On Song for the Commonwealth Games I St Anne’S Primary and East End Pupils Join Vaccines Star and Celtic Player for Launch in Glasgow by Daniel Harkins

CANONISATION Special tribute: Mammoth celebrations ST JOHN PAUL II task for SCOT, for John Paul press advisor 81, to visit Academy. offers insight. monastery in Pages 4-5 Page 11 China. Page 8

No 5568 VISIT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER ONLINE AT WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK Friday May 9 2014 | £1 On song for the Commonwealth Games I St Anne’s Primary and East End pupils join Vaccines star and Celtic player for launch in Glasgow By Daniel Harkins

CHILDREN from across the East End of Glasgow came to St Anne’s Primary last week to launch a song for the Commonwealth Games alongside famous musicians and a Celtic FC star. Helped by Freddie Cowan, lead guitarist from The Vaccines, the Glasgow pupils performed their song Let the Games Begin in front of national media and special guests, including Celtic foot- baller Adam Matthews, whose club assisted in the recording of the song (right). Let the Games Begin is being released to raise money for UNICEF, with 76p from each sale going to the children’s charity. The idea for the song came from a conversation between St Anne’s teachers and The Vaccines guitarist Mr Cowan, who has been involved with the school since inviting pupils to London to perform an anti-sectarianism song they had made. Inspired by the Commonwealth Games, they set to work recording the single, assisted by local songwriter Jonathan Carr—who worked on St Anne’s anti- PIC: PAUL McSHERRY sectarianism song—pupils from schools in the St Mungo’s Learning Community, and supporting do anything if you the have the right application. both 11, said that Mr Cowan was very caring and absolutely sensational. It is a moment in all the organisations including Celtic FC and UNICEF. “It’s an amazing, inspirational experience for the had done a lot for the school and that it is hard to children’s lives that they will absolutely never for- Going under the name East40, the pupils have pupils and it is a great song,” the guitarist said. “All describe how good it felt to have such an amazing get. I can already see them growing in self-confi- now released the single on iTunes and hope to see music is like a snapshot in time and that is the case opportunity. “It has made me really confident,” dence. They are really enjoying all of this.” it race up the charts. here. Obviously it stands up on its own but it is added Skye, a 10-year-old member of the choir. Speaking to the SCO, Mr Cowan said that for really a snapshot for the Commonwealth Games.” Jonathan Carr, who wrote the song and plays I Let the Games Begin is now available on iTunes him it doesn’t really matter where the song charts. The song features powerful vocals from preco- piano on it, said he got involved to try and inspire with 76p of the £1.29 download going to UNICEF “For me it’s really about what the children get cious talents Jamie Leigh Smith, 16, and Abigail the children. “Growing up in a similar school envi- to help change children’s lives in Scotland and from the experience and the message it gives out,” Clark, 14, both pupils at St Mungo’s Academy. ronment I know that if I was a young child and I around the world he said. “I remember when I was seven years old “I don’t even know what to say; I’m blown away was able to get involved in something like this it seeing a guitarist at the school assembly. I didn’t by it all,” Jamie Leigh said, with Abigail adding that would have a great impression on me. If it can I [email protected] know it at the time but it put me on a path. I’m not it was amazing working with a pop star. Both girls inspire children to get involved with music or the saying everyone here is going to do music but if are backed on the single by children of different arts then it is worth it. They can do absolutely any- you want to do something it is possible. Music is ages from schools across Glasgow’s East End. thing they want to do if they put their mind to it. really important for children’s education, their per- Laiha, 11, from St Denis’, Dennistoun, said her par- This is just the beginning.” sonalities, everything.” ents didn’t believe her when she told them she A number of headteachers and staff from the Mr Cowan also praised St Anne’s headteacher would be singing with a famous musician. Heidi, 9, schools involved attended the song’s launch and Louise Hamilton as an ‘incredible woman who said it felt great to be raising money for charity. were full of praise for their pupils. Mrs Hamilton, puts everything into her school’ and said the song Reuben, 10, said the experience was amazing and headteacher at St Anne’s, said all the children were proves that we are living in a world where you can really fun while fellow singers Drew and Murron, wonderful singers. “Abigail and Jamie Leigh are

SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT I tel 0141 221 4956 I fax 0141 221 4546 I e-mail [email protected]

“We don’t want any more Rev/Sr/Mr/Mrs/Miss...... orphans – enough Address: ...... Postcode: ...... wounded, enough trauma, I enclose !£100 !£50 !£25 !Other £...... enough kidnappings,” to help the Middle East’s suffering Christians. Syria’s Patriarch Gregorios Please send me information about gift aiding my III said. ACN is working donation and/or setting up a Standing Order ! with Sisters, priests and I enclose a cheque to Aid to the Church in Need bishops to bring healing OR please debit my VISA/MasterCard/Amex/Maestro help to children from ______across Syria. Expiry Date: ...... /...... Valid From Date: ...... /...... Please help them Signature strip code (last block of digits): ______( __ ) to keep hope. Issue No: ...... (Maestro) Signature: ...... Syria’s ! I do not wish to receive information about Aid to the Church in Need . Aid to the Church in Need A registered charity in Scotland (SC040748) Children of Hope 12-14 Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey SM1 4DA ME14AB/SCA "020 8642 8668 www.acnuk.org [email protected] ACN Office in Scotland: Office 2.9, Dalziel Building,7 Scott Street, Motherwell, ML1 1PN."01698 337470 2 WHAT’S ON SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 Bishop Keenan talks to youth at St Joseph’s, Clarkston, after Mass

BISHOP John Keenan visited a working in the community and at St youth group in St Joseph’s, Ninian’s High School, Giffnock, Clarkston, last Sunday where he throughout the year. said Mass and spoke to young An average of 50 young people people about the lessons of in school years S3-S6 have been Christ. attending the group over the last The bishop celebrated the eight months. evening youth Mass to a full Rachael and Seanan from the Church and spoke about the differ- team spoke very personally at the ence it makes when we follow event about some things that had Jesus. happened in their lives that were St Joseph’s youth group has difficult and sad, but also spoke of recently been established by the how God was working. parish NET Team after six young This was followed by a question people from NET Ministries Ireland and answer session with Bishop began serving the parish in Septem- Keenan which the young catholics ber, living in the parish house and present played an active role in.

Bishop Toal blesses new altar in Glenfinnan

PARISHIONERS at St A total of £19,000 was spent Glenfinnan and the surrounding Fr Tony Wood, parish priest, Mary’s and St Finnan’s, on the altar after £300,000 in areas turned out for the occa- said it was a very good evening. Glenfinnan, welcomed total was raised for renovations sion at which Bishop Toal, “A lot of people said what a Bishop Joseph Toal of the to the historic church, located recently appointed Bishop of beautiful liturgy we had and it Argyle and Isles to their near to where Bonnie Prince Motherwell, spoke of the was nice to see the bishop just church last week as he Charlie stayed prior to raising importance of the symbol of the after his impending move was blessed their new alter built his standard at the beginning of alter as a focus of the living announced, so everyone wished thanks to successful the 1745 Jacobite Rising. presence of Christ in the him well for that,” he said. fundraising efforts. A number of people from Church. PIC: ANTHONY MacMILLAN

Day for Our Lady What’s On at Carfin Grotto

A weekly guide to upcoming Church events, OUR Lady of Fatima Scotland more online at www.sconews.co.uk will welcome Bishop Joseph Toal to Carfin Grotto for what will be one of his first appear- FRIDAY MAY 9 and then have a picnic lunch. ances in the diocese since his I Family Ceilidh. Enjoy a Stout shoes or boots, raingear appointment as Bishop of Moth- family oriented ceilidh and and a packed lunch are recom- erwell. buffet. Raffle on the night. mended. Children must be The bishop will celebrate a Tickets cost £6. Sacred Heart accompanied by an adult. 10am Mass on May 13 in a spe- Hall, Lauriston cial ‘Day with Our Lady’ event. TUESDAY MAY 13 The Mass will be followed by a SUNDAY MAY 11 I 10am Mass at Carfin with play—Our Lady Speaks at I Mass Under the Tree. Fol- Bishop Joseph Toal to cele- Fatima—performed on the Sanc- lowing Mass on the Mountain, brate a day of Our Lady, fol- tuary by P7 pupils from St Francis and Mass on the Beach, there lowed by a play performed by Primary School, Gorbals. Also in will be a Mass Under the Tree P7s from St Francis Primary attendance will be children from at the Great Yew, near Ormis- School, Glasgow, on the St Vincent’s Primary, East Kil- ton, East Lothian. Sanctuary. bride and St Paul’s Primary, Shet- This tree is believed to be tleston. over 1000 years old, and John WEDNESDAY MAY 14 The Fatima celebrations will Knox is said to have preached I St Aloysius’ Parish AG. end with a Rosary, benediction there during the Scottish Ref- Parish AGM held in the and a blessing of the roses, start- ormation. Ogilvie Centre Auditorium, ing at 1:30pm. The group will leave Lauris- with election of new parish “We will be delighted to wel- ton Street at 10am, celebrate pastoral council. Begins Parishioners and priest came together to pay respects to a departed and much respected priest at Our Holy Redeemer come the bishop and feel very Mass under the Great Yew, 7.30pm. church, Clydebank. Fr James Martin was appointed to the church not long after the WW2 Blitz bombing campaign and honoured that he has made time in was highly regarded within Clydebank as a result. His funeral was held recently in Ireland and his former parish’s months mind brought many to the church in remembrance.A number of priests came to honour him at the event as his busy schedule,” said an organ- E-mail [email protected] well as Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, who took the mass, while a close friend of the late priest, Mgr Ken McCaffrey, gave iser of the event, adding that the the homily PIC: ROBERT WILSON presence of so many children will add a lot to the day’s activities.

INSIDE YOUR SCO INDEX TO NEWS, OPINION AND FEATURES THIS WEEK EWTN - THE CATHOLIC SATELLITE CHANNEL The perfect Christian present NEWS pages 1-7 LETTERS page 9 CHILDREN’S PAGE page 21 Tel: SAS 0141 774 5000 or 07971 514 703 LOCAL NEWS pages 2,3,4 and 5 COMMENT pages 8-11 INTIMATIONS pages 17-20 WHAT’S ON page 2. CENTRE SPREAD pages 12-13 BISHOPS’ ENGAGEMENTS page 20 for our special offer WORLD NEWS pages 6-7 SPIRITUAL REFLECTION page 15 VOCATIONS page 23 VATICAN NEWS pages 6-7 PUZZLES pages 16 and 21 JOURNEYS OF FAITH page 24 SAS - SCOTLAND’S CATHOLIC SATELLITE COMPANY

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER NEWS 3 Bishop Toal raises concerns over N Lanarkshire school plans

By Ian Dunn school estate provision have been ‘care- strong concerns have been expressed by the community.’ this give any of the children the best fully considered, together with the con- parents and others over the proposed There has been a strong resistance education?” MOTHERWELL Diocese has said sequences that these might have for the location of a school on a contaminated from parents groups to the council pro- In response to the Church’s statement, that North Lanarkshire Council pupils, teachers, families and communi- site [Ravenscraig] which will be built to posals, with the plans to create a joint North Lanarkshire Council said it was school plans risk ‘inequitable treat- ties involved.’ accommodate up to 2150 pupils. This is a school at Ravenscraig facing particularly ‘fully committed’ to Catholic education ment’ of Catholic pupils. “In the past few weeks the diocese has matter of grave concern to parents, strong opposition. in the area, having built two new denom- The Church’s intervention in the met representatives from schools, pupils, the local community and one Dozens of parents protested outside inational secondary schools and nine local provision of Catholic education parishes and the local communities and I which the Diocese shares. These con- Motherwell Civic Centre last Friday to denominational primary schools came last Friday from Bishop Joseph have listened to their views on the mat- cerns need to be fully investigated.’ make their hostility clear. since 2006. Toal, the same day Motherwell parents ter,” he said. The submission points out that at pub- Organiser Tina Provan said: “I’m just a Councillor Jim Logue, Convener for were protesting against the proposed The formal response from Motherwell lic meetings council officers claimed that normal parent, I have a daughter at Tay- Learning and Leisure Services at the merger of two schools on the site of the Diocese then lists a series of ‘significant larger secondary schools are necessary to lor and a son at Christ the King Primary, local authority, said they were ‘fully com- old Ravenscraig steel works. concerns about what some of these pro- ensure adequate curriculum provision. and from my perspective this just can’t mitted to both investing in and supporting In an extensive submission to North posals might suggest about the council’s Yet, they are content to have non-denom- happen as they are planning to take the Roman Catholic education in North Lanarkshire Council’s recent consultation commitment to provide Catholic inational schools with rolls as small as heart out of the two communities and Lanarkshire.’ on school provision, the newly appointed schooling on an equitable basis within 414 in one case and fewer than 700 in build a new school at Ravenscraig “Within the shared campuses we have Bishop of Motherwell raised ‘significant this diocese.’ four other cases. Across the authority, because the regeneration isn’t happening worked closely with the Catholic Church, concerns’ about the council’s ‘commit- The diocese is opposed to three partic- Catholic secondary school rolls would be as quickly as they would like.” schools and local communities to retain ment to provide Catholic schooling’ and ular proposals—a shared campus involv- on average one third larger than non- “Would the council build a contami- each school’s unique identity and ethos promised to ‘stand together with the ing St Stephen’s Primary School, denominational schools. This is high- nated site beside a school, no they would- while enjoying the benefits of the shared Catholic community’ in opposing pro- Coatbridge, a shared campus in Airdrie, lighted by the diocese as ‘inequitable n’t, so why are they building a school facilities,” he said. “We have fully con- posals which would dramatically reduce involving the merger of St Dominic’s Pri- treatment of pupils attending Catholic next to a contaminated site?” she said. “I sulted with the Church on these and other the number of Catholic schools in the mary School and St Edward’s Primary schools.’ am not willing to take any risk with my school projects and we will continue to diocese. School and a non-denominational school In asking for a reconsideration of their children’s health and will send them to a work together towards our shared goal of In a letter to the council, which accom- and the merger of Taylor High School proposals, the bishop assures the council, non-denominational school if it comes to providing the best possible start in life for panies a lengthy submission delivered to and Our Lady’s High School in Mother- ‘that the diocese will always be keen to it. This is proposed to be the largest sec- all our young people.” the chief executive last Friday, Bishop well on Ravenscraig site. work in partnership with the council to ondary school in North Lanarkshire, but Toal says that proposals to alter the The consultation also states that ‘very ensure the best provision of services to with 10 per cent less staff so how does I [email protected] Uddingston parish inspired by Fr Scallon, Sr Briege

