Call to 'Take Marriage Seriously'

Tributes paid to ARC HBISHOP MARIO PROFESSOR VALERIE FLEMING warns that CONTI ahead of the 10th anniversary abortion will present further major next week of his installation in Glasgow. problems for midwives governed by Pages 12-13 professional body guidelines. Page 11

No 5454 www.sconews.co.uk Friday February 17 2012 | £1

PAPAL DELEGATION

BARONESS WARSI asks for Pope’s help in returning Christian faith to a central role in British society Page 7 INSIDE YOUR SCO

NEWS pages 1-9 OPINION page 10-11 FEATURES pages 12-13, 24 Call to ‘take marriage seriously’ COLUMNISTS pages 10, 15, 22 INTIMATIONS pages 17-20 I BISHOPS’ ENGAGEMENTS Cardinal O’Brien uses Holy Father’s words to mark Marriage Week in wake of threats to the institution page 20 By Ian Dunn Cardinal O’Brien presents the Marriage CHILDREN’S LITURGY page 16 Catechesis award certificates to (above) Gerard McCormick, Owen and Linda SPECIAL OCCASIONS CARDINAL Keith O’Brien has McFarlane, Thomas and Janice Graham, and pages 22-23 called on Catholics and British Robert Short at St Francis Xavier’s, Falkirk, society as a whole to ‘take marriage where he spoke in defence of the Sacrament seriously.’ of Marriage between a man and a woman CATHOLIC EDUCATION Speaking during International Mar- and blessed engaged couples preparing for riage Week, Cardinal O’Brien said it was marriage (left) PICS: PAUL MCSHERRY more important than ever to fully celebrate the importance of marriage. the Earl and Countess of Strathearn, His words came as reports this week ‘then Prince William of Wales and Miss suggested the British Government is to Catherine Middleton’ that he attended. backtrack on its plan to announce tax The cardinal spoke of another event breaks for married couples in next from the recent past when thinking of month’s budget and as both the Scottish land from within the Catholic community lay marriage Catechists active in parishes. marriage, the 2010 Papal visit when the and British Governments face a back- as well as from secular society. “At this present time, our ordained Pope said: “There are those who would lash over their intentions to look at “We realise how in this present time priests cannot give enough time to prepare advocate that the voice of religion be redefining marriage with a view to in our country there are so many who candidates for matrimony and conse- silenced.” including same-sex unions. do not take the Sacrament of Matri- quently there is a need for trained lay The Pope threw out a challenge to mony seriously,” he said. “There are women and lay men to help in this valued each one of us at that time, the cardinal Warning increasing numbers of marriage break- apostolate,” he said. “That is why I am said, and each one of us within us has a The cardinal made the comments at St downs; there are those many people more than happy to be able to be here with duty ‘to proclaim the beauty of the Francis Xavier’s Church in Falkirk last who are living together without the help you this evening to present award cer- Sacrament of Matrimony’ and to ‘take Sunday at a Mass to celebrate the Sacra- of this blessing of God in the Sacrament tificates following the conclusion of this marriage seriously.’ “ ment of Marriage. He used Pope Bene- of Matrimony; there are those who see recent course when the first fully trained At every level of national life our REACTION TO THE dict XVI’s words when he urged society other ways of living together which group of parish Catechists in marriage voices must be heard, that voice of Chris- lack of support for Faith to ‘take marriage seriously’ before demean the wonderful words of ‘the are here with us this evening.” tian teaching, proclaiming both to those schools among polled adding his own to explain that was Sacrament of Matrimony;’ and there are who want to hear and to those who do because ‘we realise that in past centuries those who do find it very difficult to talk Marriage union not want to hear that our standards are SNP supporters so many may indeed have taken mar- to their children about the beauty of the The cardinal also spoke of the teaching those of Jesus Christ and no one will riage seriously’ but that is not the case Sacrament of Matrimony because of of Jesus that ‘unequivocally taught the move us from them,” he said. Page 3 now ‘with the declining number realis- some failures real or imagined in their original meaning of the union of man ing the joy of the married state.’ own living out of married life.” and woman as the Creator willed from No tax break Before blessing a number of young Because of these threats, the cardinal the beginning’ and how that remained However there were indications this engaged couples and presenting certifi- said the Church was placing an ‘ever the basis of this ‘great sacrament.’ week that the UK Government is not cates of marriage Catechism to six people, greater concentration on suitable prepa- He added the past year provided a fine inclined to follow the cardinal’s call. the cardinal told those present that mar- ration for marriage’ and to ensure this example of marriage in the modern era in riage was very much under threat in Scot- happened he hoped to see more and more the wedding of the future King and Queen, I Continued on page 3

SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT I tel 0141 221 4956 I fax 0141 221 4546 I e-mail [email protected] 2 PICTURE NEWS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 It all adds up with award for Addiewell parishioner

CARDINAL Keith O’Brien the St Thomas’ community. visited the parish of St “Despite the pressures often Thomas’, Addiewell, earlier brought to bear on him by the this month to present a nature of his work he has Papal award to the retired always given 100 per cent to accountant of St Andrews any task asked of him,” he said. and Edinburgh Archdiocese “He is man of deep, traditional and an active member of the faith, often attending Mass St Thomas’ community. within Gillis [Centre] when the The cardinal joined Fr opportunities presented them- Christopher Heenan, St selves and encouraging the cel- Thomas’ parish priest, in pre- ebration of Mass on particular senting George Lavery, who occasions such as Lent and became archdiocesan account- Advent. He is often found pray- ant 12 years ago, with the ing either in the chapel, the ora- award. tory or even his own office. Speaking about nominating “George is above all and Mr Lavery for the honour, Fr beyond all a Church man, a Heenan noted that in addition priests’ man, committed and to his role as archdiocesan dedicated to serving the Church accountant, Mr Lavery also in the best way possible. That served on the Episcopal he has managed to do this in A class act at Aberdeen RE launch Finance Committee, gatherings the face of many difficulties is of diocesan accountants and a credit to him, his faith and his treasurers of Scotland and also deep commitment to Christ.” By Martin Dunlop represented these committees at Mr Lavery’s wife, Elizabeth, the meetings of the English and and family joined him for his BISHOP Hugh Gilbert led diocesan Welsh Financial Advisors. Fr special day last Sunday. celebrations last week in Aberdeen to Heenan added that Mr Lavery mark the launch of This is Our Faith, is ‘a very positive member’ of PIC: PAUL MCSHERRY the new religious education syllabus for use in Scottish Catholic schools. Bishop Gilbert welcomed Michael McGrath, director of the Scottish Catholic Education Service, education representatives from the diocese and civic authorities, staff and pupils from Aberdeen’s three Catholic primary schools, St Joseph’s, St Peter’s and Holy Family, parents and catechists for the celebration at the diocesan headquarters on February 6. Bishop Gilbert welcomed all those present before Mr McGrath provided an introduction to This is Our Faith, which provides the teaching guide for religious education as leading prayers and reflections. (Top, left to right) The Aberdeen This is Our for pupils from P1 through to S3. There was also a large turnout the fol- Faith launch: Louise Lacazem, teacher at St Louise Lacaze shared her views on the lowing evening at St Ninian’s Church, Joseph’s Primary, Aberdeen, Michael McGrath new document, speaking from the view- Inverness, which played host to the second director of SCES, David Leng, head of schools Aberdeen City Council, Councillor Jennifer point of a teacher (at St Joseph’s Primary diocesan launch event for the new syllabus. Stewart, Bishop Hugh Gilbert, Pat Pritchard, School), a catechist and as a parent. Fr Stuart Chalmers, vicar general for diocesan adviser for RE and Maria Walker, Pat Pritchard, Aberdeen Diocesan adviser Aberdeen Diocese, led the Inverness launch director of education for Aberdeenshire. for Catholic education, also spoke during and amongst those in attendance were staff (Above) Pupils and staff from St Joseph’s the launch, while pupils from the three and pupils from St Joseph’s Primary Primary, Inverness, at the launch of This is Catholic schools were involved throughout School, Inverness’ Catholic primary school. Our Faith in the city the evening, entertaining the large crowd gathered with their musical talents as well I [email protected]

Teachers from throughout St David’s Deanery attend Mass at Bonnyrigg parish

CARDINAL Keith O’Brien throughout the deanery were joined teachers from St present for the Mass and meet- David’s Deanery of St ing, joining Brid O’Brien, Andrews and Edinburgh director of RE and RE adviser Archdiocese for a Mass and (see here exchanging the Sign meeting at Our Lady of of Peace with the cardinal) for Consolation Church, primary and secondary schools Bonnyrigg, on Monday for St Andrews and Edinburgh February 6. Archdiocese, and Margaret The cardinal celebrated Mass Murray, archdiocesan RE alongside Canon Hugh White, adviser for secondary schools parish priest, Dean Canon and school chaplaincy Joseph McMullan and Mgr coordinator. Allan Chambers. Teachers from schools PIC: PAUL McSHERRY

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His Eminence’s call SNP quizzed over education stance to support marriage I Continued from page 1

Survey of Scottish Nationalist Party members finds majority for abolition of Catholic Schools Signs indicate that the chancellor will again decline to give a tax By Ian Dunn spokesperson said. “The right of parents break to married couples in next to make that choice for their children month’s budget. NEW research has revealed that a remains an important part of our school Britain is one of the few Euro- clear majority of SNP members system.” pean countries that fails to PIC: PAUL believe that Catholic schools should recognise marriage in the tax McSHERRY be abolished. Hostility? system. In their 2010 manifesto, The research, led by James Mitchell, The survey suggests that SNP supporters the Conservatives pledged to professor of politics at Strathclyde Univer- may be more hostile to Catholic schools introduce a transferable tax sity and involving 7112 paid-up members than the public at large. In 2003, a poll allowance worth £150 a year to found that 64.4 per cent thought that sepa- found that 48 per cent of the population at married couples. Cardinal rate Catholic schools should be phased out. large were against them. However, this week it was However, the SNP’s leadership, includ- The survey comes a week after a senior widely reported that Mr Osborne ing First Minister Alex Salmond, has con- charity executive was lambasted by the has decided a married couple tax calls for sistently indicated its support for Catholic Catholic Church for claiming Catholic allowance will not feature in the schooling. schools contribute to sectarianism. Budget on March 21. There were public calls for the resigna- John Deighan, the Scottish bish- Warning tion of John Downie, public policy direc- ops’ parliamentary officer, said SCIAF Michael McGrath (right), the director of tor of the Scottish Council for Voluntary it was very disappointing news. the Scottish Catholic Education Service, Agencies from leading Catholics after his “The Church believes there is said the research was a warning that the beliefs became public last week. a duty to support marriage,” he support Church cannot afford to be unconcerned The survey also found 57.4 per cent of said. “People in society who get about the future of Catholic education. SNP members align themselves with a reli- married, carry out an obligation “I think it lets us see we can’t be com- PIC: PAUL McSHERRY gion, 17.5 per cent consider themselves that benefits society and to not CARDINAL Keith O’Brien placent and that attitudes towards denom- Catholic; 64.5 per cent Church of Scotland recognise that is a grave injus- has called on Scotland’s inational schools might not be where we remains committed to Catholic schools. and 3.8 per cent ‘other Christian.’ tice. This seems like the govern- schools and parishes to sup- would like them to be,” he said. “The SNP continues to support the Professor Mitchell was helped in his ment acting contrary to common port the Scottish Catholic Mr McGrath said Catholics had to be retention of Catholic schools, which is research by Dr Lynn Bennie of Aberdeen good and is another sad example International Aid Fund’s aware that many people were opposed to enshrined in law, and will remain so,” the University and Dr Rob Johns of the Uni- of the war against marriage and Lenten campaign to help Cahtolic schools. spokesperson said. “Diversity in Scottish versity of Essex. The work is to be pub- the family in this country.” ‘create a fairer and more just “There is a long way to go before peo- education is a great source of this coun- lished in the forthcoming book: The world for all God’s people.’ ple are fully informed and fully comfort- try’s strength and richness.” Scottish National Party: Transition To I Bishop Mark Davies of SCIAF’s Wee Box, Big able and this shows us we have a lot of The spokesperson went on to stress that Power. Among the 7112 members inter- Shrewsbury urged MPs ‘of Change campaign runs from work still to do,” he said. Catholic parents had a right to choose how viewed were senior SNP figures including Christian conscience’ to vote February 22 to April 6. The they wanted their children to be educated. cabinet members. down plans to legalise same- charity’s supporters give up a Commitment “Faith-based education has made a vital sex ‘marriage,’ page 7 treat, such as chocolate or An SNP spokesperson said the party contribution to Scottish society,” the I [email protected] wine, put the money saved into I [email protected] one of its Wee Boxes, and then donate it at Easter to help SCIAF’s work. This year the focus of the Thomas Marin James Scott campaign is on disabled people Independent Funeral Directors Funeral Directors in India where the charity helps “Stay local... keep it in the Your local Independent Funeral Director to provide wheelchairs and Over eighty years of crutches, prosthetic limbs, family... offer a prompt giving undivided attention, home-based care including and personal service 24 physiotherapy—as well as 24 hour care and a level of service hours a day... make it second to none. The only independent, access to education, skills affordable.” training and employment—to family-owned business in the area. promote self-sufficiency. Two Thomas Marin 1926 Let our family look after your family young people from India fea- Three generations later, his words are just as important to our family business today. 314 Portobello High Street, ture on this year’s SCIAF Wee Edinburgh EH15 2DA Box: Jagadeesh, a young deaf 62-64 St Mary Street, Tel: 0131 556 7192 or Edinburgh EH1 1SX Tel: 0131 669 6333 man, and Fauzia, a young 0131 556 6874 (24 hrs) or 0131 669 1285 (24hrs) woman who contracted polio 7 Bridge Street, Musselburgh EH21 6AA when she was a girl. Tel: 0131 665 6925 In a letter sent to Scotland’s parishes and SCIAF-supporting schools, Cardinal O’Brien said he was firmly behind the www.thomasmarin.co.uk www.thomasmarin.co.uk campaign. “When I was in India a few years ago, I was taken aback by the poverty I witnessed, which " was as bad as I had seen any- LLOURDESOURDES where on my trips for SCIAF,” ! he said. “India is home to one- MManchesteranchester ttoo LLourdesourdes third of all poor people in the 7 nnightsights - ffullull boardboard fromfrom ££674674 # world.” The cardinal said SCIAF’s GGrouproup DDeparturesepartures AAvailablevailable vital work in India includes ‘working with children and ffromrom EEdinburghdinburgh vviaia ToulouseToulouse young people living with disabil- ities’ to provide them ‘with the FFatimaatima '/*+--7'/6' 6550/ 633': education, skills and training, as JJune,une, SSeptept & OOctct - 4 & 7 NightsNights well as the care and support they need to become independent PPolandoland - DDivineivine MMercyercy ShrineShrine '7 3334+44 members of society.’ RRegularegular ddeparturesepartures - 4 nightsnights &&3'44 “This work, this change, is HHolyoly LandLand PPilgrimagesilgrimages only possible through the gen- 045%0&' erosity of SCIAF’s supporters 3rd-10th3rd-10th SSeptept & 88th-15thth-15th NNovov across Scotland,” he said. “The RRomeome << < 5*'3 < fundraising, awareness raising GGrouproup 25th-29th25th-29th SeptSept - £549£549 '/%-04'#%*'26'50 &'$+5.: #45'3#3&.'9#'4530 and campaigning you do in your school and parish really MMedjugorjeedjugorrjje """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" does change lives.” DDepartingeparting 55thth - 112th2th AAprilpril - £650£650 +)/#563'453+1%0&'-#45$-0%,0(&+)+54"""""" "" 91+3:#5' I Order you Wee Box online at MMancuniaancunia #-+&30.#5'446'0#'4530 +)/#563' http://www.sciaf.org. MMancuniaa n c u n i a TTravelr a v e l LLtdt d TThehe PilgrimagePilgrimage SpecialistsSpecialists &0/058#/5+/(03.#5+0/#$065+&505*'*63%*+/''& uk/get_involved/lent/order_your _wee_box or by calling 0141 00161161 790790 68386838 ((+%' #-;+'-6+-&+/) %055 53''505*'38'-- 354 5555 [email protected]@mancunia.com wwww.mancunia.comww.mancunia.com 4 NEWS FEATURE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 Lentfest goes live nationally as Glasgow arts festival grows Archbishop Conti praises director Stephen Callaghan and new project partners as Christian radio station gets ready to broadcast from Glasgow during Lenten events By Ian Dunn beginning was essential to the festival’s growth.” THIS year’s Lentfest in Glasgow Peter Kerridge, CEO of Premier Archdiocese—set to be the biggest Christian Radio, said he was delighted and best celebration of the Church his organisation had had the chance to in the arts to date in Scotland— become involved. will be broadcast in part to a “Premier was the official faith national audience for the first time. media sponsor of The Way, the film Archbishop Mario Conti, oversee- release in May last year starring Mar- ing what will likely be his final Lent- tin Sheen,” he said. “At that time Pre- fest as Archbishop of Glasgow, said he mier hosted an exclusive preview was very proud of ‘the amazing screening in Glasgow, attended by rep- growth and development of the festi- resentatives from the Archdiocese of val.’ Glasgow and AGAP. This presented Now in its sixth year, Lentfest this an opportunity to open discussions year has academic, creative and media with a view to building a relationship partners and more events than ever between Premier and the Christian before. This year’s festival, which will churches in Scotland and in particular (Above) Archbishop Mario Conti and Stephen artists from different backgrounds and Demarco will all give an insight into Callaghan (right) at the Pancake Tuesday be officially launched on February 21, with the Archdiocese of Glasgow. launch of Lentfest last year. (Right) traditions have all agreed to produce how they have been shaped by both encompasses dozens of events Lentfest has a similarly inclusive Composer James MacMillan features in work based on these traditional their faith and their love of the arts. throughout Lent from a Stations of the appeal as Sheen’s film, and we hope to this year’s programme themes,” Mr Callaghan said. “I think A key part of the festival, which is Cross art exhibition to major theatre help promote it in such a way that will PIC ABOVE: PAUL McSHERRY there is a powerful ecumenical discus- returning this year, is the play pro- productions, from classical music to get both the local and wider commu- sion that can be inspired by this.” duced by AGAP which tours the jazz, from poetry to lectures, in what nity behind the festival.” to become involved,” he said. “For me Though there are a number of large parishes and this year is focused on the is the biggest religious-based arts fes- Mr Kerridge said that he believed I just want one student who is there to classical events, including famous life of St John Ogilive. tival in Scotland. this new partnership could help the study, and is maybe feeling there back pianist Alessandra Pompili performing “It begins with someone looking at festival go from strength to strength. is to the wall regarding their faith, to The Way of the Cross by Franz Liszt, the new picture of St John Ogilive in the Supporters “We are now very happy to be see the institution they are at being Mr Callaghan said that he was keen to St Andrew’s Cathedral and trying to From small beginnings, the festival working with the Archdiocese of Glas- involved with the Church and finding ensure a wide range of entry points for imagine his life,” playwright Mr has established itself ‘as a regular cel- gow Arts Project (AGAP) on this that encouraging for them.” people of all backgrounds. Callaghan explained. “It is something ebration in the cultural life of Glas- year’s Lentfest,” he said. “Premier He is hopeful that students will take “The work done by Fire.Cloud in is there has been a lot of interest in already gow, a fact made evident by the range recognises the importance of this great the involvement of the universities as worth flagging up,” he said. “They are and though the production has been a of supporters for this year’s events,’ ecumenical event… Furthermore the a vindication of their faith. doing a great thing where they build a turbulent hopefully it will be a success.” the archbishop said. opportunity to broaden the outreach of “I had a hard time when I was at choir form scratch at two different This year the several new partners the festival through on air broadcast- Glasgow University, because of indi- sites. That is a great thing for people Deeper meaning have added their backing to the festi- ing is wonderful. Some of our on air viduals rather than intuition I should to be part of, and helps bring people Although Lentfest has grown hugely val, and the archbishop paid special guests from the festival will be actor stress, but it is not easy to be Catholic into the festival.” in the last six years, Mr Callaghan is tribute to them. and playwright Stephen Callaghan, student in arts discipline so I hope in That interactive element is some- keen to stress the festival still runs on “I wish to acknowledge first and artist Richard De Marco and Fr some small way students see these thing he is very keen to maintain as a tiny budget and that it is not about foremost the support of the University Guy Nichols, amongst others. We will things and it will put a different spin part of Lentfest. spending or making money but some- of Glasgow, the host for the launch be featuring highlights from the festi- on things for them,” he said. “For me heart and sole of the festi- thing much deeper. and for many of the events of this val as they happen, broadcasting val is work with the community,” he “Pope John Paul II said that the his- year’s festival, and the media sponsor- nationally.” Festival highlights said. “But also something like the tory of art is a history of people’s ship of Premier Christian Radio whose The Lentfest Art Exhibition at Glas- James MacMillan concert, which is souls,” he said. “I really believe that efforts will bring Lentfest to an even Director’s insight gow University Memorial Chapel, very popular offers something quite artists are bearing their souls when wider audience,” he said. “I wish also Stephen Callaghan, Lentfest’s director, which will run throughout Lent, is a unique, in that it is a chance to interact they work, whatever medium they are to thank for their participation Strath- added that the involvement of Glas- 2012 highlight and a central feature of first hand with the composer as he will in, and the Church more than anyone clyde University, the Royal Conserva- gow University, Strathclyde Univer- this year’s festival. It focuses on the talk and answer questions.” should be involved in that.” toire of Scotland and Glasgow sity, the Royal Conservatoire of Stations of the Cross and features Another interactive series of events Caledonian University. A special word Scotland and Glasgow Caledonian work by many top Scottish artists is the talks being held at the Glasgow I For full details of the Lentfest of thanks should also go to the long- University was particularly important including John Lowrie Morrison and University Memorial Chapel. Arch- programme visit time sponsor of Lentfest, Dumbreck to him. Peter Howson. bishop Conti, filmmaker Norman http://www.agap.org.uk/lentfest/ Decorators, whose support from the “It is great these bodies have agreed “It is amazing that these different Stone and artist Professor Richard I [email protected]

Praise for SCIAF as hierachy meets top Rwandan official

CARDINAL Keith O’Brien relationships between Scotland said. “In addition to SCIAF’s last week highlighted the and Rwanda and the setting up of excellent and ongoing work in excellent work being under- the Rwanda Scotland Alliance. Rwanda I am sure our two coun- taken by SCIAF and its SCIAF started working in tries will continue to support partners in Rwanda, during Rwanda in 1994 and is currently each other whenever possible.” a meeting with the country’s providing practical support to In the past year, SCIAF’s High Commissioner Ernest women affected by sexual vio- work in Rwanda has supported Rwamucyo at the charity’s lence and community-based 2550 women affected by sexual Glasgow headquarters. activities to promote peace and violence including the provi- The cardinal visited Rwanda reconciliation following the sion of counselling and health- in 2004 to see SCIAF’s work in genocide in 1994. care for 1101 women. A action, and last Wednesday’s Following the meeting, Cardi- running total of 40 national meeting—which was also nal O’Brien said it was ‘my great community police officers and attended by Archbishop Mario pleasure’ to meet with Mr Rwa- 8312 community leaders and Conti of Glasgow, Bishop Emeri- mucyo.“I received a very inform- members of the general public tus Peter Moran of Aberdeen, the ative update on the rapid have also been trained in Bishops’ Conference of Scot- development of Rwanda and I human rights and Rwandan land’s SCIAF president, and was able to share my own very national laws relating to sexual Bishop Joseph Toal of Argyll and positive memories of visiting the and domestic violence. the Isles—covered the growing country in 2004,” the cardinal PIC: PAUL McSHERRY

REFRESH YOUR FAITH BETWEEN MASSES WITH THE Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER LOCAL NEWS 5

Dermot O’Leary adds his mug to An open door to cathedral’s beauty Mary’s Meals’ latest campaign TOP TV presenter Dermot Final part of St Andrew’s Cathedral in Glasgow renovations completed and displayed to public O’Leary has given his back- By Martin Dunlop ing to a new campaign launched by the Scottish- THE final part in the renovation of based charity Mary’s Meals. Glasgow’s St Andrew’s Metropolitan The Big Blue Mug campaign Cathedral was completed earlier this invites people to get their hands week as the new sacristy doors were on one of the specially produced finished and hung in place. containers, similar to those used The doors, depicting six saints with close to provide Mary’s Meals to links to Scotland and Ireland, are the brain- children in Malawi where the child of sculptor Jack Sloan, who com- charity feeds over 500,000 pleted his work at the cathedral last week, children every school day. before the finishing touches were made to The plastic mugs are being the doors on Monday and Tuesday. offered as an alternative gift for The completion of the sacristy doors a minimum donation of £7 brings to an end a period of extensive reno- each, which is how much it vation work at the cathedral, which costs Mary’s Meals to feed a reopened its doors to worshippers lastApril. child for an entire school year in Malawi. As well as being Restored beauty able to drink from them, the Archbishop Mario Conti of Glasgow said mugs also have lids that Mary’s Meals founder Mag- he is ‘heartened by the reaction of so many allow them to be used as nus MacFarlane-Barrow said visitors who have commented on the (Above) Artist Scott Telfer completes the work the Museum of Religion, Cathedral collecting cans. the mugs were a great way for restored beauty of the cathedral.’ on the sacristy doors in St Andrew’s Cathedral, Square and even at the Daily Record Now supporters of Mary’s people to show their support. Mr Sloan had been approached to pro- Glasgow. (Above right) The doors mark the building. Meals—founded at Craig “This alternative gift is sym- final piece of the jigsaw in the renovations vide a proposal for the sacristy doors PICS: PAUL McSHERRY Born and bred in Lanarkshire, Mr Sloan Lodge, Dalmally—can have bolic, as it represents the simple ahead of the cathedral’s renovation and, held a position as senior lecturer in art and their own big blue mug and X mugs which are used to provide although he was ill for a large part of last design at Glasgow’s Central College for 20 Factor presenter Dermot over half a million hungry chil- year, he was delighted that the Church and ful scene, providing a fitting contrast with years and noted that his work on the six saints O’Leary (above right) is a big dren in Malawi with a life sus- architects were ‘extremely patient with Peter Howson’s ‘more solemn’ artwork of was particularly apt as his Whithorn studio is fan of the plan. taining daily meal, which in turn me,’ and gave him the opportunity to com- St John Ogilvie, on the right hand side of only a short distance from the site where “This is a fantastic way to gives them energy and concentra- plete the work this year. the altar. St Ninian brought Christianity to Scotland. raise awareness of what a differ- tion to learn,” he said. “For many “It was amazing to complete the final “The doors are intended not to over- Mr Sloan also paid tribute to the artist ence a mug of porridge can make children in the poorest parts of part of the cathedral restoration,” he said. power the Madonna but to frame Her Scott Telfer, who completed the work on to the lives of so many hungry the world, they are unable to go The sacristy doors, which depict the saints, place on the wall,” Mr Sloan said. the sacristy doors by adding gold leaf children in Malawi who are to school because they are hun- Andrew, Margaret, Ninian, Columba, paint to the images this week. receiving Mary’s Meals,” he gry, begging or working to get Bridget and Mungo, are to be found under Sculptor’s work “I have seen some of Scott’s other work said. “The beauty of this idea is the next meal on the table. a statue of the Madonna and Child at the Mr Sloan’s sacristy doors at the cathedral and I am sure it will be amazing,” he said. that not only does drinking from Mary’s Meals offers them a route left hand side of the cathedral altar. add to a number of his works that can be this mug remind people of the out of poverty and the chance to According to Mr Sloan, they depict a joy- found in the city of Glasgow, including at I [email protected] important role which porridge build a brighter future for them- plays at the charity’s school feed- selves and their communities.” ing programme in Malawi, it can also be used as a way of getting I Big Blue Mugs are available Annual Gonzaga Lectures to focus on inter-religious dialogue support to feed more children, for distribution in the UK. To giving them essential nutrition find out more, please go to INTER-religious dialogue is on the subject of inter-religious Catholic in later life. She died in zaga Lectures were first estab- and an incentive to study.” http://www.marysmeals.org.uk the theme of this year’s learning: dialogue, spirituality the gas chambers of Auschwitz lished as part of the college’s ‘out- Gonzaga Lectures, which and faith. during the Second World War. reach to the wider community.’ will kick off at St Aloysius Fr Barnes is a reader and The final lecture in the series, “They take their inspiration College, Glasgow, on Tues- senior tutor in inter-religious which takes place annually at St from the centuries old Jesuit day March 6. relations at Heythrop College, Aloysius College, will be deliv- patronage of intellectual enquiry Professor Catherine Cornille, the specialist philosophy and ered by Professor Hugh God- and spiritual development,” he Medjugorje 2012 associate professor of compara- theology college at the Univer- dard, director of the Prince said. “In this year’s series, we are June 20th and 9th September tive theology and chair of the sity of London. Alwaleed Bin Talai Centre for exploring the various ways in £534 excluding insurance department of theology at On Tuesday March 20, St the Study of Islam in the Con- which people may be said to have Boston College in the US, will Aloysius will welcome Rabbi temporary World, at Edinburgh a relationship with God through Departing from Edinburgh open the lecture series at the James Baaden from Oxford University, on March 27. Pro- the Abrahamic religions.” Jesuit college, speaking about University, who will provide a fessor Goddard’s talk is entitled: contact the possibilities and limits of case study of St Edith Stein, St Christian-Muslim Dialogue: I Each lecture will begin at St Roger Foster inter-religious dialogue. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, a What are the prospects? Aloysius College, Hill Street, The following Tuesday, Fr Polish saint, who was born into Hugh Campbell from St Aloy- Glasgow, at 7.30pm. Admission 01475 793 987 Michael Barnes SJ will speak a Jewish family but became a sius College, said that the Gon- is free Pilgrimage Irish Centre Options Ltd. LLOURDESOURDES Pilgrimages 2012 LOURDES BY AIR FROM EDINBURGH Stay withus 5 days departing 30th May, 20th June, PPILGRIMAGESILGRIMAGES Marchto November 27th June, 15th August & 05th September Marchto November £495 per person AAberdeenberdeen DDioceseiocese €280 EEdinburghdinburgh vviaia ToulouseToulouse ROME BY AIR FROM GLASGOW 44thth - 11th11th JJulyuly 5 days departing 20th May & 17th September £525 per person SStt AAndrewsndrews & EEdinburghdinburgh www.med-irishcentre.com EEdinburghdinburgh DDirectirect toto LourdesLourdes NI & UK : 028 8224 1888 MEDJUGORJE BY AIR 66thth - 13th13th JJulyuly Ireland: 048 8224 1888 FROM EDINBURGH Free Monthly Draw 5 days departing 06th June DDunkeldunkeld DDioceseiocese Every month for a year we are £425 per person EEdinburghdinburgh DDirectirect toto LourdesLourdes offering one weeks free accommodation for up to 4 people. Call now for a full colour brochure 113th3th - 20th20th JJulyuly Text the word PILGRIM followed by 768 Manchester Road, Castleton, 00161161 779090 66838838 your name & county to Rochdale, OL11 3AW oorr 0019421942 888884488844 60777 or phone us and 0844 8551844 [email protected]@mancunia.com / [email protected]@access-travel.co.uk we can enter you for free wwww.mancunia.comww.mancunia.com / www.access-travel.co.ukwww.access-travel.co.uk www.options-travel.co.uk 6 SCHOOLS NEWS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012

St Columba’s Primary School kick off a year of golden jubilee celebrations

THE community of St McIntyre said. “Not only are Columba’s Primary School in we exploring new technologies Annan is currently enjoying a and building skills for life and year of celebrations to mark work, we are benefiting from the school’s golden jubilee. effective inter-generational The celebrations kicked off projects. It is an exciting time with a Scottish family evening to be at St Columba’s and our at the end of last month and efforts now will provide a valu- will culminate with a party for able legacy.” pupils in October. A community barbecue will In the intervening months, a be held in the summer, at which number of events will take place St Columba’s pupils will be to mark the jubilee, while presented with commemorative Bishop John Cunningham of anniversary gifts. Galloway has been invited to The school’s infant class is celebrate Mass with diocesan preparing a time capsule to New era begins for St Columba’s High priests at the school on Septem- mark 50 years of St Columba’s ber 17, 50 years to the day since while pupils from primaries St Columba’s first opened to three to five are creating an First sod of turf cut as work gets underway on new Catholic secondary school in Gourock pupils, having been dedicated interactive photo album. By Martin Dunlop St Columba’s pupils Nathan Fitzharris, Drew by former Bishop of Galloway, Meanwhile, upper school James Docherty, St Columba’s head- McNeil, Eilish McArthur and Molly Doherty are Joseph McGee. pupils are creating a commemo- teacher, said the new developments are ‘an pictured alongside headteacher,James Docherty, Barry McIntyre, St Columba’s rative movie, which is expected PUPILS from St Columba’s High exciting time for our school community.’ Fr John Morrison, school chaplain, Mgr Gerard headteacher (above with pupils), to show a record of class life School in Gourock recently helped cut “We are really looking forward to pro- Gallagher, vicar general of Paisley Diocese, spoke of the jubilee celebrations, today as well as being a time- the ground as work begins on their viding our students with the environment Mgr Charles Cavanagh, representatives of a series of events he hopes will bank of the past. new school building. for learning that they deserve in the 21st building contractors McLaughlin and Harvey provide a time to remember for On September 10, a week- The site of the present Gourock High century,” Mr Docherty said. and councillors from Inverclyde Council the school’s pupils. long exhibition of photographs School, in the town’s Tower Hill area, is Architects on the project worked “The golden jubilee celebra- and memorabilia will chart 50 being refurbished at a cost of £15 million, closely with pupils at the school on vari- tions offer real life opportuni- years of St Columba’s. with St Columba’s pupils set to move into ous aspects of the design including the when the work is completed containing all ties to develop enterprise skills Pupils will act as guides for their new surroundings next year. layout of the playground and social areas of the features you would expect in a mod- and there is a fantastic sense of the exhibition, which will give and the location of the dining area. ern, 21st century secondary school,” Mr purpose in school as pupils, former pupils, staff and parents Refurbishment Loughran said. “The facilities really will staff and parents strive to make the opportunity to look back at The present building will undergo a full Milestone be superb and I am sure everyone—pupils, 2012 a memorable year of cele- some of their memories from refurbishment, which will involve the Speaking on the day of the ground being staff and parents—are hugely excited at bration and thanksgiving,” Mr their time at the Annan school. addition of a third floor and the demoli- cut, Terry Loughran, Convener of Educa- the prospect.” tion of part of the building, which will tion and Lifelong Learning for Inverclyde St Columba’s High School will move clear the way for a new three-storey exten- Council said it was ‘a great day for Inver- from its current temporary home, at the SPOTLIGHT ON... sion that will house the religious educa- clyde and for Gourock as we mark another former Greenock High School, when the tion department, among others. milestone in our ambitious plan to trans- work is completed in August 2013. A new oratory is also planned for the form education.’ centre of the school building. “This will genuinely be a ‘new’ school I [email protected] Pupils help keep Children’s Liturgy alive in Arbroath parish

TWO school pupils have ensured a bright future for Children’s Liturgy at St Thomas’s, Church, Arbroath, where Fr Kevin Golden, parish priest, recently had the pleasure of welcoming them as helpers to the team delivering the Liturgy to the youngest members of the parish community. Carys Boyle, 14, (left of Fr Golden) is an S3 pupil at Arbroath High School and has just embarked on her bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. “I went to Children’s Liturgy at St Thomas’s when I was younger so it seemed like a great idea to come forward and help the leaders as part of my volunteering module,” Carys said. “The volunteering lasts six months but I am finding it The charities club at St Aloysius’ Junior School has been busy before hugely rewarding and I have no and after the festive period. The young pupils recently collected 300 intention of giving it up when did her own bronze Duke of children is a great experience. these girls who were part of backpacks for Mary’s Meals schools’ project as well as raising £402 my Duke of Edinburgh Award Edinburgh Award. Annie volun- Speaking about the new that first group of children for the charity. Representatives of the charity collected the cheque time is finished.” teered when Fr Golden was additions to the Children’s who experienced it now so and backpacks from the school prior to the Christmas holidays. The Annie Sherry-Moore, 16, looking to complement the num- Liturgy team, Fr Golden said: involved in helping lead the pupils have also been collecting goods for the charity, Starter Packs (right of Fr Golden) is an S5 ber of Children’s Liturgy lead- “We started the Liturgy of the celebration of God’s Word Glasgow, and have resumed their charity activities once again since pupil at Arbroath High School ers. She is equally enthusiastic Word for Children here in for the boys and girls who returning to school following the Christmas break and had helped with Children’s about her role helping and said Arbroath back in 2005, and so, come to the Children’s Liturgy Liturgy two years ago when she that delivering the Liturgy to seven years on, it is great to see in 2012.” Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER LOCAL/NATIONAL NEWS 7

Bishop urges: Protect marriage Fighting for faith in today’s society for sake of the next generation Baroness Warsi asks for Pope’s help as she leads UK government delegation to Vatican THE Bishop of Shrewsbury recognised as a key building has urged MPs ‘of Christian block of society, including by By Ian Dunn today, thanks to the great success of the conscience’ to rebel against non-Christians, but that its ‘very Pope’s visit, it is one of the strongest too. their party leaderships and meaning, purpose and identity’ BARONESS Sayeeda Hussain Warsi “But this trip is about more than a vote down plans to legalise was about to be challenged. has asked Pope Benedict XVI for help Valentine’s Day ‘love in’ with our same-sex ‘marriage’ ‘for the “We face a mindset which in returning Christian faith to a cen- Catholic neighbours. This is about recog- sake of all generations to sees progress only as a continu- tral role in British public life. nising the deep and intrinsic role of faith come.’ ous shifting of our society further The Muslim Conservative Party co- here in Britain and overseas. For a num- Bishop Mark Davies call and further from its foundations chairwoman (right) made the request ber of years I have been saying that we comes after reports in London until we have nothing left for while leading a high-level government need to have a better understanding of papers that more than 100 Con- family and society to be founded delegation visit to the Vatican to celebrate faith in our country. Why? Because I pro- servative MPs could vote against upon than changing, political 30 years of full diplomatic relations foundly believe that faith has a vital and David Cameron’s proposals on fashions of thought,” he said. between the UK and the Holy See and to important role to play in modern society. same-sex unions. “By attempting to redefine mar- offer thanks for the 2010 Papal visit. The But mistakenly, faith has been neglected, The Prime Minister told his riage for society, politicians will ministerial delegation, including Michael undermined, and yes, even attacked, by party conference last Autumn find they have not only under- Moore, Secretary of State for Scotland, becoming theocracies. governments in recent years.” that he supported gay marriage mined the institution of marriage met with the Holy Father, Cardinal Keith “It seems astonishing to me that those ‘because I am a Conservative’ but obscured its identity for gen- O’Brien and Archbishop Vincent Nichols who wrote the European constitution Papal visit and Equalities Minister Lynne erations to come.” of Westminster during the visit to Rome. made no mention of God or Christianity,” The baroness spoke of when she met the Featherstone is due to announce The bishop said that Christian she said. “Too often there is suspicion of Pope during his visit to Britain in 2010. a formal consultation on legalis- politicians must make their Militant secularisation faith in our continent hinging on a basic “He told me that he had heard what I had ing same-sex ‘marriage’ in Eng- voices heard. “My fear is that, today, militant secularisa- misconception, that to create equality and been saying and urged me to carry on mak- land and Wales next month. The “For politicians of Christian tion is taking hold of our societies,” the space for minorities we need to erase our ing my case robustly,” she said. “So I am Scottish Government is currently conscience this will be a moment baroness said in a speech in the Vatican. “We religious heritage. You cannot and should taking a renewed message to the Vatican studying responses to its own to resist the leadership of their see it in a number of things: when signs of not extract Christian foundations from the City; one which I want to ring out beyond consultation on the issue. own political parties together religion cannot be displayed or worn in gov- evolution of our nations any more than the Vatican walls,” she added. “So when I At the start of National Mar- with every parliamentarian who ernment buildings, and where religion is you should or could erase the spires from have my second audience with the Holy riage, Bishop Davies urged recognises the Judeo-Christian sidelined and downgraded in the public our landscapes.” Father, I will not just be looking back on his politicians to resist the move to foundations on which our society sphere. For me one of the most worrying remarkable visit. I will be giving him my redefine marriage in a homily at rests,” he said. “Our voices must aspects about this militant secularisation is Diplomatic and deeper ties absolute commitment to continue fighting his annual diocesan celebration now be raised as clearly as they that at its core and in its instincts it is deeply The baroness said the trip was a symbolic for faith in today’s society.” of marriage, delivered at St Wil- can be, in order to proclaim the intolerant. It demonstrates similar traits to celebration of ties between Britain and the The other ministers in the delegation are frid’s Church in Northwich, God-given meaning of marriage totalitarian regimes—denying people the Vatican but there was also a deeper pur- Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Cheshire, last Saturday. not only for the sake of this gen- right to a religious identity because they pose to it. Olympics, Media and Sport, Owen Pater- He said that a change in the eration, but for the sake of all were frightened of the concept of multiple “We will be celebrating the decision son, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, law re-defining the identity of generations to come identities.” Margaret Thatcher took 30 years ago to Alan Duncan MP, Minister of State for marriage away from the idea of a Bishop Davies is the latest Speaking on Tuesday evening before the restore full diplomatic relations between International Development, Greg Barker, life-long union between a man Christian leader to speak out delegation met the Holy Father after his our countries,” she said earlier this week. Minister of State, Department for Energy and a woman would represent a against same-sex ‘marriage’ in weekly general audience on Wednesday, she “The relationship between the UK and the and Climate Change and Lord Howell of ‘seismic shift in the foundations England, after Dr John Sentamu, also said that European countries must Holy See is our oldest diplomatic rela- Guildford, Minister of State, Foreign and of our society.’ the Church of England’s Arch- embrace their Christian heritage without tionship, first established in 1479. And Commonwealth Office. The bishop said that the ‘time- bishop of York, criticised Mr less institution of marriage’ was Cameron’s plans last month.

1972. He added, prayers could Court rules against Christian guesthouse owners on room policy NEWS IN BRIEF be said as long as councillors were not formally summoned CHRISTIAN guesthouse ried couples in accordance with were backed in their case by the penalised for their beliefs about CARDINAL WINNING LECTURE: to attend, and gave the council owners have lost their appeal their Christian beliefs. Equality and Human Rights marriage,” he said. “Not every- EDUCATION, SECULARISATION permission to appeal. against last year’s ruling The judge who gave them Commission (EHRC), which one will agree with (their) GLASGOW University’s which left them with a £3600 permission to appeal explained has intervened in several cases beliefs, but a lot of people will School of Education has issued QUEEN’S COUSIN ALLEGES fine for only letting married that his original ruling affected relating to the clash between think it is a shame that the law an open invitation to the ANTI-CATHOLIC SENTIMENT couples rent double-rooms in ‘the human rights of the defen- freedom of belief and homosex- doesn’t let them live and work annual Cardinal Winning Lec- LORD Nicholas Windsor, a their guesthouse. dants to manifest their religion ual rights, always on the side of according to their own values ture on Saturday February 18. cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, Last Friday Peter and Hazel- and forces them to act in a man- the homosexuals. under their own roof. Something Speaker Dr Liam Gearon of has accused The Guardian mary Bull were found to have ner contrary to their deeply and Simon Calvert, a spokesman has gone badly wrong with our Oxford University will report newspaper of encouraging ani- discriminated after refusing a genuinely held beliefs.’ How- for The Christian Institute which equality laws when good, decent on political theological find- mosity towards Catholics in double-room to a non-married ever, the Court of Appeal upheld funded the Bulls appeal, said it people like (them) are penalised ings, based on interviewing Britain. same-sex couple in 2008. The the original decision that same- was a very worrying ruling. but extremist hate preachers are senior religious leaders and “On the whole, I think peo- Bulls appealed the decision, sex couple Martyn Hall and “Peter and Hazelmary have been protected.” authority figures in England, ple are reluctant to voice anti- claiming that they had always Stephen Preddy had been dis- and critique research in Euro- Catholic prejudice per se, but restricted double-rooms to mar- criminated against. The men pean religious education, which it certainly exists in the form claims that increased interest in of horror at our moral posi- ALBA TOURS religion in public and political tions which are thought ante- Scottish based Pilgrimage Operator life, as manifested particularly diluvian and dangerous, at 2012 - REMAINING AVAILABILITY in education, is evidence of least by our friends at The LEISURE TIME TRAVEL (All Pilgrimages are accompanied by a Spiritual Director) counter secularisation. He will Guardian,” he said. Lord EASTER MONDAY DEPARTURE argue that such developments Nicholas, 41, converted to LOURDES Coach Pilgrimages from Scotland (In Lourdes during HCPT WEEK) represent an emergent and sec- Catholicism in 2001, forfeiting 9 April - 6 days - £370 No Overnight travel 09 APRIL 7DAYS LOURDES DIRECT -FULL BOARD IN LOURDES ularising European civil reli- his right of succession to the LOCAL PICK UPS IN GRANGEMOUTH,DENNY gion facilitated through throne. Much of the prejudice 22 April - 7 days - £450 No Overnight travel AND LANARKSHIRE -4NIGHTS LOURDES European religious education. against Catholics is, he The lecture will be held at Lec- believes, due to the Church’s Spiritual Leader Monsignor Alistair Lawson JULY IN LOURDES ture Theatre 213, St Andrews opposition to abortion. 11 JULY 10 DAYS LOURDES,NEVERS AND PARIS -6NIGHTS LOURDES. Building, on Saturday 18 Feb- 22 July - 7 days - £459 Lourdes Paris Nevers VISITS INCLUDE THE TOMB OF ST BERNADETTE AT CONVENT ruary, 9.00am-12.30pm. SPEAKERS AT LAURISTON OF ST GILDARD,CONVENT OF THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL IN JESUIT CENTRE PARIS,PARIS CITY TOUR AND FULL SPIRITUAL AND EXCURSION 16 Sept - 5 days - £299 Shrines Northern France PROGRAMME IN OURDES PRAYERS BEFORE COUNCIL LAURISTON Jesuit Centre in L MEETINGS UNLAWFUL 22 Sept - 8 days - £509 Full day in Paris 23 JULY 8DAY LOURDES AND PARIS -5NIGHTS LOURDES -FULL Edinburgh is hosting a number SPIRITUAL PROGRAMME IN LOURDES,WALKING TOUR OF THE THE High Court in England of special events over the next SANCTUARY AND TO THE PLACES CONNECTED WITH THE LIFE and Wales has ruled that Bide- month. Fr Felix Korner of the AIR from Edinburgh- Toulouse 5 Sept OF BERNADETTE IN LOURDES.EXCURSION TO BARTRES AND ford Town Council in Devon Theological Faculty of the GAVARNIE acted unlawfully by allowing Pontifical Gregorian Univer- Coach transfer to Lourdes. 8 days - £650 prayers to be said before meet- sity in Rome, will give a talk GROUP ORGANISERS - 2012 and 2013 ings. The National Secular on the official dialogue See facebook for our pilgrims wonderful If you are organising your next Parish/Group Pilgrimage Society (NSS) brought an between the Catholic Church and would like advice, assistance or a free quotation, action against Bideford Town and Islam on March 5, comments and latest special offers please contact us. Our Pilgrimages are all tailor made to Council after an atheist coun- 7.30pm. From Feburary 27, suit your own requirements and include all planning and cillor, Clive Bone, com- each Monday at 1.30pm, Fr LEISURE TIME TRAVEL pre-booking of your full Spiritual and Excursion plained. Mr Justice Ouseley James Crampsey SJ will host a 0151 287 8000 Programme throughout the pilgrimage ruled the prayers were not lecture series on Glimpses into E-MAIL: [email protected] lawful under section 111 of Genesis, looking at a different Member of the Passenger 40 Chestnut Grv www.lourdes-pilgrim.com 5097 Financial Protection CALL the Local Government Act story each week. Scheme Motherwell igi 01698 262941 ML1 3JF 8 INTERNATIONAL NEWS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 US bishops reject compromise offer President Obama’s proposal regarding contraception provision is dismissed by hierarchy By Stephen Reilly

AMERICA’S bishops have rejected a compromise proposal from President Barack Obama that comes after the backlash against his original plans to Man suspected of Christmas Day force religious institutions such as hospitals to pay for employees con- bombing in Nigeria is recaptured traceptives through their insurance. The president, who has been heavily A MAN suspected of mas- Authorities say Mr Sokoto criticised by the Church for his initial plan terminding the deadly (above) planned the December that provided an exemption for Churches bombing of a Nigerian 25 2011 bombing of St but not religiously affiliated organisations church on Christmas Day Theresa’s Catholic Church in such as hospitals, announced a modified has been recaptured, Niger- Madalla, just outside Abuja and policy last Friday. ian authorities have said. police named him as the prime But the US Bishops said they could not Officials said the suspect, suspect in the bombing. Wor- accept any policy which meant women work- Kabiru Sokoto, was captured in shippers were leaving the ing in Catholic institutions could receive the eastern state of Taraba. church after a morning service contraceptives through their insurance. He is accused of being a mem- when a car bomb detonated “The only complete solution to this reli- ber of the Islamist sect, Boko near the front steps of the gious liberty problem is for HHS (Depart- Haram, which has said it carried church. Boko Haram later ment of Health and Human Services) to out the deadly attack. Dozens of claimed responsibility for the rescind the mandate of these objectionable people died when a church on the attack and separate strikes in services,” the US Conference of Catholic said. He said the new policy remains faith- at all, that this was a dangerous intrusion outskirts of the capital, Abuja, two other Nigerian cities. Bishops said in a statement. ful to the ‘core principle’ of free contra- into the integrity of the internal life of the was bombed on Christmas Day. The radical Islamist sect, The government’s decision to guarantee ception, but also honours the principle of church, and has indicated a willingness to His escape from custody last whose name means ‘western access to contraceptives under mandatory religious freedom, which ‘as a Christian, I offer some mitigation,” he said. “The bad month was a huge embarrass- education is sacrilege’ in the health care standards ‘remains a grave cherish.’ news is that the terribly restrictive man- ment for the Nigerian police, local Hausa language, is carry- moral concern,’ the bishops added. date still stands.” whose chief, General Hariz ing out increasingly sophisti- Catholic reaction However Sr Carol Keehan, a Daughter Ringim, was sacked shortly cated and bloody attacks in its Compromise Archbishop Timothy Dolan, the president of Charity who is president and CEO of afterwards. Boko Haram has campaign to implement strict On Friday, President Obama said his gov- of the United States Conference of the Catholic Health Association, praised staged a series of increasingly Sharia law and to avenge Mus- ernment would no longer require religious Catholic Bishops (above), said on Sunday what she called ‘a resolution that protects deadly attacks in recent years— lim killings in Nigeria. This organisations to offer free contraception on that he was heartened that the White the religious liberty and conscience rights last month 185 people were year the sect has been blamed employee health plans but he stuck by the House was paying attention to objections of Catholic institutions.’ killed during a series of bomb- for at least 270 deaths. principle that all women should have free by the Church in the US to a new national “The framework developed has responded ings in the city of Kano. Nigeria, Africa’s most popu- access to such services, putting the onus on policy on birth control coverage, but that to the issues we identified that needed to Mr Sokoto was first arrested lous nation with 160 million insurance firms to approach women work- he remained opposed to a policy that be fixed,” she said in a statement. “We are last month, but escaped the people, is divided between a ing for religious employers like Catholic requires insurers to pay for contraception pleased and grateful that the religious liberty next day while being escorted largely Muslim north and a hospitals to offer them birth control. for employees of Catholic institutions. and conscience protection needs of so many by police. largely Christian South. “No women’s health should depend on “The good news is that the president ministries that serve our country were who she is, who she works for or how seems to have noted the tremendous una- appreciated enough that an early resolu- much money she makes,” the president nimity among people of all faiths, or none tion of this issue was accomplished.” Winning logo for World Youth Day 2013 is unveiled

OFFICIALS of World Youth Mountain, the Brazilian coast- Day 2013 unveiled the win- line, and the World Youth Day ning logo for the event at a pilgrim’s cross inside a heart ceremony attended by more symbolising the heart of the than 100 Brazilian bishops, disciple. The green, yellow and government officials and blue of the heart are the colours local organisers. of the Brazilian flag. Gustavo Huguenin, 25, cre- Mr Huguenin said he got the ator of the winning logo, is a idea after reading a passage Brazilian from the interior of from the Gospel of St Matthew. Rio de Janeiro state. He said participation in the Philippines’ boxing superstar gives up The contest was opened to contest was an act of faith. all, and the logo was chosen by To celebrate the occasion on vices to become Church ambassador a Vatican council from more February 7, the Christ the than 200 entries from around Redeemer statue was lit in dif- PHILIPPINE boxing super- half a million pounds for cock- the world. ferent colors, representing the star Manny Pacquiao says he fights, a Philippine blood sport The logo (right) shows Rio’s 150 countries that will partici- has given up gambling, cock- where the birds fight to the death most famous symbols, Christ pate in World Youth Day. World Youth Day 2013 will be Benedict XVI and youths from fighting and other vices to armed with sharp metal spurs. the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Organisers confirmed that held from July 23-28, with Pope all over the world. become a goodwill ambassa- Mr Pacquiao, who is also a dor for the Catholic Church. member of the Philippine Parlia- Mr Pacquiao (above), one of the ment, said his only remaining The Greens have long called month, in a raid on a church in Auxiliary Bishop Daniel richest men in the Philippines and pastime is basketball. NEWS IN BRIEF for legal recognition of gay Ahvaz, authorities arrested the Adwok Kur of Khartoum a national icon, also announced Regarded as one of the greatest marriage in Australia, while the pastor, Farhad Sabokrouh, his reported that since November that he had sold his shares in a boxers in history, amassing a 54- TWO AUSTRALIAN SAME-SEX major political parties have wife and the entire congrega- there has been an upsurge of Manila casino, and in a nightclub 3 win-loss record with two drawn ‘MARRIAGE’ BILLS SET TO FAIL opposed it. tion. While the Islamic Repub- abductions in which young men and a bar, while also giving away bouts, he holds a record eight TWO bills to allow same-sex lic recognises Christianity as an have been taken—sometimes to friends all his fighting cocks. world titles in as many weight ‘marriage’ in Australia were TEN CHRISTIAN CONVERTS official religion, Christian con- snatched from their homes at “I am no longer in the vice divisions. He often cites God as introduced in parliament this ARE ARRESTED IN IRAN verts are not accepted and can night. He said the young men, business,” the 32-year-old, the the source of his ongoing success week, but look set to fail. AT LEAST 10 Christian con- even face the death penalty. many of them university stu- best pound-for-pound fighter in and wears a Rosary around his The bills are essentially the verts were arrested last week in There are no clear statistics dents, are being forced to fight the world, told reporters. “I have neck before and after fights. same, lifting a current ban on Iran, at a residential home that on the number of Christian con- the Government of South Sudan sold my shares in a big nightclub “I have found my real peace same-sex ‘marriages’ while let- was used as a church. verts in Iran, but the Open and the South-Sudan-based along with my shares in a and happiness now,” he said. “I ting religious ministers refuse to The Human Rights Activists Doors organisation reports that Sudanese People’s Liberation Manila casino outlet. draw strength and inspiration solemnise ceremonies inconsis- News Agency reports that plain- almost half of the Christians Army (SPLA). “I do realise I was a weak per- from reading and hearing the tent with their beliefs. clothes forces raided the home inside Iran are converts. In an interview with Catholic son before. If I had died the other Word of God.” A lawmaker from the Green where, according to HRANA, charity Aid to the Church in year, I believe my soul would The Catholic Church in the Party, a coalition partner in the Christians gathered to observe ABDUCTION FEARS GROWING Need, the bishop said the prob- have ended up in hell. I had Faith Philippines said last month it minority government, intro- religious practices and cere- AMONG SUDANESE PEOPLE lem of kidnappings had wors- but I was doing things which had asked Mr Pacquiao to duced the first bill, and the sec- monies. The families of the FEAR of abduction is spreading ened considerably and that were against the Will of God.” become its ambassador. ond was introduced by a Labour detainees have not been able to in Sudan amid a spate of kid- Christians felt particularly at Aides said the eight-time world “With all humility, yes, I am lawmaker weeks after the ruling ascertain their location and, so nappings by militia who are tar- risk as many belong to the champion had owned more than a accepting the daunting task,” he party lifted its opposition to far, have not been informed of geting minority groups in the South Sudan tribes targeted by thousand roosters worth nearly said. same-sex unions. the charges against them. Last hunt for new soldiers. the militia. Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER VATICAN NEWS 9

Vatican consistory creates 22 new Support for Syrian peace efforts cardinals and several new saints THIS weekend, Pope Bene- Holy Father calls for an end to violence as Apostolic nuncio outlines Christian concerns dict XVI will celebrate a public consistory at the Vati- By Dominic Lynch can for the creation of 22 new cardinals. POPE Benedict XVI has reiterated his The celebration will take call for an end to violence in Syria, place tomorrow morning at St inviting the political authorities in the Peter’s Basilica, during which country to ‘favour dialogue, reconcil- Pope Benedict (right) will iation and a commitment to peace.’ impose the biretta, cosign the Speaking in his Sunday Angelus at St ring and assign the cardinal des- Peter’s Square, the Pope urged the author- ignates their title or diaconate. ities to address the demands of protestors Of the 22 new cardinals, 18 and bring an end to the violent uprising in are under the age of 80, thus the country against the regime of President raising to 125 the number of Bashar al-Assad. cardinals eligible to vote in the “It is urgent to respond to the legitimate next Papal conclave. Among aspirations of the different sections of the those who will be created cardi- nation, as well as the auspices of the internal tomorrow, is Archbishop national community,” the Holy Father, Timothy Dolan of New York, who has publicly spoken out against the who will join Archbishop Syrian violence several times, said. “I Edwin O’Brien, grand master of Servants of the Lord; Maria del remember in prayer the victims, several of the order of the Holy Sepulchre, Carmen (nee Maria Salles y whom are children, the injured and all and a large number of Italians Barangueras), Spanish those who suffer the consequences of an who hold key Vatican positions. foundress of the Conceptionist increasingly worrying conflict.” At the end of the ceremony, Missionary Sisters of Teaching; Last Friday, at least 52 people were the Holy Father will celebrate Maria Anna Cope (nee Bar- killed by security forces in the city of Syrian security inspect the site of an explosion an ordinary public consistory bara), German religious of the Homs, a centre of resistance to President “In situations where their own lives and in Syria’s northern city of Aleppo on February for the Canonisation of the fol- Sisters of the Third Order of St Assad’s regime. those of their family members are at risk, 10. Some priests have decided to stay in bat- lowing Blesseds: Jacques Francis in Syracuse US; Kateri Security concerns as is now the case in Homs, the choice to tle-scarred Homs, even as government forces Berthieu, French martyr and Tekakwitha, American lay- remain or depart must be left to each indi- intensified their strikes against the heart of priest of the Society of Jesus woman, and Anna Schaffer, Archbishop Mario Zenari, the Vatican’s vidual,” the archbishop said. the revolt against President Bashar al-Assad, (Jesuits); Pedro Calungsod, Fil- German laywoman. nuncio to Syria, said that some priests The archbishop also advised Christians Archbishop Mario Zenari, the Vatican’s nuncio ipino lay Catechist and martyr; The following morning, have decided to stay in Homs, despite throughout much of the rest of Syria to in Syria said Giovanni Battista Piamarta, Pope Benedict will preside at strikes by government forces intensifying. remain in the country ‘except for situa- Italian priest and founder of the a concelebrated Mass with the Syrian forces have bombarded opposition- tions in which one’s own life and those of Congregation of the Holy Fam- new cardinals, marking the controlled neighbourhoods in Homs, the one’s family members are in danger.’ ily of Nazareth and of the Con- Solemnity of the Cathedral nation’s third largest city, with rocket and religious tolerance, above all with respect gregation of the Humble Sister of St Peter. mortar fire since February 2 in an attempt Vatican operations to relations between Christians and Mus- to quash the revolt. Despite the violence in response to the lims,” he said. “Until now, Christians in Speaking before last Friday’s attacks, nearly year-old uprising against President Syria have enjoyed great respect from Archbishop Zenari said that he had been in Assad’s rule, Archbishop Zenari said the every side in the conflict.” almost daily contact with priests in Homs Vatican has no plans to close its operations Human rights groups say that more than and that ‘with respect to their safety, the in Damascus, the Syrian capital. 7000 people have died since the nationwide situation is, in certain respects, uncertain.’ “Within the region, Syria is a model of uprising in Syria began in March last year.

US lawsuit accusing Pope of covering up abuse is withdrawn

A US lawsuit accusing Pope has covered up that abuse and together by no more that a men- In 1996, then-Archbishop Benedict XVI of covering thereby perpetuated the abuse.’ dacious web of allegations of Rembert Weakland of Milwau- up sexual abuse has been The lawsuit also sought to international conspiracy, kee referred Fr Murphy’s case withdrawn, it was reported prove that the Vatican is a amounted to a misuse of judi- to the Vatican’s Congregation last week. global business empire, engag- cial process and a waste of judi- for the Doctrine of the Faith. The lawsuit was filed in ing in ‘commercial activity’ in cial resources,” Mr Lena said. The Vatican decided not to April 2010 in the US District Wisconsin and across the US, Fr Murphy worked at the laicise Fr Murphy, but eventu- Court in Milwaukee by an and holding ‘unqualified school for the deaf from 1950 ally suggested that he continue Pope Benedict urges world leaders to unnamed Illinois man who power’ over each diocese, to 1974. In the early 1970s, to be restricted in ministry, claimed he had been molested parish and follower. multiple allegations of sexual and he died four months later, come to the aid of sub-Saharan Africa by the priest Fr Lawrence Mur- Jeffrey Lena, an American abuse against the priest were in 1998. phy during the latter’s time on attorney for the Holy See, wel- made to civil authorities, who Pope Benedict was named as POPE Benedict XVI has Refugees from sub-Saharan Africa the staff of Milwaukee’s St comed the withdrawl of the investigated but never brought line up for handouts as a result of a defendant in the case because urged world leaders to pro- food shortages in 2011 John’s School for the Deaf. allegations, which came charges. He was placed on a of his authority to remove vide needed relief for the peo- The lawsuit claimed that the through a notice of voluntary leave of absence for a while priests, and because of his ple of sub-Saharan Africa, Vatican ‘has known about the dismissal from the plaintiff’s and later returned to pastoral involvement in reviewing sex one of the poorest regions in generally worked cooperatively widespread problem of child- lawyers last Friday. ministry in the Diocese of abuse cases when he was cardi- the world. with Muslim groups in the coun- hood sexual abuse committed “A case like this one against Superior, where he worked nal, as prefect of the doctrinal In a meeting with members of tries of the Sahel. The work of by its clergy for centuries, but the Holy See, which was held until 1993. congregation. the John Paul II Foundation for the John Paul II Foundation, he the Sahel last Friday, the Pope said, shows ‘the importance of noted how the region had been bearing witness to the fact that received his red hat from Pope sis signals ‘a new baseline’ the February 6-9 event. seriously threatened again in Christ lives, and that His love NEWS IN BRIEF Benedict XVI in November meaning a new ‘agreed stan- recent months by a significant goes beyond all religions, races 2010, has been deeply involved dard of the Roman Catholic VATICAN CALMS PAPAL decrease in food resources and and cultures.’ in efforts to secure a lasting Church,’ in dealing with the ASSASSINATION FEARS by famine due to a lack of rain The John Paul II Sahel Foun- peace in the Democratic Repub- issue, a Scottish participant in THE Vatican has dismissed and the constant advance of the dation was set up by the late Pon- lic of Congo. He has been Arch- the conference said. media reports claiming that desert as a result. tiff in 1980, following his first bishop of Kinshasa, the capital Following the conference, Fr Pope Benedict XVI would be While thanking the founda- voyage toAfrica, to provide assis- city, since 2008, having previ- Brendan Geary, a Scottish assassinated within the next tion for its efforts, the Holy tance to the world’s most impov- ously served 20 years as Arch- member of the Marist order, 12 months. Father encouraged other groups erished region. The foundation is bishop of Kisangani. who works in the US, said: “We Italian newspaper Il Fatto to join in providing aid to the active in projects that support Cardinal Monsengwo is the start by listening to victims, and Quotidiano ran a report last Fri- people of the region, ‘whose liv- agriculture, food assistance, irri- second African cardinal asked we honour their experience. We day containing excerpts from a ing conditions are deteriorating.’ gation, and infrastructure in Burk- by Pope Benedict to lead the are trying to become leaders in confidential document outlin- The Holy Father encouraged ina Faso, Cape Verde, Chad, annual Lenten exercises. Car- the world in the protection of ing comments made by Cardi- and supported the efforts of Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, CARDINAL PASINYA TO PREACH dinal Francis Arinze, the retired children, not following behind nal Paolo Romeo, Archbishop Church bodies working to help Mauritania, Niger, and Senegal. AT LENTEN RETREAT prefect of the Congregation for others. In the words of Pope of Palermo, that the Pope would those in need and noted how the The existence of the founda- CARDINAL Laurent Monsen- Divine Worship, preached the John Paul II, there is no place in die within the next year. John Paul II Sahel Foundation in tion, Pope Benedict said, gwo Pasinya of Kinshasa, retreat in 2009. the Catholic Church for those Vatican spokesperson, Fr particular was a sign of the pres- demonstrated the ‘humanity of Congo, has been named by who would abuse children.” Federico Lombardi stated the ence of the Pope with, as he put his blessed predecessor’ but he Pope Benedict XVI to preach VATICAN SUMMIT ON ABUSE Commitment to those three report was untrue, however. it ‘our African brothers who live also stressed that the work of the the annual Lenten Retreat for SETS NEW STANDARDS principles, Fr Geary said, “It is so beyond reality that it in the Sahel.’ charity needed to be immersed the Roman Curia. LAST week’s four-day Vatican ‘came across clearly from shouldn’t be given any consid- The Pope also observed that in prayer in order for it to The African cardinal, who summit on the sexual abuse cri- every part of the world’ during eration,” Fr Lombardi said. Christian relief agencies have achieve its full potential. 10 COMMENT SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 Better education on the Catholic view We must get up to speed on the Church’s position on the issues and dilemmas in our society

Pope Bene- happening on your doorstep and at dict XVI is your expense. seen here Ideally parish priests would offer reading a guidance on Catholic education, the copy of case of the Catholic midwives, the L'Osserva- destruction of our adoption agencies tore Romano, and so on, otherwise this means inform- the Vatican newspaper. ing yourself through the ‘hated media.’ Catholics I have lost count of the number of occa- need to stay sions when someone has declared up to date piously: “I don’t read the papers, they with the are wicked and godless.” In a spirit of Church’s compassion I try to point out that such a stance on view is mince and that they need to pay BY KEVIN McKENNA current a visit to our planet occasionally. affairs In the case of the aforementioned Mr Downie of the SCVO it is quite O the long list of people in simple really. I understand that the public life who blame Scottish Catholic International Aid Catholic schools for sec- Fund (SCIAF) is affiliated to the tarianism can now be added SCVO. SCIAF, an agency of the Bish- the name of John Downie. ops’ Conference of Scotland, should This otherwise unremarkable chap is immediately disaffiliate. Meanwhile maintained at our expense, as the head those of us who carry out any work for Tof public affairs at the Scottish Council a voluntary organisation attached to for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). lic life. And I fear that we may have English brethren succeeded in ending Meanwhile the wholesale sacking of SCVO may want to ask if it agrees Mr Downie thinks that one of the been slow to react to it. It is also, I the tradition of morning prayers at the Catholic adoption agencies all over the with Mr Downie’s views about ‘key causes’ of sectarianism is the believe a fundamental part of a much commencement of business in a local UK continues apace. And all because Catholic schools. I would not want him existence of denominational schools. bigger picture. county council. This was immediately of a successful and bitter campaign to to lose his job, just be gently reminded He says that we must be rid of these The national secular society in Scot- followed by a threat from the Scottish force them to place children in their that he needs to consider how many schools as a means of curbing sectari- land has tentacles in every area of local humanists that they were considering care with same-sex couples. Of course, people who attended a Catholic school anism. The BBC broadcaster, Kirsty and central government. It is active in a similar move in Scotland. the last thing that proponents of such are engaged in voluntary work that Wark and the Labour politician Sam our classrooms, in our hospitals, in our The previous month two Catholic secular totalitarianism are concerned serves all parts of our community. Galbraith have also given vent to these universities and in our national media. midwives were forced to go to court with is the welfare of these poor chil- Our hierarchy meanwhile, if it is not sentiments, as has the breakfast TV It is represented on every local advi- for the right not to participate in any dren. Nor are the opponents of already doing so, needs to co-ordinate a queen of the sofa, Lorraine Kelly. sory board and on all of the Holyrood part of the abortion process in our hos- Catholic schools really concerned with campaign aimed at curbing the secular- I will be charitable here and choose committees. It is disproportionately pitals, including after-care. Their argu- sectarianism. And are the hospital ists’ attacks on the Church. In this I can to believe that these people are just represented at the top of the Labour ment was a simple one: we are trained authorities really telling us that they offer some free advice. There are many being intellectually lazy and display- Party, the SNP and the Lib-Dems. It is and committed to preserving human cannot cope with respecting the reli- Christians in the media and in business ing a lamentable grasp of Scottish his- an implacable beast that expects life; not to destroying it. The reaction gious convictions of two Catholic mid- who are at their disposal. And there are tory and socio-economics. Others may absolute commitment from its acolytes that followed from the usual suspects wives? There is, of course, a bigger lots of practical ways in which we can accuse them of casual anti-Catholic and it is obsessed with wiping out all was as sinister as it was shrill and it picture here. Any small way in which join the struggle. bigotry such is their wilful evasion of vestiges of Christianity from Scot- amounted to this: don’t work in the Christian observance and influence can Being informed is a start. the facts, but I am sure it is just plain land’s civic landscape. Its number one NHS if you are being selective about be undermined in public life must be ignorance on their part. target is the Catholic Church. ‘Get rid those for whom you wish to care. It is pursued. I Kevin McKenna is former deputy of Catholic schools and the battle is not difficult to see the icy fingers of editor of the Herald and former hese attacks on Catholic schools won,’ is the clarion call. national secularism at work here in here are ways of fighting back, executive editor of the Daily Mail in have formed part of a recent You will have seen evidence of forcing these experienced and caring but in order to do so you must Scotland. He is currently a columnist insidious trend in Scottish pub- some its recent work. Last week its women to fight for the jobs they love. be aware of what is actually for the Guardian TWhat do you think of KEVIN McKENNA’S comments on education? T Send your points of view to the SCO Write to Letters, SCO, 19 Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 6BT Or e-mail [email protected] Make Ash Wednesday page one of your epic Lenten journey

SOME days are more impor- Sykes, finely drawn characters, all able so it was not all that much of paign embraces this wholeheart- Church than the days that bring tant than others. There was a Fr Eddie have been given faces and new a penance to do without. In fact, edly. It provides alternatives not us to Easter. We need to ask our- delicious moment in the sit- identities. Presenting and repre- there was a very positive dimen- just to the Catholic community but selves not ‘What will I give up com Keeping Up Appear- McGhee senting, interpreting and reinter- sion in Lenten observance for my to the whole of Scottish society. It for Lent?’ but rather ‘How best ances when Richard, long preting the characters for generation. Stations of the Cross allows us a further insight into the can I involve myself and immerse suffering husband of television has enabled us to reach on a Thursday and Sunday immediacy and importance of the myself in the story of salvation Hyacinth Bucket, (pro- into their very souls. The retelling evening was compulsory for the Gospel message. It challenges us that unfolds in the course of the nounced ‘bouquet’) forgot grows and flows and changes, of the stories of Dickens on televi- McGhee family. Morning Mass at to look beyond a day—Ash whole Lenten season?’ their wedding anniversary. often dramatically; it is to enter a sion has enriched generation after 7.30 am was also a significant part Wednesday—towards the poten- We can choose to live in the His alarm at discovering his world that has disappeared his- generation, it has opened new of Lenten observance. Prayer and tial for new life that lies beyond. security of our own world. Alter- mistake was relieved when he torically and yet is present and eyes and ears to the possibilities reflection on the passion and death Ash Wednesday is simply the natively, we can journey with came up with the strategy of familiar, a world which touches that exist in this most imaginative of Jesus was at the heart of Lenten equivalent of page one of our Jesus knowing that life may get having their home alarmed. and echoes in our lives today. In of writers. And now there is Kin- observance. It still is. story. Just as no one could under- more than a little uncomfortable. However Richard is caught short, I’m a fan! dle and others of its ilk. Dickens In the 21st century we have stand a Dickens novel by reading What is it to be? out when arriving home late, Dickens is not a 19th century has gone electronic, often for free. become more creative in our the first and the last page, neither he is unable to remember the phenomenon who has somehow Dickens notwithstanding, it is at approach. The SCIAF Lenten can we imagine that we have I FR EDDIE McGhee has been a code for the burglar alarm, tenaciously clung on in the outer this time of the year that we con- appeal, complete with Lenten box, engaged with the whole Lenten priest of Galloway Diocese since which is the date of his recesses of memory. His books tinue in a very specific way the invites us to think out of our own process simply by arriving at Ash 1972. Currently serving three parishes anniversary. Anniversaries are have never been out of print. retelling of our own Faith story. little ‘box’ to our relationships that Wednesday and then, fast forward- in the Kilmarnock area he helps on a important. So are birthdays. For those who may not be Ash Wednesday is on the horizon. reach far beyond the limits of local ing ourselves to Easter Sunday. part time basis with chaplaincy in Last week we celebrated the given to reading Dickens, many of Lent. For different generations this communities. The story of salva- The six weeks that make up the HMP Kilmarnock. He holds a Diploma 200th anniversary of the birth of his stories have become familiar will conjure different images. For tion is not just for an elite few. season of Lent are the pages that in Religious Education and a Masters Charles Dickens. I couldn’t have through their adaptation for televi- my generation Lent was about God’s plan includes all of us. The need to be read so that the whole in Education and has worked exten- told you the date or the year that sion, one of the areas in which the ‘giving up.’The question always life, death and resurrection of story comes together and makes sively in Catholic schools as advisor Charles Dickens was born but I BBC has excelled. David Copper- was ‘What are you giving up for Jesus, challenges us to be a part of sense on Holy Thursday, Good in religious education. A columnist for could have named a significant field, Oliver Twist, A Christmas Lent?’ Chocolate was one of the the story from the inside, rather Friday and at the Easter Vigil. the SCO since 1991, his hobbies number of the novels that he Carol, Nicholas Nickleby, The favourites on the Lenten ‘hit list.’ than simply be outsiders looking Some days are more important include fishing, pigeon-racing and wrote. To read any one of his Pickwick Papers, readily spring to In reality 50-something years ago in. It invites us to get personally than others. There are none more poetry. He can be contacted by email: books is to enter a world that mind. Magwitch, Micawber, Bill chocolate was not so readily avail- involved. SCIAF’s Lenten cam- important in the life of the edwardmcghee @btinternet.com Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER COMMENT 11

Consistory of cardinals: a new Take a stand with midwives beginning for the Holy Father? years old were he still alive. So Hugh McLoughlin it seems now certain that for PROFESSOR VALERIE FLEMING explains that, with or without conscience clauses, that very Faith, our Faith, the Faith of our fathers, the good abortion is likely to continue to present major problems for midwifery sisters T WOULD be an exaggera- bishop has been murdered or tion to say that the pontifi- allowed to die in prison— HE ongoing case of two Glas- cate of Josef Alois alone, for there has been gow-based midwives who have IRatzinger begins today at the absolutely no rumour of him— exercised their rights not to par- consistory of cardinals in from maltreatment, malnour- ticipate in abortion has recently Rome, ahead of the elevation ishment, and neglect; martyred come to the attention of the UK of 22 cardinals-designate like Abbot Bishop Boniface media. Their employer maintains that the tomorrow. But it would not be Sauer (OSB) and Fr Benedict midwives concerned were not required to much of one. Kim (OSB) and their 34 com- Tprovide direct care but to allocate other On Monday, April 25, 2005, panions who perished between staff accordingly. As the senior midwives Pope Benedict addressed the 1949 and 1952. (The process on duty, however, these midwives would German pilgrims in Rome for for their Beatification opened have carried ultimate responsibility for all the inauguration of his Pontifi- during the last week of May, women in their care and it is this to which cate. In particular, he addressed 2007.) they are objecting. The hearing is now remarks to the young people— If the Holy Father needed being followed with interest by many for the many, many young peo- any added impetus to adopt ethical, religious or legal reasons ple—present. He told them Bishop Francis’s motto, per- For me, as a Catholic midwife, involved quite frankly: “Christ did haps that could be found in the in policy making in Europe and centralAsia, not promise an easy life. piquant irony of the fact that it it additionally raises questions for the whole Those who desire comforts was this self-same German future of the midwifery profession. have dialled the wrong Benedictine Abbot Bishop who The World Health Organisation (WHO), number.” consecrated Mgr Francis in association with the International Fed- Over this weekend—when bishop (on June 29, 1944, aged eration of Obstetricians and Gynaecolo- he addresses the cardinals 37 years). Boniface the Abbot gists and the International Confederation today as they discuss, debate Bishop became in religion, like of Midwives (ICM), first published an and pray for the New Evangeli- Pope Benedict Josef he was international definition of a midwife in sation; when he preaches at the Baptised! 1966. The latest revision of that in 2005 concelebrated Mass on Sunday As both theologian and bibli- which extends to four paragraphs specifies morning in St Peter’s; and, cal scholar, His Holiness will the midwife’s scope of practice as: when he meets with cardinals, need no reminding of how that ‘Midwifery encompasses care of old as well as new, singly or in quote from St Mark continues: women during pregnancy, labour, and the groups, throughout the week- “Surgite eamus ecce qui me postpartum period, as well as care of the end—he will repeat that porten- tradit prope est”: Rise! Let us newborn. It includes measures aimed at tous warning and promise, go, here comes my betrayer!" preventing health problems in pregnancy, albeit the language might be Christ’s betrayer was a man, the detection of abnormal conditions, the slightly different. Judas Iscariot. Pope Benedict’s procurement of medical assistance when Far be it from me to offer betrayer as he seeks to launch necessary, and the execution of emergency advice to the Holy Father, but his Pontificate to what he measures in the absence of medical help.’ for a text for that sermon he wishes to be its destiny is an The definition also suggests that the could do worse than borrow the attitude? Apathy, indifference, work ‘may extend to …reproductive motto of a fellow priest, a defeatism, pessimism. health.’ brother bishop, who has by And that is what he will call This is the profession I entered 30 years anybody’s standards not had an upon his cardinals this week- ago and on rereading this definition I ‘easy life.’ Surgite eamus end to confront. For the New would still have no hesitation in becoming (Rise! Let us go). Evangelisation is what this a midwife as it embraces all that I value in Taken from Mark 14:42, this pontificate is all about. And it my profession. Nowhere does it suggest to is the episcopal motto of Mgr is only now, when at last he has me that I would be required to take part in Francis Hong Yong-ho, Bishop enough cardinals in the Sacred delivering abortion services. Yet the of Pyongyang, North Korea. College, senior prelates in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Bishop Francis was imprisoned Roman Curia, and bishops, Board’s decision to locate part of their by the communist dictator especially archbishops in cru- abortion services within the maternity unit Kim-il sung in 1949 and cial metropolitan sees, who are places this service firmly within the realm absolutely nothing has been of his own choosing that he of midwives. This decision is not an iso- right to abortion on demand up to 13 Midwives deal with life and unfortunate deaths heard of him for 50 years, since but abortion is another issue can properly launch the barque lated case and reflects the long history of weeks of pregnancy. Their act of 1997 1962, the year of the opening of Peter towards that New the medical profession in which obstetrics specifically names registered midwives as of the Second Vatican Council Evangelisation. and gynaecology are linked as one spe- being allowed to carry out the procedure always ensure that the midwife’s role as now to be commemorated by a cialist area of expertise. itself up to 13 weeks gestation. Further- outlined by the WHO is fully explained. Year of Faith. more, women can sue health professionals However, an issue that I, along with all Born on October 12, 1906, A cardinal's red biretta seen behind he UK for not assisting, the other midwives, am now facing is the lat- Bishop Francis would be 106 a white Papal zucchetto Abortion It seems to me penalty for which is up est version of ICM competencies which Act (1967) to 10 years imprison- midwives globally are expected to Tstates that ‘no that midwives who ment. achieve. Representing midwives in 98 person shall be countries the ICM is a powerful organisa- under any duty, hat does this tion and its introduction of a competency whether by con- object to abortion are mean for concerning the facilitation of abortion tract or by any midwives based care in which the midwife has the statutory or ... increasingly likely to whoW want to practise skill or ability to: ‘prescribe, dispense, fur- other legal their profession or for nish or administer drugs (however autho- requirement, to face situations experi- those who aspire to rised to do so in the jurisdiction of participate in become midwives? practice) in dosages appropriate to induce any treatment enced by the two mid- During the course of medication abortion’ is a setback for authorised by my work I am fre- Catholic (and other) midwives opposed to this act to which quently confronted by abortion. he has a consci- wives in Glasgow. midwives in a variety It seems to me that midwives who entious objec- of countries, many of object to abortion are, despite the con- tion’ with the burden of proof being the whom are practising Catholics, who have science clauses in some countries, increas- responsibility of individual practitioners. been advised that caring for women hav- ingly likely to face situations experienced In other countries this goes further with ing abortions is part of the duties by the two midwives in Glasgow. For the New Zealand law, for example, stat- expected of them. In some European uni- many, it is an extremely difficult situation ing that no doctor, nurse or ‘other person’ versities which provide the initial educa- as by protesting they may lose their jobs. is under obligation to assist in abortion, tion of midwives, applicants are required However, for others now is the time to sterilisation or provision of contraceptive to sign a declaration that they agree to stand up and be counted. This can be done advice. Likewise they should not be participate in caring for women who are by showing support to the two midwives denied employment if they have a con- having abortions. It is in cases such as or by lobbying in other appropriate places. scientious objection to the carrying out this that I am able to move the debate to of such duties. The fact that midwives a different level where I am able to con- I Professor Fleming is a policy adviser are not named suggests that abortion is vey a Catholic perspective to Minsters of Nursing and Midwifery, Division of Health not within a midwife’s scope of practice. Health or Government Chief Nursing Systems and Public Health, Denmark, Conversely in South Africa there is no Officers. While such discussion often and former professor of midwifery at conscience clause and women have the centres round alternatives to abortion, I Glasgow Caledonian University 12 ARCHBISHOP CONTI SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER ARCHBISHOP CONTI 13

4 wishes LIFE SCOTLAND WOULD LIKE TO Archbishop Conti congratulations and CONGRATULATE AND SEND best wishes on his CONGRATULATIONS & BEST WISHES EVERY BEST WISH TO 10th Anniversary on to ARCHBISHOP CONTI ARCHBISHOP MARIO CONTI becoming FROM ALL AT CST SIGNS ON HIS 10TH ANNIVERSARY Signwriting •Gilding •Trompe L’Oeil •Graining •Marbling Glasgow’s Life, West of Scotland, 205 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow G2 5QD CST SIGNS &GRAPHICS TEL: 0141-636-6664 Archbishop Tel: 0141 221 1963 www.lifecharity.org.uk RELIGIOUS

1 St Aloysius’ service marked by achievement College As Archbishop Mario Conti celebrates the 10th anniversary of his archbishopric, MARY McGINTY speaks to those who have worked with him in religious, civic and Congratulations to Archbishop Mario Conti on his 10th Anniversary as artistic capacities and praises him for his contribution to the archdiocese and the city Archbishop of Glasgow

Teach us, good Lord, To serve you as you deserve; 3 To give and not to count the cost, 5 7R ¿JKW DQG QRW WR KHHG WKH ZRXQGV To toil and not to seek for rest, 7R ODERXU DQG QRW WR DVN IRU DQ\ UHZDUG 2 6DYH WKDW RI NQRZLQJ WKDW ZH GR \RXU ZLOO Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. St Ignatius Loyola SJ

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WMQ are also now bringing cost- effective and efﬁcient renewable energy solutions to homes and businesses throughout the UK. Having enjoyed his time as Bishop of Aberdeen (1), Archbishop Mario WMQ Technology make choosing and installing “Those who have the privilege of Faith have a duty to invigor- braith said. “His stories of his childhood, his family, of Remem- can ‘reflect on the horrors of war and contemplate reconcilia- and issues previously raised,” Mr Convery said. “He is a great Conti took on even greater responsibilities when he became Archbishop renewable technologies as simple as possible whilst ate the Faith.” brance Day services in force ten gales on the pier at Peterhead, tion and forgiveness.’ believer in the inter-disciplinary approach, bringing together doctors, of Glasgow in 2002 (2). During his time as archbishop his achievements all the while providing a thoroughly comprehensive and the joys of decorating something bigger than a room and Together the archbishop and Mr Mosson have travelled in pil- have been considerable. He has overseen the refurbishment and re- lawyers, ethicists, journalists and frontline medical and nursing staff and professional service. Now is the time to be HESE are the words Archbishop Mario Conti said kitchen, were all topics of conversation shared in our many meet- grimage to the Holy Land on several occasions. Their latest proj- opening of St Andrew’s Cathedral (3), welcomed Pope Benedict XVI to the so as to benefit from their unique insight into the big bioethical issues thinking about going green with renewable energy. shortly after being appointed Archbishop of Glas- ings. Attending services in the city centre in freezing snow- ect is to raise funds for the planting of olive trees which, as well city as part of his state visit to the UK (4) and also witnessed the opening of the day. He has been a fearless champion of life whenever it is gow in 2002 and, during the last decade, he has done packed afternoons, and piling him into the passenger seat of my as being a symbol of peace is a source of food and revenue. of the Italian Cloister Garden (5) as part of the cathedral renovations threatened either at its earliest stages or in the final vulnerable days.” No matter for what purpose a building will be used, 3 Gain energy independence that and more. His dedication to the Church and 4x4 as we slid home through the snow and ice to the Southside “Through this very valuable initiative people in Bethlehem and PICS 3,4&5 PAUL McSHERRY it needs power to bring it to life. From 3 employees 3 Reduce the impact of volatile prices people of his adopted city—since he was installed during the Christmas of 2010, watching him beam from ear to surrounding area are benefiting,” Mr Mosson said. “Replanting ost likely, when the archbishop’s successor is in 1976, WMQ Building Services has grown 3 Clean energy cashback with feed-in tariffs on February 22, 2002—has breathed new life into the fabric of ear with pride as he watched the worshippers in Bellahouston olive groves gives families sustainable incomes and it supports “The archbishop’s interest in heritage has, since 1981, found announced, the Chancellor of Glasgow Archdiocese dramatically to its current level of prominence in 3 Reduce your carbon footprint the archdiocese with the restoration of St Andrew’s Cathedral one bright afternoon and most of all sharing services with him in education through the University of Bethlehem.” practical expression in his keen involvement in the foundation and will have said his goodbyes. Leaving the archdiocese the electrical contracting industry employing over As a privately owned, forward thinking business and seen the glory of the Gospel powerfully proclaimed through Cathcart Old Parish Church for children with learning support In a tribute on behalf of the City of Glasgow, leader of the on-going work of the Scottish Catholic Heritage Commission, to take up his new post as the Vatican’s Permanent Observer at 100 skilled tradesmen. T M WMQ are in a great position to offer an unrivalled the arts project he instigated. His commitment to the fight needs are all special memories I have of this loving man.” council, Gordon Matheson said the city had been fortunate to which is tasked with the preservation and use of our Scottish the United Nations Mgr Peter Smith will take with him many More reassuringly, much of the company’s work service from initial conception to ﬁnal installation. against attacks on the dignity of life and Christian marriage has have a ‘charming, thoughtful, witty and caring churchman’ in Catholic heritage, both at home and abroad,” archivist Mary memories of working closely with the archbishop in the Clyde comes from repeat business from established clients. WMQ Technology provides full and relevant been at the heart of his episcopate and his deep love for his peo- rchbishop Conti’s conviction that a church ‘should be the archbishop who ‘while his first concern is the pastoral well- McHugh said. “Using a variety of media, the archbishop has also Street offices but most fondly will he recall the period in which New customers are attracted by our solid reputation professional advice including design, technical site ple will ensure that when retirement finally comes he will have worthy of its purpose’ underpinned his drive to restore being of his flock, his involvement and influence extends well been at the forefront of making that heritage and history available, his parish of St Mary’s in the Calton served as the pro-cathedral of a job well done at a fair price. Contact WMQ now surveys, planning expertise, grant advice, installation, left an enduring legacy. and renovate St Andrew’s Cathedral. Giving full reign to beyond the sizeable Catholic community.’ not only to the Catholic, but to the wider, community. The Blairs during the renovation of St Andrew’s Cathedral. He will take with him many memories chief among which his passion for architecture he embarked on a labour of love, According to Stephen Callaghan, creative director of AGAP, Museum owes its establishment to his encouragement and support. “We had 12 deacons and three priests ordained which had a and watch them bring your next project to life. after sales and maintenance service. A was the joy and privilege of welcoming the Holy Father on Sep- which gave the people of the archdiocese the cathedral they the shift in Glasgow’s cultural climate in the last decade has “It has been a privilege to work closely with Archbishop Conti big impact on the parish,” Mgr Smith said. “With the Chrism tember 16, 2010 to the Specialis Filia Romanae Ecclesiae— deserved via a £4.5 million renovation project. been dramatic, due largely to ‘the perceptiveness of an arch- in Catholic heritage matters for most of the past 30 years; and Mass and occasions such as the Mass for the Irish community the special daughter of the Roman Church. Former Speaker of the House of Commons and Springburn bishop who shared a vision for the Church to be reinstated as a I’m sure that his interest in safeguarding and promoting Catholic being celebrated here it meant that Archbishop Conti was regu- A member of the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity, the MP, Lord Michael Martin, smiles when he recalls the arch- patron and contributor to the arts, rather than a suspicious over- heritage will continue in the future.” larly coming in and out. The people came to think of him, almost, archbishop has worked closely with organisations and individ- bishop’s visit to the Palace of Westminster. seer or a moral watchdog.’ as an honorary curate and he enjoyed that, too. Parish life has TECHNOLOGY uals who profoundly regard his contributions and real and abid- “There I was, ready to tell him all about Pugin’s work but he “On a more personal note, I am grateful to him for his faith in ctively involved in bioethics, urging politicians to reject been most important to him and you can see that in the way he ing friendships have grown out of shared visions. One such knew more than my wife or I did and, of course, we were most me, in placing me at the forefront of this endeavour to direct the attempts to legalise euthanasia, ever-vigilant and ready has gone round the parishes as often as possible. His programme friend and colleague, Rev Neil Galbraith, the Moderator of impressed at the depth of his knowledge,” Lord Martin said. work of the Archdiocese of Glasgow Arts Project,” Mr Callaghan to speak out on developments in stem cell research and of Station Masses during Lent ensures every deanery is visited. Weir & McQuiston (Scotland) Ltd., Weir & McQuiston (Scotland) Ltd. Glasgow Presbytery of the Church of Scotland, first met the “He has done wonders for the cathedral which was built with said. “Through enterprises such as Lentfest, we have seen the issues around cloning, Archbishop Conti also welcomes every “His achievements have been quite remarkable. Through McArthur House, Netherton Cross, McArthur House, Netherton Cross, A then Bishop of Aberdeen when a dinner for the Italian commu- the pennies and ha’pennies of the Irish immigrants. The Italian Catholic Church regain a foothold in the world of arts and cul- opportunity to be close to those who are ill, frail or elderly. Faith into Action, which he instigated and led, we now have the Wishaw ML2 0EF. Wishaw ML2 0EF Telephone: 01698 372113 Telephone: 07808 176073 nity coincided with a training course for young ministers at an Cloister Garden is a great tribute to those who lost their lives on ture, andArchbishop Conti has been the figurehead in all of it. He Christmas Day is spent first celebrating Mass at St Margaret of funds to do the things which need to be done and what he has Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Aviemore hotel. His first impression, he says, was that ‘this the Arandora Star and it is a mark of inclusivity that there are realises that, for our spiritual wellbeing, the Church must address Scotland Hospice where he is much-valued patron and then at set up in financial, spiritual, liturgical and heritage terms will man has style, he is a wee bit special.’ parishioners names around the garden including my own par- cultural as well as economic poverty, through works of art that Nazareth House sharing lunch with the retired priests. benefit his successor and his successor’s successors.” “In time I got to know this dear man whom I was honoured to ents who grew up in the neighbouring parish of St Patrick’s, inspire us and raise our hearts and minds to God.” Ronnie Convery, director of communications for the arch- Accepting the appointment to Glasgow at a time of life when www.wmqscotland.com www.wmqtechnology.com share so much with and who soon became a glorious friend. Gen- Anderston alongside Italian families. When he left his beloved home in Aberdeen Diocese, where diocese, serves alongside the archbishop on the Catholic Bish- most people have retired, Archbishop Conti brought with him erous of spirit, caring in nature, wise in counsel, childlike in his The cloister garden is a major contribution to the city, for- he had been instrumental in the establishment of the Blairs ops’ Joint Bioethics Committee. his own special brand of fervour and enthusiasm. On his tenth WMQ wishes Archbishop Conti the warmest congratulations on his innocent humour and giggles, with a smile as wide as the Clyde mer Lord Provost Alex Mosson agreed. As well as commemo- Museum, the archbishop was keen to continue with his lifelong “He has been of the committee since its earliest days and he brings anniversary he will have his own private thoughts and reflec- 10th Anniversary on becoming Glasgow’s Archbishop. and very much one of God’s men in our beloved nation,” Mr Gal- rating the tragedy it gives visitors a spiritual space where they interest in, and involvement with, heritage matters. to it enormous wisdom and experience of battles previously fought tions. He can be assured of the love and gratitude of his people. 14 LETTERS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012

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F WHAT Baroness Warsi said of the visit this week of a UK political delegation to the Vatican is true— “We stand side by side with the Pope in fighting for faith,”—then we must hold her and all politi- The delegation of Ministers from cians to these words. the UK Government are seen here “This trip is about more than a Valentine’s Day ‘love in St Peter’s Square on Tuesday, in’ with our Catholic neighbours, this is about recognis- PICTURE marking the official start of a ingI the deep and intrinsic role of faith here in Britain and two-day visit to the Holy See. overseas,” she said as the group marked the 30th anniver- OF THE Archbishop Vincent Nichols of sary of diplomatic relations between the two states and Westminster, accompanied the offered thanks for the 2010 Papal visit. delegation. Full report, page 7 Faith must absolutely not be driven from the very PIC: THE BRITISH EMBASSY TO WEEK THE HOLY SEE foundations of our society and way of life: marriage and family. The celebration of love, commitment and family dominated the headlines this week but amid the flurry of hearts and flowers surrounding Valentine’s Day was an important message to ‘take marriage seriously.’ A balance of opinions developed in response to the Cardinal Keith O’Brien used the opportunity of Inter- on independence spread of the Christian national Marriage Week, observed from February 12 to COULD we have more Gospel, is, by the admission 19, to highlight the importance of the Sacrament of Mar- balance in your presentation of many Jewish scholars, riage, the traditional ‘union of man and woman,’by using of the forthcoming anti-Christian. This is Pope Benedict XVI’s own words on the subject to which referendum on independence Letters confirmed by Rabbi Mark he added his own. please. A front page headline SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT Glickman of Washington “In past centuries so many may indeed have taken mar- of Christian opposition to [email protected] State, USA who wrote the riage seriously—but sometimes that is not the case in our independence based on a following in 2008: “[T]he own time,” Cardinal O’Brien added. comment from one person Seder developed, in part, as an Marriage has come under significant scrutiny in the who is trying to set up another anti-Christian polemic—a past six months. A push by the Scottish Government to ‘Christian political party’ in order to gain as much died. Does Tesco imagine that ‘slam’ on the then-new and redefine the institution to include same-sex unions began seems mischievous at best and publicity as possible, and later only homosexuals have growing religion called in earnest last year with a consultation period on the sub- downright misleading at on supply names of feelings? A company which Christianity. Such religious ject. A similar process is being considered in England and worst. candidates in selected areas. supports events that give rise critique is all but absent from Wales. Both moves have been met by stern opposition Many Catholic Scots wish The posters should set out to this sort of outrage does not contemporary Seders, but the from the Church, echoed by Christians and members of to see a sovereign Scottish clearly an outline of their merit Catholic and wider anti-Christian roots of the other faiths and none. nation again. Will they be policies [anti-abortion, so Christian support and we event are unmistakable. A The cardinal this week quoted from the documents of given a front page headline? called ‘gay marriages,’ should shop elsewhere. church Seder is thus a the Second Vatican Council when he said ‘this sacred Perhaps in the current debate euthanasia, and so on]. Amici christiani—nolite Christian event rooted in bond no longer depends on human decision alone—for we might do worse than This should give support to tescere, and for those whose anti-Christianity. It makes God Himself is the author of marriage!’ and Bishop Mark examine the Vatican solution the new party, as well as Latin is rusty, tesco is 3rd about as much sense as a Davies of Shrewsbury asked MPs ‘of Christian con- which recognises Scotland’s advertising their name, and class, sorry, 3rd conjugation [Republican] rally for Barack Faith must not be driven from our foundations: Marriage and family science’ to reject plans to legalise same-sex nationhood with separate who to contact at their and it goes tesco, tescere tacci Obama…” (The Seattle Times, ‘marriage’‘for the sake of all generations hierachy and church structures headquarters if desired in (classicial pronunciation, April 12, 2008). to come.’ while maintaining a shared order to attract new members. tacky) tescum. Genuine religious dialogue In spite of the looming threats hang- nuncio? This common sense This is what is wanted Michael Elmer between Christians and Jews ing over marriage, as part of joyful cel- approach might prevent urgently in Scotland, since the LEADER, CENTRE DEMOCRATS can only be based on the truth, ebrations at St Francis Xavier’s unnecessary polarisation of country is becoming less and and the appropriation of the Church in Falkirk the cardinal wel- individuals and communities less religious. Catholic parishes and Seder meal by Christians does comed the first fully trained group of and offer everyone a way William J Johnston Seder meals not, I believe, contribute to parish catechists in marriage. During forward. INVERCLYDE AS A Catholic convert of such dialogue. the event, couples renewed their Like the ecumenical Jewish descent (with at least David Brower marriage vows and the cardinal movement it is imperative to Some companies do one Rabbi amongst my GLASGOW blessed young couples preparing to acknowledge differences and not merit our support Lithuanian ancestors) I greatly wed who are undergoing marriage work together in areas which SCHADENFREUDE indeed, welcome authentic dialogue Eucharistic Congress preparation, inspiring them with an offer mutual benefit and aber und wie! Mary McGinty between Christians and Jews. is important account of last year’s royal wedding agreement. prefers German, but I will say However, I believe that the THE background subject of of the future King and Queen, the Earl Canon Peter McBride it in holy Catholic Latin, recent trend of Catholic how to survive as a Catholic and Countess of Strathearn. ST THOMAS, RIDDRIE credo ergo non tesco. parishes hosting Seder meals produces a curious hiearchy This spotlight on everything that The Church does not during Lent is misguided, if of importance for your EDITOR’S NOTE: Readers will find Opinion marriage is and what it stands for, and on a balance of views in the SCO. Our comdemn homosexuals, but undoubtedly well-intentioned. headlines throughout the those of all generations who continue to independence coverage began in rightly rejects the so-called Firstly, it is clear that the paper. I find myself longing hold it dear, sends a clear message to our earnest with a poll of informed gay life-style and the square Passover meal that Jesus and for more talk of The Holy elected officials who are contemplating altering its opinions on January 20, including circles notion of same-sex His disciples celebrated in the Spirit and am therefore parameters: Don’t. members of the hierarchy ‘marriage.’ upper room was not a Seder dismayed that the Eucharistic highlighting Ecclesiastical independence. The February 3 Homosexuals complaining meal for the simple reason Congress (Dublin, June 10- edition on the Centre Democrats that they cannot marry are like that the Seder did not develop 17) receives very scant broke two news stories, the party’s men bewailing their inability until after the destruction of publicity: middle of News in hope to establish itself in Scotland to bear children. Jerusalem and the Temple by Brief, page 8. and its stance on independence. Some year ago, I the legions of Titus, 40 years The faithful Catholics of SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER witnesssed a Pride procession after the Passion of Our Lord. Scotland will be disappointed Centre Democrats in London and saw a number Secondly, the growing if the media leaves them out must contact parishes of participants, dressed as celebration of ‘Christianised’ of the Universal Church MAIN SWITCHBOARD I WRITE in response to your nuns, gesture obscenely as Seder meals is seen by many celebration of this meeting Tel: 0141 221 4956 Fax: 0141 221 4546 • very interesting article in the they passed Tyburn Convent, religious Jews as illegitimate with the Holy Spirit, as they EDITOR issue of February 4, regarding situated within a stone’s throw and offensive. did last year in Spain. If you the new Centre Democrats of the site of the gallows on Finally, the text of the do not highlight it, how will Liz Leydon—Tel: 0141 241 6109 Party, which is to be set up in which many of our martyrs Jewish Seder, having the secular press know [email protected] Scotland. This is really very anything? DEPUTY EDITOR important news for Christians. William J Johnston May I suggest the new INVERCLYDE Ian Dunn—Tel: 0141 241 6107 party should contact [by G SCO reserves the right to edit letters to conform with space or [email protected] style requirements EDITOR’S NOTE: The SCO has e-mail if possible] every run a series of feature length This page is used solely for reader opinion and therefore views REPORTER Christian parish in Scotland, G articles on the International expressed are not necessarily shared by SCO Martin Dunlop—Tel: 0141 241 6103 and supply very well designed Eucharistic Congress from the and attractive posters for G If you would like to share your opinion, send your Scottish delegate Mgr Stephen [email protected] Church porches all over the correspondence to the above address Robson and will continue to cover the run up to the opening of the SUB-EDITOR country as far as possible. The G Whether you use e-mail or post, you must provide your full name, congress and the event itself both address, and phone number or your letter will not be used Gerard Gough—Tel: 0141 241 6115 priest or minister should be in the print edition and online at [email protected] asked to draw the attention of http://www.sconews.co.uk his parishioners to the posters Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER COLUMNS 15 Learning life lessons in difficult times As the US theologian finishes his course of treatment for cancer, he gives an insight into that period of his life

would conscriptively impose on me. During times of suffering, we learn a lot about not only the strength of those around us, but also our inner I resolved to make this time of treatment a grace Fr Ronald strength. It is also a time that allows scope for reflection in my life: I would slow down my life, not just dur- and prioritising what is really important in our lives ing treatment but forever afterwards. I would learn Rolheiser to be more patient. I would be rigorously faithful to a daily practice of contemplative prayer. I would no longer take life, love, friendship, and health for the days unfolded, to my own surprise, I found S A columnist, I have always har- granted, but would finally, after years of failed res- that I was living through one of the richer and boured a certain paranoia about olutions, begin to live more inside of the wonder of happier periods in my life. Inside of the tiredness, being overly-personal or exhibition- God and life and not have my energy so absorbed nausea, and neuropathy, I was finding a rich istic in my writing or in thinking that by the demands of work and agenda. enjoyment in friendships, colleagues, work, and— my own emotional ups and downs What happened? Old habits die hard, even on days when I could actually taste them—food are of interest to others. I have tried to respect that under the pressure of illness. After six months of and drink. The six months within which I was fear. Occasionally, however, circumstance dictates treatments, on my better days, I sense some mod- undergoing cancer treatment, turned out to be, to thatA I do write something more personal. This is est improvement. Some of my resolutions have my own surprise, six happy and deeply meaning- such an occasion. borne fruit, but I am still a long ways from the ful months. I want to express my gratitude for all the prayers ideals that I had set for myself. My old habits have As John Shea puts it: “Life includes suffering. and support that I have received during these past been quick to reassert their grip on my life. When you are spending all your energies to only seven months while undergoing treatments for rejoice in that part of life that does not include suf- cancer. That desert-journey has finally ended, and ife is what happens to you while you are fering, you will not enter into life because you will with a good result. A month ago, I finished my last planning your life, so too conversion. Hav- be dominated by fear and exclusion and not faith.” chemotherapy treatment and, two weeks ago, after ing cancer taught me some lessons other Cancer taught me this lesson and, for that and a battery of medical tests, was pronounced ‘can- Lthan the ones I had planned. Most important your prayers, I am most grateful. cer-free.’ To God, family, friends, colleagues, and among these was this: Like everyone else in this to the many of you who have supported me in world, I have always wanted joy in my life— prayer: Thank you. friendship, love, celebration. John Updike, in a poem entitled, Fever, once But, and this has been the big handicap in find- Gordius No 26 wrote about what illness might teach us: “I have ing these, I have always—however uncon- CROSSWORD brought back a good message from the land of 102 sciously—felt that the joy and celebration I so degrees: God exists. I had seriously doubted it longed for could only come my way when I was before; but the bedposts spoke of it with utmost finally free from all anxiety, emotional tension, 1 2345 678 confidence, the threads in my blanket took it for pressure, overwork, illness, frustration, and stress 9 granted, the tree outside the window dismissed all of all kinds. We nurse this strange fantasy that it is complaints, and I have not slept so justly for years. only after all our bills are paid, our health is per- 10 11 “It is hard, now, to convey how emblematically fect, all tensions within our families and friend- appearances sat upon the membranes of my con- ships are resolved, and we are in a peaceful, sciousness; but it is truth long known, that some leisured space that can finally fully enter life and 12 131415 secrets are hidden from health. Indeed some enjoy it. In the meantime, we put our lives on hold First entry out the hat next secrets are hidden from health! What secrets did I as we perpetually gear up, get ready, and wait for 1617 TUESDAY will be the winner learn from my loss of health?” that perfect moment to arrive where we can finally 18 19 20 The initial diagnosis of cancer caught me by rejoice within life. Send your completed surprise and for a time left me mostly numb and While undergoing cancer treatments I learned 21 22 crossword entries—along with frightened. But, after having surgery and having something. When I first started the treatments I the projected treatment—six months of began marking a calendar—day one, day two, day 23 24 your full name address and daytime phone number—to chemotherapy—and the projected long-term prog- three—consciously putting my life on hold, put- 25 nosis—good chance for a cure—explained to me, ting myself into a posture of waiting, marking CROSSWORD CONTEST SCO 19 I prayerfully laid out a number of conversion-steps away the days until, in my fantasy, the treatments 2627 2829 30 WATERLOO ST GLASGOW G2 that I hoped this illness and its bitter treatment ended and I could live life again. But, strangely, as 31 32 6BT

33 34 The winner’s name will be printed next week SCO pages through the ages 35 36 The editor’s decision is final ACROSS 25 years ago 50 years ago 1 Is such congestion the preserve of motorists? (7,3) LAST WEEK’S 6 Group of three (4) SOLUTION THE story that caught the eye in the FIFTY years ago news that dominated 10 Intone (5) 11 Shouted to make a mollusc our editor (9) ACROSS Scottish Catholic Observer 25 years the pages of the SCO was the Maltese 12 The festive occasion had a famous knight (7) ago concerned Mgr Jon Magee, who elections, where Catholic Actionists pro- 15 Structure built to support cables (5) 1 Fat 3 Circumspect was the personal secretary of Pope tected priests and nuns in poll attacks. 17 Man-eating monster (4) 8 Shekel 9 Overcoat John Paul II and the Master of Cere- “Mr Dom Mintoff, Labour Party leader 18 City on the river Avon (4) 10 Fable 11 Magic 19 ‘Raise your glass to hot bread!’ (5) 13 Freed 15 Godsend monies. He was to be appointed of Malta, had conceded defeat in the islands 21 A blast of trumpets (7) Bishop of Cloyne in Ireland. election,” the report said. “The nationalists, 23 The edge of part of Hanover, Germany (5) 16 Halibut 20 Stern “A regular visitor to the Scots College in led by Mr Borg Oliver, seemed certain to 24 Some bamboo is needed for a church lectern (4) 21 Sheet 23 Sweep Rome, Mgr Magee will be ordained bishop form the first government under the new 25 Gratuities that come with recommendations of how to 24 Diabetes 25 Fatima gamble with them? (4) 26 Nonchalance 27 Tie in the city by the Pope on St Patrick’s Day,” self-governing constitution.” 26 Herb often used in recipes involving tomatoes (5) the report said. Ninety per cent of the population of 28 She who has thrown the party (7) Mgr Magee was very familiar figure to Malta went to the polls to elect a new gov- 33 I hate rock served as a vegetable (9) DOWN the Scottish people due to the fact that he ernment for the first time in four years. 34 Cutting this may bring tears to your eyes (5) 1 Fish fingers 2 Trembled 35 Famously extinct bird (4) 3 Crete 4 Crochet was a regular visitor to the Scots College “All over the island there was wheel- 36 Fail to abide by a moral code (10) in Rome, he was also familiar to Catholics chairs and people on stretchers making their 5 Serum 6 Enough all over the World. He travelled with the way to the polling stations,” the report con- DOWN 7 Tit 12 Contemplate Pope all over the world as one of his aides. tinued. “They protected priests and nuns 1 Small nail (4) 13 Funds 14 Drain 2 It’s as smooth as a laboratory flower (9) 17 Benedict 18 Dead Sea He had this to say to the people of against Mintoffian violence and insults. 3 Islamic decree (5) Cloyne: “To all the people of Cloyne I say, Priests were openly praising God for the 4 Bedtime drink (5) 19 Retain 22 Teeth I come among you as a stranger, but I am opposition that has snapped the Catholic 5 Greek hero of the siege of Troy (4) 23 Share 24 Din not entirely unknown to you nor you to community out of its complacency.” 7 Relating to the countryside (5) me. During my student days in Cork I Many Catholic Actionists went into 8 This ceremony may provide an inroad into the priesthood (10) Last week’s winner was: became familiar with Cloyne and family action for 12 hours a day throughout the 9 Vie (7) connections in the diocese have brought polling. They made sure that the elderly 13 The All Blacks ‘welcome’ to an opposing team (4) Mary Sinclair, Uddingston me there on many visits. and all able bodied people got to the 14 Would a water spaniel be such a gilled one? (7) “I have very much to learn about Cloyne polling stations. They were so successful 16 As patently honest as the managing director's position may be (5,5) and its people, and I will be dependent on that some people were turned away from 20 Truce, cease-fire (9) your help and support as I set out on my and told to come back later. 21 Part of a horse’s leg which usually has a tuft of hair (7) Scottish Catholic Observer: new pastoral responsibility among you.” STEPHEN EDWARDSON 22 Bones that form a cage in the body (4) Scotland’s only national 27 Filled with chopped dates (5) 29 Large sea area (5) Catholic weekly newspaper 30 Leather strap (5) printed by Cumbrian Newsprint, 31 Poverty-stricken (4) Newspaper House, Dalston Road, ages 32 Terminates (4) SCO pages through the Carlisle CA2 5UA 16 CHILDREN’S LITURGY SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012

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 us to ‘put God’ back in our lives in very an A4 sheet of white paper in half—top to conscious ways. Lent is believing you bottom; then fold it side to side. You will First Sunday of Lent and I are to put aside any attitude or then have four pages. On the front, make a behavior that does not announce the big cross and colour in with black ink pen —First Reading Kingdom is at hand. or magic marker. (Keep the booklet because The Gospel says the Spirit guided we will use it each week.) The covenant of God when Noah was delivered from the Jesus to the desert. It was a hard time of G Talk about Ashes and the Sign of the flood. A reading from the book of Genesis 9:8-15. testing for Jesus. He had good thoughts Cross as ‘signs’ of God’s Covenant. —the angels—and bad thoughts—Satan. G Ashes, made from palms used on Palm God told Noah and his sons: “I am going to In the end, Jesus comes out of the desert, Sunday remind of us that Jesus is the sign make a solemn promise to you and to all Reflection and Discussion after 40 days, believing God is with Him, of God’s ultimate love and faithfulness to who will live after you. This includes the just like Noah. us. Ashes remind us that things of earth LENT is a very special season for the Being guided into the desert, is similar don’t last. We are born, and signed with a birds and animals that came out of the boat. Church and for us. It is a time for us to to us being grounded. When we are not cross at Baptism, and sign ourselves each I promise every living creature on earth that remember that God calls us to be His doing the right thing or thinking time we pray, to remember: God is where the earth and those living on it will never special people. It is a time to remember correctly, we are ‘guided’ to a special we are from; God is where we are headed. G again be destroyed by a flood. the many signs of God’s love. It is a time place where we are ‘tested’ to change to Especially for Lent we have the sign of to remember we don’t always act like we be a better self. Just like Jesus and Noah, Ashes in the form of a Cross on our “The rainbow that I have put in the sky will know we are God’s special people. It is a it is a hard time. But at some point, the foreheads because we believe we are marked be my sign to you and to every living time to remember that we don’t always hard part is over. When we leave the by the Sign of the Cross. The Sign of the creature on earth. It will tell you that I will respect the signs of God’s love. quiet, desert place, of our time out, we Cross is a special sign. It is like handshake keep this solemn promise forever. When I The stories from the Bible that we will promise—like a covenant—we are going or hug—it reminds us that we are meeting or be read during the five weeks of Lent to be our best self. That’s Good News. talking with God when we pray and gather at send clouds to cover the earth, and the are some of the most important stories Jesus and Noah believe ‘the time of Church in a special way. Being blessed with rainbow appears in the sky, I will remember of God’s call, promise of faithfulness, fulfillment’—all things can work together Ashes, in the form of a Cross, reminds us to my promise to you and to all other living love and mercy. The stories tell us, that for good—if people ‘repent’ from thinking be repent, change and believe in the Gospel. creatures. Never again will I let flood waters from the very beginning, God made us like God isn’t in charge and believe the The Gospel of God’s love, forgiveness. And and no matter how lost or disobedient ‘Good News’—God is in charge and is ‘I am here for you’ presence. So, besides destroy all life.” we were or are: God is faithful. God present even when we are tempted not to thinking of ‘going without something’ or The Word of the Lord made special covenants—special do Good News acts. Perhaps our brothers ‘giving something up,’ change: Do more agreements—to remind us: I will always and sisters tell us: Unless you change and good acts; obey quickly; be kind to someone be here for you. be your best self, things are going to be you don’t find easy to like. Lent is 40 days long because Jesus hard. When you are in grounded you Prayer The Children’s Liturgy page is published one spent 40 days in the desert. It also don’t feel like your parent(s) love reflects the 40 days of rain and flooding you---but when it is over: You know they Dear God, we ask you to guide us as we week in advance to allow RE teachers and those while Noah was on the Ark with his love you and you love them. When we begin this Lent. Help us to hear your word taking the Children’s Liturgy at weekly Masses to family, descendants and members of ‘repent’/change, and do good to others, speaking to our hearts. Thank you for every living creature. Forty is a sign of we live like the kingdom is at hand. sending Jesus to show us the way. Amen. use, if they wish, this page as an accompaniment significant time. A time of ‘letting go’ to their teaching materials and ‘letting God’ into the situation of Activities Responsorial Psalm our lives. Lent’s 40 days are a time for G Create a Sunday Lenten booklet: Fold 25:4-5abc, 6 and 7 cd (R) Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant. Show me your paths and teach me to follow; guide me by your truth and instruct me. You keep me safe. (R) Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant. Please, Lord, remember, you have always been patient and kind. Show how truly kind you are and remember me. (R) Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant. Verse before the Gospel Matthew 4:4b (R) Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. No one lives on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. (R) Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Gospel Jesus was tempted by Satan, and the angels looked after Him. A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Mark 1:12-15 Right away God’s Spirit made Jesus go into the desert. He stayed there for 40 days while Satan tested Him. Jesus was with the wild animals, but angels took care of Him. After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee and told the Good News that comes from God. He said: “The time has come! God’s Kingdom will soon be here. Turn back to God and believe the Good News!” The Gospel of the Lord Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER CHURCH NOTICES 17

CHURCHNOTICES

Scottish Catholic ST PAATRICKTRICK’S DAY Charismatic Renewal ST VINCENT’S MASS 2012 Committee of the Isles ‘Lighting the Fire’ SERVITE CHURCH ST ANDREW’S CATHERDRAL, Life in the Spirit Seminars Training Day CLYDE STREET Open to all who run the seminars Pitkerro Drive—Dundee Saturday 17th March 2012 10.30am Tel: 01382 500446 CELEBRANT: HIS GRACE,ARCHBISHOP MARIO CONTI Community of the Risen Christ Hall TH Belleisle Street, Glasgow, G42 8HJ SATURDAY 17 MARCH 11.30AM invoking Mass of the sick PROCEEDINGS COMMENCE AT 11AM St Peregrine’s Intercession EXPERT SERVICES (Patron Saint of Cancer Sufferers) MUSIC BY: and a Blessing with his relic AELIC EAGUE HOIR T AMES THE takes place on G L C ,S J SCOT-COVER GREAT MUSICIANS,CANTOR CLAIRE RE-UPHOLSTERY SATURDAY February 25th O’NEIL AND IRISH PIPER Freephone: 0800 389 8084 All areat welcome 10am to in visit the the shrine Church at any time • Repairs • New Foams • Springs Repaired ORGANISED BY GLASGOW also MOBILE REPAIR SERVICE ANY NAMES FOR THE ST PEREGRINE SHRINE BOOK IRISH HERITAGE GROUP all over Scotland SHOULD BE SENT TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS Excellent choice of fabrics and quality leathers specialising in: HOLIDAYACCOMMODATION Take advantage of a rare opportunity to hear Dykes • Reids • G Plan Father Denis McBride CSsR Parker Knoll • Cintique • Wade TENERIFE Come and hear him in (COSTA ADEJE) St Gabriel’s Church, 1 Cedar Drive, Viewpark, Superb apartment in holiday complex in Uddingston, G71 5LF G EORGE P. R EILLY idyllic Playa Fanabe, Costa Adeje Friday 24th February 2012 at 7.30pm • Sea view with balcony overlooking pool Theme: “The Passion of Discipleship” Painter and Decorator • 100 yards from beach Participate in a one day Lenten Retreat • Host of activities on beach led by Fr McBride in St. Gregory Barbarigo, 3 0 Years of Experience • Two golf courses nearby 130 Kelvindale Rd, Maryhill, Glasgow, G20 8DP Saturday 25th February 2012, 10am for 10.30am • Excellent restaurants and bars Free Estimates Soup and sandwiches will be provided for lunch • £39 per night for apartment Info: Frances O’Donnell, 297 Dyke Road, Glasgow, G13 4RW, • Sleeps four Tel: 0141 954 8961 Email : [email protected] 07974379811 • Completely refurbished 01698 822215 Telephone 07778160193 www.sweeneyapartments.com Prayer Group Meeting Times Brochure on request Diocese of Motherwell Diocese of Dunkeld N Healing Ministry, N Ss Peter and Paul’s Prayer Tent of Divine Mercy Ministry, Group VOCATIONS Meets on the 1st Saturday of Ss Peter and Paul’s Parish the month, Centre St Francis Xavier’s Church, Milton Street, Dundee Carfin, (Behind Church) JERICHO Saturday 2 – 4.30pm Tuesdays 7.30pm “The N St Mary Magdalene Prayer Do you feel that Group Compassion of God is calling St Mary Magdalene Jesus.” you to the Hailstonegreen, Forth Missionary Prayer Group meeting every Drug & Alcohol Rehabs., Priesthood Monday 8 - 9pm Then we Refuge for Victims of can help Domestic Violence, you ADVERTISINGTERMSANDCONDITIONS Supported Accommodation Advertisements submitted must contain complete and accurate information and comply with requirements of all for the Destitute, the Contact: relevant legislation, the British Code of Advertising TERRY SPECIALIST Distressed, and all being Practice, and the Advertising Standards Authority. The The Vocations Director LUNDIE IN ‘passed by on the other side.’ SMA FATHERS publisher has the right, at its discretion, to refuse, omit, TOOTH St Theresaʼs suspend, or change the position of advertisements, or require A COMMUNITY OF Clarendon Place, Dunblane WHITENING Perthshire FK15 9HB artwork or copy to be amended to comply with any moral or The AND MEN OF PRAYER FOR legal obligations. The publisher will not be liable for any Denture COSMETIC OUR TIMES (founded 1970) PERSONAL loss of revenue to the advertiser incurred as a consequence DENTURES of non-publication or incorrect reproduction of an Technician Vocation info from Have your own natural teeth High quality Dentures made with Bro Patrick Mullen, UNATTACHED? advertisement.Advertisements may be cancelled within 14 whitened. Monitor your own shade good quality private teeth and The Jericho Society, days of an order being received and not less than a minimum change by this new safe method. quality denture base material. Mater Salvatoris, Harelaw Farm, Join the of 24 hours before deadline for entry. Any cancellations Home visits can be arranged. A beautiful natural appearance Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire, PA10 2PY CATHOLIC outside this period will not affect the buyer’s liability for SAVE YOURSELF £££’s made for the individual. Scottish Charity SC016909 UNATTACHED payment for the advertisement. Payment for advertisements TELEPHONE FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Tel: 01505 614669 DIRECTORY must be received within 30 days. Any order, verbal or Email: written, which is placed for the insertion of an 18 ASHBURTON ROAD, KELVINDALE, GLASGOW G12 [email protected] Tel: 01322 222 213 Telephone 0141-334 1883 for free brochure advertisement amounts to an acceptance of these conditions. 02559 18 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

DEATHS McAWEANEY McDONACH MacDONALD 32nd Anniversary 5th Anniversary 10th Anniversary of John, Please pray for the repose of In loving memory of Annie Garrynamonie, who died BOYLE the soul of our dear father, (nėe Clarke), mother, February 23, 2002, also his Peacefully at Monklands Thomas J. McAweaney, who grandmother and great-grand- loving wife, Marykate, who died Hospital on 19th January 2012, died February 17, 1980. mother, who died on February February 12, 1990. Jane [Ena] Boyle, aged 76yrs, Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for 23, 2007. Our Lady, Star of the Sea, pray him. We hold you close within our for them. beloved wife of late Bob Boyle St Dominic, pray for him. hearts, Inserted by Julia, Iain and and loving mother, gran, Pray for me as I will for thee, And there you shall remain, family, Glasgow. great-gran, sister and friend. Her That we may merrily meet in To walk with us throughout our family would like to express their Heaven. lives, MacDOUGALL sincere thanks and appreciation Until we meet again. 8th Anniversary CZARNECKI TIERNEY McCANN Our Lady of Lourdes and the Precious memories of Roderick to all relatives, neighbours and 16th Anniversary Remembering today and always 43rd Anniversary of our beloved Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for Joseph, a very much loved friends for their kindness, In loving memory of our dear our darling daughter and very dad, Richard McCann, who died her. father and gen, who died on husband and father, Karol, died support and Mass cards. dear sister, Monica, died February 17, 1969, also 33rd From all her family, February 16, 2004. R.I.P. February 17, 1996. Special thanks and prayers to November 7, 1999, and whose Anniversary of our dear mum, grandchildren and great-grand- A heart of gold stopped beating, Mine is such a simple prayer, Father Eammon Sweeney, Mary McCann, who died children. Hard working hands at rest, 30th birthday occurs on God bless and keep you in His Sister Moira Duffy and the February 14, 1979 and also our God broke our heart to prove to February 17. care, beloved sister, Marie, who died us, SVDP St Vincent de Paul and A kiss blown up to the sky so Eternal rest grant unto him, O December 22, 2007. MacDONALD He only takes the best. the parishioners of St Patrick’s blue, Lord, For their love, devotion and In loving memory of our parents, Our Lady, Star of the Sea, pray Church. Grateful thanks to St Catch it, Monica, it’s just for you. And let perpetual light shine example we will never forget whose anniversaries both occur for him. upon him, Andrew’s Hospice, Woodside Mum, Dad and all the family. them. at this time. Our dad, Dougald, Your loving daughter Mary May he rest in peace. Amen. and Summerlee Care Homes. Jesus, we trust in You. who died February 10, 1985, Margaret and Andrew Roderick. Anne. Inserted by the family. and our mum, Nettie, who died Much appreciation and thanks to A golden heart stopped St Anthony, pray for them. RELIGIOUS MEMORIAM February 17, 2010. North Lanarkshire Council beating, Lovingly remembered and sadly Social Work and Care Services - Two willing hands are still, MacDOUGALL Fr. RICHARD DUNNE missed by their sons and 12th Anniversary Josephine Kellett, Monica The one who did so much for 9th Anniversary daughters. Treasured memories of my dear us, Harrison and all the carers, St Pio, pray for them. grand-aunt, Dolina, who died Former P.P. of St Gabriel’s, Is resting at God’s will. especially Kate, Ann, Elaine, February 14, 2000. Also in Merrylee, St Martin’s, R.I.P. loving memory of my dear uncle, Mary, Shirley, Sandra, Gwen, Castlemilk, and Our Lady, Star Anna, Tom, Michael, Megan and Alexander, who died January Alice and Moira. Also, of the Sea, Garelochhead, died Kieran. MacDONALD In loving memory of our dear 14, 1988. R.I.P. Good4You Care Services February 17, 2003. Our Lady of Czestochowska, mother and grandmother, Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for especially Michelle, Kim and pray for him. May he rest in peace. Jessie, who died on February them. Natasha. Special thanks to all St Gabriel, pray for him. 23, 1955, also our father and Mary Margaret and Andrew the wonderful staff on Ward 8 at grandfather, Alexander, who Roderick. MEMORIAM CZARNECKI Monklands General Hospital. Precious memories of my dear died August 16, 1977, also their Grateful thanks to John Casey, uncle Karol, who died February grandson, Alistair, who died CHURCH Kevin Mellia for their spiritual 17, 1996. September 18, 2005, aged 46 MacEACHEN 10th Anniversary years. 10th Anniversary comfort and support and thanks Your name I often mention, In loving memory of Jim, who My thoughts are with you Fois shiorruidh thoir dhaibh a In loving memory of our dear to Mhairi Condron for beautiful died on February 22, 2002, Thighearna, son, Alick Iain, who died singing. Thanks also to Nadine’s still, beloved husband of May, dear You have never been forgotten, Agus solus nach dibir dearrsadh peacefully in the Glasgow Creative Flowers, Rena and dad of Margaret, Donal and And uncle, you never will. orra. Southern General Hospital, on James Gallacher Caterers and Con, father-in-law of Danny, St. Anthony, pray for him. Inserted by the family, West February 20, 2002, aged 24 Gerinish, Inverlochy and Skye. years. Donald McLaren Funeral Louise and Donna, and a much Beatrice and boys. We lived in hope, prayed in vain, Services. Special thanks and loved granda of Olivia, Calum, That God would make you well appreciation to John Farrell for Maria and Conor, Niamh and McCLOREY MacDONALD again, his loving and caring support. Grace. GARRITY 33rd Anniversary 4th Annniversary of our dearest Of your charity, please pray for But He decided we must part, Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for Holy Mass and prayers will be In loving memory of our dear father and grandfather, Gerry, the repose of the soul of He eased your pain, but broke offered for you all. him. mother, Catherine Cairney who died December 30, 2007. Catriona Morag (MacKinnon), our heart. St Pio, pray for him. Garrity, who died on February 10th Anniversary of our precious who died on February 23, 1999, Inserted by his loving parents, beloved wife of Martin and dear Annabel (Mam), Lawrence CAMPBELL 17, 1979, wife of Denis Garrity mother, Agnes, who died February 23, 2002. mother of Seonaid and Niall “Lawrie,” Howmore, South Uist. Peacefully at Sacred Heart (R.I.P) and grandmother of Denis, James Patrick, St Pio, pray for us. Iain, and grandmother of House, Daliburgh, on December Josephine, Marie Bernadette, Family, Airdrie. Catriona Isbel and Archie. 18, 2011, Catherine Campbell, Jacqueline, Mary Kate and Mary Our Lady of the Isles, pray for MacEACHEN 469 South Lochboisdale. R.I.P. Clare. her. 10th Anniversary Inserted by Dr and Mrs James Fondest memories of our BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Garrity, Victoria, British nephew, Alick Iain, who died Columbia, Canada. MacDONALD peacefully on February 20, In loving memory of our parents 2002, aged 24 years. and grandparents, Margaret, It is not just today, but every GIBSON died February 18, 1996, and day, 4th Anniversary Michael, died April 4, 1965. In silence we remember. COLL Please pray for the repose of No longer in our lives to share, R.I.P. In loving memory of Hugh, who the souls of Betty (nėe But in our hearts you are always Inserted by Donald James, died February 16, 1982. Livingstone) who died February there. Duncan, Angus John, 3 A silent prayer keeps us in 20, 2008, and her beloved Our Lady of the Isles, pray for Howbeg. McCLOREY touch, husband, Joe, who died them. 37th Anniversary of our dearest February 24, 2008. Clachan, Ormiclate, South Uist. With the one we loved and miss brother, Hugh Gerard, who died so much. Sadly missed by their loving McELROY January 11, 1975. 24th Anniversary Inserted by Liam, Norma and family. Requiescant in Pace. St Gerard, pray for us. MacDONALD In loving memory of our dear RODGERS family. Family, Airdrie. In loving memory of our dear father, Joe, who died February In loving memory of Philip, a parents, our mother, Mary Mac- 22, 1988, and our mother, Mary, dear husband and dad, who CONNER McALEENAN Donald, who died February 20, died July 28, 1947. 21st Anniversary 1968, and our father, Donald May they rest in peace. died on December 11, 2001, In loving memory of our In loving memory of my beloved very dear father, Pat Joseph, who died February 17, Jesus, Mary and Joseph, pray and whose birthday occurs on husband, Alex, father and McAleenan, who died February 1987. R.I.P. for them. February 18. pappa, died February 22, 1991. 22, 1981, also our very dear Parting comes and hearts are Rena and Maureen. Our hearts are full of memories, Deep in our hearts a memory is mother, Anna, who died January broken, Loved ones gone with words With pride we speak your name, kept, 13, 2003. You left us quietly, your thoughts unspoken, McGRATH Though life goes on without you, Of one we loved and will never Please pray for our dear It will never be the same, unknown, Flowers will wither and suns will forget. You left us memories we are set, parents, Catherine, who died But with love and memories in Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for proud to own. But the hearts that loved you will February 22, 1989, and Daniel, our hearts, him. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have never forget. who died October 29, 1972. You will walk with us forever. Inserted by wife Margaret and mercy on them. Inserted by loving sons John Lord Jesus, grant them eternal From Tricia and Martin. family. Inserted by the family. Angus and Neil Joseph. rest. Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 19 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

McGAULLEY MacINNES MacNEIL MALLON RELIGIOUS NOVENA TO ST CLARE 34th Anniversary 14th Anniversary 9th Anniversary Of your charity, pray for the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine In loving memory of our dear In loving memory of a much In loving memory of a dearly repose of the soul of our dear days with a lighted candle. mother, Mary McAleenan, who missed husband, dad and missed brother, Archie Joseph mother, Anne Tobin, who died Publication promised. - C.M. died February 18, 1978, also grandad, Hector, who died MacNeil, Leanish, Isle of Barra, February 21, 1961, and our dear McAULEY our dear dad, James, died February 20, 1998. Rest in who died February 22, 2003. father, Daniel Mallon, died June Sr Juliana, Maureen and the NOVENA TO ST CLARE August 11, 1971. peace. In our hearts you are always 1, 1969, also our brothers, family of the late Fr Jackie S.J. Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine In the shelter of Thy Sacred Those we love don’t go away, there, Edward, died April 12, 1979, wish to thank Fr C. O’Cuinn, days with a lighted candle. Heart, But walk beside us every day, Loved and remembered in every John, died February 15, 1982, S.J. the Jesuit Communities in Publication promised. - G.S and Dear Jesus, may they rest, Unseen, unheard, but always prayer. Patrick, died June 23, 1989, Ireland and Zambia, Fr J. A.S. We miss them much but still we near, May he rest in peace. Daniel, died December 16, 2002 O’Kane, Fr W. Dunnachie, Sr know, Still loved, still missed, still very Our Lady Star of the Sea, pray and Joseph, died February 18, Louise and the Franciscan GRATEFUL thanks to the dear. for him. Sisters of the Immaculate Thy Holy will is best. 2008. R.I.P. Blessed Virgin, Divine Mercy St Martin de Porres, intercede “The wind beneath our wings.” Inserted by his family at home St Martin, pray for them. Conception; Mary Mooney and and St Anthony. – M.B. for them Inserted by his loving sons, and away. Inserted by the family. the staff of Milltown Park; Inserted by their family, daughters and families. Rachel McNeil and staff of Blantyre. The memories we have from MORRISON Cherryfield, the Jesuit Nursing thanks to St Jude day to day, MacPHERSON 3rd Anniversary Home, Dublin for their care and GRATEFUL No length of time will take away. 18th Anniversary Angus, a dear brother, uncle attention; St Kevin’s SVDP, all for prayers answered. – T.M.D. and grand-uncle, who died on McGUIGAN You cared for us Grandad, when In loving memory of our dear relatives, friends and 2nd Anniversary we were small, mother and gran, Chrissie, who February 19, 2009. neighbours for their kind support Treasured memories of my dear Watch over us as we grow tall. passed away on February 22, Eternal rest grant unto him, O with Mass cards, sympathy GRATEFUL thanks to the husband, William (Bill), a loving Love always. xx 1994. R.I.P. Lord. cards and their attendance at Fr Blessed Virgin, St Anthony and father and grandad, passed All the grandchildren. Quietly today your memory we From the family. Jackie’s Month’s Mind Mass in St Jude for prayers answered. Remembering also with love, treasure, Still Praying - D.M and L.P. away on February 19, 2010. O’NEILL St Kevin’s, Bargeddie. Missed in the morning of every our dear mum and nan, Doris, Missing you always, forgetting 15th Anniversary Holy Mass will be offered for the day, who died December 22, 2007 you never. In loving memory of our dear intentions of all. Missed in the evening as light and our brother and uncle, Our Lady of the Isles, pray for mother, Mary (Mamie), who died DEAR HEART OF JESUS fades away, John, who died February 7, her. February 23, 1997. R.I.P. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I Missed for a thousand little 2008. Inserted by Margaret, Raymond May your love shine through us have asked you for many things, Those we love live in our hearts and family. always, Mum. ANDERSON, Danny Jnr favours, this time I ask you for Danny, Rae and family would Around every corner a memory forever. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for this special one (mention like to thank Fr Towey and the clings. her. favour), take it Dear Heart of In our hearts you are always MacPHERSON parishioners of St John the Jesus, and place it within Your there, 18th Anniversary QUIGLEY Baptist, Uddingston for unfailing broken heart where your Father Loved and remembered in every In loving memory of our dear In loving memory of my dear support at this sad time and also sees it, then in his merciful eyes prayer. mother and grandmother, parents, John, died February for numerous Mass cards, it will become Your favour, not Our Lady of Lourdes and St Chrissie, who died February 22, 24, 1967 and Mary (Reilly), died sympathy cards and flowers. mine. Amen. Say for three Teresa, pray for him. 1994. February 17, 1987. Also my Special thanks to Margaret days, publication promised. – Inserted by his loving wife When thoughts go back as they dear husband, Archie Neary, McCormack. P.B. Patricia and family. often do, who died August 26, 2004. St Pio and St Clare, pray for us. We treasure the memories we Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for DEAR HEART OF JESUS have of you. them. CAMPBELL Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for The sisters of the late Catherine MacINTYRE Inserted by their loving daughter have asked you for many 16th Anniversary her. and loving wife Philomena Campbell would like to thank all MacLELLAN favours, this time I ask you for In loving memory of my father Inserted by Archie, Mary (Phil), Linlithgow. staff at Sacred Heart House for In loving memory of Dougie, a this special one (mention and grandfather, Angus John, Margaret, Catherine, Sarah, their care and attention; Doctor dearly loved husband, father favour), take it Dear Heart of who died February 22, 1996, Claire and Fiona. TOOLAN and nurses at South Uist and grandfather, who died on Jesus, and place it within Your and also my loving mum and 24th Anniversary Medical Practice; all staff at Uist February 17, 1998, aged 70. grandmother, Peggy, who died Treasured memories of my and Barra Hospital. Thanks to broken heart where your Father It broke our hearts to lose you, October 19, 2006. loving and much loved husband Canon Donald MacKay, Deacon sees it, then in his merciful eyes But you did not go alone, Forever in our thoughts and and our devoted dad, Michael, Martin Matheson for spiritual it will become Your favour, not For part of us went with you, prayers. died February 20, 1988. comfort and Requiem Mass. mine. Amen. Say for three That day God called you home. Our Lady, Star of the Sea, pray You were always there when we Thanks to all relatives, days, publication promised. – Fois shiorruidh thoir dha for them. needed you, neighbours and friends for the G.H. O’Thighearna, Inserted by their loving daughter No task too great or small, kind expressions of sympathy, Agus solus nach dibir dearrsadh and family. With willing hands and a heart Mass cards and floral tributes; DEAR HEART OF JESUS air. of gold, Neil MacIntyre for funeral Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I Our Lady of the Isles, pray for For us you did them all, arrangements; Garrynamonie have asked you for many MacLACHLAN him. 17th Anniversary Because you were so special, Church Choir; altar servers; favours, this time I ask you for Inserted by your ever loving wife Treasured memories of a much No words can ever say, Sandy Lindsay for transport; this special one (mention Isobel. loved dad and grandad, Iain, McSHERRY How much we love and miss gravediggers; Borrodale Hotel favour), take it Dear Heart of 15th Anniversary who died February 20, 1995, you, for catering; all who attended Jesus, and place it within Your Remembering with love my very also a loving mum and granny, Today and every day. Requiem Mass. dear husband, John, dad and broken heart where your Father Mary Ann, who died January 8, Inserted by Margaret, Martin, Holy Mass will be offered for the papa, who died February 22, sees it, then in his merciful eyes 1998. R.I.P. Michael and Paul. intentions of all. 1997 and also our son, John, it will become Your favour, not Now that you’ve both gone, 469 South Lochboisdale. who died April 22, 2008. WALKER mine. Amen. Say for three Precious memories will live on, Sadly missed and loved very In loving memory of our dear days, publication promised. – We can hardly bear the pain, much by his wife and family. father, Alexander Walker, who E.F. But in our hearts you will St Joseph, pray for him. died February 20, 1972, also his THANKSGIVING remain. wife, Catherine Walker, our dear PRAYER TO THE BLESSED Christine, David and family. mother, who died March 29, GRATEFUL thanks to St Jude, VIRGIN 1978, and our dear brother, St Anthony and St John Ogilvie O Most Beautiful Flower of MacLEAN Donald Joseph MacIntyre, died for prayers answered. – W.B.L. Mount Carmel, fruitful in the 16th Anniversary MacLEOD March 10, 1980. splendour of Heaven, Blessed In loving memory of our beloved 9th Anniversary Sacred Heart of Jesus, grant NOVENA TO ST CLARE Mother of the Son of God, mother, Mary Ann, who died In loving memory of Seumas, a Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine them eternal rest. Immaculate Virgin, assist me in February 22, 1996. Also devoted husband and dad, who days with a lighted candle. Inserted by the family. this my necessity. O Star of the remembered our loving father, died on February 22, 2003. Publication promised. Also Sea, help me and show me Iain, who died November 19, Little Flower of Jesus, pray for WOODS thanks to St Martin, St Pio and st herein You are my Mother. O 2005. him, 1 Anniversary St Joseph. – M.McN. Sweet are the memories silently Clare, Theresa, Mairi, Michelle, In loving and prayerful memory Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I kept, Jamie and Lachie. of a dearly loved mother, NOVENA TO ST CLARE humbly beseech You from the Of the parents we loved and will Also remembering Archie MALLON grandmother and great-grand- Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine never forget, MacNeil, Leanish. 4th Anniversary mother, Mary Woods, who died days with a lighted candle. bottom of my heart to succour We hold them close within our In loving memory of my dear on February 21, 2011. Also Publication promised. Also me in my necessity. There are hearts, MacNEIL husband, our dear father and loved ones gone before, thanks to St Martin, St Pio and none that can withstand Your And there they will remain, In loving memory of my nephew, grandfather, Joseph, who died especially Michael John, a much St Joseph. – M.McN. power. O show me herein You To walk with us throughout our Archie, who died February 22, February 18, 2008. loved daddy. are my mother. O Mary, con- lives, 2003, and also remembering his Of your charity, pray for the Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, NOVENA TO ST CLARE ceived without sin, pray for us Until we meet again. mother and father, Eoin and repose of his soul. pray for them. Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine who have recourse to Thee Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for Peggie. On whose soul, sweet Jesus, Inserted by daughter Isabel, days with a lighted candle. Pub- (three times). O thank you for them. May they rest in peace. have mercy. son-in-law James, lication promised. Also thanks to Your mercy to me and mine. Inserted by Seumas, Iain Our Lady of the Waves, pray for Inserted by his loving wife Ann granddaughters Claire, Caroline St Martin, St Pio and St Joseph. Amen. Say for three days; publi- Ruairidh and family. them. Marie and family. and Helen and their children. – M.McN. cation promised. – L.B. 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORY SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 FUNERAL DIRECTORY BISHOPS ENGAGEMENTS CARDINAL O’BRIEN Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh Organist John Clark Funeral Service www.archdiocese-edinburgh.org.uk SUN FEB 19 9.30AM Thanksgiving Mass with cardi- & All Arrangements nals, St Peter’s Basilica, Rome; 4PM Installation of Completed Mgr Charles Burns as a canon of St Peter’s Basilica, ToYour Satisfaction A sign that we care Rome. MON 20 Return from Rome. TUE 21 Launch Cantor 24 Hour Service of SCIAF’s Lenten Campaign for 2012, St Augustine’s Available for Pre-Payment Funeral High School, Edinburgh. WED 22 12.45PM Ash Plans Wednesday Mass, St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh. funeral services Professional & caring Staff THU 23 10AM Meeting with Heads of Agencies, Gillis Centre. FRI 24 11AM Meeting of Vicars General, St Listen online at: T&RFUNERAL O’BRIEN DIRECTORS Bennet’s; 2PM Meeting of Trustees of Archdiocese, www.paulcarrollmusic.co.uk Tel: ESTABLISHED 1890 Gillis Centre. SAT 25 7PM Knights of Malta Charity 01698 842233 Ball, Prestonfield House Hotel, Edinburgh. 1 Unthank Road, Mossend It is our business to care. Every member of staff is T. 01698 325 493 Bellshill ML4 1DD dedicated to delivering the best service possible—with professionalism, compassion, and sensitivity. ARCHBISHOP CONTI Dignity Caring Funeral Services We are members of the Archbishop of Glasgow, www.rcag.org.uk National Association of Funeral Directors SUN FEB 19 11AM Archbishop Kelly’s Golden Woodside Funeral Home, 110 Maryhill Road Jubilee, Liverpool. TUE 21 11AM Launch of Lentfest, Tel. 0141 332 1708/1154 Glasgow University. WED 22 Ash Wednesday Mass, East End Funeral Home, 676 Edinburgh Road, Glasgow Tel. 0141- 778 1470 St Andrew’s Cathedral. THU 23 Assembly of Clergy. BOOK OFFER BISHOP DEVINE Motherwell, www.rcdom.org.uk

MON FEB 20 11AM Pre-Confirmation visit, St Dominic’s PS, Airdrie; 7PM Confirmations, St Augus- As featured in the tine’s, Coatbridge. TUE 21 2.30PM Pre-Confirmation visit, Our Lady and St John’s PS, Blackwood. THU 23 Our caring staff are here to listen and advise you, 1.30PM Official opening of St Paul’s PS, Hamilton; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Mary Queen of Scots 7PM Confirmations, St Blane’s PS at St Joseph’s, Blantyre. FRI 24 7PM Confirmations, St Joseph’s, 53 Morrison Street Glasgow by Cath Doherty Blantyre. By popular demand, BISHOP TARTAGLIA 0141 429 4433 these articles are now available to own in Paisley, www.rcdop.org.uk MEMORIAM CARDS book form at a cost of SUN FEB 19 3PM White Mass, Our Lady of Lourdes, just £7 (including P&P). Glasgow. MON 20 9.30AM Pre-Confirmation visit, St Charles’ PS, Paisley; 11AM Pre-Confirmation visit, St To purchase a copy, Peter’s PS, Paisley. TUE 21 9.30AM Pre-Confirmation simply fill in the attached visit, St Paul’s PS, Paisley; 11AM Pre-Confirmation MEMORARE MEMORIAM CARDS LTD form or contact the SCO visit, St Mary’s PS, Paisley; 7.30PM Clergy meal, Full colour traditional Hand Finished Wallet, Double Folder, Glynhill Hotel. WED 22 1PM Ash Wednesday Mass, by telephone on the St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Paisley. THU 23 8AM Mass, Bookmarker and Single cards number below. St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Paisley; 9.30AM Pre-Confir- For your free Sample Pack posted 1st Class Mary Oueen of Scots by Cath Doherty mation visit, St John’s PS, Barrhead; 11AM Pre-Con- firmation visit, St Joseph’s PS, Clarkston. FRI 24 8AM Telephone 0141 812 4491 £7 (including Postage and Packing, if applicable) Mass, St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Paisley. SAT 25 8AM You can speak with Margaret everyday until 9.00 pm including weekends. Choose your method of payment: Name______Mass, St Mirin’s Cathedral Hall, Paisley. 1) Pay by Card - To pay with a Best quality Traditional Italian Cards and religious images Credit Card please contact: Address______Free Silver Plated frame and Key ring (50 + Cards) 0141 221 4956 ______BISHOP TOAL with your details 2) Pay by cheque - ______Argyll and the Isles, www.rcdai.org.uk Please visit our website: http://www.memorare.co.uk Make cheques payable to Scottish Catholic Observer ______E-mail: [email protected] and send to: FRI FEB 10-MON 20 ICEL Meeting, Scottish Catholic Observer, Postcode______19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow, New Jersey, US. G2 6BT Telephone ______BISHOP CUNNINGHAM MEMORIAM CARDS Galloway, www.gallowaydiocese.org.uk Send your SUN FEB 19 3.30PM Annual Mass for the sick and designed & printed to your exact requirements message of AGM of Lourdes Hospitalité, St Peter’s, Ardrossan. we can produce order of service for Requiem Masses MON 20 12NOON Reference Group Meeting, Bath and also design and print jubilee cards, bookmarks, congratulations Street, Glasgow. and acknowledgment/thank-you cards please call for full details of the personalised service we can provide BISHOP GILBERT 0141 569 4724 • 07818 645 863 mobile To place your message simply email: Aberdeen, www.dioceseofaberdeen.com intimations@ WED FEB 8-TUE 21 Canonical visitations of scottishcatholicobserver.org.uk monasteries, Australia. R e a d t h e BISHOP LOGAN or Call: Dunkeld, www.dunkelddiocese.org.uk S C O o n l i n e 0141 241 6106 VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT w w w . s c o n e w s . c o . u k HTTP://WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLICS ABROAD 21 Charity ensures the Faith is not all at sea DR HARRY SCHNITKER’S new series takes a look at the encyclicals and documents released that are related to the Church’s social teaching CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING

HE first of the smaller Catholic organisations inspired by the Church’s social teaching to be placed in the spotlight has very firm Scottish connections. Although it does, occasionally, receive attention in the Tpages of the SCO, the Apostleship of the Sea is far less well-known than Catholic giants such as SCIAF. Yet of all the worldwide Catholic charities, this is the one of the most Scottish of them all. The Apostleship of the Sea was born in Glasgow. The initiative came from Fr Joseph Egger, a Jesuit priest. Fr Egger had been based at St Aloysius Church in Glasgow for a long time. Indeed, he had helped raise the money to build the wonderful church we can now see. Originally, it fell under the direction of the Apostleship of Prayer, a Jesuit group begun in France in 1844, dedicated to praying for an intention set by the Holy Father. Within a few years of the foundation of the Apostleship of the Sea, the then Pope, Pius XI, asked for the group to pray for the missions on a perpetual basis. The first initiative for what would become the Apostleship of the Sea began in 1899, and by 1907 some 200,000 seamen had enrolled in what was still primarily a prayer movement. This changed when one of the most colourful Catholics of his time, Peter Anson, became involved. He was a visionary who loved great projects, and he instilled the movement with a wider sense of mission. In 1920, at a meeting in Glasgow of Richard Haggarty a Scottish chaplain from t the time of the founding of the nessed by the Charism of so many reli- More recently, the significant threat what were mostly lay Catholics, the the Apostleship of the Sea speaks with a Apostleship of the Sea, the gious orders, and without mission there of piracy has been added to isolation organisation changed forever. From then seafarer at the port of Troon British merchant navy was still is no Church, as St Paul testified. and loneliness. In addition to the 1.3 on, it began to cater for the practical as PIC: GERARD GOUGH theA largest in the world, trading with an Key to all these central principles are million seamen, there are also some 41 well as for the spiritual needs of the sea- Empire that straddled a quarter of the Jesus’s exhortations: “I was a stranger, million fishermen, and the increasing men, and became an embodiment of Edwardian Britain, Abbot Aelred Car- globe. Ships had large crews, and were and you welcomed me” (Matthew numbers of people aboard cruise ships, Catholic social teaching. Its first secre- lyle. He joined Mr Carlyle in 1910 in his offloaded by hand, which caused them 25:35), and: “Beloved, you are faithful for whom Apostolatus Maris provide tary, Glaswegian Arthur Gannon, helped project to revive the Benedictine Order to spend weeks in ports. All over the in all that you do for the brothers, even chaplains. When the Costa Concordia Mr Anson to convince Fr Egger that this in the Anglican Church, and settled on country, and soon beyond, Fr Egger and though they are strangers to you; they sank off Italy recently, it carried a chap- was the route to follow. In 1965, Mr Caldey Island in South Wales with him. Mr Anson’s brainchild soon provided have testified to your love before the lain from Apostolatus Maris. Gannon would publish Apostolatus In 1913, most of the monks joined the practical and spiritual help. Hostels church. You will do well to help them Maris: 1920-1960, the best source for Catholic Church, and until 1924 Anson sprang up, and thousands of ordinary in a way worthy of God as they con- he organisation has travelled a the earliest days of the organisation. formed part of a now Catholic commu- parishioners, many with relatives or tinue their journey” (3 John 1:5-6). long way since those early days One cannot help but be struck by the nity settled at Prinknash. It was from friends in the merchant navy, worked to As globalisation has increased, these in Glasgow. It is exemplary in so large number of initiatives in the social there that Pluscarden Abbey was assure the welfare of sailors. commands of Christ have taken on a Tmany different ways: it is a close co- field that had their roots in the late 19th founded in 1948. Soon, the organisation became a renewed urgency. The bulk of the operation between clergy and laity, has century. This was a period of great Mr Anson left the Benedictines, but global phenomenon. At the end of the sailors in the world’s merchant navies local, national and international soli- social change, with—in the west at not the Church, and was active amongst Second World War, there were already are from developing countries, with the darity at its core, helps those who are least—an increase in democracy and a the sailing and fishing communities of more than 80 centres across the world, Philippines and Latin America provid- totally marginalised, indeed forgotten, greater sensitivity to the welfare of peo- Scotland, the sea being one of his great and the organisation was now based in ing disproportionate numbers. These and does vast amounts of work that ple. The Apostleship of the Sea was part loves. There, he left a great impression Rome, at the heart of the Church. In predominantly Catholic men are taken nobody else seems interested in. of this movement towards a more amongst people whose tough life made 1957, Apostolatus Maris, was recognised far away from their families and the The figures speak for themselves. In socially just and inclusive society, ideas them difficult to impress. A Buckie fish- by Pope Pius XII as the Church’s main comfort of their parishes, and spend 2010, the 13 chaplains and 103 volun- which long predated the 1960s. erman left this fantastic description of Mr body for the mission to seafarers. In months at a time on the ocean. teers in Britain served 9547 ships and It was not until 1922 that the Holy Anson for posterity: “Peter’s the maist 1970, Pope Paul VI placed it under the Blessed Pope John Paul II understood 190,910 seafarers. The chaplains cele- See gave its official approval to the winnerfu’ mannie ah ever met— well- new Pontifical Council for the Pastoral this, when he addressed the Apostolatus brated 316 Masses on board ships and organisation. Pope Pius XI, whose con- kent in scores o’ports—a man wi’the sea Care of Migrant and Itinerant People. It is Maris: “In fulfilling this mission to sea- provided countless moments of conso- cern for the missions in all their aspects in’s bleed, a skeely drawer o’ boats an’ known as Stella Maris, ‘Star of the Sea,’ farers, you face a most challenging and lation, and practical assistance ranging has already been noted, did so ‘with the haibers an’fisher fowk, a vreeter o’buiks, that most ancient name of Our Lady difficult task. You are dealing with peo- from hospitalisation to transport. certain knowledge that so noble an a capital sailor, an’‘a chiel.... He’s a byor- under which name countless boats have ple who live in a dispersed milieu. They Apostolatus Maris, the Apostleship enterprise, ably seconded by the zeal of dinar mannie.” sailed the seas over the centuries, includ- face painful problems, such as separa- of the Sea, born in our own Scotland, is priestly souls both secular and regular, It was this ‘byordinar mannie’ that ing Peter Anson’s own small yacht. tion from family and friends and the the perfect example of the effective will spread more and more along the was the driving force behind the Apos- Globalisation has made the work of resulting feelings of isolation and lone- implementation of Catholic social shores of both hemispheres.’ He was to tleship of the Sea in its earliest days. Mr Stella Maris all the more urgent, but it is liness; for extended periods of time they teaching. For those most in need, the be proven right. Anson was always a rather special wonderful how faithful it has stayed to live and work at a great distance from a Kingdom is brought a little closer every Benedictine, who took his vow of sta- its original inspiration. Its key princi- territorial parish. In a real sense, the sea- time they see the logo of Stella Maris, efore we examine the expansion bility to mean stability on a boat. He ples, as outlined in its constitution, are faring world has become a missionary designed in Glasgow all those years ago and aims of the Apostleship of would spend many weeks away from ‘Mission, Solidarity, Welfare and Hos- world. Remember that you are not alone by Peter Anson. the Sea, I would not like to Caldey amongst the seafarers and fish- pitality’. Solidarity and welfare are two in this awesome task. The whole Church deprive the readers from having a closer ermen of Scotland, a love that would, key-components of Catholic social is one with you in solicitude and prayer. I You can visit the website of the B Apostleship of the Sea in Britain and look at Peter Anson. He was a close eventually, eclipse his love for the teaching. Hospitality has been central to The local Churches have a special role friend of one of the outstanding figures monastic life—although in later life he Catholic thinking about the world since to play in the pastoral care of seafarers donate on: http://apostleshipofthesea of Christianity in late Victorian and became a Benedictine Oblate. the inception of the Church, as is wit- and other migrant groups.” .org.uk 22 SPECIAL OCCASIONS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012 Catenians’ weekend of faith, family and friendship

By Euan McArthur

SCOTTISH Catenians came together from all across the country recently in a celebration of faith, family and friendship. And history was also made when the two directors from Province 9 and 16 were together formally with the Grand Presi- dent, Tony Godden, for the last time at the annual Scottish SPOTLIGHT ON... Catenian Weekend in Crieff. The two provinces are set to merge into Province 22 with preparations well underway for its Bill West a long serving and dedicated member of the Our Lady of the Wayside Praesidium celebrated his much-anticipated inauguration. 90th birthday by continuing his work at Glasgow’s Wayside Club. A member of the Praesidium for 35 years, George Brand, the new Mr West, a parishioner of St James’, Crookston, was presented with a birthday cake and gift as he joined Province 22 director, was privi- his fellow workers for the Saturday shift at the Wayside Club, where they give their time and effort to leged to accept the Michael prevent and alleviate the ills of homelessness in Glasgow Henderson Membership Trophy on behalf of Inverness Group. Since setting up as a group three years ago, Inverness has Do you have a special recruited 18 members with aspi- (Left to right) Gerry Devine (Province occasion you wish to rations to assume full circle sta- and are especially trying to tus in the near future. attract some younger blood.” 9, Director), Tony Godden (Grand EWTN PROGRAMMES share with the President), George Brand (Province “It is a great award for every- Over 70 brothers, wives and 16, Director) SUN 19 FEBRUARY 3.30PM Scottish Catholic one connected with the Inver- families were present at the 9.30AM LIVE BLESSING AND IMPOSITION Observer? You can call ness group,” President Joe weekend at the end of January. LIVE EUCHARISTIC OF THE ASHES FROM ROME us on 0141 241 6103 or Campbell said. “We are a They enjoyed an informal meal CONCELEBRATION WITH 9PM proudly Catholic association on the Friday evening, then a for- the Society of African Missions, send us an e-mail: with so much to offer Catholic mal dinner on the Saturday night, who is now resident in Dun- THE NEW CARDINALS A CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT martin@scottish 1PM THURS 23 FEBRUARY men and their families. followed by a presentation of sil- blane, celebrated Mass on the LIVE SUNDAY MASS 1PM catholicobserver.org.uk “We have a few more mem- verware from both provinces. Sunday morning before every- bers in the pipeline for Inverness Fr Willie Brandon SMA, from one departed for home. 4PM LIVE HOLY MASS LIFE ON THE ROCK 7PM 5PM NO PRICE TOO HIGH THE WORLD OVER 8PM 8PM EWTN LIVE Liturgy comes before lace and fringes BEST OF THE JOURNEY HOME 9PM 10PM MEETING JOSEMARIA ESCRIVA “Sacred vestments should VATICANO FRI 24 FEBRUARY be restored to their original 11PM 1PM simplicity by getting rid of Mgr Basil BENEDICTION LIVE HOLY MASS the lace and fringes... that Loftus Zeal and Patience MON 20 FEBRUARY 7PM make their wearers look like 1PM FORGOTTEN HERITAGE: extras on the stage.” LIVE HOLY MASS EUROPE AND OUR LADY 9PM 8PM THOSE words did not come portray the priest as an ‘extra CHRISTIANS OF NINEVEH THE WORLD OVER from some way-out Liturgist on the stage.’ TUES 21 FEBRUARY 9PM over-imbued with the false The true glory of our Liturgy 1PM SAINT WILFRID spirit of the Second Vatican lies in its articulation of the Council. They are part of a hope we nurture as, ‘we wait in LIVE HOLY MASS 10PM memorandum issued by the joyful hope for the coming of 8PM CRASH COURSE IN THE SAINTS Vatican Secretariate of Our Saviour Jesus Christ.’ In THE JOURNEY HOME SAT 25 FEBRUARY State—hardly the most Paul’s words we ‘rejoice in 9PM 9.30AM forward-looking of the Hope,’ not in vanity, VAILANKANNI: THE LOURDES LIVE ORDINARY PUBLIC Vatican offices—on phylacteries, lace and fringes. OF THE EAST CONSISTORY FOR THE CRE- February 13, 1965. Any kind of human WED 22 FEBRUARY ATION OF NEW CARDINALS The document was then exaltation, in the form of 1PM 1PM closely annotated by Pope distinctive titles, dress or LIVE HOLY MASS LIVE HOLY MASS Paul Vl in his miniscule privilege, is also incompatible handwriting, and formed the with the contemporary mindset basis of the ‘Directing of the very People of God who Principles’ for the reform of are the Church. It alienates Papal Liturgy, as an example modern men and women. You can now for the rest of the Church. In Kingdom theology today The General Instruction of the tail is wagging the dog. order the the Roman Missal is quite Pope Paul VI (left) saw that scathing about what is this applied to the style, rubrics AGNIFICAT variously translated as and dress of Papal Liturgy. To working in partnership with The ‘over-lavish’ or ‘adventitious’ Vision of God to be revealed in glimpse of Heaven appearing imitate him we need only look Catholic Herald Group ornamentation on sacred all its splendour when Christ on earth. It is a glorious ray of to the exemplary Liturgy of so M vestments. Such vestments are returns in Glory. the heavenly Jerusalem which many of our abbeys and to be subordinated to the actual Lace and fringes, and allied pierces the clouds of our monasteries to see the ‘original Direct rites, which should have a fripperies, are not going to history and lights up our simplicity’ and ‘noble beauty ‘noble beauty rather than impede the Return of Christ journey,” (Blessed Pope John which Pope Paul VI, the from the sumptuous display,’ in Glory, but they have to Paul II, Ecclesia de Eucharistia Second Vatican Council and (Sacrosanctum Concilium, go because they are the n19). Any ecclesiastical glitter the Roman Missal call for. n124) and ‘be distinguished by articulation of a theological in our Liturgy is like holding Truly these religious houses noble simplicity,’ (n24). misunderstanding about the up a candle to the sun of set the example we should all John the Baptist dressed very Church. Kingdom glory. follow in our parish Eucharistic simply because he wanted to The Church is not about ‘Over-lavish’ or communities. Call Steve on: draw attention not to himself itself—it is all about the ‘adventitious’ ornamentation of but to the one who was to Coming of the Kingdom. Try a ecclesiastical vestments, I Mgr Basil Loftus is a priest of 0141 241 6112 follow him—the Messiah. I am simple test. What is the essence whether in the form of ‘lace the Diocese of Leeds now living not suggesting camel-hair as of true Christianity—is it a and fringes,’ or the occasional in retirement in the North of the new default material for blameless moral life, or is it flash of purple which tells Sutherland. He worked in or email: ecclesiastical tailoring, but the absolutely orthodox dogmatic people ‘I am a monsignor/ secretariat for English and more the Church in its Liturgy belief? The answer is neither. canon,’ simply reflect the Welsh bishops in Rome during draws attention to itself by the The essence of Christian life is empty and vainglorious the Second Vatican Council. circulation@ use of transient and the expectation of the coming ostentation of a Church, which Mgr Loftus will now write once ostentatious glitter, the less it is of the Kingdom. Everything for a time emulated the a month in the run up to the sconews.co.uk preparing the way for the only else in the means to this end. lace-dripping Sun-King at the 50th anniversary of the Second true splendour—the Beatific “The Eucharist is really a Palace of Versailles, and Vatican Council Friday February 17 2012 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER CELEBRATING LIFE 23 Jubilee celebrations for St Brigid’s community Motherwell Diocesan choir joins the festivities as year of events mark the 140th anniversary of Newmains parish and primary school By Dan McGinty The Motherwell Diocesan choir joined the community of St Brigid’s Church, Newmains, for celebrations marking the 140th anniver- ST BRIGID’S, Newmains contin- sary of the parish and its school, dedicated ued the celebration of 140 years of to the same patron. A Mass, followed by an the history of its parish and school evening of music and prayer were held at the with special events on the feast of church on February 1 its patron. To celebrate the feast of the parish’s patron saint, on February 1, the children With the local primary school play- of St Brigid’s Primary School led a ing such a prominent role in the foun- packed congregation for morning Mass dation of the parish, the pupils at St before welcoming parishioners to the Brigid’s are preparing a school pageant, school for a coffee morning, with enter- documenting the changing face of tainment provided by every class in the Catholic school life over the past 140 school. years in Newmains. In the evening, the parish welcomed “From the very start this was a place the Motherwell Diocesan Choir, under for prayer, but also a place to develop the musical leadership of organist, John talents, and the school still plays an Pitcathley and conductor, Des McLean, important role in the sacramental life of for a recital of sacred music, scripture the parish,” Fr Kelly said. “We can’t find readings and a historical back-drop to any articles or records which pinpoint the parish, featuring the rich Catholic the exact date when the chapel school history of the local area. opened, so we decided to have celebra- The service concluded with Benedic- tions throughout the school year of 2011 tion of the Blessed Sacrament after an and 2012, 140 years since the school was evening of praise, which attracted a first in use. The celebrations this year for large congregation for the occasion. the 140th anniversary mirror a normal year in parish life, so we are not only cel- Parish history ebrating a special anniversary, but we are As part of the celebrations, which will also simply celebrating our Faith.” continue throughout the year, St Brigid’s established a chapel school in New- the present school building in 1959. alive and growing in the early years. Many events are planned to celebrate parish priest, Fr Hugh Kelly, has docu- mains in 1871, a building which con- The original building continues to “In a wee place like this people can the anniversary up until the final jubilee mented much of the early parish life, tinued to serve this dual purpose until serve the parish and local community as trace themselves back as descendants of Mass, which will be celebrated by unveiling a rich history as the parish rose 1933 when Fr William Stopani organ- the parish centre. the first families who founded this Bishop Joseph Devine of Motherwell to become what it is today. ised the parishioners in building the parish, so we felt it was a nice way to on June 25. Although it did not become a parish present St Brigid’s Church. Memories start our celebrations by reading out the “We have a long and proud history, in its own right until 1896, Fr John The first chapel school then contin- The celebrations opened last year with baptismal records from the parish but we also want to show there is a lot McCay, the parish priest of the newly ued to be used as St Brigid’s School a Remembrance Mass for the first fam- archives as part of the Mass remember- of life, fun and Faith in our parish after founded St Ignatius Parish in Wishaw, until Lanarkshire County Council built ilies who founded the parish and kept it ing the founding families,” Fr Kelly said. all our long years,” Fr Kelly said. Benbecula pupils ‘Together as One’

Pupils in Sgoil Lionacleit in Benbecula have seen the fruits of their charitable efforts as an S1 initiative, which began on their induction day last June, concluded with hundreds of pounds being raised for Mary’s Meals charity. As the pupils prepared to move from primary school to Sgoil Lionacleit they were encouraged to follow the school motto Aonaibh ri Chèile (Together as One), and to focus not just on helping each other

SPOTLIGHT ON... but also to become aware of their responsibilities to help poorer and less fortunate children than themselves, particularly in the developing world. To help them with this aim, the pupils were introduced to Mary’s Meals during their induction day through a short Scottish and Polish parishioners from St Paul’s and St Mary's, Glenrothes recently held a social afternoon video, which inspired them to arrivals to the school, pupils in behalf of the charity, a back- where they brought together the rich cultures of their respective homelands. Joined by some Polish help their counterparts in the all year groups in Sgoil Liona- pack appeal is underway in the friends from Kirkcaldy, the Polish contingent in Glenrothes laid on some typical Polish cuisine for the many countries in which cleit have been involved in school, aimed at supporting the local people in Glenrothes, who responded in kind with traditional Scottish fare. The meeting of cultures Mary’s Meals operates, and these initiatives throughout the Mary’s Meals backpack appeal did not just extend to the new food, however, as both the Poles and the Scots gave a demonstration of through their hard work and school session, and third year and providing schoolchildren in their national dances. With many ethnic groups worshipping at St Paul’s and St Mary’s, many in the fundraising throughout the pupils were given the opportu- the developing world with parish hope that the exchange of cultures can continue, with parishioners of all backgrounds following school year the pupils have nity during their religious edu- basic school equipment, allow- in the footsteps of their Polish and Scottish counterparts. “The parish life has been enriched by the Polish raised more than £800 for cation time to visit Balivanich ing the young people in Ben- people coming to join the parish,” Fr Gerard Hand, parish priest of St Paul’s and St Mary’s, said. “I am the charity. Primary School and give a becula to share their education looking forward to similar events from parishioners from South America and from South India.” Although the money was presentation on Mary’s Meals. with those less fortunate than raised by the most recent As a result of their work on themselves. Celebrating Life Do you have a special occasion from your parish or a celebration at your school that you wish to share with the SCO? If so, e-mail our local news editor Martin Dunlop: [email protected] 24 MISSIONS MESSAGE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday February 17 2012

Faith challenges for the MISSIONS MESSAGE Church in Latin America Scottish priest FR COLIN MacINNES, a missionary living and working in Atahualpa, Ecuador, this month tells how declining influence in politics and the rise of Evangelical Christianity are among two challenges facing the Church in Latin America

The rise of Evangelical Christianity (above) coupled N LATIN America there has been a devel- with the Catholic Church’s declining influence in oping conviction that the Catholic Church is politics are two of the main challenges faced by the not responding adequately to the new cul- Church in Latin America ture of democracy which has spread throughout the continent. Throughout the last century it won the respect of all fair-minded political field has diminished but its religious people for its heroic stance against dictatorship, its influence has also waned. Evangelical churches fightI for social justice and liberty. With the advent which go ‘light’ on social morality but strike hard of democracy, politicians unfurled these banners on doctrinal belief are now more visible than their and it seems that the Church became a non-com- Catholic counterparts. They strike awe, more from batant in that field. As a result there is the gener- their highly charged sound systems than their alised belief that whole countries have lost their devotional life. It would seem that religious tech- bearing: the rudder has gone adrift and no longer nological propaganda has taken over from reli- determines the course to be taken. gious faith and that the march towards greater In the last few decades we have seen, right-wing conquests is assured. At the same time it is a bit In Ecuador, like many other governments succeeding left-wing governments incongruous to go into a small bamboo cane house countries in Latin America, only to be overtaken once again by right wingers and find that the one bedroom has been invaded people have to be innovative so —the eternal pendulum effect. We have seen the by guitars, electric pianos and a battery of drums that they can make a living for phenomenon of presidents and ex-presidents, and that the family is now sleeping on the kitchen themselves and their families rightly and sometimes wrongly, serving jail sen- floor. Yet that form of religion is gaining ground and they do so in a variety of tences, or fleeing into exile; large amounts of throughout the continent. ways such as key-cutting (left) money disappearing from the state coffers. and selling charcoal around Rumours of wrongdoing are in such ready cir- he Catholic Church is just waking to the houses for barbeques culation that it is difficult to discern what is true challenge. The fact that it has been removed and what is malicious fabrication. For example, in from the political scene should give it greater Ecuador we had the spectacle of five presidents in Tfreedom to pronounce on social and political prin- How to make a living in Ecuador six years—one lasting only three days— the value ciples but there is a lack of religious leadership of the national currency dropping 300 per cent in amongst the bishops. As the crisis grows there is HERE we can see three understand what the other custom for several homes to less than that number of days and in 1991 the greater hope that a more assertive, but democratic, young boys at a work picture (inset) is about. have an igloo shaped clay hut banking system collapsed and 67 per cent of the style of leadership will once again arise. bench (main). What are The old man is earning his outside the home. It would be banks went bankrupt. Developed countries could On a strictly religious plane there are the begin- they doing? They are living the way he knows how. made of several layers of not survive a similar scenario but these countries nings of a mobilisation of the laity. The last meet- copying and filing keys— He gathers sticks of wood clay and would be sizeable can because ‘whether the times be good or ing of the Latin American bishops in the Basilica something which is in high from the surrounding trees enough to roast a pig or a whether the times be bad ‘survival’ is what life is of La Aparecida in Brasil called for a continental demand here in Ecuador. and stacks them into a tight lamb inside. A fire was lit about and that is what we are good at.’ The mira- mission whereby the laity would be trained and be In every town you will see pile. He sets a few on fire and inside. The urn would only cle of life is that we survive. active daily in explaining the Catholic Faith to a number of similar teams then covers them with layers have one opening so that the Where has the Church stood in all this? It has those whom we would call in Scotland ‘lapsed’ offering the same service. of dry clay so that they keep heat was contained inside stood still as if it were a disinterested spectator is Catholics; and those who were drifting away from Everything here has to be smoldering for the best part at more or less a constant how some would answer that question. Perhaps that the Faith. Over 3000 lay people have subscribed. under lock and key—houses, of four days. At the end of temperature. answer is too harsh. At the same time we have to They will receive a preparatory course lasting windows, bicycles, spare this process the wood This urn was also excellent say that the spur of Liberation Theology has been three or four months and then set to work in their wheels, toys etc and so keys becomes charcoal. for cooking fish which they considerably blunted; highly conservative bishops various parishes. At a future date we shall give a are in great abundance. Keys He goes round the ‘big would lay just inside and have been appointed all over the continent and the report of how the continental mission is faring. are easily lost, damaged; spare houses,’ as they call the when cooked they had a taste fight for social justice is no longer in the factories, copies are needed for the fam- homes of the rich, and sells of their own which cannot be I offices, bars, clubs and streets but restricted to pro- If anyone wishes to support Fr Colin MacInnesʼ ily and so… these men are the charcoal for their barbe- matched by any barbecued nouncements from the pulpit, which do not go missionary effort, donations can be made out to never underemployed. cue evenings. dish produced by today’s much beyond that same pulpit. Scottish Catholic Observer Charity Appeal, 19 You have to look closely to In times past it was the conventions. It is not only that Church influence in the socio- Waterloo St, Glasgow, G2 6BT