedy,” Mr Salmond said on Saturday “Having learned the sad news of the relatives and the entire community of your church packed?’ memorial Mass last Saturday, at the before praising the emergency services. tragic accident which occurred in Glas- Glasgow in these moments of distress “None of us like change, but it is Clydeside cathedral, whose administra- Mr Clegg also paid tribute to the gow when a police helicopter crashed and sadness.” coming and we should try to shape it tor, Mgr Chris McElroy, has been help- emergency services who have responded into Clutha Vaults pub, close to the rather than being forced to react by ing the local people come to terms with to the tragedy, including Fire Service cathedral, causing the death of several Archbishop circumstances,” the leaflet reads. the tragedy. The funeral of one the police chaplain Fr Jim Thomson, who was pres- people and numerous injured, I would “My heart, and I’m sure your heart, goes officers who died in the crash is due to ent at the crash site in the hours following like hereby to convey to you, as Arch- out to all those who have been affected I Continued on page 8 take place at the cathedral next week. the disaster. Shadow Secretary of State bishop of Glasgow, the closeness of the by this tragic accident, those who have Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg for International Development Jim Mur- Holy Father as well as my most sincere very sadly lost their lives, those who have visited St Andrew’s Cathedral on Tues- phy, MP for East Renfrewshire, was one sympathy in these difficult moments,” been injured and those who have been day, the latest politician to come to the of the nearby civilians who rushed to the the Pope’s message reads. bereaved,” Archbishop Tartaglia said. crash site area, which First Minister Alex accident scene to help on the night. “I assure you of my prayers for those He added that it may have been ‘a Salmond visited on St Andrew’s Day. who have tragically lost their lives or miracle’ that the crashed helicopter did not “This is a black day for Glasgow and Papal support have been injured as well as their rela- explode and harm more people. Scotland but it’s also St Andrew’s Day, and The Pope sent his support to Archbishop tives. May the Lord grant eternal rest to it’s a day we can take pride and courage Tartaglia through the Papal Nuncio to the those who have died and comfort their I Continued on page 7

SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT I tel 0141 221 4956 I fax 0141 221 4546 I e-mail [email protected] 2 WHAT’S ON SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013

Last Friday’s feast day Mass provided the perfect opportunity for staff and pupils of St Andrew’s Primary School, Falkirk, to welcome Archbishop Leo Cushley to their school for What’s On the first time since his Episcopal appointment for St Andrews and A weekly guide to upcoming Church events Edinburgh.The archbishop celebrated the feast day Mass for the school community SUNDAY DECEMBER 8 TUESDAY DECEMBER 10 alongside Mgr Philip Kerr, Fr I Monthly African Mass, I St Andrew’s Foundation Simon Hughes and Fr John 12.30pm, St Columba’s for Catholic Teacher Educa- Deighan. Staff and pupils, Church, Aberdeen. For fur- tion, seminar given by including Catherine Devlin, St ther information contact Vin- Josephine Smith, principal Andrew’s headteacher, were cent Amu by telephone on: teacher of religious educa- delighted that the archbishop 07855122216 or by email at: tion at St Andrew’s Second- could join them for the feast day Vincent.amu@ ary School, Glasgow, on celebrations, and provided their btinternet.com or Divine guest with a welcome party on Keeping Liturgical Forma- his arrival Ikenwilo on 07917 714307 tion Moving. The seminar PIC: PAUL McSHERRY or at: [email protected] begins at 5pm in Room 433 I Glasgow’s Filipino com- of the St Andrew’s Building, munity are offering a Mass Glasgow University. for victims of the recent typhoon in the Philippines. WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 11 Pupils from Paisley’s St The Mass, celebrated by I Fire.Cloud ADVENTure Andrew’s Academy packed Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, evening, 7.15pm, Our Holy into the town’s St Mirin’s will take place at 3pm at St Redeemer Church, Clyde- Cathedral last Friday as Aloysius’ Church, Garnethill, bank. An evening of music, they celebrated Mass for Glasgow, all are welcome to prayer, Eucharistic Adora- the feast of their patron attend. Tea/coffee will be tion, peace and company to .The Mass was an served after Mass. prepare the heart and spirit emotional occasion for Tony I The Academy of Sacred for Christmas. To find out Quinn, headteacher at St Andrew’s for the past 18 Music will be joining the more about ADVENTure or years, who spoke at the end Eastwood Choral Singers to bring a group from your of the service about his and St Patrick’s Ensemble school/parish to the evening, impending retirement. Fr for a special performance of email: enquiries@fire- Britten’s St Nicholas Can- cloud.org. Stephen Baillie, Mgr John I Tormey and Mgr Willie tata, conducted by Alan Strathclyde University Diamond celebrated the St Tavener, 3.30pm, St Mar- Chamber Choir candlelit Andrew’s Day Mass, which garet’s Episcopal Church, carol service, 7.30pm at St was attended by Provost Newlands, Glasgow. Aloysius’ Church, Garnethill, Anne Hall of Renfrewshire I St Andrews and Edinburgh Glasgow. Tickets cost £8, £5 Council, Jaqueline Henry, Archdiocesan Youth for for concessions. education convener, and a Lourdes meeting. Informa- number of guests and tion will be given on the THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 friends of the school 2014 youth pilgrimage to I Carol Concert, CSU community Lourdes. The event, which Choir, 6.30pm, St Albert’s PIC: PAUL McSHERRY takes place at St Joseph’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Edin- Convent, Edinburgh, will burgh. Entrance is by dona- begin with a carol service at tion and all proceeds go to St 3pm followed by the meeting Catharine’s Mercy Centre, GLASGOW LOURDES HOSPITALITE at 4pm. For further informa- Lauriston, Edinburgh. tion, contact: youthforlour- I Dinner for Our Lady’s Glasgow Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage [email protected] or High School, Motherwell’s 18th – 25th July 2014 telephone Kris, on: 07747 Former Pupils Association, 867003. 7.30pm, Dalziel Park Hotel, I Stations of the Nativity, Motherwell. Professor Tom The Glasgow Pilgrimage welcomes 6pm, St Patrick’s Church, Devine will be guest speaker, applications to join us in July 2014 in Cowgate, Edinburgh. all welcome to attend. Tick- Pilgrimage. I Candle-lit Mass and evan- ets cost £30, for further Don’t let disability, age or in8rmity gelisation event, St Mary’s information or to book tick- stop you. Help is at hand. Cathedral, Edinburgh. The ets, contact Duncan Cameron Every case is considered by our event, commencing at by telephone on: 01698 medical team. 7.30pm will be led by The 426488 Seekers, Edinburgh’s young A former pilgrim said: “Being part adult group. Following the FRIDAY DECEMBER 13 of Glasgow pilgrimage is de8nitely Mass, a candle-lit evangeli- I Mass at 7pm marking the one of the best experiences of my sation event will take place, 40th anniversary of St Lucy’s life.” including Exposition of the Church, Cumbernauld. The If you want to bene8t from the Blessed Sacrament until Mass will be celebrated by experience of Lourdes please contact: 11pm. Archbishop Philip Tartaglia. Mrs Agnes Findlay, Emeritus bishop meets with MONDAY DECEMBER 9 SATURDAY DECEMBER 14 5 CroftheadDrive, I Taize Prayers in Advent, I Aberdeen African Catholic Lennoxtoun, G66 7HP Dunkeld academics, officials Tel: 01360 312676 7pm-7.40pm at Immaculate Ladies end of year party. St Conception Church, Mary- Mary’s Cathedral, Aberdeen, Pilgrims will stay in the Accueil BISHOP Emeritus Vincent authorities in Dunkeld Diocese, hill, Glasgow. Runs each 3pm-5pm. For further Notre Dame under the care of the Logan of Dunkeld recently including Perth and Kinross and Monday up to and including details, contact Ngozi Amu: Lourdes Hospitalite. Price is approx welcomed representatives Clackmannanshire Council. December 23. 07791294609, Stephanie £625 (inctaxes) pp for 7 nights full from civic and academic life A number of local MPs and I Catholicism, Adult Forma- Okoye: 07737470036, Ogo board. from across the diocese to MSPs were also present at the tion programme based on Fr Ikenwilo: 07727105069, Please note: Closing date for return Dundee’s St Andrew’s Mass, standing alongside repre- Robert Barron’s DVD series, Thelma Osula: of applications is 25th March, 2014. Cathedral. sentatives from other churches, session three, 7.30pm, Christ 07908329724, or email: Bishop Logan was the princi- members of the emergency serv- Price does not include insurance. the King Church hall aberdeenafricancatholi- Terms andconditionsapply. pal celebrant of Mass for the ices and education establish- (upper), Glasgow. Tea and [email protected] dignitaries, at which he was ments. coffee will be provided. I Christmas with The joined by Canon Michael Mil- I St Andrews and Edinburgh Wakes, Irish folk band, at St ton, St Andrew’s Cathedral (Front row, left to right) John Sweeney Archdiocesan Children’s Mary’s Church hall, Salt- Administrator, Fr Paul Capaldi, MSP and Mrs Sweeney,Tina Murphy, Liturgy workshop, 7.30pm, coats. Concert will begin at EWTN - THE CATHOLIC SATELLITE CHANNEL of St Andrews and Edinburgh Provost of Clackmannanshire Council, St Martin of Tours, Tranent. 8pm. Tickets, costing £8, The perfect Christian present Archdiocese, and Cllr Archie MacLellan, Maureen To register, email: includes a light supper, are Michael Carrie. MacLellan, Bishop Logan, Bishop patricia.carroll@staned available from Stephen Tel: SAS 0141 774 5000 or 07971 514 703 Lord Provost Bob Duncan Emeritus of Dunkeld, Bishop Nigel .org.uk or telephone: 0131 Cavani. To book call: 01294 and Lady Provost Brenda Dun- Peyton, Episcopal Bishop of Brechin, 623 8942 464638. for our special offer can were among those present Lady Provost Benda Duncan, Lord representing Dundee City Coun- Provost Bob Duncan, depute Lord - SCOTLAND’S CATHOLIC SATELLITE COMPANY Provost Christina Roberts, Mr Roberts, E-mail [email protected] SAS cil, while there were also repre- and Anne Preyton sentatives from other local WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER NEWS 3 Reaction to Pope’s new way Church recognises lay community of ‘speaking to the Church’ POPE Francis’ apostolic structures; the need for parishes By Martin Dunlop exhortation, Evangelii to become more lively and Gaudium (The Joy of the active; the need to challenge ARCHBISHOP Philip Tartaglia Gospel), which sets out his unjust economic structures; a signed a decree last Thursday recog- vision for the Church has renewed opposition to abortion nising the Community of the Risen received a warm welcome in accompanied by support for Christ as a private association of the Scotland. women facing crisis pregnancy Faithful within Glasgow Archdiocese. The Holy Father wrote the and respect for other religions,” Members of the community, which has new document in response to he said. “For priests there is a its roots in the Charismatic Renewal the October 2012 Synod of strong appeal to be fully identi- Movement, were delighted to welcome Bishops on the New Evangeli- fied with their vocation, to be Archbishop Tartaglia and his predecessor sation, and in it he calls for a ever more available to their as Archbishop of Glasgow, Archbishop more decentralised Church, one people, to prepare well in their Emeritus Mario Conti, along with a num- which is ‘bruised, hurting and sermons, to throw open the ber of clergy and guests to their headquar- dirty because it has been out on doors of our churches and to be ters in Glasgow’s south side for the the streets.’ dispensers of mercy in the con- evening of celebration. Archbishop Phillip Tartaglia, fessional.” David and Margaret McGill, who were president of the Bishops’ Con- Archbishop Leo Cushley of presented with Archdiocesan medals at ference of Scotland said he St Andrews and Edinburgh con- last Thursday’s Mass, co-founded The believed it was ‘not only a new curred, saying ‘in his exhorta- Community of the Risen Christ in January document, it is a new way of tion, Pope Francis draws our 1981. The couple had attended their first the Pope speaking to the attention to the Gospel message Charismatic prayer meeting in 1975 and Archbishop Philip Tartaglia officially recognised Church.’ with his own conviction, sincer- soon experienced the ‘ of the Holy Govanhill’s Community of the Risen Christ as a “The language is simple and ity and joy.’ Spirit.’ private association of the Faithful within direct, he speaks directly to Glasgow Archdiocese on November 28, much “His enthusiasm for living Reflecting on those early days, Mr to the delight of founding members David and people in their everyday lives, the Good News and bringing it McGill said: “We knew there was more Margaret McGill (left) with Tartaglia and in doing so he expresses to others is refreshing and con- God wanted to do with us and we knew it and Conti PICS: PAUL McSHERRY the eternal truths of faith in a tagious,” Archbishop Cushley had to do with community.” new and winning way,” he said. added. The goal of the Community of the Risen “The Holy Father is propos- John Smeaton, director of the Christ is to have faith-filled Christians liv- ing orthodox Catholic doctrine Society for the Protection of ing in community experiencing the full attend their own parishes and work in sec- in a new and pastorally creative Unborn Children, said the life of the Holy Spirit. ular employment. They do, however, com- way. That is his great gift and exhortation also affirmed a As John Jackson, senior co-ordinator of dren of community members making adult mit to attending prayer meetings, that is the great value of this powerful pro-life message. the Community of the Risen Christ, high- commitments to the community.” participate in faith sharing groups and con- new document.” “Pope Francis calls for a bold lighted, many difficulties beset the Chris- Archbishop Tartaglia said that it was tribute some of their time and money to Archbishop Tartaglia said self-examination by Catholics tian in today’s western society, ‘with fewer ‘both a joy and an honour’ to be present move forward the community’s objectives. there was a huge amount to of how consistent their lives are Catholics attending Mass and many with the community at last Thursday’s cel- “We see God acting in similar ways in take away from the exhortation with the Gospel and with the unclear about doctrine and morality.’ ebration. many other Church movements and organ- as it is ‘vast in its range of Church’s mission,” he said. “The function of our particular Group The archbishop said it was a time to isations,” Mr Jackson said. “We were topics.’ “So it is incumbent upon Apostolate is the sanctification of its mem- ‘rejoice that you, as a community, can encouraged to see and hear faith filled “But some of the most Catholics to both believe and bers and the evangelisation of the sur- praise the Lord with such fervour’ and Catholics from all around Scotland wit- important messages I take out spread those messages which rounding secular society,” Mr Jackson added that the young people present were ness to their faith in Jesus Christ during of the document are—the desire are contingent on the Gospel of said. “It is to bear witness to the sanctity of ‘a sign of vitality for the Church.’ the visit of Pope Benedict XVI. We are that all Christians renew their Life, such as the injustice of all marriage and family life. It includes stand- “Go forward in Christ, in the Spirit and excited about the way God is moving in personal encounter with Jesus abortions, the wrongness of ing for Christian truth and promoting unity in the mission of evangelisation,” he our Church at this time, especially for the Christ; the assurance that God euthanasia.” among Christians. Our communities are encouraged community members. future lives of our young people.” never tires of forgiving us; the necessarily trans-generational and much Members of the Community of the need for all of us to evangelise I Professor John Haldane on of the growth in numbers comes from chil- Risen Christ live in their own homes, I [email protected] in our own environment; the Pope Francis and Evangelii need for a reform of Church Gaudium, see page 12

THE vast majority of Scots will help to change someone’s life. believe Christmas is too Think Christmas is too materialistic? SCIAF offers another way The research of Scottish opin- materialistic according to a ion was undertaken with 1225 new survey. Fund (SCIAF) launches a drive to to spread joy rather than just spread a special gift card and fridge mag- disasters in some of the poorest adults by YouGov on behalf of More than 80 per cent of promote its ethical Real Gifts in the cash,” she said. “SCIAF wants net to pass on to their loved one.” countries in the world. When Progressive Partnership. Scots believe Christmas has the run up to Christmas which to offer a better way of giving, our SCIAF provides practical and someone buys a Real Gift, SCIAF become too focused on acquisi- help to provide practical aid to Real Gifts go directly to helping long term aid to people whose will send the money they have I To buy SCIAF Christmas Real tion and money according to people in some of the poorest people in need in a developing lives have been ravaged by paid directly to a project inAfrica, Gifts visit: www.sciaf.org.uk new research released by SCIAF countries in the world. The range country. The giver also receives poverty, war, disease and natural Asia or Latin America where it /realgifts or call 0141 354 5555. as it launches its ethical Christ- of gifts include safe water for five mas Real Gifts aimed at helping families, essential medicines, and people in developing countries. shelter for a family, as well as From the more than 1200 Scots more traditional gifts such as surveyed, 82 per cent agreed or chickens, goats, and pigs. Money JOE WALSH TOURS Mancunia strongly agreed that ‘Christmas raised from the gifts is given to has become too materialistic’ related projects in Africa, accord- OFFICIAL TOUR OPERATOR OF GLASGOW, The Pilgrimage Specialists whilst this figure rose to 91 per ing to Asia and Latin America. DUNKELD & GALLOWAY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGES TO LOURDES cent for people aged 55 and over. Ann Ward , SCIAF’s education Christmas in Lourdes A majority of Scots, 51 per cent, and fundraising manager, said that PLAN YOUR 2014 GROUP OR PARISH PILGRIMAGE NOW also believe that we should focus this Christmas was a great oppor- Flights from Heathrow on helping those less fortunate tunity to do something for the less than ourselves at Christmas. fortunate. “Everyone loves to 23 - 27 December The findings come as the Scot- receive a nice present at Christmas tish Catholic International Aid but sometimes we forget it is a time FromFrom £582 per person - Free single room

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By Martin Dunlop when we arrived.” Happy Birthday in Spanish for During their stay in Ecuador, me as well,” she said. ONGOING links and blos- St Joseph’s pupils assisted at the A party was also thrown for soming friendships between local school, took part in a sports Caitlin, who, rather unfortunately, residents of Kilmarnock and day with pupils and visited some fell victim to Ecuadorians’ a community in Ecuador of the families who make up the best birthday traditions and were strengthened by the community of Nueva Prospe- ended up with a face full of recent visit of senior pupils rina. One family in particular chocolate cake. from St Joseph’s Academy to who left a lasting impression on “The people were all so gener- the South American country. the Scottish pupils was the ous,” Caitlin added. The pupils traveled to the Vidal’s. Without any parents The most difficult part, per- shantytown of Nueva Prospe- present, a 17-year-old girl haps unsurprisingly, for the rina, on the outskirts of looked after her three younger youngsters from Kilmarnock, Guayaquil city, where Fr Martin brothers and, as far as the Scot- arrived when it was time to say Chambers, St Joseph’s school tish pupils were concerned, rep- goodbye to their new friends. chaplain, previously served in resented something incredibly “I have never cried so much in the missions. touching: how to be happy in the my life than when we had to Fr Chambers, along with Joe face of extreme poverty. leave the Ecuadorians,” Shannon Sikora and Aillish McDaid, St “The people we visited did McGuire said. Joseph’s staff members, accom- not make their struggles appar- Morgan McKenna added: panied the S5 and S6 pupils to ent at all,” Heather O’Rourke, “Saying goodbye was the hard- Ecuador—where they received a one of the St Joseph’s group, est thing ever. You feel an welcome that will live long in said. “We were so surprised to instinct to protect these people the memory. hear their stories and about their when you hear their stories.” “We thought maybe ten or so struggles as they were just the Following their return from people would be there to wel- happiest people you could South America, St Joseph’s sen- come us but it was more like 150 meet.” ior pupils have been sharing people there when we arrived at The generosity of Nueva Pros- their experiences with their peers the airport,” the pupils com- perina’s residents, despite the and also plan to speak about the mented. evident poverty at large, seems trip in their parishes. Many “We didn’t expect such a wel- to know no bounds. parishioners from Kilmarnock come, and the surprise party that During their visit, St Joseph’s will be familiar with the Nueva was thrown for us when we staff and pupils were special Prosperina community after a arrived in Nueva Prosperina was guests at the local headteacher’s group of Ecuadorian children a shock… especially after com- wedding, while one of the and their teachers travelled to ing off of a 14-hour flight! pupils, Caitlin Sweeney, enjoyed Scotland last summer, a trip that “Fr Martin was treated l a birthday celebration she will was made possible thanks to the ike a celebrity; there were never forget. immense fundraising efforts of people shouting ‘Padre Martin’ “There was a beautiful cele- the St Joseph’s community and out of their windows bration of Mass and they sang Fr Chambers’ Ecuador Trust. Raising voices and a forest

By Martin Dunlop and there are puddles on the floor,” he said. “There is also a serious damp problem around some of the ST MARY’S Chapel, Blairs, Aberdeen, will windows, which has caused plaster and marble to turn into a ‘forest’ of Christmas trees next fall off the walls. We have even had to rope off Sunday as a carol concert is held to help raise some of the pews close to the wall to prevent injury funds for urgent repairs to the 112-year-old church building. The carol concert forms part of a fundraising Blairs is a small parish with drive to raise £200,000 to finish repairs on St limited resources so we Mary’s leaking roof, damaged internal plaster and hope that local people will broken marble work as well as rebuilding the chapel’s trust fund to protect its future. rally round and support our Around 30 trees, each sponsored by individuals, Christmas tree festival families, businesses or groups, will be decorated in a theme of the sponsor’s choice. Ahead of the concert, Deacon John Wire, admin- “should any plaster fall. istrator of St Mary’s, commented that he is partic- “Blairs is a small parish with limited resources ularly concerned about the impact the weather is so we hope that local people will rally round and having on the church building. support our Christmas tree festival to help towards “Every time it rains heavily we end up with a lot restoring this historic chapel to its former glory.” of water in the tower—the inside walls are soaked In addition to raising money, the Blairs College” St Oswald’s LEISURE TIME TRAVEL Caritas goal Our deepest sympathy to the people of Glasgow onthe recent for pupils tragic accident. From all at Leisure Time Travel A GROUP of senior pupils from St Oswald’s Secondary LEISURE TIME TRAVEL School in Glasgow are work- 0151 287 8000 ing hard towards their goal of achieving the 2014 Caritas www.lourdes-pilgrim.com 5097 Award. St Oswald’s, a school for chil- dren with additional support needs, has enrolled four pupils for EWTN CATHOLIC TV IS ON SKY EPG 589 the Caritas Award programme, which encourages youngsters to Sky Freesat £175 total cost , no monthly charges. strengthen their faith by assisting 200 Free channels including EWTN TV & Radio. in their schools, parishes and com- Call Sky on 08442411602 for installation. munities.As part of their commit- Call EWTN on 020 83502542 or e-mail [email protected] ment to the award, St Oswald’s for free monthly posted programme guide and pupils Tammy Jo Palmer, Court- visit www.ewtn.co.uk for more info. ney Kerr, Samuel Scott and Mar- an inter-faith day at their school. sentatives of many religious com- speak to pupils about their reli- tin McFarlane recently organised The pupils arranged for repre- munities to visit St Oswald’s and gious beliefs, faith and practices. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LOCAL NEWS 5 Ordination is a special New archbishop praises day for Polish man, and ‘heroic’ work of Catholics for Bishop Joseph Toal AS HE settles into his new of clergy and religious of St role in St Andrews and Andrews and Edinburgh and IT IS hoped that the ordina- the Church,” Fr Pamula said. Edinburgh, Archbishop he noted that he has been tion of a Polish man to the “But we have the Holy Spirit to Leo Cushley has spoken ‘very touched’by the wel- priesthood in Scotland this strengthen and guide us, while of the ‘heroic’ work being come he has received from the week will be the ‘first of the appointment of Pope Francis achieved by clergy, reli- archdiocesan Faithful. many,’ according to Bishop has been a breath of fresh air for gious and Faithful across “I only hope to serve you as Joseph Toal of Argyll and the the Church.” the archdiocese. well as you deserve, with the Isles. One of Pope Francis’ prede- “The archdiocese has not gentle but firm hand that our As the SCO went to press, cessors, Polish Pope John Paul II, been without its troubles this Holy Father Pope Francis has Stanislaw Pamula, who hails had a great influence on a num- year and this has tested the asked me to use in your from Gdansk, Poland, was ber of his compatriots, including good will and charity of many regard,” he said. preparing to be ordained a priest Fr Pamula. Back in 2005, the of us, especially those As the season of Advent for Argyll and the Isles Diocese year of Blessed John Paul’s engaged in a special way in begins, the archbishop at Oban’s St Columba’s Cathe- death, he was one of 40 young the pastoral action of the arch- thanked parishioners for their dral yesterday evening. men to enter the seminary for diocese, clergy and people ‘perseverance and courage’ Speaking ahead of the ordina- Gdansk Archdiocese. Yesterday alike,” Archbishop Cushley and asked that they help in tion Mass, Bishop Toal said he evening Fr Pamula became the said in an Advent message to ‘continuing to work together and the Faithful from his diocese 17th man from the group of 40 to St Andrews and Edinburgh for the healing of our Church are ‘delighted that Fr Stanislaw be ordained a priest. parishioners. at every level.’ has asked to be ordained as a The new priest was joined at “Although I have only “As the Christian New Year priest for Argyll and the Isles.’ the special occasion by his par- recently arrived in Edinburgh, begins and as we prepare for “We have accompanied him ents and sister, many relatives and I have already been impressed the Lord’s Advent among us, through his extended diaconate friends and four priests from by the heroic amount of work consider if, when Christ and we look forward to his years Poland. The Polish contingent being achieved by the compar- returns, He will find charity in of priestly service among us,” the will not be making the journey atively small number of your heart,” the archbishop bishop said. “Hopefully he will back home themselves, however, priests and religious here, and said. “If not, let me ask you to be the first of many young Poles as Bishop Toal and a group of by the laity—men, women leave your pride at the door to be ordained here in Scotland.” more than 30 people from Argyll and young people—who and to enter the church for- Following five years of semi- and the Isles have accepted an cheerfully give of their time given and purified in your nary in Gdansk Archdiocese in invitation to celebrate with Fr and talent to proclaim the conscience, especially through Poland, Fr Pamula spent a year Pamula at his Mass of Thanks- Kingdom of God in the world the Sacrament of Reconcilia- studying at Scots College in giving in Gdansk. The Mass, through their prayer and tion. This is surely the best Rome. He subsequently enjoyed which will be celebrated tomor- action in this very spread-out way for us all to be reunited in a parish placement at St Mary’s row, the feast of the Immaculate diocese.” charity, and to be ready to Church, Fort William, and was Conception, will also mark the Since his Episcopal ordina- embrace the Lord at His for chapel at Blairs ordained a deacon for Argyll and 5th anniversary of Bishop Toal’s tion in September, Archbishop appearing, with humble and the Isles Diocese. Fr Pamula told Episcopal ordination for Argyll Cushley has met the majority loving hearts.” the SCO that the welcome he and the Isles. Chapel Trust hopes the Christmas tree festival and Deacon John received in Fort William, and the concert will help ‘spread some Christmas spirit Wire (above) is tutelage of Fr Donald MacKin- seen inside the amongst our neighbours in the city and Aberdeen- historic St non, has gone a long way in influ- shire, and to help people discover this beautiful but Mary’s Chapel, encing his decision to be ordained somewhat hidden historical chapel that is an impor- Blairs, ahead a priest for Scotland. Communion Occassion Wear tant part of Scottish Catholic cultural heritage.’ the Sunday “I wanted to be in a place Future fundraising events include hosting a con- December 15 where there is a need for priests,” Photography For Kids cert by the Aberdeen African Choir and the carol concert Fr Pamula said. “The contact Aberdeen Rock Choir in March 2014. and tree with the parish here is very close. St Mary’s Chapel will be open from 1pm next festival to raise Everybody is so kind, it is like Sunday, December 15, for the public to enjoy the funds for one big family and I feel like I festive spectacle as well as refreshments, which will repairs to the have been accepted into this fam- be available in the parish room. Musical entertain- chapel. Groups ily, which tells you a lot about the ment will be provided throughout the afternoon and and individuals Catholics here.” at 4pm the ‘Christmas Tree Choir’, comprising the can sponsor a As Fr Pamula highlighted, sponsors and children from the Blairs’ congrega- tree at the however, no family is without tion and adjoining parishes in Aberdeenshire and festival its problems, and for the Catholic the Aberdeen city, will sing a selection of carols, Church—particularly at home— surrounded by the lit trees. The concert is free with 2013 has been a very Book your fitting any voluntary donations being gratefully received, challenging year. which will go towards the renovations. “Every family goes through NOW. difficulties and it is the same for Once you reserve your dress, we don’t sell to Following the great success of the inter-faith day, Jean Carroll, St anyone in the Oswald’s religious education All your Communion same location on You’ll be Spoiled for choice. teacher, spoke of the pride and wear in one place. All the We’re the UK’s biggest admiration she has for her pupils. the same date. accessories you need for your stockist of Sweetie Pie. 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I am really proud of my students, they did themselves and the 3star Sligo Southern Hotel Only £319.00pp school proud.” St Oswald’s pupil Usman Ahmed, who is pictured along- Limited Availability!! 109 King Street, King’s Court, G1 2RB @carriages and castles side the school’s Caritas group, Contact Failte Travel Telephone 0141 551 4292 assisted in the organisation of the inter-faith day. http://www.failtetravel.com 0141 611 7676 www.carriageandcastles.co.uk PIC: PAUL McSHERRY WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 6 WORLD/ SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 2015 to be dedicated to

EMPHASISING the impor- tance of religious vocations, Pope Francis announced on Friday that the year 2015 will be dedi- cated to Consecrated Life. The Holy Father (right) made the announcement during the 82nd General Assembly of the Union of Generals, which was concluding in Rome. Although a brief meeting with the union was planned, the Holy Father spent an estimated three hours in a question and answer discussion with participants. According to the Press Office, the first questions he dealt with were on the mission and identity of consecrated life. “A radical approach is required of all Christians, but religious persons are called upon to follow the Lord in a the Jesuit Mission in China. churches. The Pope also special way: They are men and “Intercultural dialogue must emphasised the importance of women who can awaken the press for the introduction of the educational mission of world,” the Pope said. “Conse- persons of various cultures, schools and universities. crated life is prophecy. God expressing different ways of “The pillars of education are asks us to fly the nest and to be living charism, in the gover- transmitting knowledge, trans- sent to the frontiers of the nance of religious institutes,” mitting methods, transmitting world, avoiding the temptation the Pope stressed. values,” he said. “By these to ‘domesticate’ them. This is Regarding the formation of means, faith is communicated. the most concrete way of imi- religious, the Holy Father called The educator must measure up tating the Lord.” on the Union of Superior Gen- to those he educates, and must While acknowledging that erals to avoid all forms of give careful thought to how to vocations in young churches hypocrisy and clericalism. For- proclaim Jesus Christ to a are ‘bearing fruit,’ the Holy mation, he said, is not a watch changing generation.” Father also stated that the dog but rather, ‘an artisanal craft.’ Before concluding the meet- Church itself must re-evaluate “Its aim is to form religious ing, the Holy Father thanked The journey towards peace its ‘enculturation of charism.’ persons with a tender heart, not participants for their years of Citing the example of the Ser- acid, not like vinegar,” he said. service to the Church and vant of God Matteo Ricci, Pope “We are all sinners, but not cor- announced 2015 as a Year dedi- By Stephen Reilly Kingdom of peace.’ Francis told participants that the rupt. Sinners are to be accepted, cated to Consecrated Life. Quoting several times from the prophet Isaiah, Church must ask ‘forgiveness but not the corrupt.” “Thank you for what you do POPE Francis celebrated the beginning of the Pope twice repeated the prophet’s vision of a for, and looking with shame Other questions asked by the and for your spirit of faith and Advent last Sunday with a call to Christians time when the world’s nations will dismantle upon, apostolic failures caused Holy Father were on the subject your service,” he said. “Thank to enter into a never ending journey of peace their weapons. by misunderstandings in this of brotherhood and the relation- you for your witness and also towards the destruction and re-purposing of “Allow me to repeat what the prophet says— field.’ Ricci, a 17th century Jesuit ships between those in conse- for the humiliations through the world’s weapons and armaments. listen well,” the Pope told those in the square priest, was one of the founders of crated life and their particular which you have had to pass.” Earlier this week, lawmakers in Argentina before repeating for a second time the scriptural recommended that their compatriot, the Holy passage. “They shall beat their swords into plow- Father, be nominated for this year’s Nobel Peace shares and their spears into pruning hooks. One Prize. The resolution has been overwhelmingly nation shall not raise the sword against another, approved in Argentina’s House of Representa- nor shall they train for war again. tives and will now proceed to the Senate for “What a great day it will be, in which the ratification. weapons will be dismantled in order to be trans- Speaking during his weekly Sunday formed into instruments of work. This is possi- blessing with pilgrims in St Peter’s Square, the ble. We gamble on the hope, the hope of peace, Holy Father said the beginning of the Advent and it is possible.” season is the beginning of a new stage of the The journey towards peace, said the Holy ‘journey of the ’ with Jesus Father, ‘is never finished.’ Just as individuals are ‘towards the Kingdom of justice, towards the continually trying to understand the purpose of

A state of Jesus that was rejected by two cathedrals has been blessed by the Holy Father. The life-sized sculpture of Jesus depicts Him as a homeless man sleeping on a park bench, wrapped in a blanket, with His Crucifixion Pope meets with Israeli Prime Minister wounds evident on His bare feet. Although St Michael’s in Toronto and St Patrick’s in THE Israeli Prime Minister with Israeli President Shimon was a devout Jew who became a New York rejected it, Jesus the Benjamin Netanyahu met Peres in April and Palestinian follower of Jesus Christ. Homeless finally found a fan Pope Francis for the first Authority President Mahmoud Following the meeting, Jesuit in the Vatican: Pope Francis. time on Monday and called Abbas in October. After the Fr , director Sculptor Tim Schmalz him the ‘great shepherd of October visit, Mr Abbas said he of the , travelled to Rome with Jesus our common heritage.’ had personally invited the Pope to said that the Vatican would not the Homeless last week to The meeting was a possible the Holy Land. announce a visit to the Holy present the statue to the Pope. precursor for a visit by the Holy News reports last week citing Land before sending an advance “The first thing he did when Father to the Holy Land next year. Israeli sources indicated the team to scout possible visit sites. he saw my sculpture was he The meeting, which lasted Pope might visit the area next Mr Netanyahu also presented prayed, and then he blessed about 25 minutes in the Vatican’s May, but the Vatican is yet to Pope Francis with a Spanish ver- the piece,” Mr Schmalz said. , saw the two confirm a trip. During their meet- sion of his father’s book, origi- “After, the Vatican officials exchange gifts. Mr Netanyahu ing on Monday, Mr Netanyahu nally published in English in 1995 introduced me to Pope Francis presented the Pope with a book gave the Pope a silver menorah, a under the title The Origins of the and he said he thought Jesus written by his father on the Span- nine-branched candleholder used in 15th Century Spain. the Homeless was a beautiful ish inquisition, inscribing the text in the annual Jewish celebration According to the publisher’s notes sculpture. So needless to say, with a dedication: “Tohis holiness, of Hannukah, which finished on the text, the book refutes pre- I’m very excited about that.” He is now working to find a Pope Francescus, a great shepherd yesterday. The Pope presented vious historical accounts that the permanent home for the of our common heritage.” the Israeli leader with a large Inquisition targeted Jews, argu- statue in the Vatican SPOTLIGHT ON The short encounter took place plaque (above) featuring an ing instead that it targeted Chris- following the Pope’s meetings image of St Paul theApostle, who tians for political ends. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER WORLD/VATICAN NEWS 7 Irish bishop backs the Attorney General’s call for an end to conflict-era prosecutions

AN IRISH bishop has said that Attorney General John Larkin’s call for an end to Troubles-era prosecutions ‘is worth considering.’ Last month, Mr Larkin said there should be no further investigations, inquests or What a great day it will inquiries into relevant killings before the 1998 Good Friday be, in which the weapons Agreement. will be dismantled in order The attorney general’s pro- to be transformed into posal was criticised by victims instruments of work. This and politicians, however, Aux- iliary Bishop Donal McKeown is possible. We gamble on of Down and Connor (right), the hope, the hope of said Mr Larkin had ‘asked a “peace, and it is possible. useful question.’ “As we know, we’re in the Pope Francis middle of the Haass process, helping us to try and find ways to deal with flags, marches and the whole issue of a con- tentious, divided past,” he said. “And I think what John Larkin was saying, the only route ” we’ve gone down at present is the judicial route, trials and tri- bunals, inquests, and that really is not going to be the best way to enable us to get to the truth about so many deaths that have gested there be a truth and rec- think we all are focused not just so far been unresolved.” onciliation process, which on drawing a line under the The bishop said the impor- would essentially be amnesty past, but on finding a better tant thing was to try and heal connected as well,” he said. way to get to the truth that will ‘is never finished,’ Pope says the wounds of the past. “I think he’s saying some- enable troubled hearts to be at “I know some have sug- thing slightly different, but I peace.” their lives, he said, ‘so the human family is cern for child victims of HIV/AIDS. He also always needing to renew the common horizon praised the work of women religious and others toward which we are journeying.’ who serve the needs of the disease’s victims. He That horizon, he said, is ‘the horizon of hope.’ asked pilgrims gathered to pray for those who are Clergy help bereaved; aid fund launched That horizon, the Pope added, ‘is the horizon that sick, as well as the doctors and researchers work- makes for a good journey.’ ing on HIV/AIDS. I Continued from page 1 mouth Brethren, the local Glasgow Isaiah is an Old Testament prophet who was The Pope urged the faithful to pray so that mosque, they all helped feed the Mr Clegg paid tribute to Glas- writing of a time when the leaders of the world ‘each sick person, nobody excluded, may access “When you see these things on emergency services, but ordi- gow’s response to the tragedy would flock to the top of a mountain established the therapy they need.’ television there is usually a huge nary people were also bringing and met members of the local as God’s House on earth, where the Lord would World AIDS Day has been held on December explosion and a fireball. I don’t round chocolate and cups of community when he visited St judge them. The passage referring to the turning 1 every year since 1988. HIV/AIDS campaigners know whether it was the skill tea,” he said. “In the atmosphere Andrew’s Cathedral on Tuesday of swords into plowshares is used frequently by say World AIDS Day is important because it and judgement of the pilot, luck, there was great sadness but peo- along with Scottish Secretary Christian peace activists, who invoke the image reminds the public and governments that AIDS providence or a miracle, but as ple’s response was only to help.” Alistair Carmichael Councillor in calling for the dismantling of the world’s has not vanished. According to the US Centres the tragedy unfolded I think it Gordon Matheson, leader of nuclear arsenals. Hundreds of people gathered in for Disease Control, an estimated 35 million peo- might have been two or three Tributes Glasgow City Council. the square for the blessing on Sunday despite ple are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. HIV times worse if there had been a Nine candles have been lit in St “Well it’s awful, but some- persistent rain and blowing wind. is the virus that causes AIDS. More than 25 mil- fire too.” Andrew’s Cathedral, one for each times the very best in a commu- Following the recitation of the Angelus prayer, lion people have died globally from HIV/AIDS The archbishop added that he of the victims of the helicopter nity is brought to light when it Pope Francis also mentioned that Sunday was since 1981, making it one of the most destruc- had also been immensely proud crash that took place last Friday at faces the very worst, and I think World AIDS Day and expressed particular con- tive pandemics in history. of the way that Glasgow had 10.25pm. The victims are Robert that’s what we’ve seen over the responded to the disaster. Jenkins, 61; Mark O’Prey, 44; last few days in Glasgow,” Mr “I had to smile at the reports Colin Gibson, 33; John McGar- Clegg said. “I think the whole of Glasgow people not running rigle, 57; Samuel McGhee, 56; country is full of admiration for A wave of prayer against away from the situation but run- GaryArthur, 48; David Traill, 51; the community spirit which has ning to it to try and help others, and PCs Kirsty Nelis, 36, and come to the fore because this is a hunger begins on Dec 10 at stories of people in the pub Tony Collins, 43. city united in grief but also who had come out and were The funeral of PC Kirsty Nelis, absolute compassion and sup- POPE Francis is to help about one in eight people helping others to come out,” he is expected to take place at the port for the exceptional work of launch a global campaign of around the world, experienced said. “I thought: ‘my goodness, cathedral next week with Arch- the emergency services. prayer and action against chronic hunger or undernourish- this is the spirit of Glasgow. This bishop Tartaglia concelebrating. Messages of support have world hunger. ment during 2010-2012, accord- is the city I am proud of.’” Cathedral Administrator Mgr come in from across the political Organised by Caritas Interna- ing to the Caritas website. McElroy said the Church was spectrum and from Her Majesty tionalis, the global ‘wave of “One of the worst sounds a Clergy doing whatever it could to help Queen Elizabeth II. prayer’ will begin at noon on parent can hear is their child cry- Fr Jim Thomson, the chaplain of the response effort and anyone Glasgow’s Lord Provost has December 10 on the South ing at night tormented by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, else. “The actual accident site is established the Clutha Appeal Pacific island of Samoa and hunger,” Honduran Cardinal who was at the crash scene help- surprisingly small but there was Fund to support anyone facing head west across the world’s Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of ing in the hours after the incident, so much suffering concentrated hardship as a result of last Fri- time zones. Tegucigalpa, president of Caritas and the days that followed, said there,” he said. “And since then day’s events, including the The Holy Father will offer his Internationalis, said. “Many par- the response of the emergency more people than usual have injured and the families of those blessing and support for the One ents living in poverty hear this services had been immense. been coming to the cathedral to who lost their lives. Human Family, Food For All cry and yet they have no food to “Everyone is emotional that pray and take comfort, even Existing council charities campaign in a five-minute video give them. There is enough food gets involved in it,” he said. “But though many of the local streets made the first contributions to message being released on the to feed the planet. We believe this is what they do, this is what are closed off. ” the fund and Lord Provost Sadie eve of the global launch. Caritas that with your help and the help they train for, what they develop He said it would take the cathe- Docherty has already received a Internationalis invited its 164 of governments and the UN we the emotional toughness for and dral parish a long, long time to number of generous offers of member organisations, includ- can end hunger by 2025.” they did their job superbly well. recover but he and his fellow support from businesses, chari- ing SCIAF, and local churches Caritas is urging Catholics to For me, it’s just a case of being priests would be there to help ties and individuals from across to pray for an end to hunger and take a few moments at noon on there with them and having a chat them. “There has been great dis- Glasgow. The quickest and sim- malnutrition as well as to act on December 10 to join the world in if they need it.” ruption here, and many in the plest way to donate to the Clutha a local, national or global level praying against hunger as well Fr Thomson also said that the cathedral parish will have been Appeal Fund is by calling: 0141 against food waste and promote as engaging in long-term action local community had been a in that pub, and know people 287 7878 and giving by debit or food access and security through raising awareness, advo- tremendous support to those on who were there,” he said. “We credit card. worldwide. cacy, charitable work or other the front line. just have to give people what- Nearly 1 billion people, or efforts supporting food security. “The Army, the Ply- ever help we can.” I [email protected] WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 8 NEWS FEATURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 Reluctant heroes and the heart of Celtic By Martin Dunlop

TO GET to the very heart of Celtic Football Club and its foundations, it could be argued there are few better places to visit than Croy Miners’ Welfare Charitable Society, home of one of the town’s Celtic Supporters’ Clubs. For Richard Purden, author of Faithful Through and Through, speaking to the locals in Croy was not among his most difficult of interviews… as he wasn’t doing much of the talking! As Mr Purden highlights, Croy is ‘a relatively new Scottish community built by a now elderly Irish derived society who had escaped political, religious and economic turmoil in the early part of the 20th century.’ The Croy community, which has now almost been completely subsumed by the new town of Cumbernauld, began to settle around 1913. “There were a lot of changes taking place in the world at that time, political changes, social changes immigrant Irish community in Glasgow, hoped the supporters as the outstanding example of what the and at that time the Catholic community and the foundation of a football club would assist those liv- club seeks to achieve in the present day. Protestant community were kept separate,” Mr Pur- ing in poverty in Glasgow’s east end. Like Quinn, Mr Purden feels the Swedish striker den said. Despite outside assumptions—so often peddled very much fits into the bracket of reluctant—and The Catholic Faith and a love of Celtic Football by sections of the Scottish media, that the Celtic v almost, unlikely—hero. Club have been a vital part of the lives of genera- Rangers football rivalry doubles up as a Catholic v “Larsson was almost about to give up, as he had tions of Crojans, and, as such, an interview with Protestant battle—Celtic fans have preferred to hit so many barriers,” Mr Purden recalled of the the town’s Celtic supporters provided the perfect celebrate the inclusive nature of their club, an atti- striker’s arrival at Celtic in the summer of 1997. opening chapter to Mr Purden’s latest book, which tude very much prevalent among the regulars at “There was a feeling that this was a man getting a aims to take a ‘fresh look at the people who have the Croy supporters’ club. final opportunity.” added to the wider culture, reputation and tradi- “There was a very anti-sectarian culture among What happened in the following seven years tions, on and off the park, which have strengthened “When I went to speak to the people in Croy, I was the people I spoke to there,” Mr Purden (above right would have been beyond the wildest dreams of Celtic’s position as a much-loved institution.’ aware that the ideas that felt most authentic, most with former Hibernian and Celtic player Pat Stan- even the most optimistic of Celtic fans, who had, “If somebody really wants to try and understand real, of what I would relate to Celtic, were the values ton) said. only months previously, witnessed their city rivals, what Celtic’s values are they should hear what that came from these men. They almost felt as if their “A lot of them spoke about [for- Rangers, equaling their record-breaking sequence these men have to say,” Mr Purden said. “When community played a part in the history of Celtic. mer Rangers manager] and going to play matches of nine league title victories in a row. speaking to them it felt as though they had a valu- Some of the men were in their 80s and 90s, they have at Ibrox for their local junior sides. They had some Larsson scored a phenomenal 174 goals in 221 able and tacit link [to the foundations of the club] lived through a long part of the club’s history.” great anecdotes about meeting Walter and Bill games in a period of prolonged success for Celtic, and a very authentic one. Struth [who managed Rangers from 1920 to 1954.] years that are looked upon with great fondness by “Today we have forums, we have websites, mag- Origins “They were really keen for me to underline that fans of the club. azines, newspapers and, certainly on the forums, Celtic Football Club was founded by a Glasgow the value of anti-sectarian behaviour had been It was not just among Celtic fans upon whom there is a lot of debate about what Celtic means, Marist , Br Walfrid, in 1888. instilled in them and that sectarianism just would Larsson made a lasting impression, however, as his who the club really belongs to and what the club is Br Walfrid, who recognised the need for positive not be tolerated; they had no time for it.” stoicism, single-mindedness and dedication to his all about. social integration between Scots and the large In the two books he has written about Celtic and craft won him many admirers across Scotland and its fans, Mr Purden said that speaking to members beyond. of the Croy Celtic Supporters’ Club—which could According to Mr Purden, however, who travelled once count amongst its number a young Fergus to Sweden to interview the Celtic legend for his McCann, who, ultimately, went on to rescue Celtic most recent book, Larsson was often misunder- and from the brink of extinction during its darkest stood, particularly among Scottish football writers. Scotland’s only National Catholic Weekly hours in the early to mid 1990s—is among the “I think the Scottish press misinterpreted his char- closest he has ever felt to the foundations of the acter, often referring to him as the ‘ice man,’” he said. team from Glasgow’s east end. “But after Larsson left Celtic, and the way in which he Bring you the Ultimate Catholic Reading Package “It felt to me like there was a genuine link spoke about the club, there was a definite emotional there,” Mr Purden said. connection and a great feeling and love for Celtic. for as little as £7.50 per month. Arguably one of Celtic’s greatest ever players, “He was hungry and ready to absorb, and the club Direct Debit Only - Saving £66 per year on over-the-counter price. the legendary Jimmy Quinn—who played for the became part of his life.The way in which Larsson con- club in the early 20th century—was, himself, a ducted himself has had a massive impact on Celtic.” • Magnificat every month ‘Croy boy,’ and his memory is cherished in the As Mr Purden highlighted, there have been a Lanarkshire town to this day. number of non-Catholics—including Larsson, leg- • SCO every week To his friends and fans, Quinn was the embodi- endary manager , Danny McGrain and • Magnificat Advent Companion ment of what it meant to be from Croy, where the Kenny Dalglish—who have helped to write Celtic’s value of one’s character was always placed above history, a fact that would, doubtless, receive a roar • Magnificat Lent Companion any individual talents. As Mr Purden highlighted, of approval from the rustic chorus in Croy. Quinn is very much revered as a ‘reluctant hero,’ “The fact that so many non-Catholics, including Sent by post direct to your home who was originally against the idea of stepping up Larsson, have gone on to become Celtic legends, for only £7.50 per month from junior football to join Celtic professionally. heroes and icons tells you something about the club,” Mr Purden said. “Not just today, but going back to the saving you time and money. Larsson 1960s, the 1920s and back to the club’s very begin- Another reluctant hero, who is widely considered ning, there has never been a separatist policy at Celtic.” Subscribe online: www.sconews.co.uk/subsdeal as the greatest player in Celtic’s modern history, is Simply fill in the direct debit form and send to: Henrik Larsson. I Faithful Through and Through is published by Scottish Catholic Observer, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow, G2 6BT If the Croy supporters’ club members represent Hachette Scotland, priced £20. It is available ay high street and online stores and at Celtic shops Call: 0141 241 6112 for more information a genuine closeness to the founding principles of Celtic, Henrik Larsson, both as a player and a man, Name: Postcode: I [email protected] Address: occupies a particular place in the minds of Celtic

Phone: Ultimate Catholic Reading Package The Catholic Herald Ltd, Freepost 22527, Herald House, 15 Lamb’s Passage, Bunhill Row, London, EC1B 1EY How will Glasgow be best served? Names of Account Holder(s) I Continued from page 1 said he hoped people would Bank / Building Society Account No. Branch Sort Code take the opportunity to be part Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society “With fewer priests in the of the process. To: The Manager Bank or Building Society Originator’s Identification Number near future, where and how can “I think people will be glad 6 8 5 2 7 2 they be deployed so that the to be consulted.” he said. “In Reference Number (for office use only) Gospel can continue to be made the past people complained known and the whole of our about decisions being made Instruction to your Bank or Building Society. 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Mr Convery their own area.” FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LETTERS 9 LETTERS OF THE WEEK Responding together Divorce remains an issue that needs addressed ESTABLISHED IN 1885 when disaster strikes THE subject of divorce has been substantially aired in the Scottish Catholic Philippa Bonella, SCIAF’s head Caritas will reach Observer during the past few weeks. of communications and educa- over half a mil- I, thank God, have no firsthand tion, reflects on how the whole lion people with knowledge of the trauma a couple must go The ‘fighting’ spirit of Scots, especially Church is vital when it comes to food, water, shel- through in reaching this stage of their responding to disasters. ter, hygiene kits, relationship, and I hope my marriage other essential reaches the next milestone, which will be Glaswegians, is something to be proud of JUST WEEKS after the devas- supplies and long 54 years. tating typhoon destroyed large term support. To However, I do resent the diatribe coming HE people of Glasgow rallying together after the fatal Police helicopter crash at parts of the Philippines, killing date, SCIAF has out about the rights of such persons to The Clutha bar on Friday came as no surprise but remains, nonetheless, a credit 3000 people and leaving 12 mil- directed £500,000 to help meet receive the Holy Eucharist. Of course they to the city and its inhabitants. Given the proximity of St Andrew’s Cathedral and lion in need of help, donations these immediate needs and more should be entitled to receive, and no priest Glasgow Mosque to the scene of the accident, it was wonderful to see the reli- topping £700,000 have come will follow. should have the gall to even think about gious communities in the city help the emergency services and the public at the into SCIAF to enable our ongo- The response from Scotland is refusing them. scene of the accident throughout the night, into St Andrew’s Day, and beyond. ing emergency response. Every- deeply appreciated. When are we going to stop our religion No doubt in the coming days, weeks and months we will hear of the funerals of the those one at SCIAF has been deeply Fr Edwin Gariguez, Executive interfering in our private lives, and do what whoT lost their lives and the bravery of all involved. This week Pope Francis joins us in mourn- touched by the extreme generos- Secretary of Caritas Philippines- we are best at, feeding the starving, helping ing the dead and consoling their loved ones. His message to Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of ity parishes, schools and individ- NASSA, has said: “We have the poor, visiting the sick etc? Glasgow about the sad loss and the bravery shown was heartfelt and welcome. uals have shown once again in never faced anything of this No doubt someone will quote some Scots, particularly Glaswegians, are a legendary fighting people but when that spirit is the the face of another appalling dis- magnitude. We greatly appreci- obscure passage from the bible, ‘proving’ fight to help others stay alive then it is truly something to be proud of, be it at the scene of the aster. We are also very grateful ate the support and solidarity me wrong, but we must realise that EVERY crash last weekend or the support that continues to come in, via charities such as SCIAF, to to all the volunteers who have from around the world. By work- religion has a ‘good book’ and they all help those overseas such as the survivors of Tyhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. The first Sun- come in to help us open post and ing together in a co-ordinated think the answers therein are the only day of Advent has passed and the second will soon be upon us. As we prepare for Christ- manage the phones—it has been way, we can help save lives and correct ones. mas—practically and, most importantly, spiritually—let us put the hard work of Catholic a busy but rewarding time. rebuild communities.” We, as a major sect of the Christian charities on our gift list and give them a boost at this time of year. Reflecting on the destruction Pope Francis led the way in Religion, differ enormously from the other And, no doubt, that famous fighting spirit will be of great use as Glasgow parishioners take caused by Typhoon Haiyan and the immediate aftermath of the branches... so, who is right? They all part in the archdiocesan consultation that has begun in order to plan ahead for the best use of the Church’s response, and at the disaster when he spoke to thou- believe they are. Our Church [is seen to priests and resources in the future. Working together for the best future possible for our same time reading the rich wis- sands in St Peter’s Square and have] an amazing propensity to alienate parishes, dioceses and Church is a far better plan than selfishly fighting amongst ourselves, dom of Pope Francis’ Evangelii millions around the world: “I many followers, and until it realises as some reports last week would have us do. Many Catholics rightly have a historic and emo- Gaudium, it has struck me that wish to express my closeness to [current treatment of] divorced people must tional attachment to their own home parish. However, with the right provisions in place, com- only when we all work together in the people of the Philippines and cease, membership will fall. munities will still be supported by Glasgow Archdiocese and the Church can emerge all the love can we be truly effective in of that region. Unfortunately JR stronger as a result, and ready for the challenges of the future. For that, truly, is the Spirit. expressing the joy of the Gospel there are many victims and the RENFREWSHIRE and easing the hardships that the damage is enormous. We pray most vulnerable among us face. now in silence... for our brothers SCIAF is a link in a chain and sisters, and we will seek to Church is servant of mercy, sinfulness of the divorced and remarried, and which, under the leadership of also send concrete help.” Be careful not to let politics not Master of the Keys in particular there has been no suggestion that Pope Francis and the bishops in Here at home, Archbishop divide the Church they fall within the ambit of those ‘manifest Scotland, gathers resources from Philip Tartaglia, the president of COMMUNION for the divorced and and public sinners’ who are excluded from the Church community here and the Bishops’ Conference and a I WAS dismayed to see the letters section remarried (SCO 22 November) is a very Communion by Canon law. The only alleged expertly deploys them through our SCIAF board member, wrote to of the SCO turned into a forum, mainly new problem in the Church. First of all, it obstacle is the ‘incompatibility of the state of Catholic sister agencies in Caritas Archbishop Palma in Manila pro-independence, on the Scottish presumes that one can get divorced and remarried divorcees’ and their ‘situation to help people on the ground. If promising both spiritual and referendum on independence (November 15). remarried—something which was only (which) objectively contradicts God’s Law.’ any of the links in this chain— financial support. In his letter he Once you let politics infiltrate a possible in practice in our own countries During the short time that this teaching has Church leaders, parishioners, spoke of our solidarity, the prayers religious-based publication, you almost after the passing of the Matrimonial Causes been, and still is, developing, there have been SCIAF, our sister agencies and at Mass being dedicated to the guarantee that it will cleave your Act of 1857. to that, divorce was and still are very high-octane prelates and their staff and volunteers—are not people of the Philippines, and the readership and your congregation apart, reserved for the handful of rich and theologians arguing in favour of present our response is weakened practical support being offered by and that it will be hard to heal those influential who could engineer a Private Communion—Ratzinger (though he later or would stall altogether. Scots and SCIAF. He wrote: “We wounds. Act of Parliament. And even as divorce and resiled), Cardinal Kasper, Bernard Häring and More often than not, when an ask God to work through His If you don’t put an immediate lid on this remarriage then spread, Communion for Ladislas Orsy amongst them—and the matter emergency has arisen, whether in Church and the aid agencies to issue, the consequences will be most bitter. those involved in it was not a problem. has been continuously aired in Rome by the Philippines, Haiti or the Demo- bring healing in the midst of this Thomas Crowley They were considered to be visiting bishops’conferences. Cardinal Marx is cratic Republic of Congo, the local crisis. We pray, too, that the EAST LOTHIAN excommunicated. emphatically denying Archbishop Müller’s Caritas agency already has the Blessed Mary, patroness of It was only in the mid 1970s, when the right to try to curtail further argument. parish and diocesan structure in the Philippines, will intercede for Church ruled that excommunication was not The words of Pope Francis in his place through which aid can be her children at this time.” applicable in those circumstances, that the Angelus on November 20—words which channelled. This is a huge advan- These healing words, the kind- G SCO reserves the right to edit letters to conform with space or style requirements International Theological Commission in apply to this and to other seemingly tage. For instance, when Cyclone ness of each parishioner who has 1977 ruled out Communion, and this was unresolvable issues in the Church: “The Nargis swept across southern given and prayed, the tireless G The reader opinion and views expressed repeated by John Paul II ten years later in Church is not the Master of the Power of Burma (Myanmar) in 2008 leaving work of SCIAF and our sister are not necessarily shared by SCO Familiaris Consortio, and subsequently in the Keys.” Then there comes a repetition over 138,000 dead, the diocesan agencies, all carry the unmistak- G Send your correspondence to the the Catechism of the . —’it is not Master, it is a servant of the and parish structures, staff and able hallmark of love. Only when address below In the last 36 years, during which this ministry of mercy.’ parishioners were ready to respond working together we can bring G Send your full name, address, and phone problem has been a real one, the Church’s Mgr Basil Loftus whilst the world’s humanitarian aid to those in need, and hope to number or your letter will not be used teaching has never alluded to any subjective SUTHERLAND agencies waited in Thailand for those who have lost so much. permission to enter the country. We have been working with I https://www.sciaf2.org.uk I refuse to put a political the Christian moral order. Sign of peace may not be Caritas Philippines to help sur- /2013-philippines-typhoon- party ahead of our Redeemer Catholics are free, of course, who wish best idea vivors of what many believe to emergency-appeal to play the part of Judas Iscariot and sell PERHAPS it was not such a good idea to be one of the most powerful I HOPE all those Catholics who recently their Lord for material advantage; God shake hands at Mass, [especially as the storms ever recorded. With A woman carries her daughter filled The Scottish Catholic Observer knows, there is no shortage of such types cold and flu season of winter approaches]. immediate support from SCIAF inside the typhoon-ravaged letters page in support of the SNP have today, Catholic men and women endorsing Recent research shows dangerous bacteria and other Catholic agencies Cathedral of the Transfiguration of taken heed of the Scottish Government’s political parties whose immoral policies that cannot be treated with antibiotics often around the globe, Caritas Philip- Our Lord in Palo, Philippines. Seven unanimous November 20 decision to would have made even the ancient pagans remain on the hands, even after they are pines immediately began pro- priests of the archdiocese were pursue the imposition of same-sex blush with shame. washed; so why not help prevent the viding support to those in need. ordained amidst the ruins of the ‘marriage’ on the nation. For my part, I absolutely refuse to spread of disease and just say ‘Peace be The combined relief efforts of cathedral last week Trampling underfoot the expressed will support any party which sets itself up in with you,’ without shaking hands? of the majority of Scots, who made their legislation against the laws of our Creator Malby Goodman opposition known in the online and Redeemer, mindful always of my ABERDOUR consultation, it was an act of arrogance judgment to come and the words of Jesus more common to a dictatorship than a Christ: “You are either for me or against democracy. me; you cannot serve both God and Why don’t we shake This is a secondary issue for Catholics, mammon.” hands at Mass however. It really is that simple and obvious a I AM new to Scotland, having come here Since our primary duty is to uphold the choice [at the independence to start college, but I live outside a main laws of God before all else, as did the referendum and in any and all polls beyond city and have discovered that my local martyrs, it should be clear from this that point.] parish does not shake hands at the sign of momentous decision that a vote for the peace during Mass. Anyone know why? Nationalists is now out of the question for Martin Blackshaw K Gray souls who truly love God, His Church and BY E-MAIL PAISLEY WRITE TO LETTERS, SCO, 19 WATERLOO STREET, GLASGOW G2 6BT [email protected] 10 COMMENT SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 All I want... is a five-year plan Is it time to take a business approach when making a Christmas list for Catholics and the Church?

E’RE good at drift- ing in the Catholic Church. It could be argued that that here in Scotland we’ve been somewhat adrift since news broke about Cardinal Keith O’Brien. WAnd we’ve been drifting towards a cri- sis of priestly manpower for the last 20 years, with no effective action to resolve the crisis. What I want for Christmas is an end to drifting. The only way I think we can do that is to shift gears and agree, hier- archy, clergy and laity united, on a five- BY HUGH DOUGHERTY year development plan, to use the parlance of the business world. This plan could be designed to put down the centrate, once again, on making the marker that there really is change, that Church’s social teaching a reality. the Church in Scotland has learned les- sons and is determined to go forward. hat would show the way is if The problem is that, historically, the the hierarchy, as it is rebuilt, Church isn’t good at strategic plan- was to pledge that, for its ning, nor at what is known in the busi- part,W it will become more open and ness and public sector world as accountable to the laity, who are, after- Pastoral—covering evangelisation sional and spiritual development, dis- ment and evaluation, and identifying governance, the way in which an all, the stakeholders and financial in a methodical and accountable cipline and forward planning, employ- areas where the Church needs to be organisation is run efficiently, effec- backers of the Church, and include sense,1 Mass provision, liturgy, music, ment and similar development and active to meet social needs. tively and transparently. But as a them in planning by using the exten- parish rationalisation, development support of the Church’s lay staff and Church, we do need to adopt planning sive expertise that exists untapped but and alternative transport provision volunteers To do all of this would take com- and effective governance to ensure willing within parishes nationwide. when a parish is closed, child and vul- Communications—the develop- mitment at the highest levels in the that ever scarcer human and financial Our plan could set out clearly what nerable adult protection, and the ment of a new national communi- Church. It would require a hard look resources are used to the best effect, it means to achieve in five years, by development of an effective national cations4 strategy pooling existing at our current system of archdioceses, nationally and locally, to allow the tackling massively important issues, prayer campaign designed to boost the national and diocesan expertise and dioceses and stand-alone parishes to Church to discharge its mission effec- such as the fact that more than prayer life of the country. staff and developing an effective pub- see if they are fit for purpose in the tively. And we need a scrutiny func- 850,000 Scots declared themselves to Financial and Governance—pool- lic relations service covering print and 21st century. Or could it be replaced tion which puts every aspect of the be Catholic in the last National Cen- ing Church resources nationally, broadcast media, social media, by a streamlined management system Church’s work under the microscope, sus, but that we can, on a good Sun- seeking2 best value for supplies, power graphic design, advertising space buy- which puts the needs of priests, which sets targets for improvements day, account for around 123,000 souls and building maintenance for all ing, running holistic public relations members of orders and parishioners and which reviews progress. attending Mass. We need to tap into church properties, making the bishops’ campaigns and lobbying, with the aim first before structures and power Above all, what we need is a clear that vast number of un-Churched peo- conference a more transparent and of promoting the Church effectively, bases? statement of intention of developing ple who claim to be Catholic and get accountable body, which welcomes lay nationally in terms of its key messages A plan for a new start, a new com- the Church in Scotland, to make it them back, so that setting a target, of, input and expertise to ease and share and the benefits of membership. mitment and new beginning for the once again, the go-to source in to a say 10 per cent per year, with a clear the burden of Church management and Social teaching and Education— Church in Scotland could give us all a country crying out for spiritual nour- method of achieving this laid out in development, and all financial matters projects, charities, work by orders, truly Happy Christmas. ishment, and to work hard and effec- the plan. If we don’t, five years on, relating to salaries, pensions, account- missionary5 activity, extended to Scot- I’ll hope and pray for what would tively to increase the number of there will be further decline, more ing, audit and legal services. land to play its part in winning back be my best Christmas present ever. vocations, to welcome back the lapsed drift and a bigger drop in numbers. Human Resorces—including priestly the lapsed and attracting converts, and Then we could see how we have pro- and to seek, very much in line with A five-year development plan might recruitment, deployment, profes- examining new and necessary roles gressed by Christmas 2018, rather Pope Francis’s exhortations, to con- have the following sections: 3sional reviews, continuous profes- such as community work, develop- than just drifting along.

The views expressed in the opinion What do you think of HUGH DOUGHERTY’S comments on Church plans? Send your points of pages of the SCO are those of view to the SCO. Write to or e-mail informed individuals and groups and Letters, SCO, 19 Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 6BT [email protected] not necessarily those of the newspaper or the Church Preparing the way of the Lord requires a rethink of our world view

IN A week that was dominated by serve in Galloway Diocese in challenge and no one is going to although they were living and John knew he could move back the helicopter crash in Glasgow it 1972 there were more than 80 bring it about, except you and me. breathing and moving that they into the background. He knew and has been difficult to ignore the priests serving. Now there are 23. When John the Baptist appeared were not fully alive. In their understood the limitations of his almost prophetic message that we Fr Eddie Of these 23 the significant major- with his call to repentance, people hearts, the contemporaries of the ministry. He was to prepare the heard in last week’s Gospel and ity are over 65. Mass attendance flocked to hear him speak and to Baptist also knew and understood way for another generation. When the call to ‘stay awake.’ McGhee in the diocese has fallen by 43 per commit themselves to radical that they were falling well short of he had done his work, he was pre- The reality of life is that events cent in the last 20 years. These change. The sign of this openness the standard required of them in pared to step back and let some- often take an unexpected turn dane of life can get lost. It was numbers suggest that all is far to change was Baptism in the the Law and by the Prophets. one else take it forward. and sometimes with tragic conse- reported last week that Glasgow from well. If these statistics are River Jordan. Even as they were The call of John the Baptist is a What about you and me? What quences. At a time when everything Archdiocese and Motherwell Dio- mirrored nationally, then change accepting this call to change, The call for all of us to be fully alive. are we going to hand on to the is focused on Christmas, the hor- cese were to review their current has, in fact, overtaken us. We are Baptist reminded the people that It is a call for all of us to step out next generation? That depends on rific events that unfolded in Glas- situation, with a view to planning now being asked to deal with the Baptism was not enough. For radi- of our complacency and to engage how we engage with the call to gow take on an ever greater sense as creatively as possible for the gulf between expectations and cal change, a change of heart was fully with the Gospel. John told change, today, next week, next of poignancy. I’m sure everyone in future. Potentially, this piece of reality. We are no longer living in necessary. John the Baptist knew the people that the message of month, next year. The Gospel The Clutha had plans for Christ- news will get lost. Whenever the middle to late 20th century and understood the fickleness of Jesus would shake them to the always invites us to see the big mas. I’m sure everyone involved in change gets mooted, Catholics get when things looked dramatically human nature. He knew how easy core. We have had more than 2000 picture. The temptation for all of the incident had plans, too. The nervous. Already, in Galloway more positive. Time and circum- it was to make a public gesture years to consider the message and us is only to see that part of the plans, in some cases, may not Diocese, we are embarked on a stances have overtaken us. There that was not underpinned by real to act on it. Are we shaken to the picture that we are in. We are change but the perspective will. By process called Embracing Change. are two ways that we can and lasting commitment. He knew core? Or, have we discovered new called to be the prophetic voices. the time you are reading this it will It is a difficult process because it approach the situation. We can sit that the first step to embracing the and different ways of avoiding the Prepare the way of the Lord. If we already have been a week. The invites all of us to step out of our back and lament that things are Gospel that Jesus would preach, radical nature of the Gospel mes- are to prepare the way, we may shift, however imperceptible it may comfort zone and to engage with not as they used to be, or, alterna- required a radical shift from their sage? We have probably managed have to rethink our world view. It seem, will move us back towards the reality of our situation as the tively, we can make a firm and old way of living, to a profoundly a bit of both. In his unique way, may help us to understand that our whatever is considered ‘normal.’ local church in the 21st century. positive decision to do whatever it new way. As a Jew himself, he John the Baptist was making the world is much bigger than the bit Life will regain it Christmas pace. In nearly 42 years in ministry I takes to give the Church here in also understood the complacency ground ready for the moment that of it that we happen to inhabit. Inevitably, when there is a have already seen significant Scotland, new energy and new into which his contemporaries had Jesus would step into the public major catastrophe, the more mun- change. When I was ordained to life. That is going to be quite a already fallen. He understood that gaze. When that moment came, I [email protected] WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER COMMENT 11

other through thick and thin, WI but this latest suggestion is Just three little words of inspiration RE brazen even for them. The D I Russian president was N reported to have attended the N November I attended enjoying good health. We also business of Catholic education: Italian’s infamous bunga some of 50th anniver- remember colleagues and communication, collegiality, bunga parties while Mr Putin sary celebrations of St friends now faithfully departed. communion. An SCO diary reciprocated with holidays at Aidan’s High School in Today in Scotland great Communication is at the his dacha on the Black Sea. Wishaw. The evening emphasis is being placed on the heart of teaching. The most THE veteran British actor They have attended extreme began fittingly with Holy Mass need for teachers to enhance effective teachers are those who Peter O’Toole has come out of fighting events together and celebrated in St Ignatius their professional skills and best communicate their mes- retirement to star in a new film Mr Putin (below right) even Church by the school chaplain, I capacities, to share expertise sage, who make an impact, who that tells the story of St has a bed named after him at priests of the deanery, priests and to mentor younger teachers. open the minds and hearts of Katherine of Alexandria. The the 77-year-old billionaire’s who had been St Aidan’s Back in 1975, I was most fortu- young people. Some teachers 81-year-old actor will play mansion. pupils and Bishop Emeritus nate to have the professional will do this with great flair and Gallus, an orator in the Joseph Devine. This was a joy- support of some great teach- (sometimes) with eccentricity; emperor’s court, alongside ful occasion, attended by civic ers—real enthusiasts for learn- others can be very quiet, skil- Romanian actress Nicole dignitaries as well as large BY MICHAEL ing, highly skilled in motivating fully and effectively getting Keniheart as the third century numbers of pupils, teachers, young people and in inspiring through to their students, with- martyr. Also starring are Joss parents and former teachers McGRATH them towards excellence. out any great clamour. Young Ackland, Steven Berkoff and like ourselves. I learned from watching and people always listen and Edward Fox. St Katherine of During the Mass we offered listening, from sharing my ideas respond to those teachers whose Alexandria was, according to prayers of thanksgiving for the , commissioned and modifying them in the light words and actions are consis- later biographies born to local, school’s contribution to the to be a community in which of the wisdom of more experi- tent, who teach through the wit- royalty who converted to Now their unlikely bond has local community across 50 young people are invited to enced colleagues. I learned also ness of their own lives. Christianity at the age of 14. taken a new turn, with Mr years. In the Procession of encounter Jesus Christ in the from making my own mistakes. Collegiality is critical if a Blessed with a natural talent Putin said to be poised to Gifts, pupils symbolised their people who care for them, in the My own skills improved as a school community is to flourish for scholarship and rhetoric, make the former Italian prime continuing efforts to support learning experiences which result of seeing how teachers of by growing and nurturing its she is said to have bettered a minister the Russian envoy to others at home and abroad. invite them to fullness of life all subjects taught, how they own staff who commit to the series of pagan philosophers the Vatican. Such a move The school choir and band and in the liturgical life of the related to young people and school’s mission and values. in debate who were put up by would confer diplomatic powerfully led the congrega- school. The school’s motto— how they supported each other. Effective school leaders will the Roman emperor of the immunity on Mr Berlusconi tion in singing: Optima Petenda (seeking the The community of St Aidan’s promote a spirit of co-operation time, and who subsequently (above left)—and an escape “We tell the sacred story, we best)—captures the essence of nurtured its teachers as well as and mutual support among col- converted to Christianity. from his latest legal woes. sing the glory of yesterday. the Catholic school which pro- its pupils. And it still does. leagues. Although she cannot be After being convicted of tax “We tell the sacred story, One motes the I feel Through such an approach, identified with any historical fraud, the politician is this who has shown us the sacred highest aspi- most fortu- teachers and other staff will The community character, she was removed week facing expulsion from way.” rations of all nate to have learn from each other. The from the Roman Calendar in the Italian parliament, a move These words speak volumes young peo- of St Aidan’s e n j o y e d school will truly become a place 1969 until being restored as that would strip him of some about the significance of this ple and nurtured its teach- such a bene- of learning—for staff as well as an optional memorial in 2002. legal protection. event. St Aidan’s was celebrat- points them ficial start to students. Mr O’Toole has been The three-time premier had ing its own particular story —of towards a ers as well as its my teaching Communion is what the pupils. And it still nominated for Oscar awards hoped for a last minute being established 50 years ago, life of per- career. Catholic school (and the eight times in his career, pardon but Italian President initially to provide four-year fection and does. T h o s e Catholic Church) is about. We including for his roles in Giorgio Napolitano has made secondary education for the eternal hap- early years recognise the need to travel Lawrence of Arabia, Beckett it clear that this is not on his children of the Catholic com- piness in “ shaped the together as the pilgrim people of and The Lion in Winter, where agenda. He is also appealing munity from Wishaw and the Christ. teacher I became and under- God, called by the Father he played Henry II. Katherine against a conviction and faces surrounding area as far as Shotts This event carried an added pinned the professional values towards our eternal destiny, of Alexandria will be filmed in a new trial for an alleged and Lanark. It was later significance for me personally that I have tried to honour taught by Jesus how to achieve Cyprus and Britain, and is set £2.5million bribe to a senator. upgraded to provide six years of as I began my teaching career in throughout my professional life. true happiness and inspired by for release early next year. As well as legal immunity, the secondary comprehensive St Aidan’s in 1975. Two years As a head teacher I tried to keep the Holy Spirit throughout life. Hopefully it will shine a new post would give Mr Berlusconi schooling to meet the needs of later my wife joined me there my head and my heart in the The Catholic school, working in light on a little known period a diplomatic passport, an expanding population and and we both taught English for classroom,” remembering the communion with home and of Church history. allowing him to visit his luxury the raising of the school leaving the first few years of our mar- importance of the pupil-teacher parish, plays a crucial role in overseas properties— age to 16. These were heady riage. We have many happy relationship as being potentially proclaiming the key message of GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG something he has been times in the world of education. memories of events in and out transformational, literally life- the Gospel as defined by Pope denied since his old passport Since then, under the leadership of the classroom, of theatre vis- changing in some instances. Francis in Evangelii Gaudium: RUSSIAN president Vladimir was cancelled by the of Rosemary McDonald and, its and school shows, and of a Today, as I look back, I am “Jesus Christ loves you; he gave Putin met the Pope last week authorities. Exactly what the now with Tony Rooney as head- terrible fire which destroyed inspired by our Holy Father his life to save you; and now he amid claims he is planning to Holy Father would think of teacher, the school has gone on most of the school building. We Pope Francis and the style of his is living at your side every day name scandal-mired Silvio such a move is unknown, but to reach very significant mile- still meet families whose chil- homilies when he tries to con- to enlighten, strengthen and Berlusconi as Russia’s the prospect of Mr Berlusconi stones on its journey as a com- dren we taught and we wonder vey the essence of his teaching free you.” ambassador to the Vatican. skulking around the frescoes munity of faith and learning. at the speed of passing years. in three words. So, these are the The controversial politicians, and cafes of the The Holy See St Aidan’s took pride in cele- We delight in meeting former three words which summarise I Michael McGrath is the director of the Scottish two of the richest men in is unlikely to be a source of brating its ‘sacred’ story by pro- colleagues, many now long- both my memories of St Aidan’s Eurpore, have defended each joy there. claiming its mission as a since retired and thankfully still and my insights into the core Catholic Education Service This Advent, prepare to allow Jesus to come quiety into your life again

ALL my life, I have loved what it’s all about. I remember Take your lead from Mary and let They do make others see what’s People say to me: “I hate Christ- words and the way people use many years ago receiving a beauti- Jesus come quietly into your life important in your life, and they mas, I hate all the commercialism them. I never tire of those ones ful Christmas card which said again, and then let Him grow day may even make both you and your that goes with it and I hate the fact which I hear most often and ‘Love came down at Christmas by day in your heart as He grew in listeners stop and think. that we’ve forgotten the true mean- which always bring a smile. Sr Roseann and remained,’ and for us that is Mary’s womb. The ancient Greek philosopher ing, but what can you do?” My all-time favourite is: ‘I’m Reddy what these seasons are all about. Secondly, some practical tips: Socrates said: “The unexamined Well, there’s a lot you can do. pregnant and I don’t know how Don’t get me wrong, I don’t get an Advent calendar that means life is not worth living for a human As well as committing to doing it happened,” to which I always mind Santa, I like getting presents, something. Not one with chocolate being.” In 1986, in his book Seek the few simple suggestions previ- reply: “Well I’m a , and I It’s amazing how often we use I certainly like all the festive food and kittens in Santa hats but one that which is above, Joseph Cardi- ously mentioned, why not also know how it happened, it’s not words which mean the opposite of and I’ve even been known to suc- which, at the very least, has some nal Ratzinger wrote: “Advent is try something new? really a mystery, is it?!” what they are meant to, or words cumb to a wee Advocat and connection to Christ. If it happens concerned with that very connec- Here is my suggestion: every My next favourite happens which confuse rather than clarify. lemonade! But it’s not the point of to have chocolate in it, so be it!— tion between memory and hope day in Advent, take just five min- when you’re praying. You have Surely one of the most misused Christmas; Christ is the reason for God is not a spoilsport—but keep which is so necessary to man. utes to sit down and say a prayer your eyes shut, you’re kneeling words in any language is ‘love.’ It the season. It’s all about love and it in context. Every day when you Advent’s intention is to awaken the for one person in your life, living there with your forehead practi- gets used for everything, usually how we witness to that every day. open your wee window, thank God most profound and basic emotional or dead; a different person every cally embedded in the pew in front, without any great consequence: I So, back to words and what a dif- for the fact that God has given you memory within us, namely, the day. Write their name down on a and you feel it—the presence — love pizza, I love The X Factor,I ference they can make. This year, the gift of faith and the gift of life. memory of the God who became a bit of paper and keep them some- not of Our Blessed Lord or His love Paris etc. etc. I suppose why not take a few moments and, You could also speak to people child. This is a healing memory; it where all together and then, on beloved mother, oh no, but the reflecting upon it, it’s not the word instead of waiting until the New about the season of Advent. brings hope. The purpose of the Christmas morning, take five presence of the hovering person that’s the main thing but the mean- Year to make some resolutions, Explain what Advent is, why Church’s year is continually to minutes to sit down and look at whom you just know is about to ing we impose on it. Love of make some Advent and Christmas you’re not putting your tree up in rehearse her great history of mem- all those names. Count your speak those oh-so-familiar words: things is radically different from resolutions. October (!), why you prefer to send ories, to awaken the heart’s mem- blessings and thank God that “I don’t want to disturb you, sis- love of a person or love of God. Firstly, really try and live and would prefer to receive reli- ory so that it can discern the star of whatever your relationship is to ter.” ‘Au contraire, you already I’ve been thinking about love a Advent. Use the time and the gious cards, why you think it’s hope ... It is the beautiful task of these people, you are connected have’ I want to reply, but generally lot these days because of the ’s Liturgy with its signs and important to write Christmas as Advent to awaken in all of us to them through love, and through I muster the biggest smile I can seasons of Advent and Christmas- symbols as a way of saying, It’s opposed to ‘Xmas.’All these little memories of goodness and thus to Christ, who, as we know, came and say, ‘No problem.’ tide. At the end of the day, that’s not Christmas yet: it’s Advent. witnesses do make a difference. open doors of hope.’ down at Christmas and remains. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 PAPAL DOCUMENT SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER DECEMBER 6 2013 DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER MISSION 13 MISSION TO MONGOLIA MISSION MATTERS SCOTLAND brings us the story of Bishop Wenceslao Padilla and his inspiring journey of faith in the Asian country

S THE Year of Faith comes to an end, the good news of the work of the Church around the world shows that the faith is alive and well, growing and flourishing in unex- pected places in some of the most remote parts of the planet. The story of Bishop Wenceslao Padilla and his work in Mongolia demonstrates the continued mission of the Church to take Christ’s message to people wherever they live. AIt was only just over 20 years ago, in 1992, after the fall of Com- munism, that the very first Catholic missionary priests were able to enter Mongolia to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and build the world’s youngest Catholic Church. One of those first three priests, and today Mongolia’s first and only bishop—Bishop Wenceslao (Wens) Padilla, visited Australia in September to promote Catholic Mission’s 2013 World Mission Appeal. This was the bishop’s first visit to Australia. Bishop Padilla is a Filipino missionary priest from the Italian Con- gregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and his incredibly inspir- ing journey of faith in Mongolia, was the focus of Catholic Mission’s 2013 appeal entitled ‘I will build my Church’ (Matthew 16:18). During his visit, the bishop travelled throughout the country to share at parishes, schools and donor events, his story of the joys and challenges of building the church ‘from scratch’ in a country known to other missionaries as the ‘hardship country.’ He recalled that when he first arrived, the country, which was mostly comprised of nomadic herders, had no knowledge of Christianity, and was struggling with alcoholism, domestic abuse, minimal government social services and extreme poverty. Today, throughout the vast and remote country of Mongolia with less than three million people, proudly stand six Catholic churches. “Jesus said to St Peter, ‘Upon this rock, I will build my Church,’ An Apostle and Epistle for our times and I’m thinking that was also addressed to me when I came to Mon- golia,” Bishop Padilla said. Along with his congregation, Catholic Mission—through its gen- PROFESSOR JOHN HALDANE gives an insight into Pope Francis and Evangelii Gaudium erous and faithful donors—has supported the Mongolian Catholic Church since day one, and helped build the very first church in Mon- ECULAR reactions to Pope Francis’ This explains the headline accounts of his do with affective insecurity or the pursuit of golia just three years after Bishop Padilla arrived. public statements, in particular his interviews as announcing policy change and power, human glory or economic well-being.” “Without the Church, without the congregation, sending me to several interviews, have generally commentary pieces speculating on revisions Just such words could as easily have flowed come to the mission, I could not be in Mongolia,” the bishop said. been very positive and many and perhaps abandonments of old teachings. from the pen of the two preceding and “And without the support of funding institutions, without their col- Catholics will be grateful for that, Such a level of media reporting and reflec- the continuity of teaching is evident. Better laboration, without their partnership, we could not have this mission. having had to endure years of the Church receiv- tion is lazy, ignorant and wishful. The truth of then to set aside the search for clues to radical There was nothing. There was no church structure. There was no ing bad press, a tendency that has intensified the matter is the the Pope is not a party leader reform of the Church’s teachings. It will not, Catholic—no Mongolian Catholic. We really started from zero.” inS recent times in part because of further scan- and the Church is not a political institution, and cannot happen. With that vain expectation dals, but also because of the ferocity of the cam- though of course it has its factions and rival- out of the way there is then a chance of really ishop Padilla recalled his 1992 arrival as leader of a team of the paign against the Church’s teaching on marriage. ries, as does every human organisation. engaging with the power and beauty of the first three missionary priests in that far-off country, slightly There is a particular aspect of press repre- Instead the Church is a divinely ordained text. Evangelii Gaudium is a great document, smaller than Alaska and encircled by China and Russia. sentation of Catholicism in general, and of community instituted by Christ himself for the an extended reflection on the call to preach BThe bishop explained that the Russians, who originally helped the Popes in particular that is problematic, quite sake of continuing his work of teaching, heal- and teach the Gospel, beautifully and power- Mongolians drive out their Chinese rulers, stayed on then to control lthough Bishop Padilla was elevated from Apostolic Prefect aster. They were not only fortunate enough to experience God’s love the ger shaped church is a comfortable place of worship as it sig- apart from whether it is critical or favourable; ing and saving souls. By the same token the fully expressing the scriptural teachings that what became the state of Outer Mongolia for another 70 years. to Bishop in 2003, he still presides over Ulaanbaatar as an in this non-Christian country, they were also one of a very few fam- nifies unity, community and harmony. and that is the almost universal practice of Pope is the successor of Peter just as the other the truth of God will set us free, and that the “It was only in 1989 that it was liberated from these Communist Apostolic Prefecture. It has not yet reached the requirements ilies that were given a new home by the Catholic Church; a tradi- Over the last 20 years, the number of Catholic Faith communities speaking of ‘conservatives’ and ‘liberals,’ and bishops are the successors of the remaining life of the spirit is the life of the soul. One only regimes,” the bishop said, noting that the newly independent Mon- forA being declared a diocese. Blessed Pope John Paul II was origi- tional Mongolian ger. has continued to grow across Mongolia. Today, Bishop Padilla is still less frequently of ‘traditionalists’ and ‘pro- apostles, and their role is that given to the first has to read its second paragraph to get a sense golia immediately began initiating diplomatic relations with other nally scheduled to perform Bishop Padilla’s Episcopal ordination, Having just lost his livelihood, Gantulga’s life spiralled out of con- committed to reach out and over practical and spiritual support to gressives.’ The latter pair tend to be used more generation of predecessors by Jesus. of this and of the promise of what lies ahead: countries, including . Born in the Philippines in 1949 but was unable to due to his declining health at that time. trol; he was haunted by his alcohol addiction and his aggressive and those in need. by some Catholics themselves, which is worse and ordained in 1976, Bishop Padilla worked for 15 years as part of However, Bishop Padilla (above) was honoured to have met with violent behaviour. Sadly in Mongolia, alcoholism, domestic abuse “I like the motto of Catholic Mission Australia: ‘Reach out, give since they ought to know better. These two Successors of Peter Modern danger the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Taiwan. While His Holiness for two ad limina visits. and extreme poverty are widespread. Seeking a change and a new life,’” Bishop Padilla said. “It summarises everything that I want to pairs of contrasting descriptions are drawn A central part of the role of the successors of The great danger in today’s world, pervaded completing the end of his second term as a there, “I really thank the people who sustain the mission,” he said. “I meaning in her life, Uurtsaikh started attending the activities run by do as a priest, as a bishop, and as a Christian—to reach out to others. from politics and from culture and are not as Peter and the Apostles is to preserve and hand as it is by consumerism, is the desolation and the call for missionaries to Mongolia went out. consider them as partners of the mission. Either by their donation or the local Catholic Church together with her children. Seeing the And the new Holy Father is very strong on this: ‘Go out, go there such religious classifications. Their use is an on what they have received. This is an intrin- anguish born of a complacent yet covetous “Since at the time I was finishing my term,” he said. “I said: ‘I am by their prayers, they’re all partners of the mission. They are jour- changes in his wife’s behaviour and mood, Gantulga too was inspired and do something for the people especially the poor.’ Because that’s importation from political news coverage and sically conservationist responsibility and in heart, the feverish pursuit of frivolous pleas- also available—let the Spirit blow where it wills.’ neyers with us.” to learn about the Catholic Faith. Gantulga only received Baptism what I wanted to do, reaching out to people, to the poor, give life.” it derives in recent times from the US. that sense every Pope is and must be a ‘con- ures, and a blunted conscience. Whenever our “We really had to start from scratch, from zero,” he said. “When Speaking of the phenomenal growth of the Church in Mongolia this Easter (2013), but ever since he started coming to church with With no local priests or sisters, nor any local income to sustain the When a new US President comes into office servative’—not as a matter of politics or cul- interior life becomes caught up in its own we arrived, there was no church, no convent, to welcome us.” from a base of zero, he added: “It’s all the work of God. I know He Uurtsaikh and their children, he has seen drastic changes in his life. outreach due to the extreme and widespread poverty, people in many he surrounds himself with staff who are ture but as one of religious fidelity. interests and concerns, there is no longer room The trio stayed first in a hotel in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, was already there—we just had to hook up where He was working.” Today Gantulga is not only a better father and husband, he has also parts of the world urgently need help. Sadly, countless communities signed up to his policies and there is a clear- If someone doubted this and countered that for others, no place for the poor. God’s voice before finding an apartment to use as their headquarters for the next Martin Teulan, national director of Catholic Mission, said: “We emerged as a leader in the community, reaching out to others in need. in Mongolia and across the world are still to hear the Good News. out of those associated with his predecessor. Pope Francis is certainly out to review, revise is no longer heard, the quiet joy of his love is three years until the first church building could be erected. were very excited to be bringing Bishop Padilla to Australia in the “I can tell you that I see a difference between my life before receiv- The Mongolian Catholic Church, the world’s youngest Catholic This is always so if the presidents are of dif- and update the Church’s teachings, just as a no longer felt, and the desire to do good fades. First, they held Masses for just the three of them. Then, as the lead up to World Mission Month in October 2013, and for Australian ing Baptism and after,” Gantulga said. “It’s true and a concrete exam- Church, and other churches all around the world urgently needs us to ferent parties but it happens to some degree political leader might do with a party mani- This is a very real danger for believers too. expatriate community became aware of their presence, these Catholics to hear the inspirational journey of the world’s youngest ple of how life can change when we meet with Jesus because before reach out to them with our financial help and prayers to help them even when they are on the same side. Ameri- festo so as to ‘modernise’ it, then they would Many fall prey to it, and end up resentful, Catholics in a foreign land began attending the priests’ Masses. Catholic Church.” in my life, I made a lot of mistakes. I was addicted to alcohol and I continue their outreach. They need our help to build new churches can commentators are so used to this and to need to look at Evangelii Gaudium and read angry and listless. That is no way to live a dig- Eventually they brought along their Mongolian friends. During his In this year’s appeal, Catholic Mission Australia invited parish- also had some problems with violence. When I started going to church and schools, train Catechists, run medical centres, English and skill depicting leaders as more or less conservative what he has to say about, for example abor- nified and fulfilled life; it is not God’s will for first years in Mongolia, Bishop Padilla worked hard to understand ioners to reach out and help the people of Mongolia to build their and feeling how God’s mercy reaches me, I felt that I had to receive training classes, and homes for children with disabilities and who or liberal that the thoughtlessly apply this dis- tion: “Precisely because this involves the us, nor is it the life in the Spirit which has its the needs of the people, which led to the establishment of several ini- Church, the world’s youngest Catholic Church, and to support sim- Baptism. Now I can say I am a better father and a better husband are homeless. tinction to the issue of the Papacy or other lev- internal consistency of our message about the source in the heart of the risen Christ. tiatives to help the less fortunate. ilar mission work around the world. because I have received God’s mercy and can be merciful to others. By being true Disciples of Christ reaching out today, we are help- els of leadership in the Church. value of the human person, the Church cannot These included a care centre for children who were homeless, “There is a positive influence of the Church here in this whole com- ing the people of Mongolia build their Church, the world’s youngest be expected to change her position on this I Forget what the here-today gone-tomorrow schools, medical clinics, libraries plus vocational skills and income he fruits of the work of Bishop Padilla and his priests are evi- munity. Their lives have been changing for the better. And you can Catholic Church, and we can grow the Kingdom of God in the some Media narrative question... This is not something subject to news journalists and commentators say generation training centres. dent in the story of Gantulga, his wife Uurtsaikh, and Otgoner- feel that there is a change. There is more joy and happiness around us of the remotest areas in the world. On this basis we have to endure a narrative alleged reforms or ‘modernisations’” about Pope Francis and read the text for “All cater to the very poor,” the bishop said. “Those who have no dene and Sainzaya, two of their children (above right), who and there has been a big change in the lives of many people.” according to which Blessed Pope John Paul II Or look at what it says regarding women’s yourself, available in full and without cost on clothes to wear, no food, no family.” live in the rural town of Arvaiheer, 440 km from Mongolia’s capital I Mission Matters Scotland is the working name of MISSIO the Vatican website: http://www.vatican.va/ T Scotland. It represents the Pontifical Mission Societies and is was conservative, Pope Emeritus Benedict ordination: “The reservation of the priesthood to Bishop Padilla notes there have been many obstacles to overcome of Ulaanbaatar. Thanks to the spiritual and practical outreach of faith- t is thanks to the generosity of supporters in Australia and the holis- XVI was an arch conservative, and tradition- males, as a sign of Christ the Spouse who gives holy_father/francesco/apost_exhortations/ and challenges to face in their missionary work, including the diffi- ful missionaries, the lives of Gantulga and his family have been dra- tic work of the missionaries, that Gantulga and his family have the only organisation to guarantee support for every one of the alist, and Pope Francis is a liberal and pro- himself in the Eucharist, is not a question open documents/papa-francesco_esortazione- culty of learning the language, the harsh climate and the predomi- matically transformed after accepting Jesus into their hearts. come to know the grace, joy, peace and hope of our loving God. 1100 mission dioceses in the world. To support Mission Matters gressive. And since the opinion-forming to discussion,” or about admission to the priest- ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium_en.html. It is nance of the major religions there — Tibetan Buddhism, Shamanism Gantulga, Uurtsaikh and their children first learned about the The cathedral in Mongolia’s capital of Ulaanbaatar, shaped as a Scotland call: 01236 449774 or e-mail: national.office@ a truly heart-lifting reflection, and an inspiring I missionmattersscotland .org media is itself liberal and progressive, or hood more generally: “Seminaries cannot accept and the Muslim religion. Catholic Church, one of only six Catholic churches in Mongolia, traditional Mongolian ger; a round tent dwelling, stands as a symbol prides itself on being such, then it thinks it candidates on the basis of any motivation what- exhortation. Thank God for Pope Francis—an “Also, the poverty of the people is a big challenge, because we when they moved to Arvaiheer ten years ago. The family was seek- of how the Catholic Faith is already being enculturated in a sensitive sees in Pope Francis a like-minded leader. soever, especially if those motivations have to apostle for our times. don’t have any local income,” he said. “It’s all coming from outside.” ing refuge after tragically losing all their livestock in a natural dis- and gentle manner into the Mongolian way of life. For Mongolians, I www.missionmattersscotland.org WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 PAPAL DOCUMENT SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER DECEMBER 6 2013 DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER MISSION 13 MISSION TO MONGOLIA MISSION MATTERS SCOTLAND brings us the story of Bishop Wenceslao Padilla and his inspiring journey of faith in the Asian country

S THE Year of Faith comes to an end, the good news of the work of the Church around the world shows that the faith is alive and well, growing and flourishing in unex- pected places in some of the most remote parts of the planet. The story of Bishop Wenceslao Padilla and his work in Mongolia demonstrates the continued mission of the Church to take Christ’s message to people wherever they live. AIt was only just over 20 years ago, in 1992, after the fall of Com- munism, that the very first Catholic missionary priests were able to enter Mongolia to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and build the world’s youngest Catholic Church. One of those first three priests, and today Mongolia’s first and only bishop—Bishop Wenceslao (Wens) Padilla, visited Australia in September to promote Catholic Mission’s 2013 World Mission Appeal. This was the bishop’s first visit to Australia. Bishop Padilla is a Filipino missionary priest from the Italian Con- gregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and his incredibly inspir- ing journey of faith in Mongolia, was the focus of Catholic Mission’s 2013 appeal entitled ‘I will build my Church’ (Matthew 16:18). During his visit, the bishop travelled throughout the country to share at parishes, schools and donor events, his story of the joys and challenges of building the church ‘from scratch’ in a country known to other missionaries as the ‘hardship country.’ He recalled that when he first arrived, the country, which was mostly comprised of nomadic herders, had no knowledge of Christianity, and was struggling with alcoholism, domestic abuse, minimal government social services and extreme poverty. Today, throughout the vast and remote country of Mongolia with less than three million people, proudly stand six Catholic churches. “Jesus said to St Peter, ‘Upon this rock, I will build my Church,’ An Apostle and Epistle for our times and I’m thinking that was also addressed to me when I came to Mon- golia,” Bishop Padilla said. Along with his congregation, Catholic Mission—through its gen- PROFESSOR JOHN HALDANE gives an insight into Pope Francis and Evangelii Gaudium erous and faithful donors—has supported the Mongolian Catholic Church since day one, and helped build the very first church in Mon- ECULAR reactions to Pope Francis’ This explains the headline accounts of his do with affective insecurity or the pursuit of golia just three years after Bishop Padilla arrived. public statements, in particular his interviews as announcing policy change and power, human glory or economic well-being.” “Without the Church, without the congregation, sending me to several interviews, have generally commentary pieces speculating on revisions Just such words could as easily have flowed come to the mission, I could not be in Mongolia,” the bishop said. been very positive and many and perhaps abandonments of old teachings. from the pen of the two preceding Popes and “And without the support of funding institutions, without their col- Catholics will be grateful for that, Such a level of media reporting and reflec- the continuity of teaching is evident. Better laboration, without their partnership, we could not have this mission. having had to endure years of the Church receiv- tion is lazy, ignorant and wishful. The truth of then to set aside the search for clues to radical There was nothing. There was no church structure. There was no ing bad press, a tendency that has intensified the matter is the the Pope is not a party leader reform of the Church’s teachings. It will not, Catholic—no Mongolian Catholic. We really started from zero.” inS recent times in part because of further scan- and the Church is not a political institution, and cannot happen. With that vain expectation dals, but also because of the ferocity of the cam- though of course it has its factions and rival- out of the way there is then a chance of really ishop Padilla recalled his 1992 arrival as leader of a team of the paign against the Church’s teaching on marriage. ries, as does every human organisation. engaging with the power and beauty of the first three missionary priests in that far-off country, slightly There is a particular aspect of press repre- Instead the Church is a divinely ordained text. Evangelii Gaudium is a great document, smaller than Alaska and encircled by China and Russia. sentation of Catholicism in general, and of community instituted by Christ himself for the an extended reflection on the call to preach BThe bishop explained that the Russians, who originally helped the Popes in particular that is problematic, quite sake of continuing his work of teaching, heal- and teach the Gospel, beautifully and power- Mongolians drive out their Chinese rulers, stayed on then to control lthough Bishop Padilla was elevated from Apostolic Prefect aster. They were not only fortunate enough to experience God’s love the ger shaped church is a comfortable place of worship as it sig- apart from whether it is critical or favourable; ing and saving souls. By the same token the fully expressing the scriptural teachings that what became the state of Outer Mongolia for another 70 years. to Bishop in 2003, he still presides over Ulaanbaatar as an in this non-Christian country, they were also one of a very few fam- nifies unity, community and harmony. and that is the almost universal practice of Pope is the successor of Peter just as the other the truth of God will set us free, and that the “It was only in 1989 that it was liberated from these Communist Apostolic Prefecture. It has not yet reached the requirements ilies that were given a new home by the Catholic Church; a tradi- Over the last 20 years, the number of Catholic Faith communities speaking of ‘conservatives’ and ‘liberals,’ and bishops are the successors of the remaining life of the spirit is the life of the soul. One only regimes,” the bishop said, noting that the newly independent Mon- forA being declared a diocese. Blessed Pope John Paul II was origi- tional Mongolian ger. has continued to grow across Mongolia. Today, Bishop Padilla is still less frequently of ‘traditionalists’ and ‘pro- apostles, and their role is that given to the first has to read its second paragraph to get a sense golia immediately began initiating diplomatic relations with other nally scheduled to perform Bishop Padilla’s Episcopal ordination, Having just lost his livelihood, Gantulga’s life spiralled out of con- committed to reach out and over practical and spiritual support to gressives.’ The latter pair tend to be used more generation of predecessors by Jesus. of this and of the promise of what lies ahead: countries, including Vatican City. Born in the Philippines in 1949 but was unable to due to his declining health at that time. trol; he was haunted by his alcohol addiction and his aggressive and those in need. by some Catholics themselves, which is worse and ordained in 1976, Bishop Padilla worked for 15 years as part of However, Bishop Padilla (above) was honoured to have met with violent behaviour. Sadly in Mongolia, alcoholism, domestic abuse “I like the motto of Catholic Mission Australia: ‘Reach out, give since they ought to know better. These two Successors of Peter Modern danger the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Taiwan. While His Holiness for two ad limina visits. and extreme poverty are widespread. Seeking a change and a new life,’” Bishop Padilla said. “It summarises everything that I want to pairs of contrasting descriptions are drawn A central part of the role of the successors of The great danger in today’s world, pervaded completing the end of his second term as a provincial superior there, “I really thank the people who sustain the mission,” he said. “I meaning in her life, Uurtsaikh started attending the activities run by do as a priest, as a bishop, and as a Christian—to reach out to others. from politics and from culture and are not as Peter and the Apostles is to preserve and hand as it is by consumerism, is the desolation and the call for missionaries to Mongolia went out. consider them as partners of the mission. Either by their donation or the local Catholic Church together with her children. Seeing the And the new Holy Father is very strong on this: ‘Go out, go there such religious classifications. Their use is an on what they have received. This is an intrin- anguish born of a complacent yet covetous “Since at the time I was finishing my term,” he said. “I said: ‘I am by their prayers, they’re all partners of the mission. They are jour- changes in his wife’s behaviour and mood, Gantulga too was inspired and do something for the people especially the poor.’ Because that’s importation from political news coverage and sically conservationist responsibility and in heart, the feverish pursuit of frivolous pleas- also available—let the Spirit blow where it wills.’ neyers with us.” to learn about the Catholic Faith. Gantulga only received Baptism what I wanted to do, reaching out to people, to the poor, give life.” it derives in recent times from the US. that sense every Pope is and must be a ‘con- ures, and a blunted conscience. Whenever our “We really had to start from scratch, from zero,” he said. “When Speaking of the phenomenal growth of the Church in Mongolia this Easter (2013), but ever since he started coming to church with With no local priests or sisters, nor any local income to sustain the When a new US President comes into office servative’—not as a matter of politics or cul- interior life becomes caught up in its own we arrived, there was no church, no convent, to welcome us.” from a base of zero, he added: “It’s all the work of God. I know He Uurtsaikh and their children, he has seen drastic changes in his life. outreach due to the extreme and widespread poverty, people in many he surrounds himself with staff who are ture but as one of religious fidelity. interests and concerns, there is no longer room The trio stayed first in a hotel in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, was already there—we just had to hook up where He was working.” Today Gantulga is not only a better father and husband, he has also parts of the world urgently need help. Sadly, countless communities signed up to his policies and there is a clear- If someone doubted this and countered that for others, no place for the poor. God’s voice before finding an apartment to use as their headquarters for the next Martin Teulan, national director of Catholic Mission, said: “We emerged as a leader in the community, reaching out to others in need. in Mongolia and across the world are still to hear the Good News. out of those associated with his predecessor. Pope Francis is certainly out to review, revise is no longer heard, the quiet joy of his love is three years until the first church building could be erected. were very excited to be bringing Bishop Padilla to Australia in the “I can tell you that I see a difference between my life before receiv- The Mongolian Catholic Church, the world’s youngest Catholic This is always so if the presidents are of dif- and update the Church’s teachings, just as a no longer felt, and the desire to do good fades. First, they held Masses for just the three of them. Then, as the lead up to World Mission Month in October 2013, and for Australian ing Baptism and after,” Gantulga said. “It’s true and a concrete exam- Church, and other churches all around the world urgently needs us to ferent parties but it happens to some degree political leader might do with a party mani- This is a very real danger for believers too. expatriate community became aware of their presence, these Catholics to hear the inspirational journey of the world’s youngest ple of how life can change when we meet with Jesus because before reach out to them with our financial help and prayers to help them even when they are on the same side. Ameri- festo so as to ‘modernise’ it, then they would Many fall prey to it, and end up resentful, Catholics in a foreign land began attending the priests’ Masses. Catholic Church.” in my life, I made a lot of mistakes. I was addicted to alcohol and I continue their outreach. They need our help to build new churches can commentators are so used to this and to need to look at Evangelii Gaudium and read angry and listless. That is no way to live a dig- Eventually they brought along their Mongolian friends. During his In this year’s appeal, Catholic Mission Australia invited parish- also had some problems with violence. When I started going to church and schools, train Catechists, run medical centres, English and skill depicting leaders as more or less conservative what he has to say about, for example abor- nified and fulfilled life; it is not God’s will for first years in Mongolia, Bishop Padilla worked hard to understand ioners to reach out and help the people of Mongolia to build their and feeling how God’s mercy reaches me, I felt that I had to receive training classes, and homes for children with disabilities and who or liberal that the thoughtlessly apply this dis- tion: “Precisely because this involves the us, nor is it the life in the Spirit which has its the needs of the people, which led to the establishment of several ini- Church, the world’s youngest Catholic Church, and to support sim- Baptism. Now I can say I am a better father and a better husband are homeless. tinction to the issue of the Papacy or other lev- internal consistency of our message about the source in the heart of the risen Christ. tiatives to help the less fortunate. ilar mission work around the world. because I have received God’s mercy and can be merciful to others. By being true Disciples of Christ reaching out today, we are help- els of leadership in the Church. value of the human person, the Church cannot These included a care centre for children who were homeless, “There is a positive influence of the Church here in this whole com- ing the people of Mongolia build their Church, the world’s youngest be expected to change her position on this I Forget what the here-today gone-tomorrow schools, medical clinics, libraries plus vocational skills and income he fruits of the work of Bishop Padilla and his priests are evi- munity. Their lives have been changing for the better. And you can Catholic Church, and we can grow the Kingdom of God in the some Media narrative question... This is not something subject to news journalists and commentators say generation training centres. dent in the story of Gantulga, his wife Uurtsaikh, and Otgoner- feel that there is a change. There is more joy and happiness around us of the remotest areas in the world. On this basis we have to endure a narrative alleged reforms or ‘modernisations’” about Pope Francis and read the text for “All cater to the very poor,” the bishop said. “Those who have no dene and Sainzaya, two of their children (above right), who and there has been a big change in the lives of many people.” according to which Blessed Pope John Paul II Or look at what it says regarding women’s yourself, available in full and without cost on clothes to wear, no food, no family.” live in the rural town of Arvaiheer, 440 km from Mongolia’s capital I Mission Matters Scotland is the working name of MISSIO the Vatican website: http://www.vatican.va/ T Scotland. It represents the Pontifical Mission Societies and is was conservative, Pope Emeritus Benedict ordination: “The reservation of the priesthood to Bishop Padilla notes there have been many obstacles to overcome of Ulaanbaatar. Thanks to the spiritual and practical outreach of faith- t is thanks to the generosity of supporters in Australia and the holis- XVI was an arch conservative, and tradition- males, as a sign of Christ the Spouse who gives holy_father/francesco/apost_exhortations/ and challenges to face in their missionary work, including the diffi- ful missionaries, the lives of Gantulga and his family have been dra- tic work of the missionaries, that Gantulga and his family have the only organisation to guarantee support for every one of the alist, and Pope Francis is a liberal and pro- himself in the Eucharist, is not a question open documents/papa-francesco_esortazione- culty of learning the language, the harsh climate and the predomi- matically transformed after accepting Jesus into their hearts. come to know the grace, joy, peace and hope of our loving God. 1100 mission dioceses in the world. To support Mission Matters gressive. And since the opinion-forming to discussion,” or about admission to the priest- ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium_en.html. It is nance of the major religions there — Tibetan Buddhism, Shamanism Gantulga, Uurtsaikh and their children first learned about the The cathedral in Mongolia’s capital of Ulaanbaatar, shaped as a Scotland call: 01236 449774 or e-mail: national.office@ a truly heart-lifting reflection, and an inspiring I missionmattersscotland .org media is itself liberal and progressive, or hood more generally: “Seminaries cannot accept and the Muslim religion. Catholic Church, one of only six Catholic churches in Mongolia, traditional Mongolian ger; a round tent dwelling, stands as a symbol prides itself on being such, then it thinks it candidates on the basis of any motivation what- exhortation. Thank God for Pope Francis—an “Also, the poverty of the people is a big challenge, because we when they moved to Arvaiheer ten years ago. The family was seek- of how the Catholic Faith is already being enculturated in a sensitive sees in Pope Francis a like-minded leader. soever, especially if those motivations have to apostle for our times. don’t have any local income,” he said. “It’s all coming from outside.” ing refuge after tragically losing all their livestock in a natural dis- and gentle manner into the Mongolian way of life. For Mongolians, I www.missionmattersscotland.org WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 14 STRONG IN FAITH SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013

A weekly discussion chaired by young PRAYERS FOR THE WEEK strong in faith Catholic students OUR nearest star, of course, is the Sun. Stars that are rela- tively close to each other are said to form a ‘galaxy.’ There are about 1000 mil- lion stars in our own galaxy which is often called ‘The Milky Way.’ There are about 100,000 million galaxies throughout the whole of the universe. We cannot begin to grasp these numbers, but the Earth AS ALFRED Nobel read the is a small planet travelling newspaper one morning, he around one sun amongst saw his own obituary printed! about 100 million million Whilst a journalist had million stars. obviously made an error, Nobel was quite shaken by God our Father, we thank you what he read—not simply that in the vastness of your because others would think creation there is something he had died, but because special about the beauty of what was written about him this earth. seemed to give a false pic- Into our world, which you ture of who he was. love so much, you sent Jesus, The newspaper sensation- your Son, your Word who alised that he was ‘The became a human being and Dynamite King.’ made His home among us. His younger brother and Breathe your Holy Spirit four others had been killed in into us once again that we a factory explosion whilst may grow in a sense of handling nitro-glycerine. DISCUSSION: The past few days Many young people are thankful for having wonder and proclaim to be ities and injuries. It was nothing short of a attended World Youth Day 2013 in Rio, Brazil Alfred Nobel had set about saw Thanksgiving in the US and miracle. good all that you have made. making the explosive much the end of the new Liturgical Eoghan Mairtin May we live more fully as more safe to handle by hav- year. What are you most thankful people I met and travelled with there. brothers and sisters of one ing it in solid form, which he for this past year? DISCERNMENT. Jesus A Tapia Amador another and of Jesus, your called ‘dynamite.’ Aidan Michael Cook Son. Amen. His hope was that his dis- THAT the tragedy in Glasgow on Friday did I Have your say at http://www.facebook. covery would put an end to not result in a fireball with many more fatal- WORLD Youth Day and all the amazing com/scostronginfaith PHILIP Lawrence was head- war. He wrote—hopefully— teacher of St George’s Com- that: “On the day two army prehensive School in Maida groups realise that (with Vale, west London. dynamite) they can annihi- Let gratitude always permeate all that you do He had been headteacher late each other in one second, for two years when, on this all civilised nations will day in 1995, standing outside recoil from war in horror.” By Aidan Michael Cook the school gates, he saw a Having read his obituary student being attacked by a and realising that his good ALL that we have and all group of teenagers on the intentions for peace and that we are comes from street. Going to protect that understanding were not even God, our Creator. He student, Philip Lawrence was mentioned, Nobel decided he brought us into being, and stabbed to death. would invest for a good pur- He holds us in being. Some 300 years earlier, the pose the fortune that he had We look at everything that patron saint of teachers— made from his invention of sustains life and we recognise John Baptist De La Salle— dynamite. that behind it all is God. But He had written: “As someone When he died on Decem- gives us not only this natural chosen by God to proclaim ber 10, 1896, his will stated life, but also a supernatural life the Gospel to others, your that most of his fortune was in His Son Jesus Christ, calling commitment and enthusiasm to be placed in trust. The us His sons and daughters. must go so far that you are interest on that money would We should be grateful every ready to give your very life, fund annual prizes ‘to those day—indeed, every moment of so dear to you are the young who, in the preceding year, every day—for everything and people entrusted to you.” shall have conferred the everyone. We should give The tragedy for Philip greatest benefit upon thanks for the sun, for the rain, Lawrence’s family and the mankind.’ for food, for friends, for moun- school and his friends, pro- Each year, on the anniver- tains and lakes, for buildings voked discussion nationally sary of his death, the prizes and roads. As the Catechism about violence and the avail- are presented by the King of says: “Every event and need ability of knives. Sweden in Stockholm, the can become an offering of Mrs Lawrence remarked city where Alfred Nobel was thanksgiving.” (2638) that when young people felt born. An ‘attitude of gratitude’ unloved and undervalued, The Nobel Prizes are allows us to see every day as they tended to search in the among the most highly- the great gift that it is. We open darkness for something to fill regarded honours anyone can our hearts to the opportunities the emptiness. A minority receive. Winners are given a and graces afforded us, and we develop aggressive behav- gold medal and a diploma, as give thanks for them. And the iour, violence and complete well as a large cash award. grace that we receive is disregard for human life. People are named for reflected back in our joy and It was said of Philip contributions in six categories: happiness, and openness to life. Lawrence that he understood Chemistry, Economics, There are also things we give education as offering options Literature, Peace, Physics, thanks for in a special way— whom they have received the for great thanks—both to God, Thankfulness, or gratitude, to young people that they and Medicine. the extraordinary gifts of life. gift of faith, the grace of Bap- and to our brothers and sisters. should permeate all that we do. might appreciate all beauty, Moments such as American tism, and life in the Church. But then there are those gifts If we live life with an ‘attitude so that there is no room Lord, you have enriched our Thanksgiving and the start of a These may include parents, that appear to be anything but of gratitude,’ we will find our- inside them for ugliness. lives in many ways and we new Liturgical year provide a grandparents, other members gifts—the blessings in disguise. selves looking at life in a more are grateful for all who have chance to look back and give of the family, pastors, Cate- St Therese says that suffering is a positive light; happiness is not Teach us, good Lord, to give influenced our lives for the thanks for the special graces that chists, and other teachers or special gift from the love of God, possible without gratitude. And and not to count the cost, to better. have marked our past year, but friends.’ (2220) which He reserves for His special so as St Paul says: “Rejoice fight and not to heed the Show us how best to use also to look forward with grati- Faith is one of the greatest friends. If this is so, then we always, pray constantly, give wounds, to toil and not to the time and talents you have tude to the new opportunities gifts we receive, and so we should thank God for all that thanks in all circumstances; for seek for rest, to labour and to given each one of us and that are opening up before us. look upon it with particular happens to us, because it all comes this is the Will of God in Christ ask for no reward, save that inspire us to live fully and For Christians, as the Cate- gratitude. Special moments and from God’s love. Every difficult Jesus for you,” (1 Thess 5:16- of knowing that we do your bring benefit to our own part chism reminds us, ‘a special graces within our life of faith moment is an opportunity to 18). Let us bless the Lord— Will. Amen. of the world. Amen gratitude is due to those from also call out in a special way grow in faith, hope and love. thanks be to God! WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER REFLECTION 15 EWTN PROGRAMMES

SUN DECEMBER 8 BNSIC 9AM 6.30PM THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS ARCHBISHOP FULTON J SHEEN WITH FR BERNARD McGUCKIAN —SERVANT OF ALL SJ 9PM 9.30AM FAITH CLIPS CHURCH AND THE POOR: THE TUESDAY DECEMBER 10 SIGNS OF THE TIME 1PM 11AM LIVE DAILY MASS LIVE ANGELUS WITH POPE 9PM FRANCIS FAITH CLIPS 11.30AM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 11 ADVENT REFLECTIONS 1PM 1PM LIVE DAILY MASS LIVE SUNDAY MASS 9PM 2.30PM FAITH CLIPS CATHOLICISM THURSDAY DECEMBER 12 3PM 1PM HOMAGE TO THE IMMACULATE LIVE DAILY MASS CONCEPTION 7.30PM 5.30PM MY COUNTRY, MY FAITH: OCTAVA DIES IRELAND 6PM 8PM LIVE SOLEMN MASS AND EWTN LIVE DEDICATION OF THE JOHN 9PM PAUL II EUCHARISTIC CENTRE FAITH CLIPS 8.30PM FRIDAY DECEMBER 13 ANGELS AND AT 1PM EPHESUS LIVE DAILY MASS 9PM 8PM SUNDAY NIGHT PRIME LIVE THE WORLD OVER 10.30PM 9PM VATICANO FAITH CLIPS Season of Advent has 11PM 9.30PM LIVE BENEDICTION LIFE ON THE ROCK MONDAY DECEMBER 9 SATURDAY DECEMBER 14 1PM 1PM LIVE SOLEMN MASS OF THE LIVE DAILY MASS 7PM many spiritual benefits FROM EWTN LA NOTTE DEL PROFETA 5PM 9PM LIVE SOLEMN MASS OF THE CONVERSATION WITH In our series on spirituality, a from NUNRAW ABBEY speaks IMMACULATE CONCEPTION— CARDINAL DOLAN about the rewards that can be found during the season of Advent

E SEEM at times to live enter into the joy and delight of Mary and LAY READERS’ GUIDE through the year as if the A SPIRITUAL Joseph at the birth of their Son. But that child events were just one thing of first century history is now the One we after another. But there is a REFLECTION meet in the sacraments. He is now, even in pattern to our lives. The the Advent Liturgy, our risen Lord and sav- obvious ones are births, marriages and iour who continues to speaks to us in the SUNDAY DECEMBER 8 deaths. In between these there are other written words of the scriptures. Second week of Advent. Isaiah 11:1-10. majorW life commitments like choosing a Through the Church’s history, Advent has Response: In His days justice shall flourish career, following a vocation within the come to be seen as representing Our Lord’s and peace till the moon fails. Romans 15:4-9. Church or doing voluntary work. coming in three different ways. There is the Matthew 3:1-12. The seasons of the Church’s year in a sim- first coming of Christ in His birth in Bethle- ilar way show us the highs and lows of our hem, the final coming at the end of time and lives seen in the light of our Christian voca- then, in between these two, the daily coming MONDAY tion. Each of the seasons in turn celebrates into our everyday lives. Solemnity of the immaculate conception. the work of God acting in our world. Christ’s The risen Christ is now more fully alive For those who have honestly tried to live Genesis 3:9-15, 20. Response: Sing a new life, death and Resurrection took place a long than He was before He died on the Cross. well, the final coming of Christ will not be song to the Lord for He has worked wonders. time ago. However, in the celebration of the We ourselves have been given a share in the one to fear. Heaven is not a place of fear or Liturgy throughout the year we can and do Lord’s new life. We don’t always feel this is of boredom. Some people have been heard Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12. Luke 1:26-38. enter into the saving actions of Christ by the case for our lives are an uphill struggle. to remark that they couldn’t think of any- which God and we are brought together again Our Faith, however, is based on the love and thing so tedious as spending one’s time eter- TUESDAY and reconciled. Christ came from God the life of Jesus. That is what helps us persevere nally singing God’s praises. Besides taking Isaiah 40:1-11. Response: Here is out God Father to live at one with us. Through Him through the pain and difficulties that we traditional imagery too literally, the point coming with power. Matthew 18:12-14. we were shown how His Father loved us and encounter in our lives. This is where the dif- they are missing is that people who are of our need for God. It is within that love and ferent seasons of the Church’s year help us. happy or in love don’t get tired or bored need that lives change and miracles happen. Each of the seasons shows us different when they are singing wonderful music. WEDNESDAY Like all who try to live good lives and to aspects of Christ’s life and teaching. In them Even those who can’t sing very well have Isaiah 40:25-31. Response: My soul, gives be real neighbours, it can be hard for us to we get more time, hopefully, to reflect on been known to have been uplifted by great thanks to the Lord. Matthew 11:28-30. remain true to our convictions and to give of how we may better understand and apply music. Heaven will be just like that. ourselves when others need our help. Some their message to our own lives. people may not like what we say or do he monastic life, with its full celebra- THURSDAY because that may appear to threaten what he last few weeks of the Liturgical tion of the Advent Mass and the Hours Isaiah 41:13-20. Response: The Lord is they are. year, before Advent, have focused on of the Divine Office, allows the monk kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, Our Lord’s life on earth was recognised as the end of the world and the Second Tto savour that kind of experience. There is a abounding in love. Matthew 11:11-15. being somehow different from others. He TComing of Christ. It is not a theme that we wonderful atmosphere from the Advent sea- was both a person who attracted people by spontaneously warm to. Advent continues son whose roots stretch back to the Church’s his goodness and compassion and yet the theme of the end of time. It then gradu- earliest history. It may not be so easy for the FRIDAY repelled others because they saw him as a ally moves on to a more restrained and gen- lay person in the parish to savour the full Isaiah 48:17-19. Response: Anyone who threat to the way they lived. It was through tler mood as we approach the feast of our experience of this season’s Liturgy because follows you, O Lord, will have the light of life. such a reaction to His teaching that led to our Lord’s birth in Bethlehem. of their busy lives at work or at home. The Lord’s persecution and death. There are different layers to the Advent monk himself may have much to do, but it Matthew 11:16-19. The wonderful reality, however, is that the Liturgy. In Advent, when we get nearer to will be rewarding for him and anyone who seed He sowed in His life bore fruit when He Christmas, it is not Jesus as He was at His can find the time to allow this season to per- SATURDAY sprang up into the new life of His Resurrec- human birth that we celebrate; it is the man meate into their thoughts and feelings. God Ecclesiasticus 48:1-4, 9-11. Response: God tion. His death was harrowing but what He who is our risen Lord that we pray to and is coming. If we can make time to celebrate of hosts, bring us back; let your face shine on stood for and lived led to a breakthrough for adore. It is comforting to reflect on what He that, we will be ready and at peace when he all mankind. became at Bethlehem. It is good that we does come at Christmas, or whenever. us and we shall be saved. Matthew 17-9, 10-13. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 16 FAITH IN CULTURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 Remembering football’s Highland hero FAITH IN CULTURE looks at the life of one of Celtic FC’s first stars, Malky MacDonald, who is the subject of a new book

gotten Star/Rionnag Chailte charts the story of a ley builds a profile from match reports and eye wages Celtic players were getting paid compared different time in its celebration of forgotten Celtic witness accounts which suggest he was a football to the likes of Rangers and Dundee United. Celtic legend, Malcolm MacDonald. It’s noteworthy on a ‘genius’ and ‘intellectual’ winning comparisons to historian Pat Woods reveals a confrontation with number of levels; firstly for being the first bilin- the modern masters. Perhaps the best quote is from the player and Mr Maley where he enquires about gual sport biography; it includes both English and “To me he was royalty. He played football with a the reason for their difficult relationship: “Is it By Richard Gàidhlig versions of the player’s story. Secondly silk shirt and silk slippers and the pitch was his vel- because you’re Irish and I’m a Highlander?” because his story is one of the most remarkable vet stage. In an age of bruisers and battlers he Maley laughed the accusation off. We see more of Purden and unfamiliar in Celtic’s history. hardly broke sweat. He’s among the 20 greatest the shade in Maley’s character; he is described as The Highlander’s career has been painstakingly Celtic players of all time.” melancholic, stubborn and money obsessed. Yet NDOUBTEDLY the world’s biggest researched to provide some valuable insight. Mr there must have been silent admiration as Malcolm football stars get a welcome at Celtic O’Henley, from South Uist, has done an excellent lthough born in Glasgow Mr MacDonald’s MacDonald was the only player to be invited to a Park. It was an act of generosity from job in raising the profile of the player. As the book family were proud Highlanders from South private dinner in honour of the Celtic manager Celtic supporters when they suggests, it is hoped that Mr MacDonald’s legacy Uist. They felt an immediate connection to after his retirement. applauded Kaka last week leaving the will prove a vital inspiration to others of Highland theirA Irish neighbours through strong Catholic sen- Malky MacDonald was an essential part of a pitch. Not every support would feel like com- stock today. sibilities. Behind closed doors the MacDonald’s much loved side who beat Everton to secure the mending a member of the opposition who has Former Celtic chairman Jack McGinn was lucky spoke in Gaelic, his quiet father had no interest in Empire Exhibition Trophy, he played in every out- Uscored against you in a 3-0 drubbing but this enough to witness both Mr MacDonald and that football and was reluctant to see his son take up field position and joins an elite rank of Celtic play- chivalrous aspect of the fans is a delightful throw- other lost legend George Connolly, he suggests the the game. ers to have scored a hat-trick against Rangers. On back to another era. Fifer was the only Celtic player to ever come close The first time that ‘Malky’ saw Celtic play was the flipside he was on the team that suffered a An excellent new book by Alex O’Henley, For- to matching Mr MacDonald’s talent. Mr O’Hen- when he pulled on a green and white hooped jer- humiliating 8-1 defeat against the Ibrox club. sey for the first time in March 1932. He bought While he went on to have successful career at into the club unreservedly. Among the book’s other clubs as a player and manager his heart was many striking images is one of Mr MacDonald strictly reserved for Celtic: “I ask you not to think Gordius No 120 shaking hands with Winston Churchill while play- of me as MacDonald of Kilmarnock or MacDon- CROSSWORD ing for Scotland at the annual fixture against Eng- ald of Brentford but as Malcolm MacDonald of land in 1941. The image was proudly hung up in Celtic.” the player’s home until his death in 1999, such was If only every sublime talent who played for 1 2 3 4 5 6 the honour. Sadly Mr MacDonald was not capped Celtic made that kind of commitment.

7 8 for the game and was paid less than the turnstile workers, the author reveals that he wrote to ask the I Rionnag Chaillte—Forgotten Star published by The Islands Book Trust www.theislandsbook- 9 10 Scottish Football Association to consider a posthu- mous recognition. He didn’t receive a response. trust.com Price £25 11 Undoubtedly the relationship between his manger Willie Maley and Mr MacDonald was I Richard Purden is a freelance journalist, the 12 13 14 author of We are Celtic Supporters and Faifthful First entry out the hat next complex to the point that the player would get off 15 16 17 the tram a stop early to avoid his boss, he admitted Through and Through, an SCO feature writer and TUESDAY will be the winner a married father of two 18 19 20 to feeling frightened of him and lamented the poor Send your completed 21 22 crossword entries—along with 23 your full name address and daytime phone number—to SUDOKU 24 25 CROSSWORD CONTEST SCO 19 26 27 28 WATERLOO ST GLASGOW G2

29 30 31 32 6BT 51 SIMPLE 33 34 35 The winner’s name will be printed next week 36 2 9 3 61 4 2 5 7 9 83 37 8 3 946 1 5 72 The editor’s decision is final 7 1 57 2 8 9 3 6 4 1 9 4 7 15 83 2 6 ACROSS 1 The groundsman’s goal is of value to a singer (7,5) LAST WEEK’S 5 2 3 3856 9 2 174 7 Point a weapon at a target (3) SOLUTION 28 1 4 7 6 5 39 9 Exam (4) 5 9 6 7 4 8 312 10 With an army position, the French may cause 8 7 9 4 ACROSS 24 3 1 6 5 7 9 8 resentment (6) 1 Chapter and verse 11 Imputation (4) 1 7 8 3 2 9 456 14 Proof of payment for postage (5) 6 Shah 10 Motel 6 4 8 11 Principal 12 Grenade 15 With which to secure one plate of metal to another (5) FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY 16 What person (character) calls this to make a horse 15 Rodeo 17 Girl stop? (4) 18 Room 19 Ebbed 8 7 AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 18 Leers (5) 21 Whatnot 23 Finch AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS 21 A curtain for Doctor (5) 24 Blur 25 Ills 26 Reads 22 Decants (5) 1 6 5 THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 28 Trellis 33 Barcelona WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 23 Postpone, or yield to a more authoritative person (5) 35 Eels 36 Fertiliser 24 Puts down ballads (4) IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE 25 Member of the community esteemed for their great 3 2 age (5) DOWN IS THE NOV 29 SIMPLE SOLUTION 26 The nationality of William Tell (5) 1 Camp 2 Afternoon 29 Immature lice (4) 3 Talon 4 Rapid 5 Nail 33 Prior to (6) 7 Hoped 8 Holy Orders MODERATE 34 Bay, inlet (4) 9 Scarlet 13 Arch 3 7 36 The sailor used to surface the road (3) 14 Egotist 16 Preferable 37 Might this nag you to dry garments indoors? (7-5) 793 5 8 2 4 1 6 20 Billiards 21 Whisper 5 3 7 DOWN 22 Ooze 27 April 4 8 61 79 5 32 1 Tart—made quietly, that is (3) 29 React 30 Level 31265 49 7 8 2 20 down achieved in the middle of a crater (4) 31 Love 32 Beer 46 2 5 4 9 6 7 8 3 1 3 Trans-national currency (4) 4 This doctrine remains unchanged, however you view 1 7 3 258 6 9 4 it (5) 4 8 1 6 8 9 3 4 1 752 5 Liam’s converted to this religion (5) Last week’s winner was: 6 Vestibule or communal meeting-place (4) Margaret Hart, Bathgate 9 321 4 6 5 8 7 8 Knock such a location, perhaps in a manner Irish (6,6) 1 3 524 781 3 6 9 9 Yonder, many scheme to find an alien in Mars (3,3,6) 8 637 5 9412 12 This place is for the birds! (6) 13 The trusty mount of a knight (5) 597 14 Mock, or consume greedily (5) Scottish Catholic Observer: FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY 17 Hunting dogs (6) Scotland’s only national 47 AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 19 Where cricket is played by aristocrats? (5) AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS 20 Velocity (5) Catholic weekly newspaper 27 Western warmth produces cereal (5) printed by Mirror, Oldham. 8 9 5 THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 28 Teacake, bun (5) Registered at the Post Office WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 30 Give Celtic jewellery to the Roman Catholic (4) 31 Net (4) as a newspaper. IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE IS 8 6 THE NOV 29 MODERATE SOLUTION WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CHURCH NOTICES 17 CHURCH&PUBLICNOTICES EXPERTSERVICES

MEDJUGORJE OUR LADY’S MONTHLY MESSAGE STALOYSIUS’ CHURCH GIVEN TO SCOT-COVER THE VISIONARY MARIJA PAVLOVIC FOR THE 25 Rose Street VILLAGE OF MEDJUGORJE AND THE WORLD RE-UPHOLSTERY Glasgow G3 ON NOVEMBER 25 2013 “Dear children! Today I call all of you to prayer. Open the doorsof your heart Freephone: (off Sauchiehall Street) 0800 389 8084 profoundly to prayer, little children, to prayer with the heart; and then the Most High will Suites and church kneelers re-covered. be able to act upon your freedom and conversion will begin. Your faith will become firm so that you will be able to say with all your heart: ʻMy God, my all.ʼ You will For quality and expertise, all types of SUNDAY MASS: comprehend, little children, that here on earth everything is passing. Thank you for Saturday Vigil 5.45pm; 9am; 10.30am (Family Mass); having responded to my call.” upholstery work undertaken -

12noon (Sung); 9pm Craig Lodge Family House of Prayer contract, commercial and domestic. Dalmally, PA33 1AR. Tel (01838) 200 216 WEEKDAY MASS: www.craiglodge.org www.scotcover.co.uk Monday - Friday: 8am; 12.30pm; 5.45pm Saturday: 10am; 12.30pm THE NATIONAL SHRINE LEGACIES CONFESSIONS: Monday - Friday: 11.30am - 12.15pm; 5.15pm - 5.30pm OF We’ve been caring for seafarers for Saturday: 10.30am - 12.15pm; 2pm - 3.15pm; 4.15pm - 5.15pm OUR LADY OF nearly 100 years, please remember Apostleship of the Sea in your Will. EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT: LOURDES Saturday: 2pm - 5.15pm Weddings permitting Sunday: 1.15pm - 8.30pm CARFIN ROSARY: Solemnity of the Monday - Saturday 12.00pm before 12.30pm Mass Solemnity of the www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk Immacullate Conceponn Registered charity in Scotland number SC043085 MOTHERWELL DIOCESAN CHOIR Solemn Mass with the directed by John Pitcathley present: Sacrament of the Sick "O Holy Night" StAugustine'sChoir in Monday 9th December at 1pm A Celebration of Christmas St Bernadette’s Motherwell (transferred from Sunday 8th December 2013) StAugustine'sChurch, Sunday 15th December at 7.30pm Dundyvan Road, Coatbridge Motherwell Cathedral Followed by Light Refreshments in th Wednesday 18th December at 7.30pm the Xavier Centre Tuesday 17 December, 2013 St Bride’s, Bothwell 7pm Sunday 22nd December at 7.30pm Admission free To Advertise: COMBONI MISSIONARIES Christmas Fundraising Concert ALL WELCOME call Christmas Carols, Music and Fun - Something for all the family in CALENDARS Sacred Heart Church, 50 Old Dalmarnock Road, Glasgow G40 0141 241 6105 FOR SALE 4AU. Friday 20th December 2013, at 7.00pm £1 plus 50p Miss Dana Cerminaro & Friends from the Postage Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, with Members of PLEASE SEND YOUR the Heart of Scotland Choral Society and Children from NAME, ADDRESS, Sacred Heart Primary School POSTCODE & 7LFNHW 3ULFH  &RQFHVVLRQV  8QGHU ·V ZLWK DQ DGXOW ² free) For Further details: Telephone 0141 554 0806, CHEQUE OR P.O. or e-mail [email protected], or visit our website To: www.corjesu.co.uk Fr John Clark, Comboni Please come along Missionaries, 138 Carmyle Avenue, Glasgow G32 8DL BLESSED JOHN DUNS SCOTUS FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY UNION DRAW Prayer Group TICKET NO. NOV 2013 WINNER’S NAME Meeting Times 1st Prize (£750) G. Cryans No. 00775 Erskine Diocese of Motherwell N Healing Ministry, 2nd Prize (£125) Mr D. Marmion Tent of Divine Mercy Ministry, No. 17245 Glasgow, G52 Meets on the 1st Saturday of the month, 3rd Prize (£125) M. Grannachan St Francis Xavier’s Church, No. 01944 Glasgow, G5 Carfin, Saturday 2 – 4.30pm 4th Prize (£75) Mr F. McDonagh No. 11592 Glasgow, G61 Archdiocese of Glasgow N Rhema Prayer Community 5th Prize (£50) Catherine McConalogue St Mary’s RC Church, No. 10031 Glasgow G53 89 Abercromby Street, Calton, Glasgow. G40 2DQ CONSOLATION PRIZES OF £30 Wednesday 8.00pm Ticket No. 05518 Mrs J. Cargill, Glasgow G60 Diocese of Paisley Ticket No. 12039 Mrs E.N. Henderson, Glasgow G67 N St Anthony’s at St Aidan’s Prayer Group Ticket No. 24535 F. McLafferty, Glasgow G5 St Aidan’s Hall, Tower Road, Ticket No. 20740 F. Moore, Glasgow G11 Johnstone Tuesdays 7.00pm Ticket No. 03034 Mrs C. Cahill, ML6 18 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 CHURCH&PUBLICNOTICES FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

SIX MONTHS MIND LOGAN In loving memory of my dear CHRISTMAS CRIB husband, our dear dad and DAWSON grandad, William, who died on IN SCOTLAND APOSTOLATE 2013 In loving memory of our mother December 4, 1996. and grandmother, Clare, who I’ve got to go on living, died on the Feast of the Sacred I know that this is true, Dates and venues where the Holy Rosary will be prayed in public: Heart, June 7, 2013. But it’s just a mere existence, St Margaret of Scotland, pray for It’s nothing without you; her. My thoughts are always with you, GLASGOW FALKIRK Inserted by her family in Your place no one can fill, Burnside, Rutherglen. In life we loved each other, Possilpark - Saracen Cross Howgate Shopping Centre In death I love you still. Saturday7th December, CARRACHER From your loving wife Madge. Thursday12th December, 100TH BIRTHDAYREMEMBRANCE Precious memories of my hus- A heart of gold stopped beating, 11am-1pm 9am-6pm band, Tony, who passed away Hard working hands at rest, MacVICAR suddenly December 12, 2002. God broke our hearts to prove to Friday13th December, 9am-6pm Remembering with love a loving Just for now I live with your us, Royston Square Saturday14th December, mother, granny and great- memory. He only takes the best. granny, Mary Ann, who passed Till we meet again in eternity. Archie, Linda, Robert and Saturday14th December, Loving wife May. 9am-6pm away June 9, 2007 and whose Agnes. 12noon-2pm 100th birthday occurs on Gentle Jesus up above, December 8, 2013. DOHERTY Give our granda all our love. xxx 30th Anniversary We miss you from your fireside David, William, Angela and Of your charity, please pray for Clarkston GOUROCK chair, great-grandchildren Louis, the repose of the soul of my Your loving smile and gentle air, William, Finlay, Holly, Blair, Pierhead beloved husband, our dearest St Josephʼs Church grounds Your vacant place no one can Sylvia and Alice. Saturday14th December, Saturday14th December, fill, father and grandfather, Robert We miss you mother and always Doherty, died December 11, MacDONALD 11am-12noon will, 1983, and whose birthday falls 11am-2pm In loving memory of John Alex She was a mother so very rare, on December 9. (Shonnie), devoted son and lov- Content at home and always We have loved him in life, ing brother and uncle of the fam- there, Let us not forget him in death. ily, died December 5, 2002. PORT GLASGOW On earth she toiled, in heaven St Vincent de Paul, pray for him. R.I.P. she rests, Inserted by his loving wife St Johnʼs Church Our thoughts are always with God bless you mother, you’re Marie, family and grandchildren, you, Saturday14th December, one of the best. Springboig. In a very special way, St Mary, pray for her. 10.30am-1pm Not just on your anniversary, Inserted by Donald Archie, Lexy But every single day. and family, Benbecula, FENTON (Patricia) Always in our thoughts and Our Lady, Star of the Sea, pray prayers. for him. MEMORIAM The family. Saints Peter and Francis of Assisi, pray for him. From all the family. BUCHANAN FITZSIMMONS 19th Anniversary In loving memory of our dear FEAST OF In loving memory of Calum, a father, Hugh, who died MacDONALD dear husband, father and grand- December 9, 1963, and our dear 18th Anniversary father, who died December 7, mother, Catherine, who died In loving memory of my dear 1994. June 14, 1999; also loved ones cousin and uncle, Alexander Our lips cannot speak how we gone before and after. MacDonald, Garrynamonie, who loved him, Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for died on December 4, 1995. OUR LADY OF Our hearts cannot tell what to R.I.P. them. say, From their loving family. It does not need a special day, But God only knows how we To bring you to our minds, miss him, GRIBBENS – MacMILLAN For days we do not think of you, In our home that is lonely today. Remembering of our beloved Are very hard to find. MERCY Eternal rest grant unto him, O brother and uncle, Michael Inserted by his nephew John Lord, John, tragically drowned on Angus. And let perpetual light shine December 8, 1983. upon him. Sweet are the memories silently McGARRY, Brian St. Catharine’s Convent May he rest in peace. kept, 3rd Anniversary Inserted by his loving wife Chris- Of a brother we loved and shall Please pray for Brian, who died tine and family. never forget. on December 6, 2010. 4 Lauriston Gardens Also our loving granny, May he rest in peace. CAMPBELL Euphemia and uncles Angus From his loving wife Helen and In loving memory of my dear John and John. family. Edinburgh EH3 9HH husband, our dear father and Inserted by his family, Inverness grandfather, Alistair Joseph, who and Mallaig. MacINTYRE died on December 10, 1993. In loving memory of our dear St Anthony and Our Lady of KILCOYNE father, Hugh MacIntyre (late of THE SISTERS OF MERCY Lourdes, pray for him. 7th Anniversary 48 Lorn Road, Dunbeg, and Inserted by his loving wife Katie In loving memory of Michael, a Roshinish, Eriskay), who passed and family at Kildonan and devoted husband, dad and away on December 9, 1970. Invite you to the away. grandad, who died December 5, R.I.P. Fois shoirruidh thoir dha O Thig- 2006. No verse, no flowers, no tears hearna, Always in our hearts and in our can say, CELEBRATION Agus solus, nach diobair prayers. How much we miss you day by dearrsadh air. May he rest in peace. day. St Joseph, pray for him. St Martin, pray for him. Inserted by his loving sister LA PIAZZA Inserted by his loving family in OF THEIR Mary Jane, Neil and family, 21st Anniversary. Oban, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Locheynort and away. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Ellen La Piazza, who MacINTYRE CONGREGATIONAL FEAST DAY died on December 9, 1992. Please remember in your Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for prayers the souls of our dear To place an her. parents and grandparents, Mass celebrated at 6.30 p.m. Inserted by Brian La Piazza. Cathie, who died December 11, on 2003, and Archie, who died intimation LAVERY March 14, 1980. 36th Anniversary Fois shiorruidh thoir dhaibh a SUNDAY 15thDECEMBER 2013 Please remember in your Thighearna, Call: 0141 prayers our dear father and Agus solus nach dibir dearrsadh by grandfather, James Lavery, who orra, 241 6106 died December 12, 1977. Gun robh am fois ann an sith. Requiescat in Pace. Amen. Archbishop Leo Cushley Inserted by his loving family at Lovingly remembered by all the home and abroad. family. FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 19 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

MacLEOD – GILLIES McRURY SHIELS (GALLAGHER) SULLIVAN NOVENA PRAYER TO ST PRAYER TO THE BLESSED 60th Anniversary of our dear In loving memory of John Treasured memories of our dear 10th Anniversary JUDE VIRGIN father, Joe MacLeod, who died McRury, a dear husband, father sister and aunt, Mary Theresa In loving memory of Elizabeth May the Sacred Heart of Jesus O Most Beautiful Flower of on December 11, 1953. and grandfather, who died on Gallagher, who died suddenly (Lizzie) Sullivan, who died on be praised, adored, glorified and Mount Carmel, fruitful in the December 7, 2004, also on December 7, 1978, also our December 2, 2003. splendour of Heaven, Blessed 20th Anniversary of our dear loved throughout the world now remembering Doreen McRury, a dear brother and uncle, Michael Gone from our home, but for- Mother of the Son of God, mother, Ann Gillies, who died and forever more. Sacred Heart dear daughter and sister, who James Gallagher, died suddenly ever in our hearts. of Jesus have mercy on us. St Immaculate Virgin, assist me in August 20, 1993. died on July 5, 1990. July 6, 2001. Also our sister and Sacred Heart of Jesus, have Jude helper of the hopeless, this my necessity. O Star of the Those who died in grace go no So sadly missed, so dearly loved. Sea, help me and show me aunt, Kathleen Gallagher, died mercy on her soul. pray for us. St Jude, great mira- Inserted by Katie-Ann and herein You are my Mother. O further from us than God – and June 23, 2009. May she rest in peace. cle worker, pray for us. Say nine family, London. Holy Mary, Mother of God, God is very near. Though you’re no longer with Inserted by William, Gerard, times daily. – M.B. Fois shiorruidh thoir dhaibh a us, Diane, Clare, Stephen, Suzanne Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech You from the Thighearna. Every day we find, and great-granddaughters THANK YOU to Divine Mercy, bottom of my heart to succour Altdarroch, Kinlocheil, Fort In one way or another, Grace and Fearne. St Jude, St Joseph and St You’re back there in our mind. me in my necessity. There are William. Anthony. – M.B. Rest in peace. none that can withstand Your Inserted by Alistair, Marie, Joe Their loving family. THANKSGIVING power. O show me herein You and Ian, Morar. DEAR HEART OF JESUS are my mother. O Mary, con- Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I ceived without sin, pray for us SHEILS have asked you for many who have recourse to Thee McNEECE 35th Anniversary GRATEFUL thanks to St Joseph favours, this time I ask you for (three times). Holy Mary, I place Of your charity, please pray for In loving memory of our dear of Cupertino for prayers this special one (mention this cause in your hands (three the repose of the souls of our parents, Mary, who died on answered. – A.G.B. favour), take it Dear Heart of times). O thank you for your dear parents, Francis McNeece, December 7, 1978 and Michael, Jesus, and place it within Your mercy to me and mine. Amen. who died December 10, 1966, who died on April 7, 2007. Also O DEAR ST JOSEPH OF broken heart where your Father Say for three days; publication and Mary Frances, who died on MORRISON their son and our brother, CUPERTINO, who, by your promised. – O.L. William, who died April 20, 1992. prayers, did seek from God that sees it, then in his merciful eyes December 5, 1990. R.I.P. 3rd Anniversary In loving memory of Johnny, Sacred Heart of Jesus have you should be asked at your it will become Your favour, not Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mine. Amen. Say for three PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT died December 10, 2010. mercy on them. examination the only proposi- Holy Spirit, you who solve all mercy on them. days, publication promised. - Devoted husband, dad and granda. Inserted by the family. tions you knew, pray that I too, problems, light all roads, so that Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray St Faustina, pray for him. like you, may succeed in the P.M. I can attain my goal; You who for them. From loving wife Mary and family. SIM examination for which I am gave me the divine gift to forgive 23 Tinwald Path, Glasgow. 7th Anniversary preparing. In return I will make and forget all evil against me, QUINN Nora, beloved daughter of the you known and cause you to be DEAR HEART OF JESUS and in all instances of my life In loving memory of our dear late Hugh and Bridget and lov- invoked; publication promised. – Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I you are with me. I want in this McQUADE mother and grandmother, Mary ing sister of the late Mary, much A.G.B. have asked you for many short prayer to thank you for all Treasured memories of Ellen, Malone, died December 11, loved cousin and aunt of the favours, this time I ask you for things as you confirm once our much loved Mum and Gran, 1981, also our dear father and family, died December 5, 2006. NOVENA TO ST CLARE this special one (mention again that I never want to be who died on December 7, 1991. grandfather, Charles, died Also her dear cousin and best Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine March 24, 1985, and our dear favour), take it Dear Heart of separated from you, even in Find the softest pillow, Lord, friend, Maureen O’Neil, who days with a lighted candle; pub- brother, Charles, died March Jesus, and place it within Your spite of all material illusion. I To rest her head upon, died September 17, 2013. 24, 1994; also Geraldine Quinn lication promised. – R.B. broken heart where your Father wish to be with you in eternal Place a kiss upon her cheek, died June 10, 2006, mum and A lonely cry, a silent tear, sees it, then in his merciful eyes glory. Thank you for your mercy And tell her who it’s from. wife of Peter and family. Forever wishing you both were GRATEFUL thanks to Sacred it will become Your favour, not towards me and mine. (Say this Our Lady of Knock, pray for her. Always in our thoughts. near. Heart, St Anthony, St Jude & St mine. Amen. Say for three prayer for three consecutive Sadly missed by Agnes, Gerald Always remembered. St Anthony, pray for them. Joseph for prayers answered. – days, publication promised. – days). and Eilish. Nettie, Bill, Mary and William. Inserted by Joe and family. T.N. O.L. Publication promised. - L.M.

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A gift of please send a Magnificat subscription for The Scottish Catholic Observer 1 year (13 issues) £38 1 year (13 issues incl. Lent & Advent) £41 for 2014 only £55 name address A yearʼs subscription to Magnificat is £38 postcode Starting in January 2013 (13 issues) Tel No: email: Sent with your own message from (name) from (address) from (postcode) What about those who live away from Scotland? message for greetings card (no more than 20 words) Keep them in touch with the Catholic news in Scotland by sending them The Scottish Catholic Observer. Missionary Subscription Scottish Missionaries across the world look forward to please send an SCO subscription for receiving their copy of The Scottish Catholic Observer each 13 weeks £15 26 weeks £30 52 weeks £55 week. Would you consider donating one to a missionary as a name Christmas gift? We currently have 15 Missionaries looking for address postcode a subscription to the SCO. Tel No: email: 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORY SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013

ARCHBISHOP TARTAGLIA FUNERAL DIRECTORY Archbishop of Glasgow, www.rcag.org.uk SUN DEC 8 11AM Installation of Fr John Sweeney as parish priest of St Maria Goretti’s; 3PM Mass for victims of Typhoon Haiyan, St Aloysius’, Garnethill. MON 9 1PM Mass with canons and deans, St Andrew’s Frank J Lynch Ltd. Cathedral, followed by lunch and meeting; 4.30PM Frank J Lynch Ltd. Meeting of Catholic Education Commission. TUE 10 10AM Board Meeting of the Mungo Our caring staff are here to listen and advise you, Funeral Directors 156 Crown Street, Glasgow, G5 9XD Foundation. THU 12 10.30AM SCIAF Board Meeting, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Gorbals Mass and lunch. FRI 13 1PM Mass, St Andrew’s Tel 0141 429 0300 Cathedral and Archdiocesan Primary 53 Morrison Street Glasgow Headteachers Association Retreat; 7PM Mass for 40th Partick 323 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow, G11 6AL anniversary of St Lucy’s, Cumbernauld. Tel 0141 339 1122 0141 429 4433 ARCHBISHOP CUSHLEY Gilchrist & Lynch Possilpark 136 BalmoreRoad, Glasgow, G22 6LJ Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh MEMORIAM CARDS Tel 0141 336 2300 www.archdiocese-edinburgh.com Funeral Packages from £1280 SUN DEC 8 7.15PM Mass, Edinburgh University Chaplaincy, George Square, Edinburgh. TUE 10 10.30AM One of the few privately owned companies left in Glasgow Catholic Youth Service Scotland, Gillis Centre; 12.15PM Golden Charter Pre-Payment Plans available Lunch with Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament; 2PM Leading ‘Time for Reflection’ at the Scottish Parliament. THU 12 10.30AM Meeting with Interfaith representatives, Gillis Centre, Edinburgh; 1PM Advent “Stay independent... Mass for staff of Gillis Centre, St Margaret’s Chapel. FRI 13 12.15PM Finance Committee Meeting, Gillis Centre, family-owned... Edinburgh; 1PM Advent Mass for staff of Gillis Centre, offer a prompt and St Margaret’s Chapel. JAMES personal service BISHOP TOAL SHERRY 24 hours a day... Argyll and the Isles, www.rcdai.org.uk FUNERAL DIRECTORS make it affordable.” FRI DEC 6-MON 9 Visit to Gdansk, Poland, for Mass of Thanksgiving for Fr Stanislaw Pamula. TUE 10 11.30AM our services are Thomas Marin 1926 Meeting of Motherwell College of Consultors. THU 12 Four generations later, his words are just provided at any time as important to our family business today. SCIAF Directors’ Meeting and Mass, SCIAF offices. FRI in any district 13 11AM; 2PM Motherwell Finance, Fabric and private rooms of Planning committees. MEMORIAMCARDS repose and service Thomas Marin INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS BISHOP GILBERT rooms available 62-64 St Mary's Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SX Tel: 0131 556 7192 or 0131 556 6874 (24 hrs) Aberdeen, www.dioceseofaberdeen.com designed & printed to your exact requirements 104-106 PARK ST www.thomasmarin.co.uk we can produce order of service for Requiem Masses MOTHERWELL WED 11 10AM Diocesan Management Committee and also design and print jubilee cards, bookmarks, 01698 264000 meeting, Bishop’s House; 8PM Aberdeen University, and acknowledgment/thank-you cards Carol Service, St Machar’s Cathedral. THU 12 10AM please call for full details of the personalised service we can provide ATALLTIMES VOCATIONS St Joseph’s PS Nativity; St Mary’s Deanery meeting, Bishop’s House. FRI 13 12.30PM Meeting with Catholic headteachers; 6.30PM Reception for 40th anniversary of Aberdeen’s French Catholic community. SAT 14 8AM 0141 569 4724 • 07818 645 863 mobile Organist Rorate Mass, St Mary’s Cathedral; 5PM Confirmations, Do you feel that St Ninian’s, Inverness. & God is calling BISHOP ROBSON you to the St Andrews and Edinburgh Cantor Missionary Priesthood FRI DEC 6-SUN 8 Retreat for -in-formation and As featured in the Available for weddings Then we wives, Conforti Institute, Coatbridge. MON 9 Visit with can help and funeral services Contact: you Priests for Scotland director Fr Andrew McKenzie to St Malachy’s College, Belfast. TUE 10 7PM Mary Queen of Scots Listen online at: Penitential Service, St Peter’s, Livingstone. WED 11 www.paulcarrollmusic.co.uk 12NOON Meeting of Executive of Diaconate Commission, Dundee. THU 12 10.30AM SCIAF Board Cath Doherty The Vocations Director Meeting, Glasgow. T. 01698 325 493 SMA FATHERS by By popular demand, St Theresaʼs BISHOP CUNNINGHAM these articles are now Clarendon Place, Dunblane Perthshire FK15 9HB Galloway, www.gallowaydiocese.org.uk available to own in book form at a cost of JERICHO £7 “The just (including P&P). 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Our weekly series on Children’s Liturgy has lesson plans and activity suggestions for use with young people who are on the path to Christ Each week, Catechists will find readings and Psalm responses, complemented by prayer, reflection, FAITH discussion questions, and activities. Please feel free to use them as you wish The lessons are created by Adorer-theologians using the lens of the spirituality of St Maria de Mattias, which also embraces precious blood spirituality FIRST While this is the starting point for the lessons, readers are invited to approach them however the spirit moves you The Church is concerned with the availability and understanding of scripture for children who have their rightful place in the Church. In light of this SCO aims to provide a useful tool in drawing children closer to KIDS the Catholic Faith

the good news, to heal the brokenhearted and to He will do this. announce freedom for prisoners and captives. The Word of the Lord CHILDREN’S This is the year when the Lord God will show kindness to us and punish our enemies. The Alleluia Lord has sent me to comfort all who mourn. Isaiah 61:1. CROSSWORD 10 The Word of the Lord (R) Alleluia, alleluia. The Spirit of the Lord now upon me has sent me Responsorial Psalm to bring good news to the poor. 1 2 3 4 5 Luke 1:47 and 49, 53-54. (R) Alleluia, alleluia. (R) My soul rejoices in my God. 6 With all my heart I praise the Lord and I am Gospel 7 glad because of God my Saviour. There stands among you, unknown to you, the one God All-Powerful has done great things for me, who is coming after me. A reading from the Holy 8 Reflection and His name is holy. Gospel according to John 1:19-28. DID you notice what colour the priest had (R) My soul rejoices in my God. The Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and 9 10 on today? Do you know which candle we God gives the hungry good things to eat And He temple helpers to ask John who he was. He told light today? Pink! Today is called Gaudete sends the rich away with nothing in their hands them plainly: “I am not the Messiah.” 11 Sunday. Gaudete means Rejoice. He helps His servant Israel and is always mer- Then when they asked him if he were Elijah, During Advent we talk about, think ciful to His people. he said: “No, I am not!” And when they asked 12 13 14 15 about and work on preparing ourselves for (R) My soul rejoices in my God. if he were the Prophet, he also said “No!” 16 the coming of Jesus. Today, though, we get Second Reading Finally, they said: “Who are you then? We to stop for a minute and ‘rejoice.’ Great. have to give an answer to the ones who sent us. 17 But what are we rejoicing about? May you all be kept blameless, spirit, soul, and body, Tell us who you are!” Today’s readings list many great things for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. A reading from John answered in the words of the prophet that happen when Jesus is around: the the first letter of Paul to the Thessalonians 5:16-24. Isaiah: “I am only someone shouting in the blind see, the deaf hear, those who are sick Brothers and sisters, always be joyful and never desert, ‘Get the road ready for the Lord!’ “ 18 19 are healed, and there is singing and stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking Some Pharisees had also been sent to John. dancing. Sounds like a great party. We, too, God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God They asked him: “Why are you Baptising rejoice because of how great our lives are wants you to do. people, if you are not the Messiah or Elijah or ACROSS with Jesus and how much better they will Don’t turn away God’s Spirit or ignore prophe- the Prophet?” 4 Evil (3) continue to get as we become closer to Him. cies. Put everything to the test. Accept what is John told them: “I use water to Baptise 6 Outdoor meal (6) We get so excited today about the great good and don’t have anything to do with evil. people. But here with you is someone you don’t 7 Omagh is in this county (6) things Jesus has done for us that we have to I pray that God, who gives peace, will make know. Even though I came first, I am not good 8 It helps you draw straight lines (5) tell everyone about it so they too can get to you completely holy. And may your spirit, soul, enough to untie his sandals.” 10 Rub out. (5) know Jesus and receive His love and blessings. and body be kept healthy and faultless until our John said this as he was Baptising east of the 12 Insects. (4) That is why John and the other prophets Lord Jesus Christ returns. Jordan River in Bethany. 14 The hottest season. (6) preached about God and Jesus. They knew The one who chose you can be trusted, and The Gospel of the Lord 17 Coming after. (9) how great life could be if you lived it with 18 Weep. (3) God and they wanted everyone else to 19 Two-wheeler. (7) experience it too. We are also asked to be prophets, like John and share the great things that God DOWN has done for us and to help others live lives 1 Jetty (4) that will enable them to have that great 2 A deer’s horns (7) relationship with God. 3 Female movie star (7) 4 The flower of a fruit tree. (7) Discussion 5 Not shallow (4) I What are some of the great things that God 9 Cars, lorries, buses etc., all together (7) has done for you that you can rejoice 11 It might be built to help cross a river (6) about today? 13 A short name for television (5) I How can you tell others about how great 15 Cash (5) God is? 16 You use it to keep your hair tidy (4) Activities LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION G Divide the students into groups of three or four. Ask each group to create commercials telling the great things that God does and how ACROSS to ‘get’ those great ‘things.’ 1 Glasses 4 Bet 7 Prisoner 9 Spain 10 Harp G Have each group act out their commercial 12 Grin 13 Owls 15 Less 17 Palace 18 Stem for the entire class. 19 Peter Pan Prayer DOWN Dear Jesus, thank you for coming into our lives! 2 Lid 3 String 5 Eye 6 Loch Ness 8 Call 9 Shopper We love you and appreciate all you do for us. 11 Postman 14 Stamp 15 Left 16 Stop Please help us to become better friends with you and show others how great you are. In your name we pray. Amen. The Children’s Liturgy page is published First Reading one week in advance to allow RE teachers The Spirit of the Lord has chosen me. A reading from and those taking the Children’s Liturgy at the book of the prophet Isaiah 61:1-2. weekly Masses to use, if they wish, this The Spirit of the Lord God has come to me, page as an accompaniment to their because He has chosen me. The Lord has sent me to tell the oppressed teaching materials

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 22 CELEBRATING LIFE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 Celebrating 50 years of education at St Aidan’s High School in Wishaw

By Dan McGinty

ST AIDAN’S High School in Wishaw cele- brated with pupils, staff, parents and the wider community as the school marked its 50th anniversary. The main celebrations focused on the anniver- sary Mass, celebrated in the parish of St Ignatius’ in Wishaw. Pupils were offered an early dismissal from school, granted by the executive director of education, Andrew Sutherland, as around 500 guests gathered in congregation as Mgr Millar from Motherwell celebrated Mass. Mass was concelebrated by visiting clergy such as Bishop Emeritus Joseph Devine, along with the local parish priest, former chaplains to the school and former pupils at the school, Fr Paddy Duffy and Fr Frank Dougan. Joining them was Fr Gerry Magui- ness, parish priest of St Ignatius’ and school chap- lain, who also preached the homily, as the St PIC: TOM EADIE Aidan’s community reflected on the past 50 years. Rosemary McDonald, former headteacher of the Following Mass, guests were welcomed to the while head teacher Anthony Rooney celebrated the evening’s entertainment. school from 1984-2006, was a guest of honour school for a jubilee reception, where the history of school in the present day, recognising the great The celebration gave former colleagues, parents while local councillors, MSPs and MPs were in the school was told and the talents of the pupils contriution to the educations, Faith and develop- and friends the chance to share the memories of attendance with headteachers from the linked part- today celebrated. ment of generations of Catholic pupils in Wishaw. the school, while a new film, produced for the ner primary schools, and local secondary schools, Deputy headteacher Mr Welsh regaled guests Among those pupils who showcased their tal- occasion was played on large screens, providing a showing the breadth of influence the school has on with stories from the school’s half century, bring- ents was Nicole Orr of S6, who brought Les Mis- snapshot of school life in Wishaw. the local area and the successful relationships built ing to life the characters, events and achievements erables to life with a stunning singing performance with others in Wishaw. which helped make St Aidan’s what it is today, and the school swing band, who provided the I [email protected] Scottish Catholics enjoy a Day of Renewal

CATHOLICS from across Fr Hannah also elaborated on reflect on the question ‘how Scotland gathered in Glasgow the need to answer Jesus’ call does God want to use me?’ for a Day of Renewal for the to stay on fire, growing in faith The Day of Renewal was fol- Charismatic movement. by study, community, service lowed in Glasgow by an evening Members of the Glasgow and prayer. with prayers for healing at Glas- Service Team led the praise, Throughout the day attendees gow University Catholic chap- focusing on the theme ‘I have took part in prayer ministry and laincy, while those in attendance come to bring fire on the earth!’ took advantage of a book-stall will join forces again for Gath- while the principal speaker Fr sharing resources, before the ering 2014, an event for anyone Stephen Hannah, of day finished with the celebra- involved in Charismatic Renewal and St Ninian Church in Kirk- tion of Mass. A final chance to since 1967, next February. intilloch, spoke of the collec- focus on the spirit of renewal CDs of the talks from the tive desire to share in the came in the homily, when the Day of Renewal will be made holiness of God. congregation was asked to available.

Bishop Joseph Toal of Argyll and the Isles travelled to the Isle of Barra to celebrate Mass as two young Castlebay Catholics received the Sacrament of Confirmation. The two pupils of Eoligarry Primary School, Charlotte and Mìcheal, welcomed the bishop to Our Lady Star of the Sea in Castlebay where he celebrated their confirmation Mass, surrounded by their sponsors, family and friends

Celebrations and charity at St Augustine’s in Edinburgh

By Martin Dunlop Tony Duffy, parish priest at St all those affected by the ongoing Cuthbert’s Church, Edinburgh. civil war in the Arab nation. THE community of St Among the guests at the feast During her visit to St Augus- Augustine’s High School in day Mass was Catherine tine’s, Ms McGrath informed staff Edinburgh recently joined McGrath, from Catholic charity and pupils that, over the years, they together to celebrate its feast SCIAF, who received a cheque have raised a total of £75,000 for day Mass. on behalf of the St Augustine’s SCIAF to assist the charity in its More than 700 pupils, staff and community. work assisting those in developing friends of the school community The pupils recently raised a total communities around the world. were in attendance at the Mass, of £4000, which they have donated SPOTLIGHT ON which was celebrated by Mgr to the charity’sSyriaAppeal to help I [email protected] E-MAIL CELEBRATING LIFE EVENTS TO DAN MCGINTY AT [email protected] FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CELEBRATING LIFE 23 St John’s Academy pupils hit the right notes for children’s hospice

By Dan McGinty Jenny Hossick, head of music at St John’s, praised the enthusi- MUSIC pupils as St John’s astic efforts of the youngsters Academy in Perth put their tal- and the work of their tutors for ents to good use at they hosted a the concert, which raised over concert in aid of Rachel House, £200 and lots of awareness for a local children’s hospice. the work of Rachel House. Inspired by the work of the “Learning a musical instrument Children’s Hospice Association brings so many benefits to our Scotland (CHAS), a charity pupils,” she said. “They are also which provides the only hospice aware of the therapeutic role of services in Scotland for children music for the children in Rachel and young people who have life- House and they are delighted that shortening conditions for which their talents have raised so much there is no known cure, the in support of this project.” pupils decided to lend their sup- port and use their music to help. I [email protected]

St Paul’s Primary School gets the green light

PUPILS, parents and staff of tee, which co-ordinated moni- had previously been involved St Cadoc’s torchlit tribute marks end of Year of Faith St Paul’s Primary School in toring, collecting and weighing in rewriting teaching resources Whiteinch, Glasgow, are of waste paper in the school, for schools across Glasgow to THE parish of St Cadoc’s the coming years. celebrating after the school charting the amounts of elec- use in the fight against sectari- welcomed families from “The group was started last was recognised with awards tricity and gas used in the anism, and the school was com- across Newton Mearns and year to mark the Year of Faith,” for its efforts as an eco- school, switching off all electri- mended in the work it does in beyond as the St Cadoc’s sFr Tom Monaghan, parish school and in combating cal equipment each day, litter breaking down barriers. Children’s Rosary Group led priest of St Cadoc’s, said. “The sectarianism. picking, clothes recycling and The assessment team spoke a torchlight procession and children take turns to lead the The school was presented taking part in a local commu- of their joy at being ‘not just rosary to mark the end of the rosary and talk about the mys- with its second Green Flag for nity anti-dog fouling. welcomed into the school but Year of Faith. teries of the Rosary. We have the work done by the its com- The Green Flag triumph was made to feel a part of the com- More than 50 children and their even been led by children as munity in raising awareness of followed by a visit from a team munity’ and said that they had families participated in the service young as 5! The group meets environmental issues as well as of assessors from Nil By ‘no hesitation in awarding the as they bore witness to their Faith fortnightly and has grown from working within the school to Mouth and Sense Over Sectari- school full accreditation’ as an and underlined the importance of seven or eight to almost 40 chil- directly affect their local envi- anism, who met with pupils, acknowledgement of its anti- the Rosary to the parish commu- dren. It has been so successful that ronment for the better. parents, staff and representa- sectarian work. St Paul’s, which nity. The group which co-ordi- the children have asked for it to The pupils have committed tives from partner agencies to was recently inspected, has also nated the procession was launched continue after the end of the Year themselves to ‘recycling, re- find out what work the school applied for a Glasgow Educa- to put the Rosary at the heart of of Faith. It has been wonderful to using and reducing.’ The cam- does in fighting sectarianism tion Partnership Award assess- the Year of Faith has been a watch the children growing in paign saw the schoolchildren across the school community. ment and a Level 1 Rights resounding success in the parish, confidence as they learn about leading their own eco-commit- Staff members from St Paul’s Respecting Schools Award. and now looks set to continue in their Faith.”

SPOTLIGHT ON

Pupils from St Luke’s High School in Barrhead gathered together to bid farewell to the school’s outgoing chaplain. After the celebration of Mass with the school community Fr Eoin Patten was presented with a gift in recognition of his work in St Luke’s during his time as chaplain. He was joined by fellow priests Mgr James Cunningham and Fr Paul Brady as well as pupils and staff, including headteacher Patricia Scott as he said his goodbyes to his many friends at St Luke’s. The Mass, in honour of the school’s patron saint, took place on the feast of St Luke and also saw the S6 Caritas pupils receive a special blessing

E-MAIL CELEBRATING LIFE EVENTS TO DAN MCGINTY AT [email protected] 24 SCOTTISH CHURCH SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 2013 An own goal that led to ’s success DR HARRY SCHNITKER continues his series looking at the Church’s historic SCOTLAND AND THE CHURCH place in Scottish life by analysing just how the Reformation came to pass

HE pre-1560 Scottish Church had lost ambassador to King Philip II). This was after on a more than ad-hoc basis were no more than one much of its holiness, was mired in almost half a century of violent swings in denom- in five of the total population of Scotland. worldliness and had grown into an inational adherence in England. Scotland had This is a fact to reflect upon. Sixteenth-century instrument of royal power. In last adhered to Rome all that time, but indifference was Scotland was not a deeply religious country, week’s instalment, we saw that the not uncommon here either. racked by denominational divides. It was a nation Catholic Church was effectively nationalised. Seen One is deeply unsure if the English figures trans- where the Church was a tool of politics, and Faith in that light, the decision of the 1560 Scottish Par- late to Scotland, but we do have plenty of evidence a matter for a minority. Culturally, the trappings of Tliament to outlaw the Mass was a logical step. By for the state of mind of its population around 1560. Catholicism were undoubtedly very important to abrogating the authority of the Papacy over the Let us consider the Protestant party first. The group the majority of Scots. The holy wells were fre- Scottish Church, parliament had turned a de facto who was deeply convinced of the principles of John quently visited, pilgrimages were popular, and situation into a de jure one. Kings had already had Calvin was small. This is something that all histo- feast days, such as that of St Giles in Edinburgh, the power to install bishops; abbeys were ruled by rians will agree on. The numbers of Protestants widely celebrated. laymen, who used their income for self-aggran- martyred before 1560 was small, almost purely However, real depth, the type of Faith that disement. focussed on St Andrews. In 1541, parliament had brings people to communion with God at Mass on Now, from a worldly perspective, the irksome passed legislation to protect the Mass and devotion a regular basis, was just not there. Indeed, in some inconvenience of having a greater authority resid- to Our Lady, which suggests some pressure. locations, such as the Hebrides or parts of the ing in Rome was removed. I do not wish to reduce A list drafted in the late 1540s suggests some Highlands, it is increasingly clear to most histori- the theological element of the event. Many Protes- 100 landowners as being sympathetic to Protes- ans that organised religion was virtually absent. tants were convinced that the Papacy had led the tantism. These included grandees like the Earl of Ironically, that was probably also true for the Christian community down a path that diverged Arran, but were mostly the so-called Bonnet deeply-Catholic southern Hebridean islands of from primitive Christianity and from the Word of Lairds, farmers who owned the land they farmed Barra and South Uist. God. They disliked many of the teachings of the and not particularly consequential in the body We can find many expressions of this indiffer- Catholic Church, including that on the intercession politic. An informed guess suggests that by the late ence. There were the swathes of clergy who simply of the saints, transubstantiation and purgatory. 1550s around 10 per cent of Scotland’s population stopped saying Mass after 1560, the bishops who However, it is very clear that for many more, all was actively Protestant. preferred a good living to opposing the new polit- this held little or no interest. It is always dangerous The rest was, nominally, Catholic. Had they ical regime, and the who remained living to compare England with Scotland, but it was esti- been actively and consciously so, events would in community in their abbeys, but who became mated that around 1580 in England, at least one have turned out rather different. Mass attendance readers or even ministers in the new Kirk. Organ- third of the population cared little for any form of was extremely sparse, probably never rising above ised opposition to the Kirk was sporadic, disor- Christianity, and only one third was serious about 10 percent (based on contemporary reports on ganised and frequently very brief. The type of sympathiser, Arran, signed a treaty of friendship theological differences (Report of the Spanish attendance). Numbers actively engaged in religion Recusancy that one witnesses in England and with Henry VIII and promised a marriage between Wales is almost unheard of in Scotland. the English king’s son and the infant Queen of We can point to the pockets of resistance in Scots, Mary. Open revolt broke out and Beaton Dumfries, the aristocratic families in the north-east gained the regency. Soon, there was no more treaty led by the Earl of Huntly, a small group of citizens with England, and the few Protestant martyrdoms in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, and the chieftains in occurred at this point, suggesting that these were the Highlands and Islands who reconverted to the politically motivated.   Faith. These are the exceptions to the rule that Beaton’s hold on power did not last. In 1546, most of Scotland did not offer serious resistance Beaton was murdered, and so was removed the last  to the new religious settlement. It was only after truly capable, if not very moral, Church leader in 1560 that theological and especially ecclesiologi- Scotland. Yet Mary de Guise’s strong intervention cal differences amongst the Protestants, whose cat- removed the Protestant insurrectionists, including echesis had drawn large numbers of Scots into John Knox, from St Andrews. Order was, for now, their fold, caused bitter war. It is a strange truth of restored and Scotland remained both independent Scotland’s Christian history that many more and Catholic. In 1558, she scored what turned out Protestants were killed by Protestants, than ever to be a truly spectacular own goal. She married her Protestants by Catholics or vice-versa. daughter to the heir to the French throne. On the face of it, this was the logical conclusion f most Scots were indeed indifferent to religion, of the Auld Alliance, that ancient guarantor of then the question arises as to why the Refor- Scotland’s freedom. In fact, it turned Scotland into mation occurred at all. How did a small minor- a French province. However, with the Catholic Iity enforce its will on the indifferent minority? The Queen Mary on England’s throne, it did appear as simple answer is politics. For as long as the monar- if Protestantism was a spent force, both in Scot- chy and the majority of its supporters favoured the land and in England. It did not last. Elizabeth I settlement with the Papacy, Scotland would remain became England’s queen, and, with her, Protes- Catholic. It is simply not true that her reformation tantism of a fashion made its return. Once more, was a popular uprising. Scotland’s political elite was divided between pro-  "     However, events conspired against this. The first English, which now equalled pro-Protestant, and                 serious blow to the continuation of Catholicism in pro-French and Catholic.     Scotland was struck when James V died, leaving The Protestant faction now grew to include        only an infant heiress. It was a repeat of the situa- important noblemen, such as the Duke of Châtel-      tion in 1296, when Alexander III died, and the herault, the Campbells of Argyll and the Earls of results would be just as dramatic. James died in Morton and Glencairn. As the Queen-Mother aged,       1542, but the Church in Scotland had two very the pro-French Catholic fortunes waned. An insur-     powerful political protectors left: his widow, Mary rection in the burghs where Protestantism had sup-  #""!!" $  de Guise, and Cardinal Beaton, the Archbishop of port, namely St Andrews and Perth, set the ball        St Andrews. rolling. Mary de Guise died, and with the crum- $40001(11 Beaton had been James V’s ambassador to bling of French support, the Reformation in Scot- ##0$11 France on several occasions, and with the French- land became a fact. -12"-#$ born Queen-Mother wished to keep the Auld It would be another 40 years before the last ves-     Alliance in place. Both he and James V’s widow tiges of Catholicism in Scotland vanished. How-    ! ! ! !      saw this as vital to guarantee Scotland’s status as a ever, there was never any serious chance of a                 Catholic country, and as an independent country. restoration. Scotland had become Protestant, and  $,"*-1$ "'$/3$2-(#2-2'$'30"'(,$$# .*$ 1$#$!(2+7 The long-established link between the aspirations the remaining Catholics were a small and localised  12$0 0#+$6 $120- of the Church and those of many Scots to maintain group, indeed. For all the remarks on the underly- independence had not yet expired: Beaton had ing processes that caused the Reformation and 6.(07 2$  *(#0-+ 2$ 113$-  $120- been instrumental in stiffening James’s resolve to made it possible, the shock of the event has been (&, 230$120(."-#$ * 12!*-")-%#(&(21   (&, 230$ resist King Henry VIII in 1542. with us ever since. From 1560 onwards, to be Scot-   #-,-25(1'2-0$"$(4$(,%-0+ 2(-, !-32(#2-2'$'30"'(,$$# This policy retained its potency. After James’s tish was to be Protestant. This has changed only death, the pro-English party, led by the Protestant within living memory. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK