HARRY SCHNITKER’S MOTHER TERESA SPUC SCOTLAND new series on to be named at youth event; the Church and as a saint on looks at new the environment. September 4. projects. Page 24 Page 7 Pages 6, 12-13

No 5663 VISIT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER ONLINE AT WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK Friday March 18 2016 | £1

I and Rome mark end of the 400th anniversary of the martyrdom of St John Ogilvie Honours for martyr who inspires Scottish priests

By Ian Dunn (Above) Tartaglia and “The conclusion of Scotland’s and Nolan with Fr Dan Fitzpatrick, the rector of Glasgow’s 400th anniversary of the the Pontifical , and the senior THE PONTIFICAL Scots College Martyrdom of St John in 1615 coincides student Matthew Carlin. (Right) Archbishop in Rome has marked 400 years of with the 400th anniversary of the Mission Philip Tartaglia blesses artist Blazena priestly formation on the Feast of St Oath,” he said. “The Mission Oath was a Dzurjanikova’s specially commissioned John Ogilvie and Archbishop Philip promise made by the students of the Scots icon of St John Ogilvie at St Aloysius, Tartaglia said the martyr remains an College Rome in 1616, inspired by the Garnethill, Glasgow inspiration for today’s seminarians. martyrdom of John Ogilvie the year PIC (RIGHT): PAUL McSHERRY As part of the events to mark the before in Glasgow, to return to Scotland anniversary, the college community was as priests to renew the Catholic Faith, invited to a special Papal audience at the which had been suppressed; and to an association with Scotland and with Archbishop of St our numbers are gradually heading in Vatican on Wednesday shortly after the minister to the remnant of the Catholic the Scots College Rome since that time. Andrews and Edinburgh, a former the right direction,” the archbishop said. SCO went to press. community, which was suffering So I was delighted to welcome him again student of the college, said the martyrdom Visiting the college last weekend persecution. Ogilvie and the men who to the College for this joyful feast.” of St John Ogilvie was an inspiration I Continued on page 3 following anniversary events in Glasgow, took the Mission Oath remain an Archbishop Tartaglia also said that in now and to the original seminarians the president of the ’ Conference inspiration for today’s seminarians.” ‘the 400th anniversary year of St John who went ‘back to the mission and to I Glasgow ecumenical service and of Scotland, the , The archbishop also said he was Ogilvie we have seen a development of live out their faith there.’ Mass, page 3 said he was delighted to be there for the ‘very pleased that American Cardinal the profile of our saint.’ He said they saw the terrible things feast day and welcomed special guest James Michael Harvey, came to “He is a saint for the , that were happening to their colleagues Cardinal James Harvey—Archpriest of celebrate the feast day Mass with the a saint for Scotland, a saint for Glasgow, at the English College and notes it took the Basilica of St Paul’s outside the college community.’ a saint for the Society of Jesus, a saint for ‘a great deal of courage to decide to Walls—to the Pontifical Scots College. “Cardinal Harvey and I were other Christians and a saint for all people go back.’ Archbishop Tartaglia said the feast day theology students together in Rome,” of faith who treasure their freedom of “We still have a good body of men, was always ‘a day of special celebration the archbishop said. “We were ordained worship and of conscience,” he said. excellent young men training for and joy here in the college’ adding ‘this priests in the same year and have been “The spiritual legacy of St John the priesthood, giving themselves to year is even more special.’ friends since the 1970s. He has maintained Ogilvie is still unfolding.” Christ, discerning their vocation—so SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT I tel 0141 221 4956 I fax 0141 221 4546 I e-mail [email protected] 2 WHAT’S ON SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 All dioceses represented at Bishops’ Conference of Scotland

FOR the first time in seven years, the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland has gathered with all eight dioceses represented by their local bishop. “With the recent episcopal ordination of Bishop Brian McGee of Argyll and the Isles we now have the Scottish hierarchy complete for the first time in many years,” Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh said. “It’s amazing how something as simple as having all eight bishops present gives a greater sense of solidarity and a greater joy of being together.” The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland gathered for a three-day plenary meeting at the in Edinburgh, March 7-9. They took time out for photographs along with the Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain, Archbishop Antonio Mennini. “It has been very encouraging to have among us the representative of the Successor of Peter in the person of His Excellency, the Apostolic Nuncio,” Archbishop Cushley added. “His visit allows us to pray together with him, to pray for the universal Church, for the Church in Scotland and to remember our Holy Father at Mass.” Also present for the photoshoot was the general secretary of the Bishops’ Conference, Mgr Hugh Bradley, and assistant general secretary, Fr Thomas Boyle.Among many other things, they are responsible for the smooth running of the Bishops’ Conference meetings, which deal with matters of common concern to the eight dioceses of Scotland. I For more information on the work of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland go to: http://www.bcos.org.uk

Back Row (left to right): Bishop McGee of Argyll and the Isles; Bishop Nolan of Galloway; Bishop Robson of Dunkeld; Bishop Keenan of Paisley. Front Row (left to right): Bishop Toal of ; Archbishop Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh; Archbishop Mennini, Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain; Archbishop Tartaglia of Glasgow; Bishop Gilbert of PIC: PAUL McSHERRY

SPOTLIGHT ON What’s On A weekly guide to upcoming Church-related events, more online at www.sconews.co.uk

SATURDAY MARCH 19 you don't have a kite don’t I Cardinal Winning Pro-Life worry, we’ll have kites for you Initiative Grand Sale on to try and fly on the day. Saturday, March 19, 12–4pm If you would like more at 104 Albert Road, Crosshill, information or would like to Glasgow G42 8DR. Please help organise this fun day come along. out please e-mail: glw@ I Passion Play on Saturday catholicworker.org.uk March 19 and Sunday March 20 at 3pm in St Joseph’s FRIDAY MARCH 25 Concert Hall, 14 Cumnock I Ecumenical Good Friday Rd, G33 1QT. Tickets £5 from Walk will take place in Paisley 01415585114. See poster. on March 25. Starting from Springbank Sheltered Housing SUNDAY MARCH 20 at 11am. For more info contact I Fly Kites not Drones. Come Rev Peter Gill on 0795 176 4262 fly your kite for peace. Bellahouston Park, enter by SATURDAY MARCH 26 Mosspark Boulevard, the gate I The Aberdeen Passion opposite the junction with 2016. A Light Undimmed: Auldbar Road on Palm Saturday March 26 from Sunday March 20 at 2pm. 2.30pm to 7.30pm, in AECC Members of the Kite Club of to performance, ticket £10 Scotland will be there showing available exclusively from how it can be done properly. If www.smallwoodenplatform.com The newly ordained Bishop of Argyll and the Isles Brian McGee was given a warm welcome when he visited St Michael’s Church in Ardkenneth. E-mail [email protected] Bishop McGee is pictured above with parish priest Fr Michael MacDonald and parish schoolchildren

INSIDE YOUR SCO INDEX TO NEWS, OPINION AND FEATURES THIS WEEK EWTN CATHOLIC TV IS ON SKY EPG 589 Sky Freesat £175 total cost , no monthly charges. NEWS pages 1-7 COMMENT pages 9-10 CHILDREN’S PAGE page 21 200 Free channels including EWTN TV & Radio. LOCAL NEWS pages 2,3,4 and 5 CENTRE SPREAD pages 12-13 INTIMATIONS pages 17-20 Call Sky on 08442411602 for installation. WHAT’S ON page 2 FR ROLHEISER page 14 BISHOPS’ ENGAGEMENTS page 20 Call EWTN on 020 83502542 or e-mail [email protected] WORLD/VATICAN NEWS pages 6-7 FAITH BY DEGREES page 15 SPECIAL OCCASIONS pages 22-23 for free monthly posted programme guide and LETTERS page 9 PUZZLES pages 16 and 21 CHURCH & ENVIRONMENT page 24 visit www.ewtn.co.uk for more info.

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER NEWS 3 First director of the Scottish Catholic Education Service to leave post on August 1

MICHAEL McGrath, the long-serving first director of the Scottish Catholic Educa- tion Service (SCES), is to retire.“I have been greatly privileged to have the oppor- tunity to work for 13 years as the first director of the Scot- tish Catholic Education Serv- ice,” Mr McGrath (right) told the SCO. “The time seems right for the appointment of a new director to build on the strong platform that has been established for Catholic schools, thanks to the efforts Anniversary for Scots College, and move? of many people. I am most of SCES, thanked Mr McGrath grateful, in particular, to very for all his innovation and work. I Contiuned from page 1 many who have assisted me “On behalf of the Bishops’ as partners in this work of Conference, I would like to “Of course when you talk serving the Church. thank Michael for his dedicated about vocations, bishops are Under Mr McGrath’s leader- service to the SCurch in the field greedy, it’s never enough, they ship, SCES has achieved many of Catholic education over many always want more, I’m included, goals including the introduction years and particularly for his 13 but things are looking not to bad of the much-lauded This is Our years service as director of the but we are not going to rest on Faith religious education syl- Scottish Catholic Education our laurels.” labus in schools; the creation of Service,” the Archbishop of Originally located in Rome’s the Pope Benedict XVI Caritas Glasgow said. “Together with all historic centre, the Scots College Award for senior secondary the bishops, I wish him a long moved out north along the city’s school pupils and the recent and happy retirement.” Via Cassia back in 1964. Arch- introduction of the Former Our Lady’s High bishop Cushley said the bishops Award for primary school pupils. Cumbernauld Headteacher Mr of Scotland are now keen to Recently he has been very active McGrath was appointed as the move the college back into the in the open education forums first director of SCES in August heart of the Eternal City. throughout the country, such as 2003, having taught English and “A move back into the city? I the recent one in Dundee. RE since 1975. think we would all like to do The Bishops’ Conference of The SCES director is the chief that, I think the students would Scotland, accepted Mr officer of the Catholic Education too and the bishops certainly McGrath’s request to retire from Commission, providing strategic support that—but whether or not his position from August 1 this leadership in the formulation of we can find the right place year and thanked him for his policy and supporting its work in remains to be seen… We have consistent and valuable input to all its aspects, in particular liais- been looking.” the work of Catholic education ing with local and national Gov- in Scotland. ernment. A recruitment process I [email protected] Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, to appoint a new SCES director president of the conference and will begin shortly. (Top) Cardinal James Harvey celebrated the anniversary Mass at the Scots College, Rome. He is pictured with Archbishop Tartaglia, Bishop Nolan and the staff and deacons of the FOLLOW THE SCOTTISH college. Glasgow marked the end of the year of CATHOLIC OBSERVER AT celebrations to mark the 400th anniversary of the Martyrdom of St John Ogilvie with two SCO_NEWS ON TWITTER. special Masses last week. There was a feast Be first to find out the day Mass at St Andrew’s in Glasgow (left), just metres from where the saint was latest news. killed by hanging at the Tollcross, lead by Archbishop Tartaglia. The evening before there was a special ecumenical event at St Aloysius Church (above), which is run by the Jesuits the same order that the saint belonged to.Archbishop Tartaglia and Archbishop Emeritus Conti were joined at the service by representatives of the Church of Scotland and Episcopal Churches and Baillie Margo Clarke on behalf of the city. They also unveiled a new icon of the saint by artist Blazena Dzurjanikova

PICS: PAUL McSHERRY

Named Person scheme opposed by close to half of Scots

ALMOST half of Scots are Opposition is evident across in Augus. The Catholic Church argument. against the controversial the political spectrum with 63 in Scotland has expressed seri- “The more people hear about Named Person scheme, per cent of Labour voters and ous concerns about the legisla- the named person, the less they according to a new poll. 74 per cent of Conservative tion. like it.” A YouGov poll, commis- voters opposed. Responding to the figures Last week, the legal case sioned by The Times, found According to the poll of Simon Calvert, spokesman for against the plans reached the that 48 per cent of Scots oppose around 1,000 Scottish adults, the No to Named Persons cam- UK Supreme Court where the scheme, a bill which the less than a third of people (32 paign (NO2NP), said the Gov- judges heard that they bypass Church believes undermines per cent) are in support. Only ernment has not won in the parents, and that the legislation family, with 26 per cent being six per cent of people are ‘court of public opinion’. is so complicated it is like strongly against it. strongly in support. “This is bad legislation ‘wrestling with an octopus’. The figures also revealed that A fifth of respondents said which can bring no good, only The senior judges will 35 per cent of SNP supporters they don’t know what to think one in three Scots agree with deliver their verdict in the com- are against the scheme, while about the plans, despite the fact it,” he said. “Supporters of the ing months and have the power just 44 per cent back it. that they are due to become law named person are losing the to put a halt to the legislation. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 4 SCHOOLS/LOCAL NEWS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Stained glass tribute to

By Daniel Harkins following the explosion. A total of 215 dots of light adorn he windows (right main), with one BISHOP of Motherwell has each to represent the victims and one to represent blessed two stained glass windows in Fr Frawley. memory of the victims of Scotland’s worst St Joseph’s, established as a parish in 1877, mining disasters in the home parish of many was in its infancy when Fr Frawley arrived to of those who lost their lives. minister to the population in Blantyre, a population For more than two years, St Joseph’s in Blantyre inflated by immigration from Ireland. In its early has been renovating the church building, days, the parish operated out of Dixon’s Row, installing new electrics and roofing and restoring alongside the houses of those working in the a pre-Second Vatican Council mural behind the nearby mines. . The centrepiece of the renovations is a set of Tragedy struck on October 22, 1877. An igni- stained glass windows that pay tribute to the lost tion of gas—possibly firedamp, a flammable gas miners. A group of 214 workers, some as young found in coal mines—caused an explosion which Trinity High School students lead by as 13, were killed in the 1877 explosion in the would claim the lives of over 200 men and boys. Lanarkshire town. It took three weeks to recover all the bodies. Also remembered in the windows is the parish More than half of the victims were Catholic. example raising thousands for charity priest at the time of the disaster, Fr Thomas Amateur historian Sean Quinn, who researched Frawley. Fr Frawley, only weeks in the parish the parish history for a recent DVD, said the By Daniel Harkins from each charity to learn more the importance of helping those and just 27 years old, celebrated the funeral deaths most likely took a mental toll on Fr about their work. During the last in need. Pupils considered ways Masses for many of the victims, and would soon Frawley, who would die not long after celebrating STUDENTS from Trinity few months five groups of pupils in which they could do after move to Australia suffering from stress and the funerals for so many of the victims. High School in Renfrewshire prepared to present to the panel something to make a difference ill health, where he would die of Tuberculosis, One parish history from the 1902 Western have become an example to of judges and their efforts and ultimately held sponsored four years after the mining disaster. Catholic Calendar described the affect of the their peers after raising cumulated in the showcase event. silences, dances, and bake-offs. Bishop Toal (right inset) celebrated Mass in St disaster on the young priest. more than £10,000 for The winning group was The hardworking pupils’£8000 Joseph’s last month and blessed the windows to “Fr Frawley, whose health had never been of charity in recent months Renfrewshire Disability Arts total was distributed amongst those killed as a result of the explosion. Stained the most robust, broke down completely under with a variety of events. Forum who were presented local charities, with pupils glass workers from Rainbow Glass of Prestwick the strain consequent upon the terrible disaster,” The pupils’ great work with a check of £3000, and a nominating the charities that they were present at the Mass on February 21, and it says. “With a view to recuperating he undertook culminated in February with further £200 was donated to felt special connections with. were thanked for their beautiful work, which a sea voyage to Australia but within a year after some young philanthropists each charity that took part. Representatives from St brings to completion a £700,000 renovation his arrival, he died, April 25, 1881, at Inglewood, winning £3000 for a local The philanthropy work Vincent’s Hospice, The Cardinal programme. some 30 miles from Sandhurst, Victoria.” disability charity. The young complemented an £8000 total Winning Prolife Initiative, During the hours of darkness till midnight the More than a century on, a fitting tribute to the people were taking part in the pupils have raised in recent Breathing Space, The Ozanam windows are backlit by a computerised lighting priest, and to those killed in the disaster, now Young Philanthropy Initiative, months, as well as collecting Club, Mary’s Meals, The system which floods the main windows with shines out into the centre of Blantyre. a charity run programme that more than 100 food parcels to Brighest Star, the Wayside different coloured lights and projects out into Fr Brian Lamb, the current parish priest at St encourages schools to get be distributed to good causes. Club, Cancer Support Scotland, the street. Beneath a window displaying the Joseph’s, said he was delighted with the work involved in philanthropy by S6 pupils spent time preparing St Margaret’s Children and Holy Spirit as a dove, the first memorial window and added that the project is being very well giving them £3000 to assign to with the NET ministries team Family Care Society and shows Fr Frawley blessing the miners in Dixon’s received in Blantyre. their pupils’ worthy causes. to head into Glasgow city Lamont Farm were among the Row and the second depicts a dark evening, a The Trinity pupils presented to centre to participate in a Day of charities that benefited from the mother and her child looking out at the pits I [email protected] a panel including Renfrewshire Action. Net ministries get school’s efforts. Provost Anne Hall and Alastair young people involved in And rounding off Trinity Cairns from the Young evangelisation and proclaiming High’s efforts, the Catenian Philanthropy Initiative (above). the Gospel of Jesus. The Day of Association came to the school Five charities were represented Action event saw pupils spend to distribute cheques to two —Renfrewshire Disability Arts the day in Glasgow participating lucky pupils who will be Forum, Brightest Star, Emmaus in a street can collection in heading to Bangalore in June House, Stepping Stones for order to raise valuable funds for to work with the charity The Families and Jubilee House. St Vincent’s Hospice, with Association of People with Pupils from S3 had chosen more than £1000 raised in total. Disabilities. their good causes personally and S1-S5 pupils meanwhile were worked with a representative busy during RE reflecting on I [email protected] St Bernadette’s brings World Book Day to life

SPIDER-MAN, Little Red Riding Hood, and Iron Man visited St Bernadette’s Primary School in Tullibody recently as the school marked World Book Day. St Cadoc’s parishioners get Holy Year of Mercy A whole host of famous characters from great works of off to a memorable start with Rome pilgrimage literature were photographed at the school (right) including THE Holy Year of Mercy Council for New Evangelisation in the magnificent view over all Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz got off to a memorable start and the Pope’s chief organiser Rome from the terrace of the and Darth Vader. for parishioners of St of the Holy Year. residence. Alter egos aside, the youngsters Cadoc’s in Newton Mearns It was a special moment for The mini-pilgrimage was from the school’s Primary 6/7 as they took part in a unique all concerned as the archbishop crowned by two events on the class have been learning about pilgrimage to Rome. had visited St Cadoc’s last year Wednesday—the Papal audience social justice and organising A group of 50 southsiders during a speaking engagement in St Peter’s Square and a visit events to raise money for charity. took part in the trip that was in Glasgow. to the Pontifical Scots College There was an assembly at the led by parish priest, Mgr Archbishop Fisichella where the St Cadoc’s group was beginning of Lent on SCIAF and ask for a small donation of 50p children more often put in Tom Monaghan. offered Mass for the pilgrims at welcomed by the rector and their work. from the children and all our more,” Kirsty McDonald from The pilgrimage began with the altar of St John Paul II and staff and given an informative “On the fundraising days, we boxes are filling up fast as the the school said. Mass in the extraordinary setting was joined by Mgr Monaghan tour by students. of the Gesù—the baroque basilica and Mgr Graham Bell— “It was lovely to be in Rome in the heart of Rome that is another Paisley man—who is a on the Feast of the Chair of Peter EWTN - THE CATHOLIC SATELLITE CHANNEL Visit our website home to the Jesuit Order. The priest of the Diocese of Rome and to be able to experience the next morning the Scots and Under Secretary of the life of the Church at its very The perfect Christian present for all the pilgrims passed through the Pontifical Council. heart,” Mgr Monaghan said. Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica That evening the pilgrims “Our people were very positive Tel: SAS 0141 774 5000 or 07463 683655 latest news at 7.30am, carrying the pilgrims’ were honoured to attend a special about the experience. They cross which had been allocated reception hosted by the UK seemed to enjoy both the for our Special Offer WWW.SCONEWS. to them by organisers. Ambassador to the Holy See, solemn prayerful times and the Once inside they were met Nigel Baker, at his residence moments of celebration. I’m SAS - SCOTLAND’S CATHOLIC SATELLITE COMPANY CO.UK by Archbishop Rino Fisichella near the Quirinale Palace. After sure none of us will forget our —the President of the Pontifical drinks the Scots were able to take Holy Year pilgrimage.” WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SCHOOLS/LOCAL NEWS 5 mining disaster victims

Mgr Bradley is the new parish priest of Holy Cross as Fr Donnachie resigns due to illness

FR NEIL Donnachie has that Fr Neil could devote his in Holy Cross despite their other resigned as parish priest of energies to his recovery. commitments to community Holy Cross parish in “In accepting Fr Neil’s life and to the care of their Crosshill due to illness. resignation, I also want to own parish.’ In a letter to parishioners, express my heartfelt thanks and Mgr Bradley is currently the Archbishop Philip Tartaglia appreciation to him for a Secretary General of the Bishops’ revealed that Mgr Hugh Bradley lifetime of devoted and faithful Conference of Scotland and (above right) would take over service as a priest of the previously parish priest of St the parish from Monday March Archdiocese of Glasgow— Matthew’s, Bishopbriggs. 14. The Franciscan Friars at which, I hope and pray, will Mgr Bradley will continue as Blessed John have continue once Fr Neil feels better General Secretary to the been covering the parish since —and for his years as parish Bishops’ Conference and will Fr Donnachie (above left) priest of Holy Cross Parish. I be assisted in Holy Cross by Fr suffered a stroke. am sure that Holy Cross Parish Prasad Prathipati, an Indian “Realising that his recovery will express its gratitude to him priest from the Palestrina would take some time, Fr Neil in due course.” Diocese in Italy. wrote to me last month tendering The archbishop thanked Fr Fr Donnachie is a former his resignation as parish priest Eddie Highton and the Spiritual Director of the Scots of Holy Cross,” the archbishop Franciscans for their care of College, Valladolid, rector of wrote. “With regret I accepted the parish in Fr Donnachie’s Scotus College seminary in Fr Neil’s resignation in order absence, saying they ‘have , and chairperson of that I could make the necessary done so with great generosity and Glasgow Archdiocese’s SPRED provision for the pastoral care have been able to maintain a group for people with disabilities. of the Holy Cross Parish and so virtually unchanged programme PICS: PAUL McSHERRY

Contemporary Stations of the Cross display by SCIAF helps light up this year’s Lenfest festival SCIAF displayed the Stations been taken by SCIAF staff and of the Cross event,” SCIAF of the Cross in a brand new, professional photographers during Director, Alistair Dutton, said. innovative and interactive trips to see the charity’s work in “The Year of Mercy gives us an way on Wednesday as they Africa, Asia and Latin America. opportunity to reflect on mercy, took part in the annual Artwork was also featured and to be more merciful to our Lentfest festival. from schoolchildren including brothers and sisters. The display The Catholic charity’s display Notre Dame Primary School in of the Stations of the Cross aims at Glasgow University brought Dowanhill and St Patrick’sPrimary to take us on a journey through the together photographs, art and School inAnderston.Anumber of Passion and death of Jesus Christ video to portray the Stations of established artists also contributed in a new and interesting way.” the Cross in a contemporary work includingAlexander Moffat Lentfest is the annual art way, linked to the themes of the and Christine Mailley. celebration held during Easter Year of Mercy. “We are delighted to be able to and organised by theArchdiocese The photographs on show had stage such an interesting Stations of Glasgow Arts Project. Ecumenical Good Friday walk to be held in Paisley

AN ECUMENICAL Good and the Episcopal Holy Trinity the date in their diaries. Last Friday walk will take place St Barnabas before finishing in year, the walk was made by in Paisley on March 25. the United Free Church of 60 people. Starting from Springbank Scotland Wallneuk North Church. For more information please Sheltered Housing at 11am, the Bishop has contact the Rev Peter Gill on walk will pass St James’ Church urged his parishioners to mark 0795176 4262. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 6 WORLD/VATICAN NEWS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Third anniversary prayers,

By Ian Dunn

POPE Francis marked the third anniversary of his election as Pontiff by praising grand- parents, giving away 40,000 copies of the Gospel of St Luke and calling for prayers on twitter. “How deserving grandfathers and grandmoth- ers who transmit the faith to their grandchil- dren!” the Pope said as he introduced the elderly men and women, who were assisted by volun- teers of the Vatican’s Santa Marta paediatric dis- pensary. Delivering his remarks to crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square on the fifth Sunday of Lent, the Pontiff encouraged those present to read the Gospel daily in order that ‘the mercy of the Father may dwell in your heart, and you may bring it to everyone you meet.’ “I invite you to take this Gospel, because the mercy of the Father is done works in you,” he Scottish pro-life delegation bring Project said. In addition to containing the entire Gospel of Luke, the booklets (right) include the seven Truth reports to SPUC Youth Conference corporal and spiritual works of mercy. ‘It would be nice that you learned by heart,’ to make it easier to follow them, the Pope added. It By Daniel Harkins Keynote speaker Bobby writer and sociologist Gabriele has become a custom of Pope Francis to call on Schindler addressed the confer- Kuby, Jeffery J Ventrella, senior volunteers from a particular group to distribute A DELEGATION of Scots ence goers about his family’s vice president of Student Train- copies of the Gospel during Lent. headed to the south of Eng- struggle to save the life of his sis- ing and Development for The Pope centered his pre-Angelus address on land last weekend for a pro- ter, Terri Schiavo. Ms Schiavo Alliance Defending Freedom, Sunday’s Gospel account of Jesus forgiving the life youth conference. was diagnosed as being in a per- and academic and physician Dr woman caught in adultery. The Society for the Protec- sistent vegetative state after a Philip Howard. Reflecting on the day’s Gospel the Pope said tion of Unborn Children (SPUC) long illness. Her husband sought The Scottish delegation gave how good it is to ‘have the courage to drop the youth conference brought to remove medical care and end their own input into the confer- stones we have for throwing at others, and to think together people from across the her life and fought for years in ence with a Project Truth work- a little about our sins.’ UK to Hoddesdon outside Lon- the courts with Ms Shiavo’s fam- shop. Project Truth is a youth ‘God does not nail down our sin,’ nor does he don from March 11-13. ily over the decision. Ultimately, outreach programme run by ‘identify us with the wrongs we have done,’ he A group 24 people from Scot- the courts allowed Ms Schiavo to SPUC Scotland. They run said. “We have a name, and God does not iden- land, including SPUC Scotland die in 2005 against the wishes of annual roadshows were the pro- tify this name with the sin we have committed,” chief executive John Deighan and her family. life campaigners visit cities the Pope added. very full, personal and heartfelt presence.’ Jamie McGowan (above), were Mr Schindler told the confer- across Scotland setting up stalls “He wants that our freedom is converted from The cardinal said he believes the reason for among those hearing talks from a ence that there is a ‘profound and distributing leaflets. evil to good, and this is possible—you can—with this energy this can be found in the Pope’s deep range of inspirational speakers. prejudice against people with Amongst the information ses- his grace.” relationship with the Lord. Catherine MacMillan spoke disabilities.’ Other speakers sions and exchanging of ideas, Cardinal , Archbishop of “Nothing else could give a man of his age the about her daughter Sara, who included long-time SPUC sup- the delegates to the annual con- Westminster, paid tribute, to the Pope on the kind of vitality and freshness that he’s sustained died in January, and was born porter Colin Harte, Clare ference found time for plenty of third anniversary of his installation, saying that over these past three years,” he said. with severe disabilities, with McCullough, director of pro-life fun, with a Ceilidh held amid the for him one surprising thing about Pope Francis Cardinal Nichols went on to describe how the her talk bringing a standing outreach group the Good Coun- celebrations of life. is his ‘remarkable energy, his vibrant presenta- Pope Francis’ fidelity to the Lord and his mes- ovation and tears from audi- sel Network, African activist tion of the Gospel’ and his ‘ability to maintain a sage, together with his concern for people, ‘espe- ence members. Obianuju Ekeocha, German I [email protected] Pontiff to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau during World Youth day POPE Francis is scheduled to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp when he visits Poland in July for World Youth Day. According to a draft schedule of his Papal visit to Poland, the Pontiff will visit the camp, where more than one million Jews and a number of non-Jew- ish Poles, Soviet prisoners of war and gypsies were killed by the Nazis between 1942 and 1944, on July 29. Children stand along When he visits Auschwitz the a road in the Amhara Pope will be following in the region of Ethiopia. footsteps of two of his predeces- The country is expe- sors—St John Paul II ( who vis- riencing its worst ited the camp in 1979) and Pope drought in about 50 Emeritus Benedict XVI (right, years. More than 10 in 2006.) million people of Pope Francis will visit Poland Ethiopia’s population for five days, arriving on July 27 of around 100 million and leaving on July 31.As well as require emergency chairing World Youth Day and pilgrims who want to tour the for- said about 57,000 places tual Franciscan friar, and St Edith humanitarian food visiting Auschwitz, he will also mer Nazi death camp. The remained.Auschwitz was the Stein, a Jewish philosopher who assistance because visit the Sanctuary of Divine museum has set aside July 20-28 largest camp complex estab- converted to Catholicism and of the El Nino-driven Mercy in Lagiewniki and visit the andAugust 1-3 for participants in lished by the Nazis. The main became a Carmelite nun. drought. This year’s Czestichowa shrine, attending a World Youth Day, which runs camp, known as Auschwitz I, The starvation cell, where St SCIAF Wee Box Mass there celebrating the 1050th July 26-31 in Krakow, about one- was expanded to include Maximilian and others spent the appeal is supporting anniversary of the introduction of poor cattle herders in and-a-half hours away. Auschwitz II (Auschwitz-Birke- last days of their lives, can be Ethiopia to cope with Christianity to Poland. World Youth Day officials set nau) in 1941 and Auschwitz III viewed in the basement of Block drought and climate The Auschwitz memorial and aside 300,000 places and have (Auschwitz-Monowitz) in 1942. 11. It is known as ‘the death change museum is setting aside days asked participants to register for Among those killed were St Max- block’ because it was used by exclusively for World Youth Day the dates. Earlier this month, they imilian Kolbe, a Polish Conven- the SS to inflict torture. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER WORLD/VATICAN NEWS 7 Mother Teresa of Calcutta is to praise and gifts from Pope become a saint on September 4 MOTHER Teresa will for- she called ‘an order’ from God mally be named as a saint in to leave the convent and live September, Pope Francis among the poor. After she left announced this week. her convent, she began working As has been long rumoured, in the slums, teaching poor her Canonisation will take children, and treating the sick place on September 4, which in their homes. A year later, this year will also mark a spe- some of her former students cial jubilee for workers and joined her, and together they volunteers of mercy. The took in men, women and chil- announcement came officially dren who were dying in the during the consistory of cardi- gutters along the streets. In nals on Tuesday. It has not been 1950, the Missionaries of Char- confirmed whether the Pope ity were born as a congregation will honour the Catholic church of Calcutta Diocese. In 1952, in India and travel to Calcutta Cathedral to see and hear the then the government granted them a for the ceremony or preside 82-year-old. She told the packed house from which to continue over one in Rome. cathedral how her organisation their mission of serving Cal- The news that Mother Teresa had taken 65,000 sick and dying cutta’s poor and forgotten. (right) is to be Canonised has men and women off the streets Mother Teresa, who was been welcomed by Archbishop of Calcutta. She said she would awarded the Nobel for her Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow. never forget picking up a man work, died on September 5, “She loved Jesus Christ with all eaten up with worms, but who 1997, and was Beatified six her heart and dedicated herself died with a beautiful smile. years later by St John Paul II in his name to caring for the Mother Teresa of Calcutta on October 19, 2003. More poorest of the poor,” the arch- was born Agnes Gonxha Bojax- than 300,000 pilgrims went to bishop said. “She founded the hiu on August 26, 1910, in Rome for her Beatification. Missionaries of Charity to Skopje, Macedonia, an ethnic In addition to Mother Teresa, share and continue her work. I Albanian. In 1919, when Agnes the consistory also confirmed am grateful to the ‘Mother was only 8 years old, her father the Canonisation of four other Teresa’ Sisters who work here suddenly fell ill and died. In the blesseds: Maria Elisabetta Hes- in Glasgow for their example aftermath of her father’s death, selblad, Jose Sanchez del Rio, of prayerfulness and of selfless she became extraordinarily Stanislaus of Jesus Mary and poverty and charity.” close to her mother, a pious and Jose Gabriel del Rosario The Missionaries of Charity compassionate woman who Brochero. Blessed Stanislaus also have a base in Edinburgh instilled in her daughter a deep Papczynski and Blessed Mary and Mother Teresa visited Scot- commitment to charity. Elizabeth Hesselblad will be land’s capital in 1993. Agnes joined the Sisters of Canonised on June 5 while She spoke out against Loretto at age 17, she was sent Argentine priest Blessed contraception and abortion to Calcutta, India, where she Gabriel del Rosario Brochero during a flying visit to Edinburgh later contracted tuberculosis, and Mexico’s Blessed Sanchez cially those on the margins of society,’ is what last weekend when he tweeted ‘pray for me’ to on June 6, 1993. Almost 1500 and was sent to rest in Darjee- del Rio to be Canonised on ‘captures and enthralls the world.’ his 8.8million followers. people crowded into St Mary’s ling. On the way, she felt what October 16. When asked about ways in which Pope Fran- Some of the hundreds of people replying cis has changed the papacy, Cardinal Nichols raised concerns for the health of the head of the cautions that ‘this is not a reformation of the Catholic Church, however, the Pope has repeat- papacy’ as some would have us believe. He said edly asked followers to ‘pray for me’ and first there’s a ‘great continuity’ among the Popes, made the request to huge crowds at his Papal along with ‘a freshness’ and ‘difference’ with inauguration in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican. each new incumbent. I [email protected] The Holy Father also sparked a twitter frenzy Corresponding to the Jubilee Year of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis, the “Magnificat Year of Annulment changes designed Mercy Companion” will help you accept the merciful to reach out to broken families embrace of a loving God, and prepare you to extend that mercy to your neighbour. THE main goal of the important’ concern of the streamlined annulment Church is that they don’t feel process is pastoral care to ostracised, but continue to par- Day by Day readingsby 30 reach out to families suffer- ticipate in the ecclesial commu- ing from broken marriages, nity. different writers Pope Francis has confirmed. The Holy Father spoke to “These measures have an emi- participants in a formation nently pastoral goal: to show the course for the Tribunal of the Poetry Church’s concern for those faith- Roman Rota, the Holy’s See’s ful who are waiting for a quick main court, dedicated the new verification on their marital sta- marriage annulment process. Medita"ons tus,” the Pope said last Saturday Held in Rome, the course ran to participants on course on the from March 7-12, and was Profilesof saints subject. He noted that many closed by an audience with Faithful suffer due to the end of the Pope. their marriages, and couples are In his speech, the Pope noted Catechesis and witness frequently ‘oppressed by doubt’ that many divorced couples as to whether or not their mar- seeking an annulment found the riage was valid or in valid. process overly complicated, and Scripture It is out of both charity and many encountered difficultly in mercy, as well as lived experi- accessing the appropriate eccle- Devo"onsand Prayers ence, that the Church decided to sial judicial structures. Because create the new, streamlined of this, he said, he decided to annulment process, which aims streamline the process, putting Single purchases For bulk supply to parishes etc: to grow closer to persons with a into place a new set of norms £4 plus£1 p&p to subscribers £3.60 for ordersover 50 failed marriage, and to meet aimed at simplifying the proce- ‘their legitimate desire for jus- dures so couples aren’t left wait- £4.50p plus£1 p&p £3.80 for ordersover 10 (to 49) tice,’ he said. ing for an answer, often harassed to non subscribers £4 for 5 to 9 The Pope also stressed the by doubt. new procedures were created The changes were published with a pastoral intention, and August 15, 2015, in two motu that for divorced couples living proprio and the new rules went To order call 0141 241 6112 or send a cheque or postal order to: in a second union, the ‘most into effect December 8, 2015. Sco#sh Catholic Observer, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow, G2 6BT WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 8 NEWS FEATURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Celebrating feast of St Patrick: Separating the facts from fiction JOSEPH BRADLEY reflects on one of the world’s best known and loved saints, celebrated in Ireland and beyond, ahead of his feast day on March 17

SCAN of newspapers over the past person of Christ. Indeed, in his famous writing, the few years around the time of St Confessio, Patrick admits his faith had previously Patrick’s Day is evidence that a lot of been weak and ignorant. But, after his historic cap- people can write timely articles that ture as a young boy, Patrick made the most of what make numerous claims about the he recognised as an opportunity God presents him saint. Yet, the truth is, as a certain 20th century while a slave in Ireland. It is during this approxi- British political leader might once have said, mately six year period, with time on his hands and PatrickA is a bit of ‘a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, the space to flourish, that God’s prompting leads inside an enigma.’ Indeed, Patrick attracts claims him to focus, to contemplate and to pray much. that are often unwarranted and unfounded. Much In this new relationship he finds the Spirit of of what people assert can too often be based on a God inspiring and directing him and for Patrick few simple sources or legends while the internet this becomes a time of deep spiritual growth. has become a demon as ‘the’ single font of infor- Qualified guesswork and Patrick’s own ‘Con- mation for many people. Of course, there’s also the fessio’ indicates that he was about 22 when he ‘real’ Patrick, or at least the one we can be more escaped his captivity. Eventually, after many years certain of. Of course, we can also be sure of the of study, the now ordained Patrick returned to Ire- undeniable importance he holds for millions land—somewhat reluctantly—to answer what he around the globe. refers to as ‘the call of the Irish.’ Subsequently, We do know that Patrick ‘was’ born in Britain Patrick was to become Ireland’s most significant around 386AD, but where is unknown, despite the missionary, acquiring his pre-eminent place in the many claims. At the time of his birth this was a history of the people of Ireland, at home and Britain that was pre-Scotland, pre- and abroad. pre-Wales. Therefore, his birth here cannot be Most writings and records strongly indicate understood in the same way we see nationality, Patrick’s death being on the March 17: Hence his ethnicity or the nation state today. The Angles and feast day. Although it all makes for a worthy story Saxons had yet to invade the southern part of he didn’t banish snakes from Ireland as there prob- Britain, and the Welsh only began to be conceptu- ably weren’t any there on the post-glacial island. alised as such in opposition Likewise, good story though to those invaders. In the Patrick’s mission, it is, there is no substantial north of the island similar evidence that he used the narratives existed around the his successes in shamrock to explain the trin- mixture of peoples there. spreading the Gospel ity to his pagan converts. St Some claimants believe he Patrick is said to have died was born in the still Welsh- and therefore his around 461AD and is buried speaking Northern Kingdom major contribution to at Down Cathedral in Down- of Strathclyde of Romano- firmly establishing patrick, County Down, along- Brythonic stock, at Ban- Christianity in Ire- side St Brigid and navem Taberniae. Others “ Columcille, although this has consider his birthplace to be land, as well as his never been proven. in south Wales around the famous writings, Despite dominant narra- Severn estuary, or at St. tives, maybe the most out- Davids in Pembrokeshire, the gradually led to him standing ‘not quite accurate’ tiny city sitting directly on to being considered part of his story is that Patrick the seagoing missionary and Ireland’s national didn’t quite introduce Chris- trade routes to and from Ire- tianity to Ireland. There is land. In addition, for all the apostle... Few saints evidence that the faith was often modern romanticism are so widely present there prior to his mis- about a common European or sion to the island. None western fringe Celticism, celebrated theless, Patrick’s unique his- during these times the reality torical impact cannot be is that there’s not much evi- denied and he is still the only dence that Celtic peoples viewed themselves as missionary at this time in Ireland that we know having the kind of common ethnic or national much about. identity that we might recognise today. Critically, and a necessary part to understand- Few saints are so widely celebrated as Patrick and political associations, continue to connect with Patrick’s birth name was Maewyn Succat. Polit- ing’s his writings, Patrick assumed he was living in and he has emerged even beyond his religiosity to him, usually where there has been or is an historic ically he was a citizen of Rome, and we know he the last days of the world’s existence and his mis- become a symbol of Ireland and Irishness. Irish immigrant presence. He is a national treas- was proud of that heritage. Indeed, Patrick might sion was inspired and shaped by these thoughts. ure, an icon with resonances deeply linked to old be considered as part of a settler community that He saw” himself as a preacher during the final Celebrations today and new conceptions of Irishness. St Patrick is an occupied Britain. His father (and grandfather) was period of human reality, the concluding link in a There are many stories connected to or arising Irish patriotic symbol along with the colour green part of a Roman clergy and his family were of the chain stretching back to the Apostles. He recog- from St Patrick. St Patrick’s Day became a feast and the shamrock. class of people that assumed the labour of main- nised his task as a unique one. Patrick understood day in the Catholic Church due to the influence of Today, St Patrick’s Day celebrations on and taining a Roman presence in Britain’s countryside his mission of preaching and teaching as being the Waterford-born Franciscan scholar Luke around March 17 constitutes one of the world’s far from Rome. close to the time when Jesus would return to judge Wadding, as a member of the commission for the most enduring and popular celebrations of a Chris- all humanity. reform of the Breviary in the early part of the sev- tian saint. In Ireland this means a national celebra- Reframing history Patrick’s mission, his successes in spreading the enteenth century. In Ireland, Lough Derg in Done- tion on the island while amongst the We should be careful not to read other matters Gospel and therefore his major contribution to gal and Crough Patrick in Mayo constitute but two multi-generational diaspora abroad it presents an through the eyes of 21st century lenses either. firmly establishing Christianity in Ireland, as well of the most famous focal points for pilgrimages, opportunity to remember and celebrate faith, Patrick’s early Christianity wasn’t as most might as his famous writings, gradually led to him to prayers, sacrifices and fasts. and/or, ethnicity, heritage and identity. imagine it. His identification with the faith was being considered Ireland’s national apostle—with Tens of thousands of people have been called weak with little to evidence an inspired close liv- a range of religious, cultural, ethnic and political after Patrick. Churches, geographic locations, I Joseph Bradley is a senior lecturer at ing relationship with, and understanding of, the connotations. schools, sports clubs, buildings, streets, cultural Stirling University WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LETTERS 9

Meeting of minds in the Sacred Heart Parish, Bridgeton, Glasgow spirit of Christ PICTURE OF THE WEEK marked a special occasion recently for a long-serving parishioner. I ENJOYED the feature in last week’s The parish wished a very happy birth- edition on Ruth Hunt from Stonewall. This day to faithful pass-keeper (and so much is the type of outreach we as Catholics more) John McLaren who celebrated his need to be engaging in. 80th birthday a few days ago. I can understand how some people might Mr McLaren is seen here in the parish object to the views of Ms Hunt, but we need to be making efforts to meet opposing views that we disagree with. I would even extend this approach to the debate around abortion. Yes, as Catholics, we are all agreed on the wrongs of the issue. But there seems to be no attempt by the pro-life side to have a sensible conversation with the pro-choice side, and vice versa. This even extends to the language we use, with the pro-life side using the phrase ‘pro-abortion’ rather than ‘pro-choice,’ and the pro-choice side referring to the pro-life side as ‘anti-choice.’ This is not a sensible or productive approach. If you are to win over other people, then you have to beat them with convincing argument. It is much easier to do this over a friendly chat than from opposing sides of a protest line. The same approach needs to be taken over the issue of same-sex marriage (and no, I don’t mean same sex ‘marriage’). We must reach out to others who oppose our point of view, and seek to meet minds in the spirit of Christ. A McK UDDINGSTON

Be more positive about Radicalisation is a threat to media and many of our politicians would Scotland and its future our way of life have us believe, Islam is not a threat to our way of life–a small, radical element of IT’S VERY disappointing to me that the I MUST say, I greatly enjoyed Harry Islam are a threat to our way of life. ESTABLISHED IN 1885 SCO is so negative about the Scottish Schnitker’s series on the history of Islam And this includes some countries as well, Government and Scottish people. This is a and Catholicism. At times I did find it a bit but as the series made clear, our own bright new age for Scotland, and under the hard to follow, but when I managed to keep country’s foreign policy is partially to leadership of the great Nicola Sturgeon we up it was greatly illuminating. blame for the rise of this radical form of are poised to shake off the chains of the It is easy to fall into the trap that Islam is Islam in certain parts of the Middle East. union. Yet the SCO is constantly doing some distant and mysterious foreign thing But I stray into politics, and Dr Scotland down! It’s time to shake off your but as Dr Schnitker made clear, it shares Schnitker’s series admirably stayed neutral St John Ogilvie, a martyr Scottish cringe and accentuate the positive. roots with Christianity, and many of the and historical throughout. S Mcghee same values, and much of the same history. S Ferry for all Christians GLASGOW Contrary to what much of the tabloid EDINBURGH

HE martyrdom of St John Ogilvie inspired the original Time to connect Ireland with Ireland remains the only EC country So many deaths in Palestine students at Scots College in Rome to become priests so, as mainland Europe without a direct road connection with the at Israeli hands the year of observing the 400th anniversary of St John European continent. For many years now I Ogilvie’s death in Glasgow comes to an end, how fitting IT WAS good to read in your recent report have campaigned for this to be resolved by IT HAS been a busy two weeks in that this milestone have been marked in Scotland and in your emphasis on the Irish roots of the new a tunnel or bridge across that twelve miles occupied Palestine. In addition to the daily Rome, at the Pontifical Scots College with the Archbishop of Glas- Bishop of Argyll and the Isles. The diocese of water. This could be built for much less humiliations, the following have lost their gow at them all. Today, as then, our Church flourishes thanks to its itself has extensive Irish roots. Only twelve than the £16 billion for the London lives: Labib Khaldoon Anwar Azzam, priests—established,T new and in formation. miles separates the coastlines of Antrim Crossrail project and at a fraction of the 17—entered an illegal settlement carrying In light of the 400th celebrations in Rome last weekend, Arch- and Argyll at their closest points. On a Trident replacement costs of £150 billion a stick; Muhammad Hisham Ali bishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh said the college clear summer day I will often travel down and would draw economic activity and Zaghlawan, 17 –entered an illegal has an excellent body of men training for the priesthood, while three to Kintyre to have a look at the houses on prosperity to the north and west. It is settlement carrying a stick; Suhayb Saqir 5 more students have also been sent to the Royal Scots College in Sala- the other side. In centuries gone by there something which we should all be keeping was killed by unexploded Israeli bomb; manca, so ‘our numbers are gradually heading in the right direction.’ was extensive trading across that narrow in our minds at this time. Amani Husni Sabatin, 34, mother of four Of course, he adds, ‘bishop are greedy, they always want more (voca- section of water and only two world wars Alan Clayton shot after she crashed into part of check tions)… but we’re going to keep working at that.’ and political troubles put a stop to it. ARGYLL point; Iyad Omar Sajadiyya, 22 , Congratulations to Scots College seminary on its 400th anniver- journalism student, shot in the head during sary, proving that truly great things can be achieved by following the Israeli raid on refugee camp; Fadwa Abu example of our saints. Proud of Mary’s Meals charities simple beginnings in Scotland it Tair, 50, shot by soldiers who said she had Here in Scotland the 400th year of the martyr’s death closed with an its supporters now feeds more than a million children a knife: Abdul-Malak Saleh Abu an ecumenical celebration of St John Ogilvie, with dedication of daily. Incredible! That’s a fifth the Kharoub,19, shot after opening fire on newly commissioned icon, at St Aloysius, Garnethill, Glasgow, and TRULY amazing to read in your recent population of Scotland! Wow! Israeli settlement bus; Abu Rajab’s mother, Mass at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Glasgow. Archbishop Philip paper that a single Mary’s Meals Campaign What an amazing organistion Mary’s his two sisters Reem and Rose, aged 19 Tartaglia, president of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, was at has raised £10 million. This is incredible. Meals is. Just think another ten charities and 16, and his two brothers Mahmoud and both events. Truly amazing. What an achievement. This like that in Scotland we could feed ten Muhammad, aged 15 and 14, have since Like the coming 500th anniversary of the Reformation, this charity is going from strength to strength million kids a day! Ten times one million. been deported from Jerusalem to a refugee anniversary of St John Ogilvie’s death has presented challenges for and no wonder. What a marvelous thing it It just goes to show what can be achieved. camp in the West Bank and his father has the ecumenical movement. As Archbishop Tartaglia said, however, is to feed children at school so they are All who donate to Mary’s Meals should been kept in detention camp. (Its is not although there ‘was no getting away’ from the fact St John Ogilive encouraged to go to school AND get vital be very proud of the charity’s achievement unusual for Israelis to punish the entire was a victim of ‘the spiritual and social and cultural storm of the Ref- nutrients. That is such a simple yet and their involvement! family of anyone who resists the ormation in Scotland which very thoroughly purged almost all of this effective idea. It’s now saved thousands J Smith occupation.) land of the Catholic Church,’ said he should not be viewed strictly in upon thousands of lives. And from the GALLOWAY No forgetiing, of course, Muhammad that light. Jamal al-Kalouti, 21, shot after opening “If the goal of the ecumenical movement, full visible communion, fire on Israeli settlement bus; Yasin escapes us still and seems as far away as ever, there is a very real and G SCO reserves the right to edit letters to conform with space or requirements Suleiman Abu Khusah,10, killed by Israeli effective ecumenism of friendship, prayer, witness and service which G This page is used solely for reader opinion and therefore views expressed are not necessarily air strike on Palestinian homes, 6-year-old is a great good and which keeps the hope alive,” the archbishop said. shared by SCO sister seriously wounded. “Oh—and an ecumenism of martyrdom too, because, as the Pope G If you would like to share your opinion, send your correspondence to the address below We will see how many die in the next said, the martyrs belong to all Christians. So, even as the Catholic G Whether you use e-mail or post, you must provide your full name, address, and phone number or two weeks. community rejoices for St John Ogilvie, I offer St John Ogilvie... as your letter will not be used B McKenna a martyr for all Scots Christians, so that we may together reap the rich DUMBARTON harvest of faith and love which his blood has sown in our land.” WRITE TO LETTERS, SCO, 19 WATERLOO STREET, GLASGOW G2 6BT [email protected] 10 COMMENT SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016

W killed nearly 75,000 people. IRE Blessed Romero was beatified D IN in San Salvador on May 23 Church is setting the standard last year. Iron Maiden are currently touring in support of their An SCO diary latest album, The Book of Souls. Unfortunatley the society must rise to over abuse band’s iconic jumbo jet Ed A LONG-HIDDEN religious Force One got into an 16th century Church in accident on the tarmac at the Mexico has emerged from an Santiago, Chile airport over artificial lake in Mexico due to the weekend, however it is a severe drought. thought the two Chilean The sacred religious site airport staff who were injured was unveiled near the small following the incident will town of Santa Maria Jalapa make a complete recovery. del Marques in the south-east of Mexico. GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG Severe lack of rain in recent months has meant that the A YOUNG woman who used waters of the Benito Juarez to play for Celtic ladies’ Dam are 40 per cent lower football team has been found than their normal level. not proven of posting This has meant that the sectarian abuse online. BY PETER impressive 16th century Megan McFadden, 20, KEARNEY Church was once again made admitted to police that she visible. had posted a comment on The temple was built by Facebook on the day of the HE Church in Scot- monks and nuns of the Old Firm game on February 1, land has been criti- Dominican Order, who came 2015. She deleted the cised in recent to the area in the 1500s to comment just after it was years, to an extent preach Christianity. posted and said it was that no other insti- It is the third time in eight intended as a ‘bit of banter’ tution has over failings in the years that the stone temple between her and one of her field of safeguarding. The media attention which has has become visible, although friends and not intended to be T local guides say the building offensive. accompanied this criticism has is deteriorating. That’s one Nonetheless Rangers fan been demoralising and restoration job even the most Alison Clark-Dick reported the depressing for Catholics in dedicated parish would message to the police after general and clergy in particu- struggle to fund… seeing a screenshot of it on a lar. Amid the welter of nega- Facebook group and claimed tivity and relentless focus on GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG she had ‘never seen anything the Church, it has become very as offensive.’ difficult to determine whether MEMBERS of British heavy Miss McFadden, from or not the criticism is propor- metal band Iron Maiden Drumchapel, Glasgow, had tionate, balanced or fair. (below) paid tribute to Blessed gone on trial for allegedly Last year, Archbishop Philip Oscar Romero during their behaving in a threatening or Tartaglia of Glasgow offered ‘a stop in El Salvador on their abusive manner likely to cause profound apology to all those current world tour. During a a reasonable person to suffer who have suffered in any way concert at the Estadio Jorge fear or alarm by acting in an as a result of actions by anyone Magico Gonzalez in San abusive manner and posting within the Church.’ He was Salvador, El Savador’s capital, offensive and sectarian remarks. responding to the publication a crowd of 9000 people But last week it was ruled that of the McLellan Commission Church has shown in recent Scotland report makes depress- and one allegation made cheered when the band’s the Crown hadn’t proven its report. His words were heart- years. Sadly, as well as the total ing reading. I have yet to speak against a member of a religious drummer Nicko McBrain put case against the former Celtic felt and included a promise to failure of many institutions in to a single journalist who has order. In 2014, there was one on a T-shirt featuring an image women’s team player. ‘commit ourselves anew to the society to recognise and react read it— but then, why bother allegation made against clergy of the murdered priest and the Returning his verdict the welfare of children, young to the scale and depth of the wading through a 56-page or church staff and no allega- slogan, Saint Romero of the sheriff said the Crown was people and the vulnerable in all abuse of children in our midst, report on a deep societal prob- tions made against religious Americas. Before the concert, required to prove that Miss our communities.’ there has been an almost com- lem, when you can generate an orders. According to NSPCC Mr McBrain and his McFadden intended to cause The McLellan report, which plete failure on the part of our easy headline with another Scotland figures obtained bandmate, guitarist Janick fear or alarm or was reckless can be downloaded at the Bish- media to examine or explain Catholic Church story? under a freedom of information Gers, visited Blessed about doing so. He noted that ops’ Conference website: the problem in any balanced or The Church ironically request from Police Scotland, Romero’s tomb in the Crypt of she believed it was a ‘bit of www.bcos.org. uk, put forward comprehensive way. makes such coverage easier, by there are seven child sex abuse San Salvador Metropolitan banter’ and did not believe the 8 recommendations—all of As a visible and high profile releasing an audit of allega- cases every day in this country, Cathedral, Associated Press comment would be seen which were accepted. Within institution in society with a tions every year. These figures 2,555 case per year. In order to reports. publicly. The start of the online three months of publication, media office which journalists are available online and can be give the perspective, which is The priest was post said ‘Keeping quiet on the Church published its imple- can contact at any time for viewed by anyone. Surpris- conspicuously absent from all assassinated on March 24, Facebook’ and while the mentation plan, setting out the response and comment, the ingly, other churches don’t do public discussion and media 1980, as he celebrated Mass Crown argued that it could be action it will take, with church is easy to cover. This this. Neither do national youth coverage, here are the Church in a hospital chapel in San seen as sarcastic, the sheriff timescales and accountability. however, doesn’t explain the or voluntary groups. Neither figures for recent years: 2012: Salvador. He had spoken out said it might suggest she did It too can be viewed on the shocking complacency on the does the NHS or our Local 11 allegations (nine historical), against repression of the poor not intend for it to be seen by a Conference website. part of Scotland’s media, who Authorities or Police Scotland. 2011: six allegations (two his- by the army at the beginning ‘wider audience rather than The McLellan Commission have failed utterly to bring to That’s not something you’ll torical). 2010: 8 allegations of El Salvador’s 1980-1992 one individual.’ took just under two years to public attention a problem read about either. Incredibly, (seven historical), 2009: 3 alle- civil war between the A rare victory for common complete its report, all of their which shames us all. Among there is no public clamour for gations (all historical), 2008: right-wing government and sense over the professionally recommendations will be com- the statistics you will not read any of them to do so. No news- 11 allegations (all historical), leftist rebels, a conflict that offended… pleted in a similar timescale, in a newspaper anytime soon paper denunciations of their 2007: two allegations (one his- by December 2017. Task are these: lack of transparency, no torical), 2006: 5 allegations groups have already started detailed investigations of the (one historical) of the allega- work, a Theology of Safe- ccording to Scottish well-being and safety of the tions listed here, it is worth guarding has been agreed, Government research, hundreds of thousands of chil- noting, that over a third were work is underway on establish- in 2012/13 in Scotland, dren who pass through these made against volunteers or ing the mechanism for survivor A9,100 children reported experi- institutions every year. Instead, parishioners, not clergy. involvement and individuals encing sexual abuse. In the a relentless and almost exclu- Any abuse is utterly wrong are being invited to participate same year, there were 3400 sive focus on the policies and and must be completely con- in the independent body rec- recorded offences, which the procedures of the Catholic demned. Keeping our heads in ommended by the Commis- police judged to be a crime. Church—in a country where 8 the sand, by pretending the sion. You might think this There were also 500 defen- per cent of the population Church has an enormous prob- action would merit some com- dants brought before a court on aren’t Catholics! lem and wider society hasn’t is mendation, but in fact it child sexual abuse charges and To repeat, there were 3400 one of the greatest deceptions has been met with constant 400 offenders found guilty of recorded offences of sexual of our time. criticism. child sexual offences. abuse against children in 2013. It is for others to demon- The Scottish Government’s In the same year, there were no I Peter Kearney is director of strate the same level of com- Exploring the Scale and Nature allegations made against the Scottish Catholic Media mitment which the Catholic of Child Sexual Exploitation in Catholic clergy or church staff Office.

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FEATURE 11 Lourdes Grotto preparing to receive 1000 children with disabilities this Easter

HCTP welcomes clergy, pilgrims to diamond jubilee at Lourdes Basilica

ARDINAL Vincent trained volunteers. Near the Nichols, Arch- grotto of Masabielle Cardinal bishop of Westmin- Nichols is set will meet ster, and Monika, Daniel, Pawel, Grze- Archbishop Leo gorz, Sandra, Marcin, and six Cushley of St Andrews and others from the nursing home Edinburgh will celebrate the in Cracow who will go to Lour- Cdiamond anniversary of HCPT des this Easter, with the support in the Basilica at Lourdes this of HCPT Polska and all those Easter in the Year of Mercy. working hard to bring joy to At a time, when the worldly their lives and make their worries seem too heavy for dreams come true. many of us, when the going Monica can move her left gets too rough, over 1000 dis- hand, her four limbs are paral- (Clockwise for top abled children and youth from ysed. Daniel also has been suf- left) Monica and around the world, with various fering from paralysis. Paweł Andrew Keogh impairments, are setting out on has complete hearing loss, from HCPT Polska, their Easter Pilgrimage. Zuzia has Down Syndrome. Cracow, 2016. “Let the children alone, and Their world is limited to a Scots at an trust do not hinder them from com- nursing home, a hospital, a Mass.Archbishohp ing to Me; for the kingdom of church, and a school, if they Leo Cushley and heaven belongs to such as are lucky to go to any school. Cardinal Vincent these.” (Matt 19:14) They have never been abroad will meet HCPT For 60 years’ the British before, never took a flight. Poland in Lourdes Charity HCPT (Hosanna House The pilgrimage to Lourdes at at Easter 2016 Children’s Pilgrimage Trust) Easter time is a chance and a has been organising Easter pil- journey of a lifetime. Last year grimages for disabled and dis- many attended the Trust Mass, advantaged children from all which takes place every Thurs- over the world to make a pil- day in the Basilica at Lourdes grimage to Lourdes, who are after Easter Sunday. This year supported by family members, Cardinal Nichols of England professional medical staff, doc- and Wales will celebrate this tors, nurses, religious and Mass live on the Internet. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 LIFE MATTERS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LIFE MATTERS 13

HE 40 Days for Life initiative comes to a close this weekend. It has been six weeks of dedicated witness to the value of human life undertaken by people from all over Scotland. We are used to giving public witness in Scotland to many areas where important values are at stake. People routinely gather at Faslane to express their concern for the potential loss of Tlife from nuclear weapons; public gatherings have been held in the face of welfare cuts, wars, fox-hunting and an array of other issues; and every now and then we are reminded of the value of every human life when people gather outside a US prison to pray for the life about to be ended by death penalty and to protest against that sanction still existing. It would be unusual therefore if the issue of abortion, which accounts for the real loss of many thousands of lives each year, did not motivate people to gather publicly to pray and give witness to their objection. It is understandable that some people would have reservations about such an undertaking. The media have not helped in presenting the reality of what such a vigil entails and the vested interests of the abortion industry are eager to keep this issue hidden from the public eye. They can dream up a thousand excuses why we should continue to keep the killings out of mind. For those who have participated or observed the vigil at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow, their experiences will bear out that it is a very positive and dignified event. There is an air of peace and tranquillity around those who stand with their placards and they are routinely given supportive toots from passing cars and thumbs-up signs. The negative responses are by far in the minority and it must be with some degree of perplexity that motorists observe a group of people willing to stand day-in and day-out in the bleakest of Scottish weather. An early lent this year has meant that temperatures are often freezing when the vigil commences at 8am and likewise in the dark hours at the end of the day. But the participants seem to have a warmth from within that makes their time of witness not only bearable but enjoyable. Many return each day because the experience is so uplifting and those who travel from even the other side of the country are motivated to make the effort to return on a weekly basis. The numbers on the vigil (right) for a particular hour regularly go in to the twenties. That’s a lot of people 12 hours a day for 40 days and the spirits have remained resolutely strong. There is a particular buzz of excitement on the special occasions when for instance a priest comes to join the group, as several have done regularly, or when a group of young people come along. Families with young children have been a common feature and they all are glad to be part of the whole venture.There are also many stories of encouragement such as the bus driver stopping with his passengers to congratulate the vigil team, or the father bringing his two sons who had been born at 24 weeks of pregnancy to say hello, or the doctors coming from the hospital to shake hands with everyone to thank them for their efforts. There are values which society very much needs more of, such as hope, kindness, friendship, compassion and joy; these can all be experienced on the 40 Days for Life vigil. If you’ve not had the chance to get involved you can come along to the closing rally at George Square on Palm Sunday at 3pm or find out about getting involved next year. There are related events and initiatives throughout the year run by SPUC. You will feel the better for getting involved and it will be how we build a culture of life. STANDING UP FOR LIFE Youth Conference Last weekend a group of 24 young, pro-life warriors left LOUISE GRANT, development officer for SPUC SCOTLAND, shares with us some of the pro-life events and initiatives that have taken place—and those planned for the future from Scotland to attend the SPUC Youth Conference at the High Leigh Conference Centre in Hoddesdon, just North of To some it is a snow white dove, to some a bloody sword Scottish initiative. What began as groups of young people If you would like to be part of it or support the event then women, men and our communities. covers a range of topics including the economics of gambling, @spucscotland.org if you would like to get involved. London. There they joined by almost 150 more young Until the last chain falls, freedom will make slaves of us all running monthly outreach stalls throughout Scottish towns please contact myself at: [email protected] or like “There were elements of the play which were harrowing, sport, assisted suicide and teenage pregnancy and abortion. people from all over the UK and some from further afield— and cities quickly built the foundations for the Project Truth our Project Truth Facebook page to keep up to date with not knowing if the young girl Monica would get the help He has published over 50 papers in academic journals. His SPUC Stall at Political Conferences all raring to hear a host of speakers give the participants the The last line is very profound. The freedom of abortion is Summer Roadshow. On the roadshow the team will visit what’s happening. Get in touch, get involved. she needed to choose life and I’ve heard there were tears in research on teenage pregnancy has been featured extensively The devolution of abortion to Scotland, means it is critically most up-to-date information on a variety of issues. most definitely making slaves of many, many people. between five and ten different locations each day throughout the audience!” Rachel McKenzie, Write to Life co-ordinator in the media including in The Herald, BBC Newsnight, the important for us to dialogue with MSPs to build a culture of After arriving at the conference centre, not much time was As well as many other highlights we had the privilege of the week and bring the pro-life message to the public in a Pro-life story touches hearts at SPUC Scotland, said. “But there was lots of laughs too Today Programme, Women’s Hour and Voice of Russia. In life in Scotland. SPUC Scotland will have a stall at the SNP wasted before we were dished our first slice of life affirming hearing a beautiful testimony from Catherine MacMillan. fun way. We concentrate on the first ten weeks of pregnancy The debut of Motherwell Express, SPUC Scotland’s new and hope. Hope is the most important thing. Audiences must 2014, David was invited to give evidence to the House of Conference at the SECC, Glasgow on March 12 and 13 and information. The first talk was by Obianuju Ekeocha, a Tragically Catherine’s daughter, Sara passed away in January, as this is when most abortions take place in Scotland. We play, delighted, moved and inspired audiences at St Mungo’s be allowed to imagine a future that is pro-life once more. Commons Select Committee inquiry into sex education. also at the Labour Conference at Glasgow Science Centre on speaker who I have heard before, but who always strikes me but there is no doubt that little Sara’s legacy will live on look at the development of the baby during this time and Townhead performing under the umbrella ofAGAP’s Lentfest One where an unplanned pregnancy ends up being the best Professor Paton then went to Dundee to speak at their March 19. due to how passionately she speaks. It is very thought- within the pro-life movement and beyond. Not only was aim to show people the humanity of the child in the womb. 2016. The play gives a bird’s eye view of the many factors thing in a woman's life and not, as it is relentlessly portrayed afternoon for Life. Please do call by our SPUC Scotland stall if you are provoking how she so eloquently links the slavery of black Sara one of the most beautiful, inspirational and loving little It’s also a fantastic way to get involved in pro-life activism, to that are perpetuating abortion culture, especially the silence in all media outlets, as the worst thing.” After the matinee Margaret Cuthill and Sr Andrea sat on attending. We are delighted that many of our SPUC Scotland people to the slavery of abortion today. This talk really made girls that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting but her meet other young people with the same pro-life convictions, that surrounds it. Rose, a high-flying management consultant This play is the debut for SPUC Scotland’s new creative the panel. Through her personal healing and restoration Project Truth team will be helping at the Labour Conference. us think about how society has completely made ‘freedom’ contagious smiles and loving persona was a massive witness to make great friends and help each other to build a culture at Motherwell hospital sees Breda every day on the commute, initiative Write to Life. Monica is played by Rachel Beth, experience, she developed a greater understanding of the These young people are students at Scottish universities and spin in a crazy direction. Terrible things used to happen to how someone with severe disabilities can have a happy of life in our country. yet they know little about each other. Monica, 19, and an accomplished young actress who previously performed negative impact abortion has on women and on society. As a have steadfastly given witness for the unborn on many legally to slaves and eventually they won their freedom from and good quality of life. Catherine’s words showed that in The network of young people in Scotland who are desperate boards the train. She is in a crisis pregnancy hoping with Ten Ten Theatre. Rachel currently works as a youth founder of British Victims of Abortion, now ARCH, Margaret occasions. Though abortion has been legal for their entire persecution. Our society then fought for a further freedom, every situation, the gift of life is precious. Despite all the committed to defending life at every stage continues to someone can help her. Breda, the chatty ‘trolley dolly’ on worker for the Dunkeld Diocese bringing together her has since 1988 spoken on a variety of platforms identifying lifetime in the UK, they are the young pro-life generation ‘women’s freedom,’ which introduced abortion to allow challenges that Catherine and her family came up against grow. Especially with the recent proposal to devolve the Motherwell Express will not be silent about the help theatrical expertise and moral passions. the impact of post-abortion trauma. She has also attended that politicians must listen to and reverse the culture of death women to make their own choices about pregnancy. We are, they are a fantastic witness to the love and joy that Sara abortion laws to Scotland we need strong pro-life spirits to Monica needs. Nor will Breda let Rose, the personification Angela Deighan, a last minute understudy for Breda, drew various international symposiums discussing the impact of so imbued in many public ‘health’ policies and ideologies. however, just back where we started. These babies are not brought and what it truly means to be pro-life. It was an bear witness to the pro-life cause. It is encouraging to see of feminist pro-choice, continue to hide behind her icy on her own lifetime of prolife work, and made Breda abortion and looked at how best to challenge the abortion By attending the political conferences they are dispelling free, these women are not free and society would have you incredibly moving part of the weekend to hear that testimony. more and more young people wanting to actively get monosyllabic cynicism. Breda knows Rose has contacts at brightly shine as the show’s heroine. Rose, played by Rachel providers’ claim that there are no long term psychological, the myth that abortion is routine and okay. It will be a great believe that this is totally acceptable, just as slavery was It was a special mother’s tribute to a special. It brought the involved as they are the next generation of pro-lifers, they Motherwell hospital, where she works, that could save McKenzie, Communications Officer at SPUC Scotland, emotional after effects from abortion. opportunity too for pro-life MSPs to know they are supported once totally acceptable. This link reminded me of a particular audience to its feet for a standing ovation and then people sat are our future. In places of study where pro-life groups have Monica’s pregnancy. As the audience wonders will Rose serves to remind us all of the harsh economic facts out there Sister Andrea from the Cardinal Winning Initiative, the in the brave stances which they take and that they are not song by Scottish musician Eric Bogle called Singing the in silence for many minutes afterwards attempting to compose been forbidden we are now seeing groups of students rising acknowledge Monica’s suffering and help her, the big that can be used, wrongly, against the pro-life movement. The biggest pro-life organisation helping women in crisis pregnancy alone at these events—events which claim neutrality and Spirit Home, written about a black prisoner in South Africa themselves as some openly sobbed and not a dry eye up to challenge the restrictive laws on campus. In big picture, the 30 abortions in Scotland per day, is laid bare. question and answer session after both performances was in the UK, spoke movingly on the need to listen to women in diversity, but which are almost by definition pro-choice. who was to be executed. The chorus in particular could be remained in the hall. numbers they have been supporting Glasgow’s first 40 Days Will society itself wake up and resist the death culture which very energetic and lively making for an excellent pro-life event. crisis pregnancy. Sr Andrea also spoke on the transformative It is a great strength knowing that the 40 Days for Life linked to abortion: This was my fifth time attending the conference, but it was for Life event and they are becoming excited about this encroaches on us. Motherwell Express is a poignant black Professor David Paton of economics at Nottingham work of Rachel’s Vineyard to heal women and families prayer vigil will be praying in Glasgow at the same time. my first time as development officer for SPUC Scotland.’ year’s Project Truth Roadshow. comedy, both humorous and moving. Ultimately it tells it as University and John Deighan, CEO SPUC Scotland shared following an abortion. This shows the wonderful interconnectedness of standing Chains, chains, chains, how many souls have died in This year, with the aid of some young people (above right) Planning is now underway for the 2016 Roadshow which it is through the grounded Breda, the pro-life fertility the platform on the first night. Professor David Paton is Write to Life will be developing Motherwell Express for life and how much we can achieve step by step together. freedom’s name? sharing their experience, I had the privilege of running a will take place from August 8-12. We need witnesses, we counsellor and the train’s trolley-dolly. This is a pro-life play Head of the Industrial Economics and Finance Division at further for SPUC Scotland to reach many audiences. There To some it is a way of life, to others just a word workshop on Project Truth to help promote this wonderful need strong, courageous pro-life warriors to join our team. with a sensitive insight into the trauma abortion causes Nottingham University Business School. David’s research are other creative projects so please e-mail Rachel at: rmckenzie I www.spucscotland.org WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 LIFE MATTERS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LIFE MATTERS 13

HE 40 Days for Life initiative comes to a close this weekend. It has been six weeks of dedicated witness to the value of human life undertaken by people from all over Scotland. We are used to giving public witness in Scotland to many areas where important values are at stake. People routinely gather at Faslane to express their concern for the potential loss of Tlife from nuclear weapons; public gatherings have been held in the face of welfare cuts, wars, fox-hunting and an array of other issues; and every now and then we are reminded of the value of every human life when people gather outside a US prison to pray for the life about to be ended by death penalty and to protest against that sanction still existing. It would be unusual therefore if the issue of abortion, which accounts for the real loss of many thousands of lives each year, did not motivate people to gather publicly to pray and give witness to their objection. It is understandable that some people would have reservations about such an undertaking. The media have not helped in presenting the reality of what such a vigil entails and the vested interests of the abortion industry are eager to keep this issue hidden from the public eye. They can dream up a thousand excuses why we should continue to keep the killings out of mind. For those who have participated or observed the vigil at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow, their experiences will bear out that it is a very positive and dignified event. There is an air of peace and tranquillity around those who stand with their placards and they are routinely given supportive toots from passing cars and thumbs-up signs. The negative responses are by far in the minority and it must be with some degree of perplexity that motorists observe a group of people willing to stand day-in and day-out in the bleakest of Scottish weather. An early lent this year has meant that temperatures are often freezing when the vigil commences at 8am and likewise in the dark hours at the end of the day. But the participants seem to have a warmth from within that makes their time of witness not only bearable but enjoyable. Many return each day because the experience is so uplifting and those who travel from even the other side of the country are motivated to make the effort to return on a weekly basis. The numbers on the vigil (right) for a particular hour regularly go in to the twenties. That’s a lot of people 12 hours a day for 40 days and the spirits have remained resolutely strong. There is a particular buzz of excitement on the special occasions when for instance a priest comes to join the group, as several have done regularly, or when a group of young people come along. Families with young children have been a common feature and they all are glad to be part of the whole venture.There are also many stories of encouragement such as the bus driver stopping with his passengers to congratulate the vigil team, or the father bringing his two sons who had been born at 24 weeks of pregnancy to say hello, or the doctors coming from the hospital to shake hands with everyone to thank them for their efforts. There are values which society very much needs more of, such as hope, kindness, friendship, compassion and joy; these can all be experienced on the 40 Days for Life vigil. If you’ve not had the chance to get involved you can come along to the closing rally at George Square on Palm Sunday at 3pm or find out about getting involved next year. There are related events and initiatives throughout the year run by SPUC. You will feel the better for getting involved and it will be how we build a culture of life. STANDING UP FOR LIFE Youth Conference Last weekend a group of 24 young, pro-life warriors left LOUISE GRANT, development officer for SPUC SCOTLAND, shares with us some of the pro-life events and initiatives that have taken place—and those planned for the future from Scotland to attend the SPUC Youth Conference at the High Leigh Conference Centre in Hoddesdon, just North of To some it is a snow white dove, to some a bloody sword Scottish initiative. What began as groups of young people If you would like to be part of it or support the event then women, men and our communities. covers a range of topics including the economics of gambling, @spucscotland.org if you would like to get involved. London. There they joined by almost 150 more young Until the last chain falls, freedom will make slaves of us all running monthly outreach stalls throughout Scottish towns please contact myself at: [email protected] or like “There were elements of the play which were harrowing, sport, assisted suicide and teenage pregnancy and abortion. people from all over the UK and some from further afield— and cities quickly built the foundations for the Project Truth our Project Truth Facebook page to keep up to date with not knowing if the young girl Monica would get the help He has published over 50 papers in academic journals. His SPUC Stall at Political Conferences all raring to hear a host of speakers give the participants the The last line is very profound. The freedom of abortion is Summer Roadshow. On the roadshow the team will visit what’s happening. Get in touch, get involved. she needed to choose life and I’ve heard there were tears in research on teenage pregnancy has been featured extensively The devolution of abortion to Scotland, means it is critically most up-to-date information on a variety of issues. most definitely making slaves of many, many people. between five and ten different locations each day throughout the audience!” Rachel McKenzie, Write to Life co-ordinator in the media including in The Herald, BBC Newsnight, the important for us to dialogue with MSPs to build a culture of After arriving at the conference centre, not much time was As well as many other highlights we had the privilege of the week and bring the pro-life message to the public in a Pro-life story touches hearts at SPUC Scotland, said. “But there was lots of laughs too Today Programme, Women’s Hour and Voice of Russia. In life in Scotland. SPUC Scotland will have a stall at the SNP wasted before we were dished our first slice of life affirming hearing a beautiful testimony from Catherine MacMillan. fun way. We concentrate on the first ten weeks of pregnancy The debut of Motherwell Express, SPUC Scotland’s new and hope. Hope is the most important thing. Audiences must 2014, David was invited to give evidence to the House of Conference at the SECC, Glasgow on March 12 and 13 and information. The first talk was by Obianuju Ekeocha, a Tragically Catherine’s daughter, Sara passed away in January, as this is when most abortions take place in Scotland. We play, delighted, moved and inspired audiences at St Mungo’s be allowed to imagine a future that is pro-life once more. Commons Select Committee inquiry into sex education. also at the Labour Conference at Glasgow Science Centre on speaker who I have heard before, but who always strikes me but there is no doubt that little Sara’s legacy will live on look at the development of the baby during this time and Townhead performing under the umbrella ofAGAP’s Lentfest One where an unplanned pregnancy ends up being the best Professor Paton then went to Dundee to speak at their March 19. due to how passionately she speaks. It is very thought- within the pro-life movement and beyond. Not only was aim to show people the humanity of the child in the womb. 2016. The play gives a bird’s eye view of the many factors thing in a woman's life and not, as it is relentlessly portrayed afternoon for Life. Please do call by our SPUC Scotland stall if you are provoking how she so eloquently links the slavery of black Sara one of the most beautiful, inspirational and loving little It’s also a fantastic way to get involved in pro-life activism, to that are perpetuating abortion culture, especially the silence in all media outlets, as the worst thing.” After the matinee Margaret Cuthill and Sr Andrea sat on attending. We are delighted that many of our SPUC Scotland people to the slavery of abortion today. This talk really made girls that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting but her meet other young people with the same pro-life convictions, that surrounds it. Rose, a high-flying management consultant This play is the debut for SPUC Scotland’s new creative the panel. Through her personal healing and restoration Project Truth team will be helping at the Labour Conference. us think about how society has completely made ‘freedom’ contagious smiles and loving persona was a massive witness to make great friends and help each other to build a culture at Motherwell hospital sees Breda every day on the commute, initiative Write to Life. Monica is played by Rachel Beth, experience, she developed a greater understanding of the These young people are students at Scottish universities and spin in a crazy direction. Terrible things used to happen to how someone with severe disabilities can have a happy of life in our country. yet they know little about each other. Monica, 19, and an accomplished young actress who previously performed negative impact abortion has on women and on society. As a have steadfastly given witness for the unborn on many legally to slaves and eventually they won their freedom from and good quality of life. Catherine’s words showed that in The network of young people in Scotland who are desperate boards the train. She is in a crisis pregnancy hoping with Ten Ten Theatre. Rachel currently works as a youth founder of British Victims of Abortion, now ARCH, Margaret occasions. Though abortion has been legal for their entire persecution. Our society then fought for a further freedom, every situation, the gift of life is precious. Despite all the committed to defending life at every stage continues to someone can help her. Breda, the chatty ‘trolley dolly’ on worker for the Dunkeld Diocese bringing together her has since 1988 spoken on a variety of platforms identifying lifetime in the UK, they are the young pro-life generation ‘women’s freedom,’ which introduced abortion to allow challenges that Catherine and her family came up against grow. Especially with the recent proposal to devolve the Motherwell Express will not be silent about the help theatrical expertise and moral passions. the impact of post-abortion trauma. She has also attended that politicians must listen to and reverse the culture of death women to make their own choices about pregnancy. We are, they are a fantastic witness to the love and joy that Sara abortion laws to Scotland we need strong pro-life spirits to Monica needs. Nor will Breda let Rose, the personification Angela Deighan, a last minute understudy for Breda, drew various international symposiums discussing the impact of so imbued in many public ‘health’ policies and ideologies. however, just back where we started. These babies are not brought and what it truly means to be pro-life. It was an bear witness to the pro-life cause. It is encouraging to see of feminist pro-choice, continue to hide behind her icy on her own lifetime of prolife work, and made Breda abortion and looked at how best to challenge the abortion By attending the political conferences they are dispelling free, these women are not free and society would have you incredibly moving part of the weekend to hear that testimony. more and more young people wanting to actively get monosyllabic cynicism. Breda knows Rose has contacts at brightly shine as the show’s heroine. Rose, played by Rachel providers’ claim that there are no long term psychological, the myth that abortion is routine and okay. It will be a great believe that this is totally acceptable, just as slavery was It was a special mother’s tribute to a special. It brought the involved as they are the next generation of pro-lifers, they Motherwell hospital, where she works, that could save McKenzie, Communications Officer at SPUC Scotland, emotional after effects from abortion. opportunity too for pro-life MSPs to know they are supported once totally acceptable. This link reminded me of a particular audience to its feet for a standing ovation and then people sat are our future. In places of study where pro-life groups have Monica’s pregnancy. As the audience wonders will Rose serves to remind us all of the harsh economic facts out there Sister Andrea from the Cardinal Winning Initiative, the in the brave stances which they take and that they are not song by Scottish musician Eric Bogle called Singing the in silence for many minutes afterwards attempting to compose been forbidden we are now seeing groups of students rising acknowledge Monica’s suffering and help her, the big that can be used, wrongly, against the pro-life movement. The biggest pro-life organisation helping women in crisis pregnancy alone at these events—events which claim neutrality and Spirit Home, written about a black prisoner in South Africa themselves as some openly sobbed and not a dry eye up to challenge the restrictive laws on campus. In big picture, the 30 abortions in Scotland per day, is laid bare. question and answer session after both performances was in the UK, spoke movingly on the need to listen to women in diversity, but which are almost by definition pro-choice. who was to be executed. The chorus in particular could be remained in the hall. numbers they have been supporting Glasgow’s first 40 Days Will society itself wake up and resist the death culture which very energetic and lively making for an excellent pro-life event. crisis pregnancy. Sr Andrea also spoke on the transformative It is a great strength knowing that the 40 Days for Life linked to abortion: This was my fifth time attending the conference, but it was for Life event and they are becoming excited about this encroaches on us. Motherwell Express is a poignant black Professor David Paton of economics at Nottingham work of Rachel’s Vineyard to heal women and families prayer vigil will be praying in Glasgow at the same time. my first time as development officer for SPUC Scotland.’ year’s Project Truth Roadshow. comedy, both humorous and moving. Ultimately it tells it as University and John Deighan, CEO SPUC Scotland shared following an abortion. This shows the wonderful interconnectedness of standing Chains, chains, chains, how many souls have died in This year, with the aid of some young people (above right) Planning is now underway for the 2016 Roadshow which it is through the grounded Breda, the pro-life fertility the platform on the first night. Professor David Paton is Write to Life will be developing Motherwell Express for life and how much we can achieve step by step together. freedom’s name? sharing their experience, I had the privilege of running a will take place from August 8-12. We need witnesses, we counsellor and the train’s trolley-dolly. This is a pro-life play Head of the Industrial Economics and Finance Division at further for SPUC Scotland to reach many audiences. There To some it is a way of life, to others just a word workshop on Project Truth to help promote this wonderful need strong, courageous pro-life warriors to join our team. with a sensitive insight into the trauma abortion causes Nottingham University Business School. David’s research are other creative projects so please e-mail Rachel at: rmckenzie I www.spucscotland.org WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 14 FR ROLHEISER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Trying to deal with the power of fear

helps release it so that it flows out of us. No doubt too we have also experienced this. The caution, of course, is that in expressing anger and giving it release we need to be careful not to hurt others, which is the ever-present danger when dealing with anger. With anger we have many outlets: We can shout in rage, beat drum, punch a bag, use profanity, physically exercise until we’re exhausted, smash some furniture, utter murderous threats and rage away at countless things. This isn’t necessarily rational and some of these things BY FR RONALD aren’t necessarily moral, but they offer some release. We have means to cope ROLHEISER with anger. Fear, on the other hand, has no such EAR is the heartbeat release valves. Most often, there’s of the powerless.” So nothing we can do to lighten or release writes Cor de Jonghe. it. Fear paralyses us, and this paralysis That’strue.Wecan deal is the very thing what robs us of the with most everything, strength we would need to combat it. except fear. The late Belgium spiritual We can beat a drum, rage in profanity, writer, Bieke Vandekerkehove, in a or cry tears, but fear remains. Moreover, ‘Fvery fine book, The Taste of Silence, unlike anger, fear cannot be taken out shared very honestly about the demons on someone else, even though we that beset her as she faced a terminal sometimes try, by scapegoating. But, illness at age 19. She singled out three in the end, it doesn’t work. The object particular demons that tormented her of our fear doesn’t go away simply the existential literature of the absurd. in sight, one of the women recognised Rohr is fond of saying: “Not everything as she faced the prospect of death, because we wish it away. Fear can only The situation was bizarre. First of all, Ms Akhmatova and said to her: “Well, can be fixed or cured, but it should be sadness, anger, and fear, and she be suffered. We have to live with it the women were unsure of whether you’re a poet. Can you tell me what’s named properly.” James Hillman has his suggested that we can more easily until it recedes on its own. Sometimes, their husbands were even still alive happening here?” She looked at the own way of casting this. He suggests cope with the first two, sadness and as the Book of Lamentations suggests, and were equally uncertain as to woman and replied: “Yes, I can!” And that a symptom suffers most when it anger, than we can with the third, fear. all we can do is to put our mouth to the whether the letters and packages they then something like a smile passed doesn’t know where it belongs. Here’s her thought: “Sadness can be dust and wait. With fear, sometimes all were delivering would ever be given between them. This can be helpful in dealing with handled through tears, through griev- we can do is endure. to their loved ones by the guards. Why the smile? Just to be able to fear in our lives. Fear can render us ing. Sadness fills us like a water glass, Moreover the guards would, without name something, no matter how absurd impotent. But, naming that properly, but a glass can be emptied. Tears can hat is the lesson in this? In reason, make them wait for hours in or unfair, no matter our powerlessness recognising where that symptom drain sadness of its bite.” her memoirs, the Russian poet, the snow and cold before they would to change it, is to be somehow free of belongs and how powerless it leaves Wehave all—no doubt—experienced Anna Akhmatova, recounts collect their letters and packages, and it, above it, transcendent in some way. us, can help us to live with it, without the release, the catharsis, that can come anW encounter she once had with another sometimes they wouldn’t meet the To name something correctly is to partly sadness and anger. through tears. Tears can soften the woman, as the two of them waited women at all. Still, every week, free ourselves of its dominance. That’s heart and take away the bitterness of outside a Russian prison. Both of their despite the absurdity of it, the women why totalitarian regimes fear artists, I Fr Ronald Rolheiser is a priest and sadness, even while its heaviness husbands had been imprisoned by Stalin would come, wait in the snow, accept writers, religious critics, journalists, member of the Missionary Oblates of remains. Sadness—no matter how and both of them were there to bring this unfairness, do their vigil, and try and prophets. They name things. That is Mary Immaculate. He is president of heavy—has a release valve. letters and packages to their husbands, to get letters and packages to their loved ultimately the function of prophecy. the Oblate School of Theology in San So too does anger. Anger can be as were a number of other women. But ones in prison. One morning, as they Prophets don’t foretell the future, they Antonio, Texas. Visit his website at expressed and its very expression the scene was like something out of were waiting, seemingly with no end properly name the present. Richard www.ronrolheiser.com

The views expressed in the opinion What do you think of FR ROLHEISER’S comments on FEAR? Send your points of view pages of the SCO are those of to the SCO. Write to Letters, SCO, 19 Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 6BT or e-mail [email protected] informed individuals and groups and not necessarily those of the newspaper or the Church

THE islands of Hawaii are in after joining the lepers of May I be as faithful to others God, you have made all people the northern part of the Pacific Molokai, he started his sermon as you are to me. Amen. in your own likeness and you Ocean. One of the islands is at Sunday Mass with the love all that you have made. called Molokai. More than 100 words: “My fellow-lepers.” FROM 1948 until 1990, Your Son was born as a years ago the only people who Wanting to be with the people apartheid was the system in member of a Jewish family lived there were lepers. No had cost him his own health— South Africa. The word and was recognised by wise one was allowed to leave the he would die as a leper himself. ‘apartheid’ means ‘separateness’ men from the east. island; once people arrived, Let’s pray for those with the and the laws enforced a very He rejoiced in the faith of a they stayed and died there. No disease of leprosy. Let’s pray, firm separation of people Roman soldier and a Syrian one visited, because it was too, for all who are cut off according to race and colour. woman and He praised thought that they would bring from others, for all who are On March 21, 1960, about Samaritans for their attitude back leprosy to those who were isolated in life and for those 15,000 black people formed a and good works. well. The lepers’ housing, whose commitment costs them peaceful demonstration against He welcomed the Greeks sanitation and medical care greatly. Let’s pray for AIDS the ‘pass laws,’ which forced who searched for Him and He were all very inadequate. victims and for all those who PRAYERS FOR THE WEEK blacks to carry identification was helped to carry His cross Fr Damien was a priest from experience prejudice and travel permits with them by an African. Belgium who arrived in Hon- finished, he put all his hand- have caused me, but you know all the time. The police opened Father, may our human family olulu, the capital of the Father, help us to see and love written pages into one pile, no better.” fire in the black township of not become separated from Hawaiian islands, on March in others what you see and and then left the room to get The following day he started Sharpeville. 56 black people you by building barriers of race 19—the feast of St Joseph— love in them. Amen. something to eat. After a while the long process of writing his were killed and a further 162 and colour, of class and belief. 1864. After a short time, Damien he began to smell burning. book all over again. were wounded. It is known as Inspire us to recognise that realised that the only thing he MANY of the world’s great Rushing back into the room, the ‘Sharpeville Massacre.’ we are all made in your image could do for the lepers was to writers such as Shakespeare he saw that his faithful dog, Dear God, I pray for gifts and We remind ourselves of the and likeness, so that we may go and live with them. had no easy way of copying or Diamond, had knocked over the talents that will help me and evils of all systems that declare grow in appreciation of all At first, the people of even altering texts in times candle beside which Newton other people. some people to be inferior people, and encourage each Molokai did not know how to past, nor did the great scientist, had been working. Most of As I pray for these gifts I because they are ‘different’ in other to grow in pride in who take Damien, but eventually Sir Isaac Newton, who died on the pages of his book were know, too, that I will need to some way. We think of we are and who we are called many realised that he wanted March 20, 1727. destroyed. What did Newton work hard at developing them apartheid in South Africa, Nazi to be. to be with them, and many felt Isaac Newton worked hard do? He simply patted his dog, to become more patient; to rule throughout Europe, Pol May we recognise your Son that they wanted to live as and spent some years producing and said: “Diamond, you grow in wisdom; and to be Pot in Cambodia, and Stalin in in our midst, and live truly as Christians. Some 20 years a book. When it was almost don’t know what trouble you faithful in friendship. the Soviet Union. brothers and sisters. Amen.

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FAITH BY DEGREES 15

Catholic news from university campuses via the Scottish EWTN PROGRAMMES faith by degrees Network of Catholic Students SUNDAY MARCH 20 9PM 8.30AM HOLY WEEK RETREAT LIVE SOLEMN MASS OF PALM THURSDAY MARCH 24 SUNDAY FROM ROME WITH 8.30AM POPE FRANCIS LIVE CHRISM MASS IN ROME 12NOON WITH POPE FRANCIS LIVE PALM SUNDAY WITH THE 4PM FRANCISCAN FRIARS LIVE SOLEMN MASS OF THE 4PM LORD'S SUPPER FROM ROME LIVE SOLEMN MASS OF PALM 5.30PM SUNDAY EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY 6PM 7PM THE WORLD OVER LIVE LIVE PRAYING WITH JESUS IN MONDAY MARCH 21 THE GARDEN OF OLIVES 12NOON 9PM DAILY MASS HOLY WEEK RETREAT 1.05PM 9.30PM ROME’S HIDDEN CHURCHES: A LIVE CHORAL MEDITATIONS LENTEN PILGRIMAGE AND SOLEMN MASS OF THE 9PM LORD’S SUPPER HOLY WEEK RETREAT FRIDAY MARCH 25 9.30PM 4PM LIFE OF CHRIST LIVE CELEBRATION OF THE TUESDAY MARCH 22 LORD'S PASSION FROM ROME 12NOON 8PM DAILY MASS LIVE WAY OF THE CROSS FROM 5.30PM ROME EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY 10PM 9PM HOLY WEEK RETREAT HOLY WEEK RETREAT SATURDAY MARCH 26 Faith, hope and charity 9.30PM 4PM PATH OF THE MESSIAH, PART 2 THE HOLY WINDING SHEET: WEDNESDAY MARCH 23 EXPLORING THE SHROUD OF 12NOON TURIN DAILY MASS 7PM 1.05PM JOHN PAUL II AND THE SICK: at Glasgow Caledonian ROME'S HIDDEN CHURCHES: A THE VALUE OF SUFFERING LENTEN PILGRIMAGE 7.30PM 5.30PM LIVE FROM ROME EASTER The SCOTTISH NETWORK OF CATHOLIC STUDENTS in their FAITH BY EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY VIGIL MASS DEGREES column this month let students from the brand new Catholic Society at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), tell LAY READERS’ GUIDE their story and stress the need to be beacons of Christ’s love

HE recent appointment of Fr We are also heavily focused on practising Vincent de Paul parish in East Kilbride. SUNDAY MARCH 20 Mark Morris as Catholic chaplain Following the Mass was a presentation and Palm Sunday. Procession: Luke 19:28-40. Isaiah 50:4-7. our Faith through the corporal works of Response: My God, my God, why have you forsaken to Glasgow Caledionan University mercy, especially during this Jubilee Year of testimonials on the sobering statistics of me? Philippians 2:6-11, Luke 22:14-23:56. was the catalyst to the formation Mercy that the Holy Father has called. global Christian persecution. of a Catholic Society here for the Recently we volunteered alongside the Hope HDWAwas created by the efforts of MONDAY very first time. A small and fledgling outfit, parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary a family of such persecuted Christians from Isaiah 42:1-7. Response: The Lord is my light and my we are not yet officially Students’Association Church for a soup run organised by the Pakistan after finding refuge in Scotland. help. John 12:1-11. T-affiliated. Nevertheless, with the support of Missionaries of Charity. Everyone found this Based firmly on the teachings of Christ, this our new chaplain and our mutual passion, experience to be deeply rewarding, and have wonderful charity supports the education of TUESDAY enthusiasm and love for our Faith, we embrace arranged to take part again in future. the children of St Anthony’s School, Punjab, Isaiah 49:1-6. Response: My lips will tell of your help. John 13:21-33. 36-38. the challenge. Our goal is simple: to provide “It is simply concrete actions of mercy and aims to promote equality and tolerance a hub in which the students of GCU can come that follow the teachings of Jesus,” Rosie among their communities. WEDNESDAY together and openly express and deepen their Healy, a second year nursing student, said. GCU Catholic Society is closely linked Isaiah 50:4-9a. Response: In your great love, O Lord, Faith in a friendly, supportive environment. “When I feel closest to Him, when I truly with Hope: HDWA, just as the charity aims answer my prayer for your favour. Matthew 26:14-25. Cases of Catholic students facing adversity know that I am with Him, and Him with me, to promote tolerance and understanding from the authorities are troubling, but thankfully is when I get to do the simplest and yet most through education, so too is the hope that our HOLY THURSDAY not universal. At GCU (above), quite the difficult daily thing, loving another. Giving society can reach out to other members of Chrism Mass. Isaiah: 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9. Response: I will opposite is true. We are extremely grateful and being in service to those in need even in the university community to deepen their sing of your love forever, O Lord. Apocalypse 1:5-8. Luke to the university for their assistance in helping tolerance and understanding of our Faith. 4:16-21. Evening Mass of the Lordʼs Supper. Exodus the things that seem so simple like spending 12:1-8, 11-14. Response: The blessing cup that we us set up, and their warm encouragement for a couple of hours giving soup to the hungry. The opportunity to stand in solidarity with bless is a communion with the Blood of Christ. 1 our endeavours. Furthermore, we have been It’s a humbling and wonderful experience, a our brothers and sisters who are suffering in Corinthians 11:23-26. John 13:1-15. thoroughly blessed in having the Scottish true gift from God.” silence worldwide each day, retaining an Network of Catholic Students exist as a body FernandoAlmeida, a PhD civil engineering unwavering faith in Christ, is an opportunity GOOD FRIDAY over the past year. Through its meetings and student, added: “Our food fed their body, but too solemn, too beautiful and too important Celebration of the Passion of the Lord. Isaiah 52:13- work, we have subsequently had frequent their love fed our souls. A simple person for us to ignore. 53:12. Response: Father into your hands I commend my interactions with members of the University with simple passions, who loves reading or In this increasingly secular world, we, as spirit. Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9. John 18:1-19; 42. of Strathclyde Catholic Society and Glasgow listening to the radio has so much more to students, have identified a pressing need for SATURDAY University Catholic Association, from whom teach us than any book could express. It’s so a community that will support us in integrating The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night. Genesis 1:1-2:2. we have received extensive guidance, good great to meet people, to share experiences our Faith and university life. We are aware Response: Send forth your spirit, O Lord, and renew the ideas, and ‘how-to’ tips on best practice. and to learn from the differences. God can of the difficulties we may face, still new and face of the earth. OR The Lord fills the earth with His love. At our new society, prayer and study of the indeed act in small gestures and we just need finding our feet, but wholly committed and Genesis 22:18. Response: Preserve me, God, I take refuge Catechism are vital to us students increasing to be open to them. Thank you for the determined to see this through and ultimately in you. Exodus 14:15-15:1. Response: I will sing to the our understanding of the principles and values amazing opportunity!” set the tone for generations to come. As we Lord, glorious his triumph! Isaiah 54:5-14, Response: I of our Catholic Faith, and how to apply and continue to grow, we hope to stand united as will praise you, Lord, you have rescued me. Isaiah 55:1-11. promote them in our daily lives. Our chaplaincy ith four of the same Missionaries a loving and supportive community united Response: With Joy you will draw water from the wells of Charity recently martyred in of salvation. Baruch 3:9-15, 32-4:4. Response: You have currently does so by providing regular by our faith and fraternity. the message of eternal life, O Lord. Ezekiel 36:16-17a, weekly Mass and meeting fortnightly to Yemen, our most current venture 18-28. Response: Like a deer that yearns for running watch Bishop Robert Barron’s Catholicism was to contribute our gifts and abilities in a I What do you think about this month’s W Faith by Degrees column? Have your say streams, so my soul is yearning for you my God. OR series. Through this programme we share and Holy Mass offered for Persecuted Christians, (When Baptism is celebrated) Response: With joy you reflect on the insights we gain from each by Bishop Joseph Toal of Motherwell, and on the Scottish Network of Catholic Students will draw water from the wells of salvation OR A pure episode in hopes to gain a more comprehensive organised by Scottish charity, Hope: Human Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com heart create for me, O God. Romans 6:3-11. Response: understanding of Christ and His Church. Development and Welfare Association,’ at St /scotncs Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! Luke 24:1-12. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 16 FAITH IN CULTURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Shoots of new life flourishing once again FAITH IN CULTURE gives an insight into a charitable organisation in Edinburgh dedicated to reviving community spirit

in our midst. Edinburgh Council and the Lottery also introduced to Will, a community education to improve the local culture. The ultimate aim is worked in partnership to make sure that the right worker, today he cooks veggie burgers on a barbeque about creating a happier, healthier and more engaged result transpired allowing long neglected districts as another helper serves hot non-alcoholic beverages hamlet, which will also focus on improving such as The Inch, Craigmiller, Gilmerton and Mordun on a sunny Sunday afternoon in the middle of employment opportunities while reaching out to By Richard to benefit. winter. Others sell scented candles, home baking the disenfranchised. For too long many people The Old Dalkeith Road in Edinburgh is a busy and a variety of arts and crafts. with mental health problems or self-esteem issues thoroughfare often featuring the blue lights of Will talks of being motivated by community have been left to languish. Here the development Purden ambulances making their way to The Royal Infirmary, pioneers such Patrick Geddes who blended his of new friendships and learned skills are helping Lothian Buses taking packed double deckers into combined talents of town planning and sociology some lead more inclusive and independent lives. IG (Bridgend Inspiring Growth) is Princes Street and commuters making their way to to build an international reputation that led him to Perhaps further inspired by the ideas of Patrick a charitable and community-led county towns around the Scottish Borders. Walking work in places such as India, Palestine and France. Geddes, BIG hopes that this initiative will help organisation in South-East Edinburgh along the road and past the Cameron Toll shopping He suggests that the Scot’s work provided a more people discover new resources deep within and based at what was once a deserted centre it is easy to overlook this busy social hub humane and practical approach to building modern around the local environment leading to more farmhouse. The social initiative was tucked away by the side of the road. Arriving at societies. BIG has undoubtedly improved the economic activity in the area. recently awarded almost £1million by the Big Lottery Bridgend Farmhouse after being invited by a social capital of the area attracting a wide range Fund after a five-year battle to secure the building. neighbour I was greeted by another old friend. Hilary people who contribute to this diverse and inclusive erhaps a challenge for us all is to recognise BThere was something of an 11th hour shift in was a notable presence in the UK’s independent hub. Will also discussed some of the locals who the decline in our own communities while events as the 19th century structure was said to be music scene and she was also a significant and have benefited from recent developments. figuring out how we can make a change to one hour away from being turned into a guest house. influential person in my life. It was no surprise to “There was one young person who resided in the Phelp? How easy it is to get lost in consumption and Perhaps it is proof that miracles are still very much find her working on a project such as this. I was Craigmillar high flats. He had been living an isolated technology, turning us into a society that is socially existence, but the farmhouse became a centre point inept and afraid to make eye contact with those for him and it engaged his enthusiasm. It has lifted who might need our help and resources. A recent the spirits of a lot of young people who are able to BBC documentary focused on Scottish entrepreneur Gordius No 238 contribute ideas and bring something of themselves. Tom Hunter who visited the Bridgend Farmhouse, CROSSWORD We have also an older disabled man who used to he spoke to young mothers about how the project play for Notts County, he had a brain aneurism and has impacted them. You could see engaged parents found himself quite lonely and without a network with their children getting their hands dirty while 123 4 5 6 7 of support, the farmhouse helps provide that.” engaging in meaningful activities and learning BIG also works in partnership with mental about how local produce can serve the community health services, adult education bodies and local rather than fully relying on corporate enterprise. 8 9 schools as well as a various projects and groups Beyond the farmhouse are path-ways leading to which look to engage with the disadvantaged in a woodland filled with wildlife that includes deer, and around the many post-industrial council homes pheasant and rabbit. It’s an ancient and eternal 10 11 12 in the area. What people can bring to this mini beauty, a kind of Eden. On a clear day you can First entry out the hat on FRI society is relatively flexible but its facilities will look out over the sea and watch the boats while 13 14 MARCH 25 will be the winner eventually include a cafe, community kitchen, sitting at an abandoned picnic table. I’m sure it outdoor pursuits, a bike workshop, a community won’t be long before others in the community garden, art exhibitions and meeting rooms where discover it, perhaps leaving life’s troubles and Send your completed 15 16 17 people can organise and exchange ideas about how turbulences behind... at least for a while. crossword entries—along with 18 your full name address and

19 20 daytime phone number—to CROSSWORD CONTEST SCO 19 SUDOKU 21 22 23 WATERLOO ST GLASGOW G2 6BT SIMPLE 1 7 24 25 The winner’s name will be printed below. 8 9 2 7 3 24 89 6 5 7 1 1 7 58 32 6 4 9 26 27 The editor’s decision is final 5 1 9 5 6 9 1 748 2 3 3 9 7 8 24 1 5 6 ACROSS MARCH 11 2548 1 679 3 1 Pub (3) 8 61 2 3 It’s perfectly OK to take one’s entitlement in pluvial SOLUTION 654 391 2 8 7 form (5,2,4) 8 4 5 796 13 2 ACROSS 587 6 8 The silver part of every cloud? (6) 9125384 76 9 Creature that lives in a drey (8) 1 Cog 3 Fillet steak 7 1 6 2 53 4 89 10 Actions, feats (5) 8 Parish council 6 85 3 11 Get more credit for a mobile that may be given to the 9 Outdated 10 Atoms FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY little dog (3,2) 11 Slang 13 Syrup 13 Set up for electrical use (5) 15 Heedful 20 Heels 6 9 3 AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 15 The prisoner breaks a tip inside a palaeolithic 23 Whelp 24 Approved AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS dwelling (7) 25 Meteor 26 Tastelessly 9124 THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 16 Pillage (7) 27 Sly WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 20 Wander, but don’t go around, right? (5) IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE 21 Group of pundits (5) 3 8 23 That young bird is a fashionable character (5) DOWN IS THE MAR 11 SIMPLE SOLUTION 24 Dispirited to see feathers thrown (8) 1 Captain Hook 25 Rank, like butter that has gone bad (6) 2 Gargoyle 3 Fuses MODERATE 26 Merely delay changes to a race for swimmers (6,5) 4 Leotard 5 Sides 27 Work steadily and diligently (3) 6 Entrap 7 Kid 4 8 5 12 Guilty party 4 2 9 8 6 1 7 5 3 DOWN 13 South Korea 14 Pious 871 4 875 3 4 9 2 6 1 1 Office equipment you get with some canine 17 Careless 18 Reredos grooming? (7,4) 19 Grapes 22 Atone 1 6 3 7 52 8 9 4 2 Silver medal competitor (6-2) 23 Weedy 24 Act 9 6 7 4 1 9 5 6 23 8 3 Steps of a ladder (5) 2 9 5 8 631 4 7 4 It’s not her Conservative that deals with the past (7) 5&12d One might transact spiky aid for Ireland's national MARCH 4’s crossword 6 428 3 8 6 4 7 215 9 holiday (5,8,3) competition winner was: 6 7 8 2 1 4 9 3 5 6 Very sudden (6) Mr P Kerr, Gartcosh 8 5 3 4 6 9 7 81 2 7 No score (3) 12 See 5 down 9 1 2 583 74 6 13 Breakers (5) 1 3 9 2 14 Dawdle with many a comrade-in-arms (5) Scottish Catholic Observer: FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY 17 Trophy competed for in men’s tennis (5,3) Scotland’s only national 3 7 AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 18 The girl set about providing some cartilage (7) Catholic weekly newspaper AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS 19 Chewed as a rodent does (6) printed by Trinity Mirror, Oldham. THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 22 Would such money dispel one’s ulcer? (5) Registered at the Post Office 576 2 WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 23 Insane (5) 24 Indistinct (3) as a newspaper. IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE IS 9 5 8 THE MAR 11 MODERATE SOLUTION WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CHURCH NOTICES 17

COME AND CELEBRATE HOLY WEEK AND EASTER CHURCH&PUBLICNOTICES Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, Coursington Road andSt Luke’s Church, Davaar Drive. Sunday 20th March Palm Sunday

MOTHERWELL DIOCESAN CHOIR St. Michael’s, Moodiesburn Palms blessed and distributed at all Masses Directed by John Pitcathley (Glenmanor Ave, G69 0DL) Saturday Vigil Mass in St Luke’s at 4.30 pm Saturday Vigil Mass in the Cathedral at 5.30 pm. announces Sunday Mass in St Luke’s at 9.30 am. present Sunday Masses in the Cathedral at 10.30 am and 6.30 pm. A Day of Confessions Tuesday 22nd March “The Music of Mercy” On Monday of Holy Week Annual Lenten Meditation - “The Music of Mercy” - presented by Motherwell Diocesan Choir in the Cathedral at 7.30 pm. From after 10.00am Mass until 8.00pm. A Holy Week reflection for Thursday 24th March Holy Thursday A different priest each hour. the Year of Mercy Mass of the Chrism celebrated by Bishop Joseph Toal with the priests, deacons, religious and lay All are welcome. faithful of the diocese of Motherwell in the Cathedral at 11.30 am. in Mass of the Lord’s Supper in St Luke’s with Collection for the Poor at 6.00 pm. The Cathedral, Motherwell Mass of the Lord’s Supper in the Cathedral with Collection LEGION OF MARY for the Poor, Washing of the Feet and Procession to the GOOD FRIDAY Altar of Repose at 7.30 pm. Tuesday 22nd March at 7.30pm PUBLIC WAY OF THE CROSS Watching at the Altar of Repose in the Cathedral 7 CHURCHES until Night Prayer at 11.00 pm. 7 SORROWS OF OUR LADY 7 LAST WORDS OF JESUS ALL WELCOME WALK SOME OF THE WAY IN PENANCE FOR SIN Friday 25th March Good Friday N.B- BRING ROSARIES AND SUITABLE CLOTHING Morning Prayer in the Cathedral at 10.00 am. 9.00am: St Peter Claver, Bellshill Stations of the Cross in the Cathedral at 12 noon. 9.20am: Sacred Heart, Bellshill Good Friday Liturgy in the Cathedral at 3.00 pm. 10.00am: Holy Family, Mossend Good Friday Liturgy in St Luke’s at 6.00 pm. 10.40am: Christ the King, Holytown (Tea & Juice) Prayers Around the Cross in the Cathedral at 7.30 pm. ST. CONVAL’S CEMETERY - BARRHEAD 11.45am: St John Bosco, New Stevenson Bishop John Keenan 12.30pm: St Francis Xavier, Carfin Saturday 26th March Holy Saturday 1.00pm: Glass Chapel, Carfin Grotto Invites you to a Morning Prayer in the Cathedral at 10.00 am. CONCELEBRATED MASS The Vigil of Easter in the Cathedral at 7.30 pm. On Opinions of advertisers are not Sunday 27th March Easter Sunday Divine Mercy Sunday, 3rd April 2016 necessarily those held by Holy Mass with Renewal of Baptismal Promises in St at 2:00pm. Luke’s at 10.30 am The Scottish Catholic Observer Holy Mass with Renewal of Baptismal Promises in ALL WELCOME the Cathedral at 10.30 am. Holy Mass with Renewal of Baptismal Promises in the Cathedral at 6.30 pm. Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral: 01698 263045 THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES - CARFIN See our Parish Bulletinonwww.motherwell-cathedral.org.uk To advertise SUNDAY 3rd APRIL 2016 email: EXPERTSERVICES advertising DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY Daly Garage Doors @sconews.co.uk DalyFamily Business Garage With Over 30 years Doors Experience INSTALLATIONS, REPAIRS & or phone MAINTENANCE OF ALL GARAGE DOORS

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THE JERICHO COMMUNITY Do you feelthat (A Private Association of thr Lay Faithful) Confessions from 1pm God is calling A Community of Men (founded 1974) you to the following the Rule of St. Benedict Holy Hour with Benediction 1.30pm-2.30pm Missionary andwitnessing to Priesthood The Compassion of Jesus Then we The Chaplet ofDivine Mercy 3pm can help among the homeless, the drug and you alcohol addicted and others being ‘passed by on the other side’. Followed by Holy Mass Contact: The community directs Jericho Houses in A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all those who pass through the Holy Door of Scotland, England & India the Parish Church, having been to the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession), Vocation information from: receive Holy Communion and pray for the Intentions of Pope Francis. The Vocations Director Fr. James or Bro. Patrick, Monastery of Jesus SMA FATHERS Harelaw Farm, Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire All the Chapels and Shrines in the Grotto are now open. St Theresaʼs PA10 2PY Tel 01505 614669 Hot and cold food is available for purchase in the Pilgrimage Centre. Clarendon Place, Dunblane Perthshire FK15 9HB Scot. Charity No. SC016909 18 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

RELIGIOUS DEATH DURKAN, Elizabeth MEMORIAM CALDER Peacefully, surrounded by Remembering Iain Calder on her family, at Baillieston the 11th anniversry of his death. McLAUGHLIN ANDERSON Care Home, on Friday, Sr Mary Joseph McLaughlin, 24th Anniversary An uncle and a friend. R.I.P. March 11, 2016, Elizabeth Daughter of the Cross, aged In loving memory of my dear St. John of the Cross, pray (Betty), much loved sister, 96, died March 3, 2016, at husband, Bill, a dearly loved for him. aunt and friend to many. Travern Nursing Home, dad and grandad, who died Inserted by Lucy. Fortified by the Rites of the Falmouth, Cornwall. March 21, 1992; also our Holy Catholic Church, R.I.P. beloved son, and brother, CAMERON DEATHS Funeral took place at Holy Christopher, died January 4, Remembering with love, Family & St Ninian R.C. 2001. R.I.P. Christina Catherine CAMERON Church, Kirkintilloch, on PARKER On whose souls, sweet (MacDonald), a dear daughter, CAMPBELL After a short illness, Thursday, March 17. Unforgettable my loving Jesus, have mercy. sister and auntie, who died 3rd Anniversary niece Suzanne, who died on Christina Ann, aged 94 Inserted by Cathie and March 22, 2008. In loving memory of a very BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE August 30, 2013, and whose special Màm and Granny, years, passed away family. Missed in the morning of peacefully in the Uist and birthday occurs on March 23. every day, Katie (Ceiteag Fhoirbeis), of BECK Our Lady of Lourdes, St Barra Hospital, on Monday, Missed in the evening as Sgùrabhal, Isle of Barra, whom Remembering my dear son, Bernadette and St Suzanne, AUSTIN, William God called on March 21, 2013. January 4, 2016. Much loved John Patrick, who died pray for her. Fondest memories of Billy, light fades away, St. Pio, pray for her. mother of William and Mary. September 15, 2007, and So far yet so near. dear brother, uncle and best Walking beside us each day Domhnall Vincent and Janet. Love Aunt Margaret. xx Sorely missed. whose 56th birthday occurs friend, who died suddenly on of the year, xx Fortified by Rites of Holy Unseen, unheard, but very near. Tha sibh nar cuimhne gach on March 17. RELIGIOUS MEMORIAM March 19, 2010 in Melbourne. Church. R.I.P. Nothing loved is ever lost Sadly missed, never Enfold her in Your arms, latha a tha dol seachad, tha sinn aig fois is fhios againn and you were loved so very forgotten. Lord, treasure her with care, GIVENS And while she sleeps a gu bheil thu a’ coimhead DONOHOE much. 10th Anniversary Kathy and family Gerard (Gerry) peaceful sleep, tharais oirnn air fàd bho neamh. St Patrick and St Joseph, Please pray for the repose of St Joseph, pray for him. Suddenly, at home, on Sunday, Her memory we shall always Our Lady of Fatima, pray for pray for him. the soul of Rev John Francis St William, pray for him. her. March 6, 2016, Gerry (former Mum, Jack, sisters and Givens (Diocese of Motherwell), Requiescat in pace. keep. Hollie, Jemma, Shea and Principal of Mathematics at St brothers. who died on March 19, 2006. Our Lady of Lourdes and St Danny. xxxx Augustines), beloved ‘wee’ Our Lady and St Joseph, BROOKE Bernadette, pray for her. Also remembering her beloved brother of Frank and a much Inserted by the family, Isle of Place Your Intimation pray for him. 5th anniversry husband, our Dad and Gen, loved uncle. Inserted by Ellen and Trix. In loving memory of Barbara Barra, Fort William and Essex. Domhnall a’Doochaidh (Spud), Fortified by Rites of the Holy Announcing, Anne Brooke who passed who died on June 15, 2003. Remembering, May they both rest in peace. Church. R.I.P. Thanking MacNEIL from this world suddenly on CAMPBELL Funeral Mass today, Friday, Births, Marriages, 12th Anniversary March the 18th 2011. Missed In loving memory of a much March 18, at 09.30 a.m. in St Deaths,Anniversaries loved father, John (Iagan), CURRIE In loving memory of Bro. every day since and never 27th Anniversary Brendan’s R.C. Church, Cyril, Marist Order, F.M.S., forgotten. who died suddenly on March In loving memory of our dear Yoker, thereafter to (D.A. MacNeil), who died Eternal rest grant unto her O 22, 1995. R.I.P. brother, John, of Askernish, Dumbarton Cemetery for 11 March 17, 2004. Lord and let perpetual light Our Lady, Star of the Sea, who died March 18, 1989. a.m. No flowers please, Our Lady of Lourdes, pray shine upon her. Amen. pray for him. Fois shiorruidh thoir dha however friends may To place a Family Announcement Contact for him. Be at peace Babs. Your loving daughter Johan Thighearna. consider Mass cards. Patricia Cairney: 0141 241 6106 Inserted by the family. From all the family xxx and Willie, Benbecula. Morag, Chrissie and family. NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES - CARFIN HOLY WEEK PALM SUNDAY GOOD FRIDAY Holy Mass with the Blessing of Palms: Saturday 5pm, Sung Office of Readings and Morning Prayer 10am Sunday 9am and 11am Confessions 10.30am-11.30am Solemn Stations of the Cross 6pm Stations of the Cross with Veneration of the Cross 12noon The Chapels inthe Grotto are opendaily 11am-5pm The Commemoration of The Lord’s Passion with Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion 3pm MONDAY, TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY Solemn Stations of the Cross with Veneration of the Cross 7pm Stations of the Cross 9.35am Holy Mass 10am HOLY SATURDAY Confessions 10.45am-11.15am Sung Office of Readings and Morning Prayer 10am Stations of the Cross 12.35pm Confessions 10.30am-11.30am Holy Mass 1pm (Parish Church) The Great Easter Vigil 7pm Confessions 1.45pm-2.30pm EASTER SUNDAY Stations of the Cross with Holy Communion 7pm Solemn Mass of the Resurrection with Renewal of Baptismal Promises 9am and 11am HOLY THURSDAY A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all those who pass through the Mass of The Lord’s Supper and Procession to the Holy Door of the Parish Church, having been to the Sacrament of Altar of Repose 7pm Reconciliation (Confession), receive Holy Communion and pray for ‘At Gethsemane’ in the Glass Chapel 11pm the Intentions of Pope Francis FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 19 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

McAREAVEY MOORE PELOSI NOVENA PRAYER TO OUR In loving memory of a dear 40th Anniversary 3rd Anniversary LADY OF THE wife and mother, Evelyn In loving memory of our dear In loving memory of MIRACULOUS MEDAL Rodgers, died March 21, mother, grandmother, Elizabeth (Corrance Garven) O Immaculate Virgin Mary, 1988. great-grandmother, Ellen who died on March 16, mother of Our Lord Jesus Inserted by Tom, Angela, Ross Moore, who died 2013, aged 70. Loving wife Christ, and our Mother, Barry and Sean. peacefully in Prestwick, at of Joseph. penetrated with the most the home of her daughter, Our Lady of Fatima, pray for lively confidence in Thy all her. Eileen, on March 20, 1976. powerful and never failing St Anthony, pray for her. Our Lady of Perpetual intercession, manifested so Succour, help her to enjoy often through the Miraculous McCALLUM SMITH DONNELLY the Kingdom of Your Son. Medal, we, Thy loving and 14th Anniversary 46th Anniversary 16th Anniversary trustful children, implore Inserted by all members of Please pray for the repose In loving memory of our dear In loving memory of a dear Thee to obtain for us the her family. of the souls of our loving daughter and our loving uncle and grand-uncle, graces and favours we ask father and grandfather, sister, Ellen, who died March John, who died March 17, during this novena, if they be Peter, who died on March 22, 1970, aged 21 years. MURDOCH 2000, on whose soul, sweet beneficial to our immortal 18, 2002 and our loving Also Robert, who died on 18th Anniversary of our dear Jesus, have mercy. souls, and the souls for mother and grandmother, July 7, 2015, dear husband aunt, Effie, Lochboisdale, From the family at South whom we pray (mention Kathie, who died on January and dad. who died on March 21, Boisdale and Glasgow. your petitions). Obtain for 30, 2011. Sadly missed. 1998, and our uncle, Robert, us, Mary, a deep hatred of Just a prayer from the family To those who think of them who died March 4, 1986. sin and the purity of heart to you, today, We never lose the ones we which will attach us to God A little prayer to Our Lady say. Just a memory fond and true, love, alone, so that our every In our hearts you will stay Our Lady of Lourdes, pray For even though they’ve thought, word and deed may forever, for them. gone, tend to His greater glory. Because we thought the Inserted by Greta and family. Within the hearts of those Obtain for us also a spirit of world of you. who care, prayer and self denial so Those who loved you both Their memories linger on. dearly, that we may recover, by Are the ones who can’t forget. Donald John, Jennifer and penance, what we have lost McBRIDE Robert, Fortrose. by sin and at length attain to Our Lady, Queen of the Holy In loving memory of Jack, a that Blessed abode where Rosary, pray for them. devoted husband and dad, TRAINER Thou art the Queen of Treasured memories keep died March 21, 1991 and his MURPHY Remembering with love Angels and of Men. Amen. O you both in our hearts. dearly loved eldest daughter, 15th Anniversary today and always, Madge Mary, conceived without sin, Inserted by their loving family. Anne Mary, died October 4, Please pray for the repose Trainer, who died March 18, pray for us who have 2008. of the soul of Bridget Moffatt, 1986. recourse to Thee. (three Loved and remembered who died March 11, 2001, St Frances and St Anthony, times). always. and her husband, Anthony, pray for her. Requiescant in Pace. McCLAFFERTY who joined his sweetheart Inserted by her loving family. , apostle Mary, Ruth, Joan and Treasured memories of our on November 15, 2009. HOLY ST JUDE and martyr, great in virtue Gerald. da and granda, Anthony, No treasure on earth can WALKER and rich in miracles, near who died March 18, 2004 1st Anniversary replace you mum and dad. kinsman to Jesus Christ, and our mum and gran, In loving memory of Sleep tight … faithful intercessor for all Margaret, who died February Roderick Anthony Walker, Inserted by your loving who invoke and honour your 25, 2015. daughters Eileen, Brenda, died March 20, 2015. Loving aid, special patron in time of Your love is always with us grandson Damien and husband, father, grandfather need. To you I have mum and da, son-in-law, Allan. R.I.P. and brother. recourse from the depths of , Mary Your place no one can fill, HANNAH Always in our thoughts and my heart and humbly beg 4th Anniversary In life we loved you dearly, O’NEILL prayers. you, to whom God has given In death we love you still. In loving memory of a much In loving memory of our dear Our Lady of the Isles, pray such great power, to come loved mum, gran, sister and Gone from our lives but mother, grandmother and for him. to my aid and help me now auntie, Mary, (Meenacarn, forever in our hearts. great-grandmother, Peggy Sadly missed by his family in in my time of need. In return Lettermacaward), died St Anthony, pray for them. McConnell, who died March Benbecula and Barra. I promise to make your March 23, 2012. McCABE Inserted by their loving 18, 1993, also our dear ACKNOWLEDGEMENT name known and loved and God called your name softly In loving memory of a dear family. R.I.P. father, grandfather and cause you to be invoked. That only you could hear, mum and gran, Mary great-grandfather, Hugh, , Paul Three Our Fathers, Hail And no one heard the foot- Josephine (May), who died MacKAY died May 13, 1990. STEWART His sister Ellen wishes to Mary’s and Glorias. steps March 19, 2009. In loving memory of our dear St Anthony, pray for them. Publication promised. Of angels drawing near. Prayers and Masses are all mum, granny and From Peggy, John, Anne, thank relatives, friends and It broke our hearts to lose you we can give, great-granny, Morag, of Clare, Mark, Mark Jnr, Paul neighbours for their But you did not go alone, These you shall have as Kildonan, South Uist, who and Martin. wonderful support, Mass Do you have a For part of us went with you long as we may live. died so suddenly on March cards, sympathy cards, birth, birthday, The day God called you home. St Joseph, pray for her. 19, 1999. R.I.P. flowers, following Paul’s You’re always close beside us From all her family, Scotland To some you may be sudden death. Special wedding or thanks to Fr. Montesi, St. In everything we do, and Germany. forgotten, anniversary You were our greatest To others part of the past, Alphonsus Church, London treasure But to those who truly love Road for Requiem Mass and to announce? God’s gift to us was you. you, his kind thoughtfulness; We always remember that Your memory will always last. appreciation to Marie Curie. Way you looked, All our love. Thanks to McLeans for Call The way you talked and George, Annag and family, funeral arrangements. Intimations smiled Corby and High Wycombe. Holy Mass will be offered for The little things you said and everyone’s intentions. On did MANNION ORR THANKSGIVING To make our lives worthwhile. 14th Anniversary 28th Anniversary 0141 Each time we look at your In loving memory of my dear Remembering with love, thanks to the 241 6106 to picture wife and our dear mother today as always, my beloved GRATEFUL You seem to smile and say, Births, and grandmother, Mary husband and our precious Blessed Virgin Mary and St speak to Don’t be sad but courage Engagements, (Lena), who died March 18, father, Gerry, City of Glas- Pio for prayers granted. Still praying. – E.K. Patricia or take Marriages, 2002. gow and Strathclyde Police, And love each other for my Sacred Heart of Jesus, have who died on March 19, email sake. Anniversaries and mercy on her. 1988. GRATEFUL thanks to St. St Anthony, pray for her. Congratulations Our Lady of Lourdes, pray Faithful St Joseph, just man Philomena, Wonderworker, patricia@ From your loving family. for her. and strong, pray for us. for prayers answered and sconews.co.uk Rest in peace. Inserted by Joe and family. Elizabeth and family. favours received. - M.M. 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORY SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 FUNERAL DIRECTORY BISHOPS ENGAGEMENTS ARCHBISHOP TARTAGLIA Archbishop of Glasgow, www.rcag.org.uk

SAT19 MAR 11AM Setting out on the Road Recall Day 12NOON Mass to mark the 60th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood of Monsignor Jack Sheridan TUE 22 8.25 AM Mass and meeting pupils at St Ninian’s High School Giffnock 7PM Evening Prayers porteousfunerals.com and Catechesis in Our Lady of Good Counsel WED 23 4PM Meeting EST 1912 of the executive of the Scottish Catholic Education Service. THU 24 An Independent Family Funeral Directors 11AM Chrism Mass in Saint Andrew’s Cathedral 6PM Mass of the Fourth Generation Family Lord’s Supper in Saint Andrew’s Cathedral FRI 25 3PM Liturgy of the Raised within the Catholic faith, with extensive experience Funeral Directors & Monumental Sculptors Passion in Saint Andrew’s Cathedral SAT26 7.30PM Easter Vigi in arranging and conducting Catholic funeral services. 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SAT 19 MAR 6PM Vigil St Margaret’s Cathedral, Ayr. SUN 20 ADVERTISING TERMS AND CONDITIONS 10AM & 11.30AM St Margaret’s Cathedral, Mass. MON 21 To Advertise: Advertisements submitted must contain complete and accurate 12NOON Meeting with Ordinariate of our lady Walsingham in Scotland 7pm Penitential service at St Margaret’s Cathedral TUE 22 information and comply with requirements of all relevant legislation, 4.30PM Finance committee meeting 7.30PM Chrism Mass St Mar- Contact Maire Élise Khoo the British Code of Advertising Practice, and the Advertising Standards garet’s Cathedral THU 24 7PM Mass of Lord’s supper St Authority. Margaret’s Cathedral FRI 25 3PM Commemoration of the Passion The publisher has the right, at its discretion, to refuse, omit, suspend, SAT 26 7.30PM Easter Vigil vigil St Margaret’s Cathedral or change the position of advertisements, or require artwork or copy to Phone: be amended to comply with any moral or legal obligations. The publisher will not be liable for any loss of revenue to the advertiser BISHOP MCGEE 0141 241 6105 incurred as a consequence of non-publication or incorrect reproduction Argyll & the Isles, www.rcdai.org.uk of an advertisement. Advertisements may be cancelled within 14 days of an order being received and not less than a minimum of 24 hours before SAT 19 MARCH 10AM Mass in St Mun’s Ballachulish 5.30PM deadline for entry. Mass in Our Lady of the Rosary and St Columba, Kingussie SUN Email: Any cancellations outside this period will not affect the buyer’s liability 20 9.15AM March Mass in St Finan’s Invergarry 11.30AM Mass in Sty Margaret's Roybridge. MON 21 10AM Mass in St Cumin’s [email protected] for payment for the advertisement. Payment for advertisements must be Morar TUE 22 MARCH 10AM Mass in St Mary’s Arisaig WED 23 received within 30 days. Any order, verbal or written, which is placed for 9AM Mass in The Visitation Taynuilt THU 24 7PM Mass of Our the insertion of an advertisement amounts to an acceptance of these Lords Supper St Columba's Cathedral, Oban FRI 25 3PM Good conditions. Friday Passion of Our Lord, St Columba’s Cathedral, Oban SAT26 8PM Easter Vigil, St Columba’s Cathedral, Oban FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CHILDREN’S LITURGY 21

Our weekly series on Children’s Liturgy has lesson plans and activity suggestions for use with young people who are on the path to Christ Each week, Catechists will find readings and Psalm responses, complemented by prayer, reflection, FAITH discussion questions, and activities. Please feel free to use them as you wish The lessons are created by Adorer-theologians using the lens of the spirituality of St Maria de Mattias, which also embraces precious blood spirituality FIRST While this is the starting point for the lessons, readers are invited to approach them however the spirit moves you The Church is concerned with the availability and understanding of scripture for children who have their rightful place in the Church. In light of this SCO aims to provide a useful tool in drawing children closer to KIDS the Catholic Faith the holes and twist tightly to secure. And so my life is safe, and I will live to tell what G Gently pull the hands apart and maneuver the Lord has done. CHILDREN’S them into a circle to resemble a flower. (R) This is the day the Lord has made; let us G Spray each flower with perfume. rejoice and be glad. G You may also embellish them with ribbon. The stone that the builders tossed aside CROSSWORD 123 G Ask the children to display the flowers at has now become the most important stone. home and smell them often to be reminded to The Lord has done this and it is amazing to us. share their new life. (R) This is the day the Lord has made; let us 1 2 3 4 5 6 Prayer rejoice and be glad. Dear Jesus, thank you for enduring the pain of Second Reading the cross, dying because you love us and then Look for the things that are in Heaven, where Christ 7 8 returning to us again because of your love for is. A reading from the letter of Paul to the Colossians Easter Sunday us. Help us carry the happiness we feel today 3:1-4. into all of our days. Help us also to carry it into Brothers and sisters, you have been raised to life the darkest places of our world to bring others with Christ. Now set your heart on what is in 9 10 11 Reflection the happiness and love that we have found in Heaven, where Christ rules at God’s right side. WHY are we so excited and happy today? you. In your name we pray. Amen. Think about what is up there, not about what is 12 Have you every received a present that you here on earth. were so excited about and made you so happy First Reading You died, which means that your life is 13 that you ran around showing everyone? Why After Jesus was raised from the dead, we ate and drank hidden with Christ, who sits beside God. Christ did you do that? Often we are so happy that it with Him. A reading from the Acts of the Apostles gives meaning to your life, and when He 14 15 16 spills out and we feel that we will just burst if 10:34a, 37-43. appears, you will also appear with Him in glory. 17 18 we can’t share it with others. Peter said to Cornelius and his household: “You The Word of the Lord That is how Easter is! Good Friday was so surely know what happened everywhere in 19 sad when Jesus died for me. I felt very loved, Judea. It all began in Galilee after John had told Alleluia but also like I had lost something or someone everyone to be baptised. God gave the Holy 1 Corinthians 5:7b-8a. 20 very special. Then the sudden happiness that Spirit and power to Jesus from Nazareth. He (R) Alleluia, alleluia. He has risen. He has returned to me. He has was with Jesus, as He went around doing good Christ has become our paschal sacrifice. proven that everything He said is true. He and healing everyone who was under the power (R) Alleluia, alleluia. ACROSS has shown that through love comes happiness of the devil. We all saw what Jesus did both in 1 Rainwater might flow down this tube (9) and life. Israel and in the city of Jerusalem. Gospel 7 Count in (7) After spending Lent trying to become a “Jesus was put to death on a cross. But three The teaching of Scripture is that Jesus must rise from 8 A space (3) better person, here I am now with my sins days later, God raised Him to life and let Him be the dead. A reading from the Holy Gospel according 9 Sick (3) 10 Astounding (7) to John 20:1-9. forgiven. I am new again and with Jesus I can seen. Not everyone saw Him. He was seen only 12 Have some food (3) do anything. I can be a good person. I feel by us, who ate and drank with Him after He was On Sunday morning while it was still dark, 13 Belonging to him (3) intensely loved and want to share that love raised from death. We were the ones God chose Mary Magdelene went to the tomb and saw that 14 Black and white bear (5) and happiness. I want others to feel God’s love to tell others about Him. the stone had been rolled away from the 18 Two-piece swimsuit (6) the way that I do. I want to show and tell “God told us to announce clearly to the entrance. She ran to Simon Peter and to Jesus’ 19 Select, pick (6) everyone of the great things that God has done people that Jesus is the one He has chosen to favorite disciple and said: “They have taken the 20 You put it into a socket to make an for me. I am proud and happy to be among judge the living and the dead. Lord from the tomb! We don’t know where they electric item work (4) people who feel the same way that I feel. “Every one of the prophets has said that all have put him.” who have faith in Jesus will have their sins Peter and the other disciple started for the DOWN Discussion forgiven in His name.” tomb. They ran side by side, until the other 1 You can make these flowers into a chain (7) I 2 A driver presses this pedal to go faster (11) Pretend you are Mary Magdalene or one of The Word of the Lord disciple ran faster than Peter and got there first. 3 Type of sweet (6) the apostles. How do you feel at first when you Responsorial Psalm He bent over and saw the strips of linen cloth 4 The Emerald Isle (7) see that Jesus’ body is gone? Then later how do lying inside the tomb, but he did not go in. 5 Coming from London or Manchester, you feel when you realise that He has risen and 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5b-6c. When Simon Peter got there, he went into the perhaps (7) come back to you? (R) This is the day the Lord has made; let us tomb and saw the strips of cloth. He also saw 6 Pull it up to close an anorak (3) I What are some of the signs that are being rejoice and be glad. the piece of cloth that had been used to cover 11 Young goose (7) used today to symbolize new life? Tell the Lord how thankful you are, because He Jesus’face. It was rolled up and in a place by itself. 15 Adam and Eve's first two sons were Cain I What does it mean to have new life? is kind and always merciful. The disciple who got there first then went into and ____ (4) I If we continue to live our lives the same way Let Israel shout: “God is always merciful!” the tomb, and when he saw it, he believed. 16 Jump over a rope (4) do we really have new life? (R) This is the day the Lord has made; let us At that time Peter and the other disciple did 17 Take part in a play (3) I What do you think God wants us to do with rejoice and be glad. not know that the Scriptures said Jesus would our new life? The Lord is powerful! With His mighty arm the rise to life. LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION Activity Lord wins victories! The Gospel of the Lord ACROSS G 2 Beard 5 God 7 Tea 8 Rehearsal 9 Scarf 11 Guest Materials needed: A4 paper in various colours, 12 Banquet 15 Spout 17 Museum 19 Snow White green pipe cleaners, pencils, scissors, a hole punch and floral perfume. DOWN G Give each child one piece of paper. Ask them 1 Atlas 2 Bargain 3 Ash 4 Draughts 5 Gospel 6 Dilute to fold it in half and then in half again (so that 10 Flu 12 Bambi 13 Queen 14 Quiet 16 Push 18 Mow the paper is in fourths). GAsk each child to trace their hand on the paper making sure not to touch any of the sides of The Children’s Liturgy page is the paper. published one week in advance to G Cut out the hands. This should leave each child with four hands. allow RE teachers and those taking G Ask each child to write or draw on each hand the Children’s Liturgy at weekly one way they will share Jesus’ new life with the world. Use single words or phrases and/or simple Masses to use, if they wish, this pictures to save time. page as an accompaniment to their G Punch a hole in the bottom centre of each hand. G Thread the top of a green pipe cleaner through teaching materials

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 22 CELEBRATING LIFE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016

SPOTLIGHT ON

St.Thomas' parish Neilston recently ran a short course for parish readers focusing on the importance of the Ministry of Lector.The course was introduced by parish priest Fr Joe Balmer and led by parishioner Peter Kearney (above left.) The lectors (above with parish priest) were commissioned last weekend.“I'm delighted that so many parishioners, both existing readers and new ones attended and found the talks both informative and enjoyable,” Fr Balmer said. “The aim of our short course was to make our liturgy as good as it can be and to underline the importance of proclaiming the word of God as well as we can”

Pupils from Lochyside RC Primary School had to bring out their best baking skills and biggest smiles during their latest coffee morning. Pupils from the Fairtrade committee within the Primary school host various events over the course of the schools year and last Thursday the team got together to host a coffee morning in support of Mary’s Meals. The morning was a mixture of great homemade treats and other tasty goodies to go along with your tea or coffee.The event also included a raffle and when the event had concluded the pupils had managed to raise £500 for Mary’s Meal, which was their school chosen Lenten charity.The committee had organised an event that didn’t just taste good it felt good to be part of PIC: ANTHONY MacMILLAN

Christian women working in partnership gathered together on World Day of Prayer from the communities of Lochaber for a prayer service. Do you have a Approximately sixty women came together for the service that was held in St John’s parish in Caol. special occasion The service had been prepared by the women of from your parish Caol with the theme ‘receive children, receive me.’ Pupils from Lochyside RC Primary School also got or a celebration at involved with the celebration and led the community in signing the hymn This is Our Faith. your school that Following the service was a time for the community to chat and learn from each other over a nice cup of you wish to share tea or coffee. In 1910 more than 400 women with the SCO? If travelled to Edinburgh for the World Mission Conference.These women brought their so, e-mail Dan experiences and knowledge they had developed through their ecumenical partnership with women McGinty: all across the world.These women became the start of the prayer movement that is now known as dan@sconews. World Day of Prayer, which brings millions of people from over 100 countries together for co.uk a day of prayer E-MAIL CELEBRATING LIFE EVENTS TO DAN McGINTY AT [email protected] FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CELEBRATING LIFE 23

Bishop Keenan asks parishioners to air views on Paisley Diocese in a new survey

BISHOP John Keenan has are able to be present at the Synod,’ synod was published last month. called for the Faithful of and so ensuring that ‘as many Amongst its conclusions was that Paisley to give their views on people as possible have a chance people had drifted away from the strengths and weaknesses to contribute their views.’ the Church due to ‘bad personal of the diocese via a new The results of this survey will experiences’with priests, scandals online survey. help the team to write the final in the Church, apathy and feeling Paisley Diocese is currently in report and discern the themes judged, a lack of time and a lack the final preparatory stages before and priorities for each of the of examples from others. Falkirk schoolchildren helping the homeless its synod to be opened on April Synod Sessions. At the beginning of the month, 19. More than a year of work has The survey asks people to Bishop Keenan met with synod PRIMARY schoolchildren primaries and S1-S6 pupils youth group, said there had gone into the preparations, with give rated responses to questions delegates for training sessions in Falkirk teamed up with from St Mungo’s High. been a ‘fantastic response,’ views sought from parishioners such as: ‘I feel that there are (above), which he described as older pupils from St Mungo’s As part of the Extraordinary from the three linked parishes and schoolchildren; priests activities, liturgies and Masses having a ‘sense of hope and High School for a joint Year of Mercy, the young of St Francis Xavier’s, St and laity. that are not relevant to me,’ and excitement not seen for ages.’ effort to help the homeless. Catholics collected donations Mary’s of the Angels in Having collected most of the ‘If I have a difficulty in meeting The youth group of St of hats, scarves, gloves and Camelon and St Anthony’s feedback, the diocese have now my commitments in the parish, I The Paisley Synod survey Francis Xavier’s Church in other clothes for a homeless in Rumford, adding that the created a survey, conscious that someone will help me.’ can be accessed at: www. Falkirk is made up of P7 pupils project in Edinburgh (above). project had been ‘a real ‘not all members of the diocese A draft interim report for the surveymonkey.co.uk/r/L75CZDX in St Francis and St Andrew’s Roisin King, leader of the community effort.’

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The children from the catechism class of St Bride’s, Monifieth who will be receiving the sacraments of First 0141 241 6112 to order and pay by card Penance and First Holy Communion this coming year, recently took part in the Rite of Enrolment. The nine children promised to take part fully in the preparations in class and at home. Following this they then signed Name: their names in the Book of Enrolment. Parish priest Fr Michael Carrie told the boys and girls that everyone in the parish would be praying for them as they continue their classes PIC: EDDIE MAHONEY Address:

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E-MAIL CELEBRATING LIFE EVENTS TO DAN McGINTY AT [email protected] 24 ECOLOGY SERIES BEGINS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MARCH 18 2016 Catholics can be a part of the ecological debate DR HARRY SCHNITKER’S new series looks at how the Church interacts with CHURCH AND THE ENVIRONMENT environmental issues, with reference to the Papal encyclical Laudato si’

VER the past few years my SCO series have been devoted to current affairs issues, amongst others to national identity in Scotland, Islam and the position of women in wider society. These have been attempts not so much to present solutions, but to allow a deeper understanding. AskO an historian to evaluate something, and the answer will be ‘this is the story,’ not ‘here is a solution.’Historians do this in the strong belief that a deeper understanding prevents unnecessary mistakes, and that it creates a better space to seek for solutions. Of all contemporary headlines, only terrorism and national identity outrank environment/climate/ nature in the headline stakes. The Catholic Church was always in the debate, but has recently taken a lead in it through the publication of Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Laudato si’. It caused a furore. Many loved it, others, including rather a large number of the Catholic Faithful, did not know what to do with it at all. Some were downright hostile. This short series will try to examine the main question raised by Laudato si’: Does the Church have to play a role in the ‘green’ debate, and on what grounds? Our first question should be ‘what are we debating?’ Encapsulated by the term ‘green’are a very diverse and frequently incoherent number of voices that are all, somehow, commenting upon and campaigning for... well, for what? What do Friends of the Earth or Greenpeace have in common with the RSPB or the John Muir Trust? Is protesting against a housing development in a green belt zone environmentalism? What weighs heavier, climate change or a pristine wild environment—pertinent in the wind turbine debate? Are we talking about protecting the natural environment, nature, or about climate? The confusion is rife. At the most basic level, all—including Catholics—can find themselves in agreement that we should not ruin our planet, that it is pleasant and desirable to have green fields, woods, clean water and birds singing at dawn. Move beyond this level, to say making a choice between income and those singing birds, and differences appear swiftly.

o what is this series actually talking about? Well, it has the word ecology in its title, and so a definition of that word will give the Sgame away. Ecology is defined as ‘a branch of science concerned with the interrelationship of organisms and their environments.’ We are interested, then, in the interrelationship, the way that all things on our globe that have life harm we have inflicted on Her by our irresponsible little more than lip service, though, and when faced holiness!). The green eco flag is waving over our interact. This means that we are asked to think use and abuse of the goods with which God has with a choice between human interest and the wider Catholic schools, but do the parents, teachers and about our actions (how do we impact on other endowed Her. We have come to see ourselves as environment they unreservedly ignore the humans. children, do any of us have a solid understanding living things, including other humans) and about Her lords and masters, entitled to plunder Her at We have seen this in Scotland with the Scottish of what we can accept from the ecological how what we do affects not only other living will. The violence present in our hearts, wounded by Marine Protected Areas Project, or with the absence movements, and what is opposed to our Faith? things, but also other human beings. What we are sin, is also reflected in the symptoms of sickness of crofting interests in the otherwise excellent John With Laudato si’, the Holy Father sought to concerned with is the ecosystem as such. evident in the soil, in the water, in the air and in all Muir Trust Wilderness Map of Scotland. ensure that Catholics had a deeper understanding of The Holy Father was very aware of the totality forms of life. This is why the earth Herself, burdened Many romantic nature writers, some of great this issue. It was a much misunderstood encyclical of the environment, and signalled this in the first and laid waste, is among the most abandoned and ability like Jim Crumley, bemoan the fact that —it was not primarily about Capitalism, nor about paragraph of his Encyclical: “Laudato si’, mi’ maltreated of our poor; She ‘groans in travail’ animals do not trust us and flee when they see us— the economy, not even about the environment per Signore—’Praise be to you, my Lord.’ In the (Romans 8:22). We have forgotten that we forgetting that they would do the same if they saw se; it was about ecology and how we, as humans, words of this beautiful canticle, St Francis of ourselves are dust of the earth (cf Genesis 2:7); a bear, wolf or any other predator. Some groups take should relate to our fellow creatures and wider living Assisi reminds us that our common home is like a our very bodies are made up of Her elements, we this very far, indeed. Scientist, James Lovelock, has space. Yet as this series hopefully will show, Laudato sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful breathe Her air and we receive life and refreshment argued for authoritarian powers for government to si’ sought to address this issue by addressing a mother who opens her arms to embrace us. ‘Praise from Her waters.” enforce—or impose—environmental law. Small severe crisis in human anthropology, in the way be to you, my Lord, through our Sister, Mother Earth, This is powerful stuff, and could have come groups have advocated for bans on air travel, for we see ourselves. As ever, our self-perception is who sustains and governs us, and who produces straight out of a Greenpeace or Friends of the Earth the demolition of cities, or for the incarceration of instrumental in the way we treat others. various fruit with coloured flowers and herbs.’” pamphlet. Or could it? Well, maybe not. The all humanity in urban enclaves. It is often called So the questions are: Are we, human beings, free The phrase, ‘our common home’ and the notion sentence ‘We have forgotten that we ourselves are eco-Fascism, and as a Church we have to be aware to do as we wish, or are we subject to Divine and that we are sustained by the earth, are clear dust of the earth,’ flanked by a clear Scriptural that the Nazis glorified wilderness, too. natural law? Are we mind, soul and body, or are we signposts to the reader that the encyclical deals reference, is the second signpost in the encyclical, merely mind and, by implication, free to do with with ecology, is about relationships. Pope Francis and in the debate. The Pope very clearly states here e, and Pope Francis with us, are moving body and other matter as we see fit? Can we utilise knows what he is doing here. He appeals to what that the human person (above) is part of the on dangerous ground. In the meantime, the world as a commodity, or do we have a duty of he knows to be an almost universal consensus that environment, and through the reference to Genesis the ‘green’ideal has infiltrated everywhere. care as the custodians of the garden, and if the latter, it is ‘nicer’ to have a ‘clean,’ balanced eco-system. that we are here thanks to the creative act of God, PoorW St Francis is trundled out time and again as its is that duty to creation or through a veneration and The second passage makes it clear that the Pope who made us part of that environment. Catholic ‘face’, sometimes correctly (as in Laudato worship of nature? These may be obscure questions, has identified an imbalance in the ecology, caused Most environmental pressure groups, but by no si’), sometimes inappropriately (no, that story but as this series will hopefully show, they are by a specific defect in human beings: means all, pay lip service to the notion that human about the wolf is not about ecology, but about the fundamental to understanding the way we as Catholics “This Sister now cries out to us because of the beings are part of the environment. Frequently, it is saint’s power over nature, a reflection of his can and should contribute to the ecological debate. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK