CatholicThe official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta OutlookVOLUME 18, OCTOBER 2015 | Photo: Giovanni Portelli

ST JOHN PAUL II MONUMENT UNVEILED

CELEBRATION AUSTRALIAN OF OUR BISHOPS 2015/16 LADY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE page 4 PEÑAFRANCIA page 6 STATEMENT FROM THE DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR CONTENTS Very Rev Peter G Williams DIOCESAN NEWS 3-4, 8-9 NEWS & EVENTS 5, 20-21 SOCIAL JUSTICE 6 Welcoming the stranger FAMILY & LIFE 7 NEWS 10 Dear Brothers and Sisters, CATHOLIC 12-14 EDUCATION The most enduring image that dominated our consciousness over this past month CATHOLICCARE 15 was that of Aylan Kurdi, a 3-year-old who SOCIAL SERVICES drowned as his family tried to flee from Kobani to Europe. It has been a wake- CATHOLIC YOUTH 16 up call to many governments around the world about the disastrous situation YEAR OF 17 in the Middle East as conflict continues CONSECRATED LIFE unabated in both Iraq and Syria, and the humanitarian issue around millions of AROUND THE 18 refugees. DIOCESE In the week following the image of FAITH 19 Aylan appearing in our newspapers and on television, a number of rallies were INSTITUTE FOR 22 held around Australia calling the federal MISSION government to increase the number of refugees coming to Australia, and in Erbil’s Children: Syrian Refugees in Urban Iraq. Three young Syrian girls play in a rundown area of Erbil. The particular those who have fled from Syria. six-year-old in the middle lives with her family in a partially-constructed home. They fled from Syria after a tank CatholicOutlook entered their neighbourhood and began firing at houses. Photo: UNHCR/ B. Sokol Archbishop Anthony Fisher has also The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta called on the government to give priority to Christian refugees from Iraq and Publisher: Syria who have no hope of remaining in "Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one Very Rev Peter G Williams whatever is left of Iraq and Syria and the of the least of these who are members Diocesan Administrator end of the conflict. Tel (02) 8838 3400 Fax (02) 9630 4813 of my family, you did it to me." PO Box 3066, We are only too well aware of the plight of North Parramatta, NSW, 1750 Christians at the hands of Daesh and other (Matthew 25:40) Email: [email protected] terrorists groups. Sadly, it would seem Website: www.parra.catholic.org.au that after a two thousand year presence in Australia of indefinite detention, with the pain and bewilderment of those in the ancient lands of the Bible that the deprivation and insecurity. It asks why both forced to flee their homeland, and perhaps Editor: Christian population will be reduced sides of Australian politics have felt the need the recent images have brought back Jane Favotto to a rump or maybe even extinguished to introduce such cruel and self-defeating memories of their own journey. Tel (02) 8838 3409 altogether. policies as offshore processing and indefinite [email protected] detention. The images of refugees this past month PO Box 3066, Late last year, three Bishops from the have been confronting, and often, if North Parramatta, NSW, 1750 Australian Catholic Bishops Conference With a new focus on the subject of you are like me, you feel a sense of went on a special mission to the Middle refugees, it might well be the circuit powerlessness in the face of such numbers. Journalists: breaker to remove the stigma associated Yet, we can respond each in our own way Adrian Middeldorp East under the guidance of Bishop Antoine Elizabeth McFarlane Tarabay, the Australian Maronite Bishop. with those fleeing by whatever means and in doing so we are simply responding They visited a number of displaced they can to provide safety and stability to the Gospel imperative: Designer: Christian families from Iraq and Syria for their families and a better way of life. Aphrodite Delaguiado currently dwelling in Lebanon, and the There is little question that Australia “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, report to the May Conference of the has the capacity to do more. We are inherit the kingdom prepared for you School news: Bishops this year was both enlightening by world standards a very wealthy and from the foundation of the world; for I Catholic Education Office and disturbing. prosperous country. Whilst it is true we was hungry and you gave me food, I was Tel (02) 9840 5683 face challenges in terms of our social and thirsty and you gave me something to [email protected] The question of refugees has also been economic direction, we are nevertheless drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed a centre piece of the declaration of the well placed to offer a home and a place of me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, Deadlines: Australian Catholic Bishops Conference in refuge for those in desperate need. Earlier I was sick and you took care of me, I Editorial and advertising – 10th of the month prior to publication their social justice statement for this year, last month, Pope Francis requested every was in prison and you visited me.” Then Catholic parish in Europe to accept and the righteous will answer him, “Lord, For Those Who’ve Come Across the Seas – Advertising: Justice for Refugees and Asylum Seekers. care for at least one refugee family. As when was it that we saw you hungry and Tel (02) 8838 3409 In summary, released for last Sunday 27 he so frequently does, the Pope does not gave you food, or thirsty and gave you September, it says: just speak words but also matches that something to drink? And when was it Accounts: by practical action. It is heartening that that we saw you a stranger and welcomed Alfie Ramirez The Statement takes its inspiration from so many Catholic people are generous you, or naked and gave you clothing? And Tel (02) 8838 3437 the actions and words of Pope Francis in their support of refugees and asylum when was it that we saw you sick or in [email protected] on his 2013 visit to the Italian island of seekers through the various agencies of prison and visited you?” And the king will Lampedusa, where he met the survivors of a the Church. I am also aware that some answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you Printing: refugee tragedy and mourned for those who parishes have taken initiatives at the local did it to one of the least of these who are Rural Press Printing, North Richmond level to reach out to "those who’ve come members of my family, you did it to me.” had died. It begins and ends with the Pope’s 40,500 copies of Catholic Outlook are own words and is strongly based on the across the seas." (Matthew 25:34-40) distributed monthly through 48 parishes and Scriptures and Catholic teaching. 86 schools. All material in this publication The Bishops’ document traces the I am also aware that there are parishioners With my prayers, is copyright and may not be reproduced experiences of asylum seekers from their in the Diocese who were refugees and without permission of the editor. Catholic have now found a home here in Australia. Very Rev Peter G Williams Outlook is a member of the Australasian flight from persecution and danger, through Catholic Press Association. their perilous journeys, to their experience No doubt, they can very much identify Diocesan Administrator

2 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic By Elizabeth McFarlane, Photos: Giovanni Portelli

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP blesses the monument. Photo: Giovanni Portelli. Photo: Adrian Middeldorp. St John Paul II monument The Amice The amice - a liturgical vestment worn by Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP (pictured below) during the statue unveiled in Parramatta unveiling, was originally worn by then Pope John Paul II at a mass he celebrated in Christchurch, New Zealand undreds of people gathered in the forecourt the Holy Father shared his meditation on the dignity during his 1986 Oceania Papal Tour. of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Parramatta on of work as part of the Creator’s design and plan for the I came into possession of this amice when at the time, Saturday 5 September, 2015 for the unveiling of world. as a Marist priest, I assisted in the organisation of the Ha new monument dedicated to St John Paul II. “I recall vividly his strong voice as he proclaimed, New Zealand leg of that papal tour. The monument, created by renowned Sydney artist, ‘You may know that I, too, was a worker for some years Linda Klarfeld, was commissioned by the Catholic in a quarry and in a factory.’ My job as sacristan to the tour was to look after and set up all the vestments worn by the Pope, his Diocese of Parramatta as a tribute to its founder - St “He went on to say that Australia was a great visiting entourage, and the New Zealand Bishops John Paul II. country because working people go about their tasks who concelebrated at the public masses in Auckland, Sydney’s Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP led the day after day with both cheerfulness and seriousness, Wellington and Christchurch. unveiling ceremony. Also in attendance were local earning their bread by the sweat of their brow, dignitaries and hundreds of youth from Western producing goods and services for their fellow citizens, It is only fitting now, 29 years later, it was worn by Sydney. and thus gradually bringing to perfection a world that Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP during the blessing of the statues dedicated to St John Paul II. “St John Paul II was truly the saint of the youth. was created by a good and loving God.” He founded World Youth Day, which enabled millions Klarfeld said commissioning and creating a Geoff Officer, Chief of Operations & Finance, of young people to experience the faith in a new and sculpture of someone was a real gesture of love. “Pope Diocese of Parramatta almost revolutionary way,” Archbishop Anthony said. John Paul II is my favourite Pope because he was “He also established the Diocese of Parramatta to instrumental in helping to end communism in Eastern better serve the Catholic people of Western Sydney and Europe. This meant that I was reunited with my the Blue Mountains, one of the youngest and fastest- grandparents when the Iron Curtain fell. I hadn’t seen growing areas of Australia.” them since I was four years old.” St John Paul II visited the Diocese of Parramatta Klarfeld describes the work as “light-hearted but during his pontificate shortly after its creation in 1986. reverential. Hopefully it will inspire miracles”. The Principal of St Thomas Aquinas’ Primary, The grouping of five bronze figures weighs one Sergio Rosato, was a young worker at Transfield in tonne and took Klarfeld two years to create. Seven Hills when Pope John Paul II visited the factory The unique artwork can be viewed daily at St in 1986. “This company provided employment and Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. dignity for many men and women, including many migrants – my late father was one of those,” Sergio said. For more images of the event, please visit: Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP wearing the amice. “During his address in workshop five at Seven Hills, www.flickr.com/parracatholic/albums Photo: Giovanni Portelli.

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www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 3 DIOCESAN NEWS Celebration of Our Lady of Peñafrancia on the Nepean River By Elizabeth McFarlane

Australian Devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia (ADOLP).

The fluvial procession on the Nepean River. Photos: Elizabeth McFarlane. n image of Mother Mary adorned The growing devotion to Ina started followers cheered back and forth, “Viva with a shining gold dress and in 1434, when Simon Vela found La Virgen – Viva!” and proceeded to enveloped by yellow and white an image of Our Lady in Peña de the Fluvial Procession. The image of Ina Aflowers, devoutly and endearingly Francia in Salamanca, Spain. In 1710, was hoisted onto a boat, decorated with called “Ina”, was lifted above the mass of the celebration was brought to the banners, flowers, and orange material, The image of "Ina" or Mother Mary. Filipino devotees who came to Penrith Philippines. and followed by devotees on the Nepean on Saturday 19 September to celebrate Millions turn out every year for Belle. until she got home and said, ‘Look! I can the 10th anniversary of the Feast Day of the Marian Pilgrimage in Naga City to The Procession was followed by raise my hands!’ This is why I am a firm Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Australia. celebrate the Principal Patroness and lunch, with food stalls showcasing believer that Our Lady of Peñafrancia is The festivity is an avenue for devotees Queen of Bicol, making it one of the a great variety of Filipino/Bicolano miraculous, but only if we believe, and I to seek blessings and graces for the poor biggest religious celebrations in the dishes, the annual cake cutting, and think my mother did with all her heart,” and for personal intentions, following Philippines. entertainment. Norma reflected. this year’s theme, “Living the Faith – Solemn observance of the Feast Day Norma Evans, the treasurer for Devotees do not believe that the Empowering the Poor”. at St Nicholas of Myra in Penrith began ADOLP, became a devotee after her image of Ina and the Divino Rostro The Australian Devotees of Our Lady with the Holy Rosary, Novena to Divino mother’s miraculous experience with hold magical or divine powers, but of Peñafrancia (ADOLP) was founded Rostro, and Novena to Our Lady of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. they believe that it is a channel of God's in 2005 by Jun Relunia, President, Neria Peñafrancia, followed by Mass, which “For a long time, my mother graces. Soliman, Vice President, and Josie Musa, was celebrated by Fr Mathew Antony couldn’t lift both her arms, as they Secretary, under the guidance of the MS and concelebrated with other priests were paralysed. There was a procession For more images of the event, please Basilica in Naga City, Philippines, and from the Diocese. and every time the people said, ‘Viva’, visit: www.flickr.com/parracatholic/ the Filipino Chaplaincy of the Diocese A parade of colour pervaded the everybody lifted their hands. And my albums of Parramatta. Church and later, the Nepean River, as mother was doing it subconsciously,

4 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic NEWS & EVENTS Bishop Saunders: Racism has “scarred the psyche of the nation” By Adrian Middeldorp

ishop Christopher Saunders, Bishop of Broome has described racism as having “scarred the psyche of Bthe nation” in a powerful keynote speech given at the Australasian Catholic Press Association (ACPA) annual conference. Bishop Saunders, also member of the Australian Catholic Social Justice Council, explained that a life devoid of social justice is “tantamount to spitting in the Face of Christ”. In his speech, he reflected on the history of the church in the Kimberley region and said “the Church had a remarkable record in correcting the abuses spurred by racism and greed”. He referenced the life of Bishop Matthew Gibney, Bishop of Perth (1886- 1910) as a champion for the treatment of Australian indigenous people. Bishop Gibney established a protectorate mission for Aboriginal people and was “brazen in his resolve in opposition to the exploitation of Aboriginal people”. He said that he could not find a better banner or manifest (with the exception of the Gospel) to mount a concerted effort against racism and all policies of racist Bishop Christopher Saunders at the Australasian Catholic Press Association. Photo: Adrian Middeldorp attitudes than Bishop Gibney’s own words, Devotees during the procession. “So long as I consider (Aboriginals) as He believes that the Church in being cruelly treated under the sacred Australia is called to be bold in its part name of justice, I shall not cease to raise "The Church is called in the service of Australian society. “We my voice”. share a unique moment in the pages of Bishop Saunders was grateful for the to stand in solidarity our country’s history, and we are being role of Catholic Media in Australia, saying well prepared as we learn humility, which that it was Catholic publications that “gave alongside these we know is the foundation of all Christian oxygen” when the secular media and press endeavour. had ignored him and the social justice leaders, to be with the “During these days of the Royal council on key social justice issues. marginalised and the Commission, our Church is being He said that Catholic schools and scrubbed clean of the soot and grime communities in the region had developed oppressed, and to do so that comes from arrogance, power and a leaders who could stand their ground twisted sense of vocation.” against forces of tyranny. “The Church while proclaiming the He ended the speech calling on the is called to stand in solidarity alongside Catholic media to play a role in the these leaders, to be with the marginalised mantle of Christ’s love.” Church in Australia that is “devoid of and the oppressed, and to do so while racism” and “promotes the fundamental Filipino and Bicolano dishes were enjoyed by all. proclaiming the mantle of Christ’s love.” option for the poor”.

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CCI CatholicOutlook Sponsorship printAd APR15.indd 1 16/04/2015 8:16:47 AM SOCIAL JUSTICE Welcoming The Australian The mission of the Church Bishops 2015/2016 Social Justice Statement In Parramatta is to care for humanity By Elizabeth McFarlane By Sr Louise McKeogh

"Forget about being Australian. Think of yourself as human. We have to treat refugees. We have to help refugees."

finished it early and I would go out to the bush and I would have to collect leaves to eat. I would boil the leaves just to fill my stomach, so I wouldn’t feel hungry. It is John Cinya, refugee and Permanent Diaconate. very difficult to be a refugee,” he reflected. Photo: Elizabeth McFarlane. Having lived in a refugee camp and being formally resettled in Australia, John ollowing the 2015-2016 Australian does not believe people who come by boat Photo credit: AP Photo/UNRWA Catholic Bishops Conference Social are ‘jumping the queue’, explaining, “In my Justice Statement on asylum seekers culture, we say if you see a frog jumping Fand refugees (see article opposite), during the day in the hot sun, it means he Australian Bishops launched their statement that was authenticated by the 2015/2016 Social Justice Statement on powerful sharing of his own personal story CatholicOutlook chatted to prominent there is a problem where he has come the 9th September at Mary MacKillop of seeking asylum. refugee, Schools Liaison Officer for from. The frog does not move unless there TPlace, North Sydney, the same day the “For me the desperate plight of refugees Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, is a problem. That is why these people are Australian Government announced their is particularly poignant because I came to and Permanent Diaconate candidate, John moving. There is a problem. increased intake of 12,000 Syrians. Australia as a boat person, fleeing from Cinya. “Most people who come to Australia The launch also paralleled the moment Vietnam…I saw how tyranny and cruelty A refugee from South Sudan who fled would not want to leave if their place people from across the world were stopped can leave people with no choice but to seek the civil war in 1995, Mr Cinya spent two was peaceful. I would not have left South by the media image of deceased Syrian refuge elsewhere in any way possible. With weeks walking through bushland to get Sudan if there was no problem. I had toddler, Aylan Kurdi. the increasing global movement of peoples from Khartoum, Sudan to Ethiopia. He The Diocesan Social Justice Office, staff and our nation’s fearful response, it is timely no choice. I had to leave. In the western and students from Bede Polding College, for us to reflect on this important issue,” he then lived in a refugee camp in Ethiopia world, people move because they are Windsor, parishioners from Mary Queen of said. for three years before being granted talented. They just want to change their the Family, Blacktown, Holy Spirit Parish, St This is an extremely important social refugee status in 1998. From Ethiopia, he life. It is different. They wouldn’t risk their Clair, and St Bernadette’s, Lalor Park, as well justice statement for the Diocese as was flown to Australia to begin a new life. life to come unless there was a problem. I as the Parramatta St Vincent De Paul Social Western Sydney is home to twenty of the Whilst welcoming the Australian would not risk walking through the bush Justice Network, gathered with 200 others at most multicultural suburbs in Australia. government’s recent announcement of a for two weeks where I could meet lions or the launch. It is reflected in our families, schools and one-off intake of 12,000 Syrian refugees, looters, unless there was a problem where Aunty Elsie Heiss, Indigenous Elder and parishes and in the way that we continue Mr Cinya feels it is not enough. “A rich I lived. Due to war, drought or disasters, past president of the National Aboriginal to value the ongoing contribution and country like Australia can do more. Here people move. and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council, dynamic gifts that each of our diverse in Australia, how many times a day is a began the launch with an acknowledgement communities bring to the Diocese. This “People asked Jesus why he went to the of country and a reflection that reminded year’s Social Justice Statement challenges us tonne of food being thrown away, while Gentiles, but he went because they were us that we have much to learn from our to continue finding real and practical ways other people in the world have nothing to human. Forget about being Australian. Indigenous brothers and sisters in terms of a to go about this. eat? Think of yourself as human. We have to broad concept of family and community. “When I was in the refugee camp, we treat refugees. We have to help refugees. Bishop Vincent Long Van Nguyen, a Sr Louise McKeogh is the Social were just given five kilograms of dried The mission of the Church is to care for former boat person and now Auxiliary Justice Coordinator for the Diocese of corn, one litre of oil, and five kilograms humanity. Australians are not called to just Bishop of Melbourne, launched the Parramatta. of red beans for two weeks. Sometimes I help Australians.”

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6 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic FAMILY & LIFE Will Familyfest rival Oktoberfest this October? By Ben Smith, Director of the Family & Life Office

any people, especially on 25 October. The Synod will be be the first married couple in the those with a German attended by a number of Cardinals, Church’s history to be canonised “Love is our Mission” background, will Bishops, priests, religious, and lay together. Their marriage and family The Theme for celebrateM Oktoberfest this month in people from all over the world. life was a great source of happiness pubs around the globe. In parallel The theme for the event is “the and holiness for them. They shared DIOCESAN FAMILY SUNDAY with this celebration, Catholics vocation and mission of the family something special that we need to DIOCESE of will be celebrating a “Familyfest” in the contemporary world”. This discover and share in our modern PARRAMATTA Sunday, 18th October 2015 of their own during the month of theme will look at how the beauty world. Not only did one of their October. and goodness of marriage and children become a saint, but their Parish Celebrations The 8th World Meeting of family life can be proclaimed in our five surviving daughters all entered Family Sunday will be celebrated at Masses in every Parish. Families was held in Philadelphia, contemporary world. consecrated life. USA from 22 September to 27 The Synod will also tackle Louis and Zelie brought up Afternoon Family Gathering September, 2015. The thousands of a range of hot button issues their family in France in the second Time: 2.30pm – 6pm families that attended were given a such as divorce and remarriage, half of the 19th century. At the Where: MacKillop Centre, great opportunity to grow in their contraception, and same-sex time, France was recovering after cnr Swanston & Collins St, St Marys faith by attending a Congress over attraction to explore how Catholics a major revolution that created the first four days of the event, in Talks will cover: who struggle with these issues a secular government when the • Testimonies from Parramatta Diocese World which they heard from a range can be engaged and accompanied Church was suffering persecution. Meeting of Families delegates of international speakers. The in a non-judgemental and Louis was a watchmaker and Zelie • Synod on the Family Update Congress addressed the theme encouraging manner in their faith was a lace maker, and they lived • Blesseds Louis and Zelie Martin, (parents of St Thérèse) who will be for the event, which was “Love journeys towards Jesus Christ. The a middle class lifestyle in the city canonised on 18 October 2015 is our Mission: the family fully discussion of these topics is bound of Alencon. They were a devout alive.” Pope Francis attended the to generate a robust debate among family who attended daily Mass Children will have their own event from 26 September to 27 the participants. It is important for and helped the poor in their town. activities on-site. September and led a Festival of us to pray for those who will take They shared many happy occasions Sausage sizzle at the Families on the Saturday night, part in the Synod so that they can but suffered a number of tragedies, conclusion of the event. and celebrated the concluding be inspired by the Holy Spirit in with the death of four of their Mass on the Sunday morning. their deliberations. children at a young age and Zelie The great spirit of the event and One special married couple, dying of breast cancer at the age of the words of Pope Francis have who will be canonised during 45. St Therese of Lisieux’s words provided a magnificent entrée to the Synod, will play a special role concerning her parents provide a the Familyfest. in praying for the success of the good way to summarise their lives: On the October long weekend, Synod. On Sunday, 18 October, “The Lord gave me a mother and a Family and Life Office Pope Francis will be back in Rome 2015, Pope Francis will canonise father more worthy of Heaven than Enquiries to to open the Synod on the Family Louis and Zelie Martin, the parents earth.” [email protected] or 8838 3440 that begins on 4 October and closes of St Thérèse of Lisieux. They will

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www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 CCI CatholicOutlook - halfpage OCT15.indd 1 20/08/2015 3:36:08 PM 7 DIOCESAN NEWS

"Those who have spent some time with Fr Kevin Vale Fr Kevin Hay would be aware of his By Elizabeth McFarlane great knowledge of so many things, of science, of history, and especially as a great storyteller." - Fr Wim

Fr Wim Hoekstra "I could have listened all day to his fount of knowledge.”

Bishop Kevin Manning incenses Fr Kevin Hay's coffin. Photos: Elizabeth McFarlane

funeral mass in memory of Rev Consolation Home, Rooty Hill. Camperdown, and Blackheath. Bushwalking Club. He especially loved St Kevin Nelson Hay was held in He was born on 26 June, 1930 and Fr Wim Hoekstra provided a moving Columba’s College in Springwood, where St Thomas Aquinas’ Church, ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal homily at the funeral mass for the well- seminarians studied philosophy till their SpringwoodA on 11 September, 2015. Gilroy on 24 July, 1954 in St Mary’s loved man. “Indeed, I first came to meet Fr move to theology at Manly, so I wasn’t at all “It was a glorious spring day, which was Cathedral, Sydney. Kevin when I was a seminarian in my last surprised he asked for his funeral to be in fitting for a priest who not only enjoyed His years of ministry covered many year at Manly, just before my ordination Springwood,” Fr Wim said. this season but fell in love with the Blue parishes in the then Archdiocese of Sydney to the Diaconate. I had chosen to do my “Throughout his 61 years as a priest, Mountains from his first day as a student with a number of years spent in the pastoral work at Royal Prince Alfred he offered the Mass faithfully. Indeed, of St Columba’s Seminary in 1943,” Deacon Dioceses of Armidale, Sydney, Parramatta, Hospital in Camperdown, and so Kevin, as many who have visited him at Our Lady of James Phelan reflected. and Perth. Parish priest there, was my supervisor,” Fr Consolation will have seen the little altar he Fr Kevin was a retired priest of the He served in the parishes of Ermington, Wim explained. had for his private mass,” Fr Wim noted. Diocese of Parramatta, who died at the Concord, Gladesville, Guildford, “He loved the Blue Mountains, and “Those who have spent some time age of 85 on 3 September at Our Lady of Katoomba, Manly, Gymea, Neutral Bay, was an active member of the Catholic with Fr Kevin would be aware of his great

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An Amazing Story Of Conversion For fourteen years Geraldine has shared, in Australia, the USA, Ireland, New Zealand and recently France, her near death experience of Jesus and Mary. She went from living as a lapsed Catholic to being convinced that God and Heaven really existed and now wanted to go there at any cost. “To suffer here is nothing compared to the joy that awaits”. “How happy my heart is that the mercy of Our Divine Master is so great”.

Her messages from Jesus and Mary are for Disclosure Statement these times. Her talks strengthen faith, give The Diocesan Development Fund Catholic Diocese of Parramatta (DDF) is not subject to the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved courage and hope; people have received by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. healings, physical and spiritual, including from addiction. Deposits with the DDF are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a company established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. We welcome your investment with the DDF rather than with a profit oriented commercial organisation as a conscious commitment by you to support the Charitable, If you would like Geraldine to speak to your Parish or home group, Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church. or if you wish to order books, DVDs or medals then please contact Doreen Neither the DDF nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Parramatta are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority; contributions to the DDF do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; the DDF is designed for investors who wish to promote by telephone on 02 9688 1097 or visit the website www.divine-inspirations.org the charitable purposes of the DDF.

8 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic DIOCESAN NEWS New Director has Faith In Our Future he Diocese of Parramatta has appointed Mr Richard McMahon as the new Director of Pastoral TPlanning and Implementation. Richard comes to the Diocese of Parramatta from the Diocese of Wollongong where he has spent the past NEW APPOINTMENTS ten years, most recently as Director of Parish Services. Prior to that, Richard The Diocesan Administrator, was the Coordinator of Adult Faith Very Rev Peter G Williams, Formation. has confirmed the following He completed theological studies appointments in the Catholic in the 1990s following an under-grad Diocese of Parramatta: science degree, and his early professional career included serving as a pastoral Rev Fernando Montano Rodriguez associate in three different parishes. Director of Pastoral Formation During Richard’s time with the Holy Spirit Seminary knowledge of so many things, of science, of Diocese of Wollongong, he developed From 28 September 2015 history, and especially as a great storyteller. and implemented the first Diocesan His homilies were brilliant, as testified by Pastoral Plan. He also helped shape and Mr Richard McMahon those who were his parishioners. I actually guide the Parish Services Team to ensure Director of Pastoral Planning could have listened all day to his fount of appropriate support to parishes in a Mr Richard McMahon & Implementation knowledge,” Fr Wim reflected. range of pastoral areas including youth, From 28 September 2015 they have extensive ministry experience. Fr Kevin is remembered especially pastoral planning, liturgy, adult faith, by his family, fellow Religious, and carer, Richard commenced his new role on and outreach. Cecilia Zammit Debbie Hicks. Monday, 28 September and will report Richard is married to Judy and they Director of the Confraternity to the Diocese through Fr Paul Roberts, have four children; James 18, Liam 15, of Christian Doctrine For more images of the event, please visit: Priest responsible for Pastoral Planning Laura 14, and Hannah 11. Richard and From 21 December 2015 www.flickr.com/parracatholic/albums & Evangelisation. Judy are very active in their parish where

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17_CO_Oct_2015_YearOfMercy_RHP_FP.indd 1 21/09/2015 12:16 pm CATHOLIC EDUCATION www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra facebook.com/CatholicEdParra

‘Saints of Students showcase the future’ captivating performances the work On Thursday 13 August 2015, 20 students performed in "It would be fantastic to be invited back next year as a both music and dance for the CAPTIVATE’s Got Talent mentor and to see the progress that these students have of Catholic Showcase at Xavier College, Llandilo in front of judges, made," he said. mentors, peers, and family. schools CAPTIVATE’s Team Leader, Mark Hopkins, said the This year, 72 students auditioned to take part in the 2015 program came from CAPTIVATE’s Commercial Dance CAPTIVATE’s Got Talent program. From the auditions, Coordinator, Peta Markham-Ward’s passion to give Recently some of our students and staff attended 32 students were selected to take part in a full day of students access to the industry beyond what they do in the unveiling and blessing of the new St John Paul II mentoring, provided by an industry professional, before their individual schools. statue at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, which is a performing their audition piece at the Showcase concert. wonderful tribute to his Holiness and his passion for “The idea is to extend the mentoring opportunity for engaging young people in the life of the church CAPTIVATE’s Got Talent dance mentor, Simone Samuel, students to work deeply around something they are also said the opportunity for students to work with industry passionate about,” Mark said. The Bishop of Parramatta’s Student Excellence professionals allowed them to take their performance to the next level. “It’s really exciting to imagine what students who received Awards, which were held in the Cathedral a few days ongoing mentoring in a structured way would be able earlier, reminded me of another outstanding artwork “The calibre of talent in this program has been outstanding to achieve, especially when we can see from the final at the Cathedral, Rachel Ellis’ ‘Communion of Saints’. and I can already see how the masterclass and mentoring performance how much students have improved from sessions have helped to bring an extra level of only one mentoring session. Entering the ‘old’ Cathedral from the narthex, the professionalism to the students’ performances,” Simone Communion of Saints Shrine is located in the niche said. “I would love to see their talent and enthusiasm meet to your right. It features an image of the distinctive the professionalism and discipline of focus, and come Cathedral doors and a host of ‘saints’, people of Fellow dance mentor, Brad Green, said he was impressed together more often for students to reach a level of artistic all ages and cultures gathered around. The artist with the diverse range of talent. and technical excellence that blows everyone away,” he said. hoped to convey "the continual process of becoming “The level of maturity and professionalism from the holy" in this joyful piece that takes as its theme the students has been really impressive considering the See www.captivate.parra.catholic.edu.au website for details. Communion of Saints: the Church itself. diverse range of talent from Year 4 to Year 11,” Brad said. When Pope Benedict XVI addressed school students in the United Kingdom in 2010, he emphasised the importance of the growth of holiness through Catholic education, calling on students to become ‘saints of the future’. This is the mission of each of our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Parramatta.

The Student Excellence Awards recognise an outstanding Year 12 student from each of our secondary schools. It was a privilege to witness these excellent young people receive awards for their impressive contributions to school and the wider community. It was a gathering full of diversity, joy, and holiness, and I have no doubt that there were ‘saints of the future’ in the pews.

It was also encouraging to observe the support that Dance mentor Brad Green giving a masterclass to selected dance students. students received from their families, with many mums and dads, brothers and sisters, grandparents, and other proud members of extended families present.

We must also recognise the importance of great teachers and their role in forming young people of faith and action, particularly as World Teachers’ Day approaches on 30 October. Pope Francis’ words to educators delivered in 2013 are instructive: "Educating is not a profession but an attitude, a way of being; in order to educate it is necessary to step out of ourselves and be among young people, to accompany them in the stages of their growth and to set ourselves beside them". Music talent Toby Lowing practicing the drums at the Music mentoring day. Ella Carroll singing her final piece. To share this journey with students, their families, and educational communities is both challenging and humbling. I know your prayers will be with all our Year 12 students as we accompany them in the final stages of their secondary schooling. May they always continue to learn and grow in holiness as they venture beyond their school communities to lives of service in Jesus Christ.

Greg Whitby Executive Director of Schools

@gregwhitby blog: bluyonder.wordpress.com The panel of industry professionals judging the final performances. Dance duo Hunter Hakim and Rochelle Salatino receiving feedback from the judges after their final performance.

12 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra facebook.com/CatholicEdParra www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra facebook.com/CatholicEdParra CATHOLIC EDUCATION

he annual Bishop of Parramatta Awards for Student Excellence, which recognises the religious and academic achievement of Year 12 students across Tthe Diocese of Parramatta, were presented at St Patrick’s Cathedral on 3 September, 2015. The award acknowledges the contribution of one Year 12 student from each Catholic secondary school towards their school and local community as nominated by their Principal. The priest responsible for Education and Formation, Rev Fr Christopher de Souza PP, said this award really acknowledges the wonderful contributions of students from our Diocese who are proclaiming the mission of Jesus Christ “For the Diocese, it serves as a great sign of hope for the future that these students will continue the mission of Jesus Christ where they happen to live and in their parishes,” Fr Chris said. “It is wonderful that these achievements have been acknowledged by the greater church and also expressed in Recipients of the 2015 Bishop of Parramatta award for student excellence. their school and parish communities,” he said. The Executive Director of Schools, Greg Whitby, said the hope for graduates of Catholic schools was that they Bishop of Parramatta Awards would become change agents in the world. “Catholic schools actually exist to give saints to the world and all we ask of them is that they do whatever they recognise student excellence can to make the world a better place,” Greg said.

Tyran Liddiard Denielle Plara Christopher Callan Amy Deakin Clare Carrington Rebecca Hofmann Nicholas Adamcewicz Patrician Brothers' College, Nagle College, Gilroy Catholic College, Oakhill College, Castle Hill Tangara School for Girls, St Patricks Marist College, McCarthy Catholic College, Blacktown Blacktown South Castle Hill Principal: Br Peter Ryan FSC Cherrybrook Dundas Emu Plains Principal: Santo Passarello Principal: Delma Horan Principal: Cheryl Principal: Dr Katrina George Principal: Angela Hay Principal: Robyn Meddows Merryweather

Samantha Arnold Raphaella Chidiac David Sebastian Emad El-Nachar Kristine Gerardino Benjamin Trini Vanessa Calleja Caroline Chisholm College, Delany College, Granville St Pauls Catholic College, Emmaus Catholic College, Marian Catholic College, St Dominics College, Xavier Catholic College, Glenmore Park Principal: Peter Wade Greystanes Kemps Creek Kenhurst Kingswood Llandilo Principal: Mary Leask Principal: David Bourne Principal: Brad Campbell Principal: Jayne Campbell Principal: Michael Ronchetti Principal: Michael Pate

Emma Webb Catherine Le Johanna Larkin Yvonne Moussa Georgia Scott Monique Borg Laura Belfanti St Andrews College, Cerdon College, Merrylands Loyola Senior High School, Maronite College of the Our Lady of Mercy College, St John Paul II Catholic St Columba’s Catholic Marayong Principal: Patricia Baker Mount Druitt Holy Family, Parramatta Parramatta College, Schofields College, Springwood Principal: Nic Vidot Principal: Cathy Larkin Principal: Sr/Dr Margaret Principal: Stephen Walsh Principal: Jim Fanning Principal: Paul Ryan Ghosn and Phil Smith

For more school news, visit:

Alexander Surdich Jeremy Blades Brianna O’Brien Bradley Murphy Elyse Popplewell St Marks Catholic College, Wollemi College, Catherine McAuley Parramatta Marist High, Bede Polding College, CatholicEdParra @CatholicEdParra Stanhope Gardens Werrington Westmead Westmead Windsor South www.parra.catholic.edu.au Principal: Dr Peter Webster Principal: Matt Aldous Principal: Laetitia Richmond Principal: Br Patrick Howlett Principal: Kevin Jones FMS

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New before and after school care Paper cranes will fly from St Finbar’s Seismic shift in grants available for all schools to Hiroshima for anniversary assessment needed to respond to changing nature of schooling International expert on student assessment, Emeritus Professor Patrick Griffin, delivered the 16th Annual Catholic Education Ann D Clark Lecture on Premier Baird and Minister Williams making inroads at the Mother Year 4 students Scarlett Jurd and Sophie Keast with Japanese K-6 Tuesday 25 August to Teresa Primary COSHC. LOTE teacher, Amanda Miller. more than 450 educators, NSW Premier, Mike Baird, and Minister for Early Thursday 6 August 2015 marked the 70th anniversary principals, and staff at the Childhood Education, Leslie Williams, visited Mother of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Evan Theatre in Penrith. Teresa Primary, Westmead and the onsite Catholic Out Japan. In his thought-provoking of Schools Hours Care service on Thursday 27 August lecture titled, ‘Time for a 2015 to announce that more families will be able to Since the anniversary, students from St Finbar’s Primary, Seismic Shift in Systemic access before and after school care following the opening Glenbrook have been working towards creating 100 Assessments’, Dr Griffin of applications for a $20 million grants program. paper cranes that will be sent to Hiroshima Primary reflected on the changes Premier Baird and Minister Williams were accompanied School. Inspired by the story Sadako and the Thousand in assessment over the by State Member for Parramatta, Geoff Lee, and State Paper Cranes, students each created paper cranes, last four decades and Member for Seven Hills, Mark Taylor. which they added to their ‘Heiwa’ (Peace) artworks to Dr Griffin calls for change in student assessment. symbolise Sadako and her wish for peace. explained why the 21st “We recognise that balancing the demands of work and century demands a new approach to assessment that is relevant to family can be hard, which is why this government is learners and a knowledge age. funding up to 45,000 extra before and after school care Hot Air Balloon inflates the Dr Griffin challenged the factory system of schooling and argued places,” Premier Baird said. imagination of St Angela’s students that standardised assessments like NAPLAN were inadequate for the needs of contemporary schooling and focused teachers’ attention on Loyola student immerse the bottom 10 per cent of students. themselves in Bourke Dr Griffin explained that in the information age, the media controls information and knowledge. “The people that control the media are the ones that control what information is being produced and consumed,” Dr Griffin said. “The opposition to that is a literate society, a critical, communicable, problem solving, collaborative community,” he said. “They’re the 21st Century skills and that's the reason it’s so important that we start to think about those particular skills in our curriculum and we start to empower our society.” As assessment is moving towards online testing, the way students St Angela's students try to figure out how a hot air balloon landed on their oval. are thinking can be interpreted and progress can be mapped. Loyola immersion students with hygiene hampers ready to deliver to local families in the Bourke community. "We can measure collaborative problem solving and collaboration, St Angela’s Primary, Castle Hill students arrived at school on 20 August 2015 to find something unusual. we know how to get an estimate of the intellectual and social capital On 21 June 2015, Loyola Senior High and Catholic As part of St Angela’s Writing Festival, a hot air balloon of groups, we can develop things about curiosity of where their Trade Training Centre, Mt Druitt students picked that looked as if it had crashed, was placed on the school perspective is and their communication," Dr Griffin said. up their tools and set off for a five-day social justice oval. Dr Griffin argued that a seismic shift was needed in education, immersion trip to St Ignatius Parish School, Bourke. The writing festival encourages all students from outlining a systematic approach to assessment involving six year On arrival in Bourke, students worked on a number Kindergarten to Year 6 to write an informative, cycles of testing the same students, and incorporating assessing of projects, starting with building new picnic tables persuasive or entertaining piece based on the hot air creative subjects to develop those skills. He said we needed to for the school led by Carpentry trade teacher, Steve balloon. Classes came out to examine the scene and its change our approach to assessment in Australia and challenged Hanson. The students also teamed up with Centacare, many artefacts and returned to class to plan and begin teachers to lead the reform. the Catholic social services agency, to create hygiene their writing. “We get away from the March and April binge testing of reading and hampers to support families in the community. maths, and we start providing teaches with the sorts of materials that they would need to change education in this country, and to Friday 30 October 2015 move us out of a factory model, industrial era education system and into a 21st century type education knowledge economy driven education system. To enter the competition, take a “All we need is to make sure that the teachers are provided with the selfie with your teacher and tell us resources that enable them to lead that reform. in 25 words or less how your “We can’t do it from the outside, you’ve got to get in on the ground teacher inspires you! with the teachers and empower the teachers with information, with resources and with strategies that they can use to help the kids, and An Apple (mini iPad) You can enter the competition at all of that means we need to understand developmental learning and www.parra.catholic.edu.au the stages of increasing competence. for the teacher! “That's part of the culture and ideology of education in Australia, we need explicit teaching, materials, but more than ever we have got to get school leadership on side and leading that kind of charge.” Executive Director of Schools, Greg Whitby, presented the Ann D Clark medallion to Dr Griffin at the conclusion of the lecture. WIN A $200 ITUNES VOUCHER Now in its 16th year, the Ann D Clark lecture is an annual event FFOR YOU AND AN APPLE MINI IPAD held to honour the memory of the founding Executive Director of Schools in the Diocese of Parramatta, Ann D Clark, who was a FOR YOUR TEACHER! visionary educator. Past speakers have included Professor Stephen Dinham OAM, Dr Peter Hill, Professor John Hattie, Professor Viviane Follow @CatholicEdParra on Facebook to see if your selfie is featured as a finalist Robinson, Professor Michael Fullan, Patrick Dodson, and Professor Yong Zhao. #selfieforworldteachersday @CatholicEdParra catholicedparra

14 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic www.parra.catholic.edu.au @CatholicEdParra facebook.com/CatholicEdParra www.ccss.org.au facebook.com/CCSSParramatta CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICES Providing compassionate, professional and relevant support to the people in our diverse community Parramatta: (02) 9933 0222 Blacktown: (02) 8822 2222 Springwood: (02) 4751 4956

COURSES SERVICE & EVENTS MAMRE FESTIVAL SPOTLIGHT Sunday 25 October, 9am-3pm Mamre Festival Cool Kids Sunday 25 October 9am – 3pm at Mamre House & Farm Anxiety 181 Mamre Road, Orchard Hills Support Face painting for kids – coin donation! Free art exhibition “SHARING THE SEEDS” Teacup rides & jumping castle Summer slush puppies Program Sausage sizzle AND bacon & egg rolls Music & entertainment Plants and seeds Similarly, if you are interested in running this program for Is your child shy? Entry is gold coin donation with children and parents in your school community, you can book kids under 12 free! Are they slow to warm up to others? a two hour information session that can be held at your school. Ample parking available! Is your child a bit of a worrier? A service provided by School information nights are free of charge and will cover the Would you describe your child as following: fearful or sensitive? 1. What is anxiety? 2. How to recognise what is happening when anxiety is Mamre_Festival_Outlook.indd 1 17/07/2015 12:01 pm CatholicCare Social Services have recently added the present? Cool Kids and the Cool Little Kids Anxiety Support 3. How does the Cool Kids Anxiety Program work? Responsible Gambling Support Program to their vast array of support services. For 4. What sort of things do I need to know as a parent to Group is free and on every Saturday, both primary school children and pre-school children, allow the program to be successful for my child? 9.30am-11am at 51 Allawah St these programs are evidence-based and offer anxiety To find out more about how the Cool Kids Anxiety Program Blacktown. Please contact (02) 8822 support and therapy to families where their children are can be of support to your family, please contact Trish Nowland 2222 for more information. experiencing high levels of anxiety. This program runs for 8 – 10 weeks. on (02) 8822 2222 or email [email protected] The Cool Kids program has been running at Macquarie University since 1993. It is a structured, skills-based Recover Wellbeing comprising program that teaches children and their parents how to REACH (Black Dog Accredited nine week better manage a child’s anxiety. FAMILY program) and support groups for people FRIENDLY experiencing mental distress and carer If your child is experiencing high levels of anxiety support options. Call (02) 8822 2222 for and you are interested in finding out more about the more information. program, contact us via the details below.

Carols @ Mamre Post Separation Recovery Progam - seven consecutive Sunday 13 December Wednesday nights: 21 October to 2 181 Mamre Road St Marys, December 2015 7.30pm–9.30pm, DAC 1-5 Marion Street, Blacktown. Fee $80. from 5:30 - 9pm Register by calling (02) 9933 0205. Bring a picnic! BBQ ,drinks & snacks available for purchase Fireworks, Music, carols and entertainment Younger Widowed: Bereavement Support Everyone is invited to CatholicCare’s Free Face Painting Third Tuesday of each month, 7pm- next 9pm, 51-59 Allawah St, Blacktown. Fee $5. Call (02) 9933 0205 or Couples Evening [email protected] Friday, 6 November at 7.30pm VOLUNTEERS Stepping Beyond – Mr Ben Smith, Director of the Family and Life Office NEEDED URGENTLY will give an address on ‘Theology of the Body’. Post Separation Support last Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm- This free event will be held at St Paul the Apostle (Mamre Creche and Blacktown Neighbour Aid) 9.30pm, 51-59 Allawah St, Blacktown. Parish Hall, 40 Buckley’s Rd Winston Hills. If you are interested in making a difference Fee $5. Call 02 9933 0205 or To register please call the CatholicCare office (02) for local services, email [email protected] 9933 0222 or email [email protected] Light supper to be served, donations welcome. [email protected]

www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 15 CATHOLIC YOUTH CatholicYouthParra @cyp_parra @cyp_parra Parramatta Diocese Youth Rally Blessing of the We’re bringing back our first large scale youth event to the Diocese of Parramatta for all young people St John Paul II Monument aged 16-35. 22 October marks the Feast Day of Saint John Paul II, Founder of our Diocese and Father of World Youth Days. A huge outdoor concert and festival will take place on Saturday 24 October from 7pm to 9:30pm in the Cathedral Precinct. We have particularly invited school students, teachers, and young adults Saturday 24th October | 7 - 9:30pm

who are attending the Australian St Patrick’s Cathedral Precinct, Parramatta” Catholic Youth Festival in Adelaide this December, and all those “Celebrate the Father Feast of of WYD registered or still discerning joining St John Paul II Live Bands us for World Youth Day in Poland Connect with other Young People Food & Activity Stalls next year. That being said, this is More InformationWYD & ACYF for For more details, go to: an event open to all as we celebrate  catholicyouthparra  www.parrawyd.org the young Catholic Church in the  @cyp_parramatta  @catholicyouthparra Diocese of Parramatta.

Photos: Adrian Middeldorp HSC Youth Masses The youth leaders of Emu Plains Parish provided wonderful hospitality, music, Good luck to our HSC students this month. We have personally invited and background information on their each and every one of them to almost 30 parishes that have elected to dedicate local ministry. The core part of the a special youth mass to them in the week leading up to their first exam on evening was an opportunity for everyone Monday 12 October. They’re offering them a blessing, a BBQ, and some unique to learn a framework for deconstructing gifts to keep them going. Let’s get behind them! loaded statements that are often packed with multiple smaller questions. David Bradshaw was brilliant at doing this for us and providing some real examples from his time in youth ministry. This month’s Parra- Parra-Matters! Matters will be hosted by Granville Parish and will feature a presentation by our teams from Parramatta Young Christian Workers Answering the Tough Questions (YCW) and Young Christian Students This recent event was a great team A highlight has been seeing youth (YCS) on the services and experiences that effort by so many youth and young and young adults making a pilgrimage to they provide to youth with the support of the Diocese. adults across the Diocese. Incredible the statues over the last month at various music before the blessing ceremony was times of the day and night, and posting Live Jesus, in our Hearts, Forever. provided by Blacktown Parish Youth their prayerful pictures online. What an Minister and Diocese Youth Council incredible asset these monuments will be James Camden member, Alison Ryan. Thanks goes to the life of the Diocese, and especially Director to the many others who helped with young people and those involved in Catholic Youth Parramatta welcoming the hundreds of guests. future World Youth Days. [email protected] Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy Penrose Park Pastoral Care Fatima Day: Tuesday October 13 Accredited Qualifications Main Celebrant: Fr Marek Dutkiewicz, osppe Order of St Paul the First Hermit Pastoral Care attends in a sustained way to the emotional and spiritual Divine Mercy Devotions needs of people through a ministry of First Sunday of the Month presence, companionship and support. Fatima Family Sunday: October 18 Nationally recognised qualifications: October is a special month when we commemorate Our Lady of the CHC41112 Certificate IV in Pastoral Care Rosary and the final apparition of Our Lady at Fatima in 1917. Let us pray the Rosary more often this month especially as a family. 91561 NSW Diploma of Ageing “The family that prays together, stays together.” Fr. Paton and Pastoral Care Upcoming celebrations in Our Shrine: For further information contact: November 2nd: Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed: Holy Family Services Exposition and Devotions after the 11am Mass Registered Training Organisation Tel (02) 9678 8200 Pauline Father’s Monastery email: [email protected] Address: 120 Hanging Rock Road, Berrima, NSW, 2577 Phone: 02 4878 9192 Fax: 02 4878 9351 www.holyfamilyservices.com.au 91448NSW Email: [email protected] Website: www.penrosepark.com.au

16 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE First Consecrated Celibate in the Diocese of Parramatta By Elizabeth McFarlane Blue Mountains between 1998 “My search for where I about faith and God and it is and 2003, and it was there that was called to be had come full wonderful for me to answer the she heard God’s call. circle; where I was called to be questions.” “It was during the times of was exactly where I was,” she When asked what advice she deep solitude in the bush that explained. had for women or men who were I really worked out where God “Loving God in the way I considering the consecrated life, was calling me,” she said. “The am called is the most life-giving Zara said the core of any religious Gospels tell us that Jesus spent experience. I am finally ‘at home’. vocation was being in relationship a lot of time in deep solitude The joy is like one who is totally with God. with His Father, particularly in love.” “If what you see in the various before He did anything really Zara sees that she lives her forms of consecrated life does important. I like to think I consecration within the context not ‘fit’ with what God is calling followed Jesus in that way. of her workplace. “Witness and you to be, keep looking,” she said. “However, I do believe it was service is a wonderful part of it, “The vocation you discern should the Holy Spirit that led me to the whether I am down at the beach reflect who you are and make you bush to pray and to discern.” or at work. the best person you can possibly Zara’s search came to an end “People are surprised when b e .” when her old university chaplain I answer their questions about suggested consecrated virginity. whether I am married. I get asked Zara Tai says it was times of deep solitude in the bush that she worked out where God was calling her. Photo supplied.

ara Tai aspires to be a consecrated celibate life is different consecrated virgin, celibate to simply following the single for all her life. She will life. “God was calling me to a Zrequest to pursue this form of permanent exclusive relationship, consecrated life when a bishop consecrated to God, but outside of is appointed to the Diocese of a religious order,” she said. “Being Parramatta. Zara refers to herself single and being a good Catholic as a consecrated celibate. didn’t satisfy the yearning for God Zara’s consecrated life is within me.” founded on her remaining chaste A consecrated celibate and being obedient to the local commits to a life of celibacy, daily bishop. “My celibacy is set aside prayer, and service to the local to God and not to man in a church under obedience to the marriage,” she said. Bishop. Zara felt a strong calling Saint John Paul II wrote in to serve the Church and dedicated his apostolic exhortation Vita many years to reflecting on where Consecrata: “The Consecrated she was called to be. As well Life, deeply rooted in the example as regular prayer times, Zara is and teaching of Christ the Lord, expected to engage in a structured is a gift of God the Father to his and regular time of Christian Church through the Holy Spirit … service. In every age there have been men “After discerning religious and women who, obedient to the life since I was 15, I decided by Father's call and to the prompting my mid-20s that I wasn’t called of the Spirit, have chosen this to it. However, I still felt a strong special way of following Christ, in desire to live a vowed life, but order to devote themselves to him not as a member of a religious with an undivided heart.” congregation” Zara said. Zara’s calling to the Zara worked and lived in the Edmund Rice Retreat & Conference Centre Winbourne (Conducted by the Christian Brothers) Winbourne is a place of quiet reflection, peace and tranquillity, set on 100 hectares, located in Mulgoa. We welcome: School self run retreats Staff spirituality days School day groups Remembering loved ones we have lost can Church groups take many forms. Professional groups Sporting groups RAt WN Bull Funerals we understand this. Reflective groups As the funeral liturgy expresses faith, it also Special occasions contextualises the life of the deceased with Hermitage available for single retreat traditional and contemporary elements. Our Centre offers various sized conference rooms with all AV equipment supplied, including free Even as our lives move on we may look back wifi. Accommodation is available on site along with catering. We welcome your enquiry. and recall the experience with warmth and (02) 9519 5344 [email protected] Enquiries gratitude. Phone: 02 4773 5555 Fax: 02 4773 5500 Email: [email protected] And isn’t that the mark of good funeral service? www.wnbull.com.au Website: www.winbourne.org Address: 1315 Mulgoa Road, Mulgoa, NSW, 2745 AUSTRALIAN OWNED

www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 17 AROUND THE DIOCESE A Source for Spiritual Nourishment of both Heart and Mind By Elizabeth McFarlane

Mass celebrated on weekdays.

The store and chapel, 238 Church St, Parramatta. Photos: Elizabeth McFarlane.

s you walk down Church Street in Mass in the Chapel upstairs. Parramatta and sidestep out of the way “The people who work in the area stop by of other shoppers, you’d be forgiven during their lunchbreak to buy religious articles Afor not noticing a quaint gift centre and chapel, and attend Mass. We have about 50 people tucked in amongst the other shops. attend Mass every day. The centre has a wide range of Catholic books and gifts. As the rush for lunch begins, the hustle “A lot of the people hear about the centre and bustle is bound to disorientate many. from their colleagues and friends. Good News and nieces recently. “I’ve got Baptisms coming Located at 238 Church Street, Parramatta, However, a growing number of workers in the spreads like wild fire and word of mouth is the up and I think it’s good to give something the store seeks to serve the people of area are finding time during their lunchbreak to most common way that people hear about us,” religious for those occasions,” Maree explained. Parramatta where they are present: in offices, attend Mass and peruse through the shelves of Father explained. When she is in the area, Maree likes to stop schools, and shops. devotional material on offer. Even though Parramatta Cathedral is just by for Mass. In amidst the chaotic working St Pauls Books & Gifts Centre publishes 950m away, many local workers are opting to day, it is a place of quiet and adoration that can St Pauls Books and Gifts Centre and sells books, CDs, DVDs, devotional items, attend the Chapel for Mass, as it is closer to really strengthen one’s relationship with God. Opening hours: Monday to Friday – 9.30am to and prayer cards for adults, teenagers and their workplace, and other local shops and The resources showcased are opportunities 5pm; Saturday – 10am to 2pm. children. businesses. for new inspiration and can really recharge Address: 238 Church St, Parramatta, almost The centre is owned and operated by the Maree Takchi, a catechist at Matthew Pearce spiritual batteries. opposite Peter Wynn sports store. Society of St Paul, which was founded in 1914 Public School in Baulkham Hills and member The Chapel is named after Saint Mary Tel: (02) 9126 8912. by Fr James Alberione. In the Spirit of St Paul, of St Paul the Apostle Parish in Winston Hills, of the Cross MacKillop, who is Australia’s Email: [email protected] Fr James had a vision to utilise all media to said that she often buys her teaching material first officially recognised saint and patron of Orders: www.stpauls.com.au disseminate the message of salvation to all from the centre. “They’ve got great things on the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta. Mary people. offer here – a lot of different things for children MacKillop worked in the community, reaching Chapel of Saint Mary MacKillop Fr Joselito Layug SSP, manager of the and also adults.” out to the poor to raise them up through the Mass: Celebrated at 1pm on weekdays. centre, said that a lot of people come in to the The centre is also a great place to visit service of education. Location: On the first floor of the St Pauls store for the small devotional items such as before religious occasions, as they provide a It is therefore fitting that the Chapel and Books and Gifts Centre, 238 Church St, rosaries, scapulars, chaplets and medallions wide variety of specialised gift items. Maree was bookshop combine to be a source for spiritual Parramatta more than anything else, as well as to attend stocking up on religious gifts for her nephews nourishment of both heart and mind.

THE PERMANENT

Catholic Diocese of Parramatta DIACONATE

A God-given calling to ordained ministry, open to married and single men

In the service of the Liturgy, the Word, and Charity

Catholic Diocese of Parramatta | www.parra.catholic.org.au Inquiries to Rev Dr Arthur Bridge AM, Director of Vocations to the Permanent Diaconate Tel 0411 289 954, [email protected] PO Box 23, Toongabbie, NSW, 2146

18 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic FAITH Faith at the Fiddler: Relationships, Holiness and Intimacy By Steven Buhagiar – Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta

ttendees were in for difference but simultaneous something a little different "The best gift complementarity of man and at the Mean Fiddler, woman. ARouse Hill, when they turned I can give my He explained with great up to listen to Deacon Harold insight that the pervading Burke-Sivers on Thursday 20 children is to contraceptive mentality that August for the third instalment of marks our age, had brought Faith at the Fiddler for 2015. about a destructive separation The US based ‘Dynamic love my wife between life and love, and was Deacon’, as he is affectionately a key element in the breakdown known, immediately set the as Christ loved of married life. He admitted stage for an interactive night by that this is often a difficult and stepping out from behind the the Church." unpopular message to get across, lectern to perform a one-man as it is seen as one of the Church’s skit. While alternating between - Deacon Harold “hard sayings”. He emphasised the role of an attractive young that despite increasing opposition lady and the male leader of a to key Church teachings, we must The evening’s talk was group of macho and gawking continue to speak the truth but to entitled, ‘Relationships, Holiness young men, the Deacon had always do so in love. and Intimacy’, and the Deacon the audience in stitches as he He ended the evening with didn’t hold back in tackling the humorously portrayed the two final tips. “The best gift I can critical moral issues of our time. prevalent culture that surrounds give my children is to love my He noted how sex and so often corrupts the minds wife as Christ loved the Church.” had become an everyday of young people today. The second gave some practical Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers. Photo supplied. commodity. Marriage, as advice on father-daughter presented by Scripture, had been relations. “If I want my daughter deconstructed and re-imagined to marry the man of ‘my’ dreams, by a culture that had pushed I’d better show her what a real aside any notion of a loving God Cameroon man looks like.” and a divinely revealed moral law. For those interested in Deacon Harold put forward listening to more of Deacon St John Paul II’s ‘Theology of Harold’s talks on family life, the Body’ as the antidote and Catholic apologetics, and the framework with which to evangelisation, please contact understand the mystery and Parousia Media. inherent beauty of human sexuality, as well as the wonderful

A priest in the Andes annointing the sick Monaghan & Gleeson FUNERAL DIRECTORS Catholic Outlook

www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 19 NEWS & EVENTS Parramatta Marist High School Old Boys Union Dinner arramatta Marist High School is “Br Coman was a much-loved father expecting its biggest attendance ever figure who embodied the best that Marist at this year’s annual Old Boys Union could offer and positively shaped the lives P(OBU) dinner at Parramatta Leagues Club of many young men. We are proud to offer on 16 October. scholarships in his name,” Adam said. Celebrating just some of the St Finbar’s Catechist team, from R-L: Back Row: Terry Keogh, Vince Dobson, Rene The reunion has had a shot in the arm “The generosity of the OBU is not lost Pears, Elizabeth Culliver, Melissa McDonald, Dr George Grodzicki. Front Row: Anne Hobbs, Fr Jolly Chacko, Geor- in recent years as former students from very on the Parramatta Marist community, whose gina Barisic, Dawn Willis, Mila Svelha. recent years to the students from the Class of members appreciate the value of the Br 1951 and many years in between gather for Coman Scholarships for families,” he said. a night. “We not only get some unique prizes Celebrating Our Catechists Parramatta Marist OBU President, from generous donors, we have a lot of fun By Margaret Rivas Adam Hendry, said the focus this year quickly auctioning them, giving a quick was attracting the students from previous school update so we maximise the time for ast month, St Finbar’s Parish, include Church Seasons, the Bible, the years, their mates, teachers, and classmates catching up, which is the main aim. Glenbrook held a special morning tea Sacraments, Saints, and God’s way of love celebrating their significant anniversaries “I’m particularly delighted the after Mass on Sunday 16 August to and compassion. Truly, children deserve to such as 10 or 30 years since graduation. Parramatta Marist OBU is having a new Lcelebrate and promote our wonderful team hear this message no matter what school “I think we are seeing a nice camaraderie lease on life and mates want to meet up of Catechists. they attend. The Confraternity of Christian develop between the students who went and support other young men with their St Finbar’s have a team of 15 dedicated Doctrine (CCD) in Parramatta provides through the school together and those from education.” people working across six public schools three levels of training for SRE Teachers other years,” Adam said. Parramatta Marist is Australia’s oldest in the lower Blue Mountains, bringing the (only one compulsory), and all teachers use “Some of the men who choose to Catholic school, established in 1820. Word and love of God to approximately a Curriculum approved by the Bishop. attend every year, or recently, have a great RSVP: Book and pay by Friday 9 150 children who attend Catholic Special If you’d like to join this ministry in your time talking and having a good laugh. It’s October at: http://www.trybooking.com/ Religious Education (SRE). local Parish, contact your Parish secretary brilliant.” HGRW They show children God’s love in word or SRE Coordinator, or visit the CCD The annual event not only reunites Time: 6.30pm. and deed, supporting families in providing Parramatta website to find the Regional schoolmates, it also raises funds for the Where: Auditorium, Parramatta Leagues a basic education for children in God our Coordinator for your Deanery. It’s an Brother Coman Memorial Scholarships, Club, O’Connell St, Parramatta. Creator, Jesus our Saviour, and the Holy amazing ministry, helping to inspire the which have raised tens of thousands Cost: $55 for buffet dinner (drinks not Spirit within us inspiring us to live His Way. next generation to love and serve Our Lord, of dollars over the years to assist with included). At a high level, topics covered Jesus. education costs for some students. Contact: (02) 9635 7066. ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL Shoppers For A Cause MASS TIMES AND REGULAR SERVICE 14th ANNUAL SHOPPING COACH TRIP Weekend Masses Saturday 8am, 9:30am (Mass in the Extraordinary Form – Latin), Saturday, November 14, 2015 6pm (Vigil) Sunday 8am, 9.30am (Family Mass), 11am (Solemn Mass), 6pm Shop & Chat in Chauffeur (coach) Driven Comfort ! Weekday Masses In the Company of a group of your Good Friends, Monday to Friday 6.45am,12.30pm Book Now & Don’t Miss this Great Day Out ! Public Holidays 8am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Come shopping on a Full Day Trip to the factory outlets Monday to Friday 11.15am-12.20pm Women’s, mens & children’s clothing & footwear, manchester, First Friday of the month 6pm-7pm homewares, bags, toys & confectionery Sacrament of Penance Raisingfor Funds Weekdays 11.15am-12.20pm Home & Gift Warehouse, Manchester Importer, Breast Cancer Saturdays 8.30am-9am, 5pm-5.30pm KB Toys, Kingsgrove Shoes, City Chic, Katies, Autograph, Research Paragold, Barcs Jewellery, Dolci D’Oro, Studio Ten Devotions Find all your favourite brands; 20 – 75% Discounts: Morning Prayer of the Church Monday to Friday 6.30am Morning & Afternoon Tea Saturday and Sunday 7.30am Bistro Lunch Angelus On Board Raffle & Lucky Door Prizes Monday to Friday noon Adults $ 55, Rosary Children (5-17) $20, Monday to Friday after Angelus at noon Seniors/Students $45 Canticle of Our Lady’s Marian Movement Friday 1pm Tour departs from either (with on-site parking) 7.00am – Burns T-Way Station Kellyville Christian meditation 7.00am – I Fly Info Cnt, Panthers Leagues Club, Penrith Tuesday 9.30am-10.15am Baptism - Sunday 12.45pm by appointment For individual or group bookings contact Marriages - By appointment Virginia Knight on 0413 607571 [email protected] Contact the Parish Secretary Bookings close October 19, 2015 tel (02) 8839 8400 or email 1 Marist Place, Parramatta Payment accepted via direct deposit, cash or cheque Thank you to our hosts: Shop & Save Tours & Pick of the Crop Coach Tours

20 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic NEWS & EVENTS Seminarians take next step By Fr John Hogan

Photo supplied. God’s Masterpiece: Singles Adam Carlow (left) and Matthew Dimian (right) installed as lectors at St Margaret Mary’s Church, Merrylands, by for Christ Oceania Regional Emeritus Bishop Kevin Manning. Photo: Shelly Barnes ur Diocesan Seminary of the Holy to taking Sacred Scripture as their way Spirit, Harris Park, continues to of life. In proclaiming the Scriptures to Conference 2015 go from strength to strength. On their brothers and sisters in Christ, they Osite, there is a lot of building work going become part of the process of God’s ur families are God’s tide that seeks to redefine the family and on to provide new accommodation for the revelation to His people, an office that has Masterpieces given to us” was be champions of God’s design. increasing number of young men pursuing to be undertaken with great reverence. the message of the 2015 Singles For some, it was an emotional time, a priestly vocation in the diocese. Consequently, it will be part of their “Ofor Christ Oceania Regional Conference as those who bore witness to their stories, Irrespective of all the distraction, the duties to study the Scriptures seriously, to held from the 4 - 6 September in Sydney. shared past hurts and struggles in their seminarians are undeterred in fulfilling meditate on the implications of what they Singles for Christ is a Catholic lay families. However, the hope that comes their path to ordination. learn there, and to contemplate the great On Sunday 20 September 2015, two mysteries of our faith that are contained community under Couples for Christ with forgiveness and reconciliation was a of them were installed as Lectors at St. there. Not a bad second step for someone International that envisions a world where firm reminder of the mercy and the love of Margaret Mary’s Church, Merrylands, who wishes to dedicate their whole life to every man and woman experiences Christ. God in our families, despite brokenness. by Emeritus Bishop Kevin Manning. For Christ. The Regional Conference occurs every The workshops were diverse and Adam Carlow and Matthew Dimian, The mass was celebrated by Emeritus two years and this year it was based in gave delegates the opportunity to explore becoming Lectors is a significant step in Bishop Kevin Manning and I concelebrated Sydney, with over 200 young adults from other areas of ministry and the Catholic following their vocation. The first step, of with Father Janusz Palwic OSPPE and across the region, stretching from the Faith. Workshops included a Vocations course, is entering the Seminary in the Father Peter James Strohmayer OSPPE. Solomon Islands and New Zealand to the Panel, Social Justice, Evangelisation on the first place. The steps that follow involve: The other seminarians served alongside Philippines. Digital Age, and Becoming a Missionary. becoming a Lector, then an Acolyte, being Brother John and Brother Zachary, who The weekend was filled with vibrant, Saturday night was filled with fun as accepted for Candidacy for the Diocese, are students with the local community of God-seeking young adults who arrived on a dance party, themed ‘Roaring Twenties’, followed by ordination to the Diaconate hermits. the first night ready to receive messages was entertained by a live band featuring and finally to the Priesthood. The parishioners of Merrylands joined God had to offer. young adults from the ministry. The word ‘Lector’ is from the Latin in the celebration of Mass and treated Over the weekend, delegates were With Mass celebrated each day, word, ‘legere’, which means ‘to read’. As Adam, Matthew, and their guests to an invited to reflect on the Holy Family as a reconciliation offered, and adoration on Lectors, Adam and Matthew become elaborate morning tea afterwards, for which model to aspire to in our world today, and the Friday night, those who attended were official Ministers of the Word of God. It will all were very grateful. to recognise the importance of building time and time again invited to reconnect be their task to proclaim the non-Gospel It is hoped to keep you informed of readings during the Church’s liturgies. yet another major seminary event toward our home in love and with God at its with God. Lectors can be seen as ministers at the Altar the end of the year, when some of the centre. Next year’s conference will be a of the Word just as Acolytes can be seen as seminarians will take yet another step With the family under attack, the National Conference to be held in ministers at the Altar of Christ’s Sacrifice. forward by becoming Acolytes. conference’s theme, ‘God’s Masterpiece’, Adelaide, South Australia. In order to fulfil this ministry of comes at a critical time. Speakers For more information about Singles for Lector as effectively as possible, Adam and Fr John Hogan is the Rector of Holy challenged their audience to go against the Christ, visit sfc.cfc-australia.org. Matthew will now dedicate themselves Spirit Seminary, Harris Park.

Allan Drew OAM, JP Supporting families in a time of need is what Allan from Allan Drew Funerals has done best for more than 25 years. Tel (02) 9680 1344 allandrewfunerals.com.au

www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 21 INSTITUTE FOR MISSION IFMCONNECT IFMCONNECT IFMCONNECT

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA

Free Resources Audio & Visuals Programs Ministry Connections

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Vocation Discernment Afternoon Sunday 25 October 2015

All young men who feel God might be calling them to the priesthood are invited to the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta’s Vocation Discernment Afternoons. The afternoon starts at 2pm and concludes with a shared meal Have you ever thought at 6pm. Venue: Holy Spirit Seminary, God might be calling you 31-33 Allen Street, Harris Park To find out more about priesthood in the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta, contact: to the priesthood? Fr Warren Edwards -Director of Priestly Vocations tel 0409 172 700 email: [email protected] visit: www.parra.catholic.org.au/vocations www.parra.catholic.org.au/holyspiritseminary

22 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic IFMCONNECT IFMCONNECT IFMCONNECT OCTOBER CALENDAR

PASTORAL CARE COURSE: WEDNESDAY EVENINGS, 7, 14, 21, 27 OCT, 4 NOV 7 The Diocese of Parramatta is offering a 40 hour Pastoral Care Course to its people, endorsed by the Civil Chaplaincies Advisory Committee. This very experiential course, comprising of five evenings (and recommended reading in your own time) will provide life skills that are not only relevant to Chaplaincy but to all human interactions; places are limited. Where: Sacred Heart Parish Hall, 14 Ralph St, Westmead. When: Wednesday evenings 7th, 14th, 21st, 27th, Oct; 4th The Feminine Nov. More Details: Ensure your seat, please email: [email protected] MUSIC AND COPYRIGHT WORKSHOPS 15 Open to all parish music groups, parish liturgy coordinators and anyone interested in understanding their parish’s music ministry. Topics include: Appropriate Genius Talk copyright practices for parishes in the Diocese of Parramatta and working with music and copyright in your parish. Presented by Robert Barden, acting Chair of Saturday 24th October 2015 the Diocesan Liturgical Commission. Time: 7.30-9pm Location The Institute for Mission Hall (downstairs), 1-5 Marion St, Blacktown. An event for Women of all ages RSVP 10 October: Adelle Lobo tel (02) 9831 4911, [email protected] • What is the Feminine Genius? HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS 15 Everyone is welcome on the third Thursday of each month to pray for vocations • Is being a woman more than what she does? including adoration, music and quiet time in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. • How can you be a fully authentic woman in Location St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. Time: 7pm – 8pm. More Details: To find out more about priesthood in the Diocese today’s society? of Parramatta, contact the Director of Priestly Vocations, Fr Warren Edwards: tel 0409 172 700 or send an email to [email protected]

PARRAMATTA MARIST HIGH SCHOOL OLD BOYS UNION DINNER Distinguished speaker Anna Krohn 16 Location: Auditorium at Parramatta Leagues Club, O’Connell St, Parramatta. will be joining us to share her Time: Starts 6.30pm. Cost: $55 for buffet dinner (drinks not included). Contact: thoughts on what is the Feminine (02) 9635 7066. Book and pay by Friday 9 October at: http://www.trybooking. Genius. com/HGRW. More Details: See page 20 BLACKHEATH REFLECTION MORNING She’s an expert in Bioethics, Philosophy 17 Topic: Honest to God Prayer. Presented by Carol Teodori. Time 10am-1pm and Theology. She started the Anima Location Sacred Heart Parish Hall, cnr Sturt & Wentworth Sts, Blackheath. More Details: Entry by donation. No need to book. Morning tea provided. Woman’s Network and has given Contact: Carmen Vanny tel (02) 4787 8706. numerous talks nationally. She has also written hundreds of articles on various DIOCESAN FAMILY SUNDAY aspects of Catholic pastoral welfare, 18 Where: MacKillop Centre, cnr Swanston & Collins St, St Marys. Theme: ‘Love is Our Mission’. Time: 2.30pm – 6pm. More Details: See page 7 especially in the areas of bioethics and family life. PARRAMATTA DIOCESE YOUTH RALLY 24 Time: 7pm – 9:30pm. Where: St Patrick’s Cathedral Precinct, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. More Details: See page 16 Where: St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta FR ERIC BURTON’S 90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION 24 Join the parishioners of Christ the King Parish, North Rocks, to celebrate Fr Eric Registration at 9am, Event will start at 9.30am and finish at 12pm Burton’s 90th birthday. Time: 6pm Celebration of the Eucharist followed by supper. Where: Christ the King Parish, North Rocks. RSVP 2 October: (02) 9683 Cost: $5 for students, $10 for adults 1752, [email protected] (no EFTPOS facility available) MAMRE FESTIVAL: 25 OCTOBER 25 Face painting, rides, market stalls. Fun for all ages. Time: 9am – 3pm. Address: 181 RSVP by Wednesday, 21st October and enquiries to: Mamre Road, Orchard Hills. More details: See back page Family and Life office VOCATION DISCERNMENT AFTERNOON [email protected] or (02) 8838 3440 25 All young men who feel God might be calling them to the priesthood are invited to the Diocese of Parramatta’s Vocation Discernment Afternoon. www.parrafamlife.org.au Time: 2pm and concludes with shared meal 6pm. Where: Holy Spirit Seminary, 31- 33 Allen Street, Harris Park. More Details: See page 22

THE FRANCIS EFFECT II COLLOQUIUM 27 A discussion on how to incorporate Pope Francis’ vision and challenge into our everyday lives. Time 8.30am-4pm. Where: Dooleys Lidcombe Catholic Club, 4-28 John St, Lidcombe. Cost $195 (concession $95). More Details: Anita Lee, Catholic Mission, tel (02) 9919 7800 or [email protected]

What is life in a cloistered Benedictine community really like? Let the Tyburn Nuns take you to their 9 monasteries around the world. Witness the nuns’ holy life of prayer and work, centred on the Eucharist, in this remarkable film. ORDER ONLINE: www.tyburnconvent.org.uk or send cheque/money order for $25 payable to: Tyburn Priory, 325 Garfield Road East RIVERSTONE NSW 2765 “The most beautiful Name ...... and visually ...... compelling film I have ever seen. I did Address ...... not want it to end.” A unique inside portrait of ...... Kim, Brisbane. the world of the Tyburn Nuns...... Filmed and Edited by “This film takes you into Michael Luke Davies another realm…” ......

www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 23 Mamre Festival Sunday 25 October 9am – 3pm at Mamre House & Farm 181 Mamre Road, Orchard Hills

Face painting for kids – coin donation! Free art exhibition “SHARING THE SEEDS” Teacup rides & jumping castle Summer slush puppies Sausage sizzle AND bacon & egg rolls Music & entertainment Plants and seeds

Entry is gold coin donation with kids under 12 free! Ample parking available!

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24 CatholicOutlook | OCTOBER 2015 www.parra.catholic.org.au @parracatholic facebook.com/parracatholic

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