1974 Tangney Tours 2014 ST JOHN the Baptist, through the preaching of the “Och, we work well together,” Paisley Diocese Uddingston, has hosted two gospel, and the Church was full Sister said. “And we’re very for- Fly direct to Lourdes last night and full this morning tunate that his order, the Vincen- renowned speakers this week th th as part of a special parish and the last thing on Thursday tians, and mine the Sisters of St 27 of June - 4 of July mission. night will be a Eucharistic heal- Clare have been very good at on the oﬃ cial pilgrimage Parish Priest Fr Dominic ing service.” allowing us to pursue this from £705 per person. Towey welcomed Irish priest Fr She said that she and Fr Scal- ministry.” Kevin Scallon and Sr Briege lon have been around the world Although she says that after Motherwell McKenna (right) to St John the ‘five or six times’ doing healing 40 years of going all over the 27th of June - 4th of July. Baptist, for the mission which ministries and priestly retreats. globe the pair are now slowing Fly Direct to Lourdes with ran from Monday to Thursday, “All we do is try and renew down, they were in Rome for the with a special event which was Catholic Faith thought the teach- Papal Canonisations last month. the oﬃ cial pilgrimage from open to all Catholic clergy and ings of the Church, “she said. “Now I met St John Paul II £705 per person. religious on Wednesday. “But we’ve seen amazing things, many times and as young nun I “The media has been quick to College, he started the Interces- miracles, real first class miracles. remember St John XXIII but I Archdiocese of St. Andrews & Edinburgh pick up on any negative news in sion for Priests in Ireland. Since A young boy in Belfast who had was just thinking there they Led by our diocese in the recent past,” then he, along with Sr a kidney full of cancer, a girl in both lived their vocation to the Archbishop Cushley Fr Towey said. “This event, the McKenna, has been ministering Singapore who was wracked with full, guided holy sprit,” she said. from 4th - 11th July biggest of its kind in our parish, to priests and lay people across cancer get up and walk out of the “Now we can’t all be John Paul Flights from Edinburgh is something very positive.” the globe. church, Muslims converted on II or John XXXII, you can only Fr Scallon, CM, is a priest of Sr Briege, told the SCO on the spot. It’s all from Evangelis- give what you have inside, but with B&B from £632 the Vincentian Community who Tuesday that the event had been ing in the real presence.” you can be the best journalist full board from £706 pp. was born in Ireland. In his early going very well. The priest and the nun receive you can be, the best nun you can www.tangney-tours.com years he ministered in both Eng- “We’ve had a fantastic wel- over a hundred invitations a be, the best teacher, or whatever land and Nigeria. In 1976, while come,” she said. “ I love Scot- month, from bishops and priests it is. You can be Saints wherever e-mail: [email protected] on the faculty of All Hallows land, we are here to evangelise all over the world. you are.” 5126 FREE BROCHURE LINE: 0800 917 3572

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By Daniel Harkins picked to take part in this unforgettable experience. I STUDENTS from St John would go back to Rome in an Paul’s Academy in Glasgow instant. The whole thing was watched as their school’s amazing.” patron was elevated to saint- Fellow pupil Jennifer hood on Divine Mercy Sun- Dempsey said the trip was a HCTP takes 1000 plus children with day from a prime location ‘life changing experience’ not far from St Peter’s while Gary McPhail said it was disabilities to Lourdes in its 58th year Square in the Vatican. inspirational and a great way to A group of 19 pupils and five restore and remind us of our staff from the Glasgow school faith.’ By Daniel Harkins concelebrated by bishops from it, with children dressing up and flew to Rome for a ‘magical The S6 group, all of whom across the UK, including Bishop taking part in singing and danc- weekend’ culminating with the are enrolled for the Caritas MORE than a thousand chil- Joseph Toal of Argyle and the ing. “Some of the children are Canonisations of St John Paul Awards, spent the days leading dren with disabilities from Isles, who has just been named by great performers.” II and St John XXIII. up to the canonisations visiting throughout the UK have Pope Francis as the new Bishop The Scottish pilgrims finished The sixth year Caritas pupils Rome’s incredible attractions returned home after an uplift- of Motherwell. their week with a Scottish Mass, were welcomed to the eternal including the Colosseum, the ing Easter trip to Lourdes. Bishop Toal (above on the attended not just by the HCPT pil- city by the Pontifical Scots Col- Pantheon and the Trevi Foun- The annual HCPT pilgrimage, 2012 pilgrimage) said the pilgrims but also by other Scottish lege, with one of the seminari- tain, and were interviewed now in its 58th year, brought the grimage was a lovely event. people who had made the trip to ans, Cameron Ferguson, twice by the BBC, causing children and their families and “It’s very good; a very joyful Lourdes that weekend. returning from his Easter vaca- much excitement amongst the helpers to the French shrine for a and happy occasion,” he said. Volunteers from the south of tion to show the visitors the pupils. On the Saturday week of faith-filled activities and “The children have a great time; England (HCPT’s “Met Deep sights of Rome. evening, after an exhausting fun. they all get the advantage of com- South” region) arranged activities Rising at 4am on the morn- day of sightseeing, the that something special had hap- Atotal of 12 groups from Scot- ing and spending time on this pil- and materials around the theme of ing of the Canonisations, the teenagers found themselves pened. They had bonded so land (above inset), comprising grimage to Lourdes. We Are God’s House for this John Paul delegation set off for dancing with fellow pupils well. They just felt so comfort- around 250 people in total, made “The children get a lot out of it. Easter’s pilgrimage. The theme the Vatican, braving the rain for from Bolivia in the streets of able with the whole thing—it the trip. The children took part in It is such a happy atmosphere and was chosen partly because Met a position close to the Castel Rome as the lights of St Peter’s being our patron. Something processions, social activities, and they are mixing with others—it Deep South is the ‘home’ of Sant’Angelo and not far from Basilica lit up the city. magical happened over that trips to the mountains and the sea- helps them a lot. It helps many of HCPT. Dr Michael Strode was St Peter’s Square itself. John Paul Academy’s head- weekend and we were side. them bring them out of them- working at Chailey Heritage The pupils took their place teacher Vincent Docherty said delighted with it.” The week culminated in the selves a bit and gives them a new School, in Sussex, when he took amongst a good-natured crowd, there was a wonderful atmos- The Rome visits will cap off Trust Mass, which brought experience. the first group of children to Lour- cheering everytime the name of phere throughout the school’s both the sixth year pupils and together pilgrims from across the “Some of the children have des in 1956. their school’s patron was men- trip. Mr Docherty’s time at John UK and as far as Croatia, Poland, plenty of activities at home but HCPT pilgrimages will con- tioned. “It was absolutely awe- Paul Academy, as both the chil- the US and the Caribbean. Mgr some haven’t got that advantage. tinue throughout the year, with Danielle West, one of the some,” Mr Docherty said. “The dren and their headteacher Peter Brignall, Bishop of Wrex- The experience in Lourdes is 1500 people set to visit the char- pupils on the trip, said it was an day itself was a day that people move on to pastures new at the ham, lead the Mass and his hom- wonderful for them in giving ity’s Hosanna House in Lourdes overwhelming experience. “I will always remember and it end of this term after six years ily called on those present to them that chance to be part of a between May and November. didn’t expect the trip to affect was really emotional. When we at the school. continue building God’s house different group and enjoy that.” me the way it did,” she said. “I got home on Monday afternoon “It was a really fitting end to when they return home after their The bishop explained that the I Visiti http://www.hcpt.org.uk felt many emotions throughout. the pupils were all crying on my headship here,” Mr time in Lourdes. The Mass was trip also has a social dimension to I [email protected] I was so pleased to have been the bus because they just felt Docherty said. “It was such a

Catholic pupils graduate from first children’s university Knights of St Columba

CHILDREN from St to help them reach university added. Mungo’s Academy and St Each graduate collected The Children’s University lectures begin this month Andrew’s Secondary got a stamps on a ‘Passport to Learn- was established last year by taste of student life after ing’ while taking part in a wide Strathclyde University and The Knights of St Columba graduating from Scotland’s range of learning activities out- Glasgow City Council. The are to welcome a number of first Children’s University. side school hours, from gallery programme will roll out to special guests to St Aloysius More than 60 young people and museum visits, to drama, other schools around the city in Church, Glasgow, for a series celebrated their achievement at crafts and sports. the coming months. of lectures that will give mem- a special ceremony at Strath- Ross McCool, 12, a graduate Professor Sir Jim McDonald, bers of the public the opportu- clyde University’s Barony Hall and a St Mungo’s Academy chancellor of Glasgow Chil- nity to listen to and ask attended by school staff and pupil, said the programme was dren’s University and principal questions of prominent figures relatives of the children. ‘a brilliant experience that of Strathclyde University, said in the Church, Catholic poli- Glasgow Children’s Univer- helps you to develop crucial he was ‘immensely proud of tics and faith-based activism. sity helps young pupils to life skills such as planning and the achievements of the young On Thursday May 29, John widen their skills and interests scheduling.’ graduates.’ Deighan, the parliamentary offi- while giving them a route into “I’ve been involved in Sci- Michael Russell, Scottish cer for Scotland’s Bishops will higher education. Groups of 7- ence Club, Geo Kids, the cabinet secretary for education speak on euthanasia legislation 14 year-olds engage in volun- Justice and Peace Club and I’ve and lifelong learning, was also and the Scottish Parliament. This PIC: PAUL McSHERRY tary, out of school hours also visited the Rainforest very supportive of the project will be followed on June 19 by a learning activities which aims Exhibition at Kelvingrove,” he and said the children’s univer- talk from pro-life and disability Paul’s Theology of the body. sity ‘offers our young people a rights campaigner Lynn Murray. The KSC events are intended to wonderful opportunity to make The SPUC member will speak on benefit the local community and the most of their abilities and the perception and treatment of raise the public profile of the EWTN CATHOLIC TV IS ON SKY EPG 589 inspire them throughout their unborn babies and their mothers order. Sky Freesat £175 total cost , no monthly charges. education.’ when those babies are found to The lectures will all be held in 200 Free channels including EWTN TV & Radio. “I’m delighted to be able to have a disability. the Ogilvie Centre at St Aloysius Call Sky on 08442411602 for installation. share this special occasion with The final lecture will be given Church, Rose St, Glasgow, with a Call EWTN on 020 83502542 or e-mail [email protected] Scotland’s first Children’s Uni- by Bishop John Keenan of Pais- 7-7:30pm start. Entry is free and for free monthly posted programme guide and versity graduates and I wish ley (above right) on August 14. each lecture is expected to last 45 visit www.ewtn.co.uk for more info. them all the best for their Scotland’s youngest bishop will minutes followed by a 15 minute future,” he added. reflect on marriage and St John Q&A session. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LOCAL NEWS 5 Rallying support for Corpus Christi

THE Annual Corpus Christi most spiritually valuable and The procession organisers are Procession will enter its sec- inspired Catholic initiatives currently trying to raise the ond year in Glasgow on June undertaken in Glasgow in recent £3000 needed to fund the event. 22 with a faithful celebration years’ and said ‘anyone who Donations can be made to expected to be attended by hundreds of people. took part will have noticed the Account No 10971067, Sort very great benefits that it had, Code 80-22-60, Bank of Scot- The Eucharistic Procession— and the tremendous, affirming, land, or, alternatively, cheques which attracted 600 people last atmosphere that surrounded the can be made out to Glasgow year in an atmosphere of joy and whole event.’ University Catholic Chaplaincy devotion—celebrates the Institu- This year, the procession will at Turnbull Hall, Glasgow Uni- tion of the Eucharist on Holy take the same two-mile route as versity Catholic Chaplaincy, 13- Thursday, and reflects the annual last year’s, which was lead by 15 Southpark Terrace, Glasgow, Eucharistic Processions that take then Fr now Bishop John G12 8LG. place in cities across the world Keenan, starting at 4pm at St Cash donations can also be each year. Patrick’s, Anderston, and ending handed in to Rosemary or Fr Organisers described last at St Paul’s, Whiteinch, with a Ross, at Turnbull Hall at Glas- year’s procession as ‘one of the celebration of Mass at 6:30pm. gow University.

CARITAS NEWS: The results of this communities. The Caritas Awards year’s Pope Benedict XVI Caritas were introduced for the 2011-12 Awards have been revealed, with term. Candidates should contact almost 1000 young people success- their own schools for their results. fully achieving the honour. Pupils The Caritas Awards Ceremony will across Scotland have been sharing take place in the Clyde Auditorium, their time, talent and faith with their Glasgow, on May 31.

The John Paul Academy group (above) gathered near St Peter’s Square for the Papal Canonisataions as well as taking in the sights in Rome (right) with their headteacher Mr Docherty who is moving to Aberdeenshire special occasion for us. We tried to make the children understand that it might be 50 or 100 years before something like this happens again, and that they will be able to tell their W h a t a r e p e o p l e s a y i n g a b o u t children that they were at the canonisation of the patron of ‘ T y b u r n C o n v e n t G l o r i a D e o ’ ? their school.” (The DVD on the Tyburn Nuns)

I [email protected]

ALBA TOURS “Prepare to be Blown away.....” LOURDES BY AIR £655 “The most beautiful and visually compelling film I have ever seen. I didn’t want Local coach transfer to Edinburgh airport it to end....” from Glasgow, Hamilton, Motherwell and Livingston 24 - 31 JULY 2014 “I strongly recommend it to those with anxiety, high blood pressure, 7 nights full board based at Hotel Paradis uresolved rage etc ...” Full Spiritual Programme led by Fr Gerry Haddock Excursions to Bartres/Anclades and Gavarnie included “Be Transported to a place of beauty and peace....” Walking tour and full courier service in Lourdes LOURDES BY EXECUTIVE COACH “Michael Luke Davies - the producer - is a maestro....” LOCAL PICK UPS ------FULL SPIRITUAL AND EXCURSION PROGRAMME Please send me a copy of Tyburn Convent Gloria Deo. I enclose a cheque for Primary 5 pupils from St 16 —25 JULY—LOURDES AND PARIS—Led by Fr Peter Lennon £15.00 payable to The Benedictine Monastery. Teresa’s Primary, Motherwell, 21—28 JULY—LOURDES AND PARIS—Fr Willie Brandon To order online, please visit our website at www.tyburnconvent.org.uk. welcomed some fearsome 26 SEPT—04 OCTOBER—NEVERS, LOURDES AND PARIS Viking visitors to the school Regular comfort stops and free on board refreshments Name:______as part of an education GROUP ORGANISERS - 2014 & 2015 Address ______workshop.The children LOURDES– ROME– SANTIAGO-FATIMA-KNOCK– enjoyed viewing artefacts KRAKOW– IONA—SHRINES OF FRANCE ______and listening to stories about TAILOR MADE PILGRIMAGES BY AIR AND COACH Viking way of life as part of a E-MAIL Reply to: Mother Prioress, The Benedictine Monastery, 5 MackerstonPlace, Largs, recent learning programme [email protected] Member of the Passenger KA30 8BY Scotland Tel: 01475 687320 [email protected] Financial Protection Scheme CALL HCC 01698 262941 WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 6 WORLD/VATICAN NEWS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 Papal prayers for the people of

By Dominic Lynch landslides. More than 4000 people have POPE Francis has asked for been displaced by the tragedy prayers for the thousands of which buried much of the people killed in a landslide Afghan village under mud and in Afghanistan and for those rock. Survivors described hear- caught up in the violence in ing a ‘huge roar’ before a blan- A woman and child the Ukraine. ket of dirt and mud rushed into light a candle in Corpus Speaking to the faithful gath- the village which ‘disappeared Christi Catholic Church ered in St Peter’s Square for in the blink of an eye.’ after teacher Anne Sunday’s Regina coeli, the Aid agencies are assisting Maguire was fatally Pope prayed for the victims of those who survived the land- stabbed at Corpus the tragedy while also reiterat- slide, with tents being erected Christi College i ing calls for peace in the next to the destroyed village for divided Ukraine. the now homeless survivors. “Let us pray for those who Andrew Morris, chief of died because of the huge land- Unicef for the Northern Region Leeds Diocese mourns murdered teacher slide that struck two days ago of Afghanistan, said the whole in a village in Afghanistan,” the area had been declared a burial Holy Father said, “[May] ground. “There is devastation PRAYERS have been said Mrs Maguire died, Deacon Sean those persons close to her and all Almighty God, who knows the because of the landslide,” he across Leeds Diocese for Quigley prayed for the family of those who mourn her sudden name of every one of the vic- said. “Half of one village has teacher Ann Maguire who the deceased teacher as well as death,” Archbishop Mennini tims, welcome all in His peace, been completely buried by the was killed in her classroom at for the family of the 15-year-old said. “May the Lord grant her and give survivors the strength mud. The whole side of the Corpus Christi Catholic Col- boy charged with her murder. eternal rest and the reward of her to go forward, with the support mountain collapsed. Initially, lege last week. Mr Quigley, a retired teacher life of dedication and of service of those who seek to alleviate after the first landslide, men Parishioners at around 90 at the college who knows the to young people and to educa- their suffering.” from the neighbouring villages churches in West Yorkshire Maguire family, told the congre- tion.” Rescuers have given up hope all ran to help with search and prayed for the 61-year-old gation that ‘the school, staff and Mrs Maguire died from mul- of finding any more survivors rescue, but the landslide slid mother of two after the diocese pupils have been consoled by tiple stab wounds after being of the landslide that hit the vil- further and killed all of them as wrote to parishes asking for spe- messages from around the world attacked in her classroom. A 15- lage of Aab Barik in well. It has left a number of cial prayers to be said during and by many gifts of flowers, year-old boy appeared in Leeds Afghanistan’s northeast last children without fathers, and Mass. and also of food and books.’ Crown court on Monday after Friday. 2500 people are feared that is an additional tragedy In a letter to parishioners, Mgr “The family of the young man being charged with the teacher’s to have died in the disaster here. John Wilson, administrator of involved also have been con- murder. The boy, who cannot be caused after a section of a “Our first priority was to get the diocese, praised the ‘great soled in their great distress by named for legal reasons, mountain collapsed following water supplies going. At the spiritual and pastoral support’ the messages of love they have appeared by video link and was days of torrential rain. Hun- same time we are urgently offered to students of Mrs received,” he added. remanded to youth detention, dreds of homes were buried looking at sanitation. Then we Maguire’s school. “It goes with- Pope Francis has also with a trial date set for Novem- under mud, with a second land- have to help children to over- out saying, but please would you expressed his sympathy to the ber 3. slide killing residents from a come this traumatic event. We entrust to Our Lady the situa- pray especially for Ann, her family of Mrs Maguire, in a Earlier this week, a different neighbouring village who came have got to get them back to tion in Ukraine, where tensions family and the college and local message conveyed to Leeds 15-year-old was also arrested to rescue victims. school as soon as we can. That continue unabated,” the Pope community,” he said. “It is in the Diocese by Archbishop Antonio and questioned by police but has The UN said only 350 bod- is part of the return to nor- said. “I pray with you for the strength of prayer that we stand Mennini, Papal Nuncio to Great been released without charge. ies have so far been recovered. malcy.” victims of recent days, asking united in faith.” Britain. “I assure you of my Separately, two men have been With heavy rain continuing in Pope Francis has also called that the Lord instil sentiments In his homily at Corpus prayers for the repose of the soul charged with ‘malicious com- the mountainous and remote for an end to violence in the of peacemaking and brother- Christi Church, which is of Mrs Maguire and for the con- munications’ in relation to Mrs region, fears have been raised Ukraine. hood in the hearts of every- attached to the school where solation and strengthening of all Maguire’s death. of the possibility of further “I would like to invite you to one.” First appeal hearing for Asia Bibi due on May 27

THE first hearing of the “In Asia Bibi’s case, any delay appeal process for Asia Bibi, or postponement means denying a Catholic woman in her 40s justice,” a note from lawyer sentenced to death in Pak- Mushtaq Gill, head of the NGO To thine own selfie istan on charges of blas- LEAD, committed to the defence be true. A well wish- phemy, has been scheduled of Christian Pakistanis, says. Too ers captures a digi- for May 27. The case will be often, he added, Christians are tal snap with discussed in front of a panel considered as ‘second class citi- Archbishop Malcolm of judges of the Lahore High zens,’ justice is denied, especially McMahon, the new Court, led by Judge Anwar- when they are accused of blas- Archbishop of Liver- Ul- Haq. phemy.’ pool last Thursday, In June 2009, Aasiya Noreen Under controversial Pakistani the day of his instal- (Asia Bibi) was involved in an blasphemy laws, Christians lation Mass at in argument with a group of Mus- branded as ‘blasphemous’ risk Liverpool’s Metro- lim women with whom she had their lives and also the lives of politan Cathedral. been harvesting berries after the those who dare to defend them is The former Bishop other women became angry at of Nottingham was at risk. There are cases where appointed in March her for drinking the same water Islamic leaders have issued a and succeeds Arch- as them. She was subsequently fatwa publicly inviting the faith- bishop Patrick Kelly, accused of insulting the Islamic ful to kill the alleged ‘blasphe- who stepped down Prophet Muhammad, a charge mer,’ with extra-judicial in January after suf- she denies, and was arrested and executions, trampling the rule of fering a stroke. In imprisoned. law. In January 2011 Mumtaz his homily, the new Asia Bibi has been in a Qadri, the man who shot and Archbishop spoke women’s prison in Multan for killed the Governor of Punjab, on preaching the over four and a half years. The Salmaan Taseer, -deemed guilty Gospel and being judiciary of Lahore, reportedly defended Asia Bibi-is now hailed ready to do things under pressure from radical as a ‘hero.’ differently Islamic groups, has postponed Christians accused under Pak- the hearings four times because istani blasphemy laws, if PIC: MAZUR/ the judges themselves, fearing released, are often forced to leave CATHOLIC- reprisals, tend to avoid the the country in order to save their NEWS.ORG.UK responsibility of deciding on life. And even their lawyers are such a senistive case. victims of intimidation and

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER WORLD/VATICAN NEWS 7 Holy Father calls on parishes to the Ukraine and Afghanistan open their doors to communities

OPEN parish doors to evan- goes, at least He does! It’s a The 15th national assembly gelise, Pope Francis has told matter of an ‘outgoing’ Church: of the Catholic Action group in Italian lay movement a Church always going out.” Italy opened on April 30, and Catholic Action. Pope Francis also spoke of focused on the theme: New The Holy Father spoke to on three verbs that indicated people in Christ Jesus—co- 7000 members of the group on the style of evangelisation nec- responsible for the joy of Saturday about the need for essary to Catholic Action: to living. parishes to be open and outgo- remain, to go, and to rejoice. The Holy Father focused on ing. The Holy Father encour- All faithful Catholics are called the Paschal significance of the aged the many Catholic Action to be ‘heralds and witnesses of’ theme. “It is the joy of the dis- members gathered in Rome’s Christ' and must remain close ciples in their encounter with Paul VI Audience Hall to con- to Jesus, he said. the risen Christ,” he said, tinue their work of evangelisa- It is not enough to remain adding that this joy needs to be tion in the parishes, ‘especially static in one’s faith, stressed the internalised, “in a style of those marked by tiredness and Pope. “Never stop: go for- evangelising capable of really closure—and there are many.’ ward!” he said. “Go along the changing lives.” “It’s a matter of opening the streets of your cities and of The Holy Father went on to doors and allowing Jesus to be your countries, and announce say: “In the current social and able to go outside,” the Pope that God is Father and that ecclesial context, you lay peo- said. “Many times we have Jesus Christ has made himself ple of Catholic Action are Jesus closed inside the parish known to you, and through this, called to renew your mission- with us, and we don’t go out- your lives have changed.” ary [commitment].” side and we don’t let him “Rejoice and exult in the Catholic Action, founded in go out! Lord always! Be people who 1968, is Italy’s largest organi- “Open the doors because He sing life, sing faith!” sation for the lay Faithful.

Vatican UN observer reveals latest numbers on clerical abuse THE Vatican has disciplined in Geneva, said that the discipli- and penance. In all such cases, he more than 3400 Catholic priests nary actions reflected the more said, the priest was ‘put in a place over sexual abuse in the past ten than 3400 credible reports of sex- where he doesn't have any contact years, and 848 of them have been ual abuse submitted to the Vatican with the children.’ laicised, the Holy See has revealed. in the past decade, including 401 Archbishop Tomasi said that On Tuesday, during a second cases last year. ‘there is not climate of impunity’ day of questioning before a UN Among the 2572 priests who for clerics who abuse. In the past commission on the Convention were disciplined but not laicised, 10 years, he said, the Church has against Torture, Archbishop Sil- the archbishop said that many were undertaken a commitment to deal vano Tomasi, permanent observer elderly, and directed to spend the with the problem ‘in a systematic, Pope Francis greets people out- of Holy See to the United Nations remainder of their lives in prayer comprehensive, constructive way.’ Conflict continues to divide side after Mass for the Polish during the clashes were the European country, where community at Stanislaus Parish in released after protesters government forces have Rome May 4 (see St John Paul II opposed to the Ukrainian gov- clashed with pro-Russian sepa- brief below) ernment attacked Odessa’s ratist groups. Last week, more main police station. The coun- You can be an than 40 people died after a try’s Prime Minister has criti- trade union building in Odessa cised police for failing to caught fire and pro-Russian cated or jumped to their deaths. prevent the violence that took activists were burned, suffo- More than 60 people arrested place. SCO AMBASSADOR

dinal Archbishop of Krakow commission on the protection of NEWS ROUNDUP before being elected Pontiff. minors is expanding its mem- In his homily, Pope Francis bership to include representa- praised the Polish nation as, “[A] tives from around the world to Welsh archbishop people that have been greatly improve sex abuse prevention welcomes ordinariate tried in their history.” and to better care for victims. ARCHBISHOP George Stack of “St John Paul II, as a worthy son The Pontifical Commission Cardiff has made his metropoli- of his earthly homeland, followed for the Protection of Minors tan cathedral available for the this way—he followed it in an recently held discussions use of the Anglican ordinariate exemplary manner.” Pope Francis “focused on the commission’s in Wales. The ordinariate of Our then asked: “And what of us?” nature and purpose and on ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT CATHOLIC NEWS? Lady of Walsingham will have expanding the membership to I its own dedicated section, with Economic reform will include people from other geo- its own altar, within St David’s take courage. graphical areas and other areas I ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR FAITH? cathedral. Canon Peter Collins of REFORM at the Vatican will of expertise,” Cardinal Sean the cathedral welcomed the arrival ‘require courage and determina- O’Malley said in a statement on I ARE YOU A DEVOTED READER OF of the former Anglicans. tion,’ Pope Francis said in an behalf of the commission at a “They are a small group as yet, address to the first meeting of May 3 press conference at the but they make a very important the newly established Council Holy See Press Office. THE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER? contribution to the life of the for the Economy. Brazil’s Bishops look Catholic Church and we want to Reform is ‘a significant chal- I CAN YOU SPARE A LITTLE TIME TO BE A VITAL LINK BETWEEN see them, and the ordinariate gen- lenge that takes loyalty and pru- at priest shortage erally, flourish,” he said, adding dence,’ the Pope added. FOUR hundred ordinary and that the more prominent location Speaking more specifically to auxiliary bishops and archbish- YOUR PARISH AND THE SCO? of the ordinariate’s Liturgies the work of the Council for the ops are gathered in Rio de might spur others to consider Economy, he said that the finan- Janiero this month to discuss I ARE YOU READY TO BECOME AN AMBASSADOR FOR THE SCO? entering the Catholic Church. cial and management practices how the priest shortage is radi- of the Vatican should reflect an cally changing parish life across Pope gives thanks ‘awareness of her responsibility Brazil’s staggering 250 dioceses. for St John Paul II to protect and manage prudently “Many of our communities POPE Francis visited the central her assets in the light of her mis- here in Brazil are not able to Becoming an ambassador for your national Roman church of St Stanislaw sion of evangelisation, with par- have daily, or even weekly or on Sunday morning, the Polish ticular care for the needy.’ monthly Mass” Bishop Elias Catholic newspaper brings its own benefits national church in Rome. The “We must not stray from this James Manning said. Holy Father made the visit in path,” the Pope told the Council. “The number of priests are not and rewards order to celebrate a Mass of sufficient to take care of all of E-mail: [email protected] thanksgiving for the Canonisa- Vatican agency for our communities so, here in tion of Pope St John Paul II, who minors expands Brazil, the lay ministers receive was a native of Poland and Car- POPE Francis’ new advisory a lot of value.” to find out more

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 8 NEWS FEATURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014

By Ian Dunn

NOT many people in their 80s would consider traveling from Scotland to China for the opening of new a ‘monastery’ but Veronica Campbell did not let that stand in her way. Mammoth task for Scot, 81, to The 81-year-old parishioner from St Aidan’s Parish in Johnstone is in China right now, visiting her friend Sr Mary Niu, the nun who has almost single-handedly built a new contemplative monastery in China. visit ‘miracle’ monastery in China “I just have an adventurous spirit,” Ms Camp- bell told the SCO before she left. “Of course, lots of my friends would never dream of doing anything like this, but I like a challenge.” Bond Sr Mary, who has visited Scotland, is these days well known for her work to build up the Faith in China, but Ms Campbell’s friendship with her goes back a long way. “Until I was 60 or so, I looked after an elderly aunt,” she said. “And when she died, a priest suggested I check out the contemplative community of the Canoness of St Augustine in Sussex. I went down for a while and I loved it but wasn’t for me. I am too independent. But I go back every year to visit them, and it’s very nice, very peaceful.” On one of those visits she was present when Sr Mary first came to England. “She was with another young Chinese girl Rosa, whose uncle was a priest and he had arranged for them both to come and do their religious forma- tion with the canoness, because obviously they couldn’t do it China,” she recalled. Just after they had arrived, one of the Sisters asked Ms Campbell to take them out into town for some errands. “It was hard for them at that point, they were quite withdrawn, their English was not very good at that time, our cutlery was difficult for them, but I took them into Hayward Heath, and to a Chinese place for lunch,” she said. “And they were delighted with that, they talked to the waitress in Chinese, and really enjoyed the meal. And so whenever I was down visiting, I would try and take toilets are very primitive,” she said. “Also I’m celiac, monastery would feel like a ‘miracle.’ Sr Mary Niu, Sr Teresa Benedita, assembled clergy and “We have overcome so much, it feels very much members of the Catholic community pictured after the first them out for a Chinese meal.” and can’t eat wheat, but Mary will look after me, and profession of the new Contemplative Monastery of St Sr Mary later went on to Dublin to continue her she knows what Europeans eat. Although obviously like God’s plan, which is greater than anything we Augustine in China studies, but the two women stayed in touch. there’s lots of rice, I think they do grow wheat as well, know,” she said. “She has come to stay with me here, and I went but I’ll just have to live by Faith.” The Sister remembers her grandmother being to see her in Dublin,” Ms Campbell said. “And she She was headed for a remote location, about five taken by officers and beaten, her grandfather had to always said I should go to China and with the hours from Bejing. attend re-education classes each day and her mother monastery opening, now seemed like the perfect “It’s amazing what Sr Mary has managed to burnt all the religious books the family had in its pos- erable year,” she recalls. “And when the Spring time.” achieve [there],” she said. “She has had support from session because they were known to be Catholics. came, I had to move myself, so I got in the car and local people, support of her bishop but it’s a very “My father lost his job because of his beliefs, and drove to Bruge, where I have friends. I just want to Return to China poor diocese out in the wilds. Her whole family I was always put down by the teachers in the school keep going as long as I can being independent and Ms Campbell has visited China before but antici- has helped her to build the monastery.” though my exam results were top of the class,” you know I’m quite looking forward to China.” pated that this trip would be a very different she said. Her other motivation, is her dedication to her experience. Restrictions “We were strictly watched, but we never stopped friend, Sr Mary. “When I went it was a SAGA tour, staying in As China remains hostile to the Church, Sr Mary praying at home and never denied our Faith. Every “Well this is the re establishment of a church in nice hotels, and going to all the tourist places, like is not able to refer to the new monastery simply as night the whole family gathered together to pray with China, it’s the seed of something to come,” she the Great Wall and the Summer Palace,” she said. a monastery. very low voices, and we would stop when there was said. “And Sr Mary has tremendous determination, “Whereas I think this will be real China. Although “It’s a nursing home with monastery attached,” a sound outside, because someone might listen from even though she’s really quite unassuming, you when I was there, we did see some of the poverty. I Ms Campbell said. “You’ve got to get it the right way the roof or under the window, and report us to the wouldn’t realise she has got all this behind her but, will always remember seeing a very elderly woman round because of the authorities will only accept it if local leaders.” if she wants to do something, she will do it.” digging through the bins for plastic bottles, to claim they think it’s doing good for the community. Chris- Though such things are largely in the past, they are the deposit back.” tians are still persecuted there. It varies from area to remembered, and few women who are 82 this year I To support Sr Mary Niu via the Cultural Although she said she was looking forward to the area, and her area is not bad, but there are still would be diving into such a situation. Exchange with China call: 020 8202 2555 or trip, Ms Campbell was expecting to rough it. pressures.” “The thing is year before last, I wasn’t well, I e-mail: [email protected] “I’ve been told to take lots of paper hankies as the Last year Sr Mary told the SCO that finishing the have two bouts of bronchitis, and it was just a mis- I [email protected]

Catholic charities take teachers to developing world

By Daniel Harkins for SCIAF and Mission Matters be very difficult for those on the experience the work of the Scotland during the trip, which visit, I’m sure it will also be Church in action, including vis- TWELVE Scottish teachers will run from June 26 to July 6. hugely inspiring,” he said. its to schools, hospices, orphan- and educational professionals Six of the teachers will travel One of the schools involved in ages and an agricultural project. are preparing themselves for to Ethiopia to meet people who the trip is St John’s Academy, Clare McEwan from St a trip of a lifetime to see how are being helped to work their Perth. Sean Hagney, depute Joseph’s Primary in Bonny- two Scottish charities are way out of poverty by long term head, said ‘the opportunity to bridge, is one of those travelling changing lives in Ethiopia projects providing cows, chick- visit projects which our school to Zambia. and Zambia. ens and goats and access to supports through SCIAF could “This is an incredible oppor- The Scottish Catholic Interna- clean water as well as help to not be turned down!’ tunity for my school, as well as tional Aid Fund (SCIAF) and start up small businesses. They Laura McPherson, principal for myself,” she said. “During Mission Matters Scotland are will also visit projects helping teacher at St John’s Primary in and after this trip I aim to working closely with the educa- poor people and families Barrhead is currently preparing strengthen my connection with tion group who will get the affected by HIV and AIDs. for the trip and said that ‘wit- both SCIAF and Mission Mat- chance to see how money Speaking ahead of the trip, nessing the positive impact of ters Scotland, ensuring that I use donated in Scotland is being SCIAF’s schools officer Mark the work of SCIAF first hand this fantastic opportunity to con- used. The group hope to gain a Booker said the support given will be eye opening.’ tinually raise awareness of the better understanding of the by schools in Scotland helps Another group will join John needs of others and the incredi- Church’s development, social countless people in really poor Dornan of Mission Matters ble work that is being done.” justice and mission work, and countries. “While seeing Scotland and travel to Zambia will become active ambassadors extreme poverty first hand may where the education team will I [email protected] WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LETTERS 9

LETTER OF THE WEEK Scratching the surface of Catholic education

I WAS pleased to read Hugh Doherty’s article of April 4 where at last someone is admitting there are still problems with Catholic Education. However, he has only scratched the surface; one might also suggest there are problems with:

I RE not being taught solely by teachers bur requiring non-specialist help. This belittles the subject in the eyes of other staff and pupils. I Non-specialist teachers, who are now getting fewer, and the ones who are there, on the whole are unhappy to teach RE. I PT’s who are technically not paid to support non-specialist teachers. I Question of why schools won’t put money into staffing of RE properly like any other department. One reason might be because passing exams is the number one priority for headteachers and parents. I Money being spent on a small group of pupils who participate in CARITAS while other pupils miss out. I Lack of text books specifically aimed at RE in Scottish Catholic schools. I TIOF, a framework to be used by RE teachers to create lessons, a working document supporting the ongoing work of lesson planning, but also creating considerable work for teachers. Maybe that is enough to be getting on with! Name and address supplied

Differences in Papacies and Christ Himself, the present Pope has The pundits and some priests must have continuity shown his active response to the problems breathed easy when Pope Francis turned of the age. However when the Pope pleads his focus on the Corporal Acts of Mercy HURRAH for Bishop John Keenan of for the ‘poor and marginalised’ why is he from the Spiritual ones. From St Benedict’s ESTABLISHED IN 1885 Paisley in his wish to ‘pitch his tent lauded when his predecessor Emeritus focus on theology and liturgy to St Francis amongst us’ following the exhortations of Pope Benedict was veritably ignored when of Assisi’s physical charity, which was no Pope Francis. And hurrah for all those he pleaded for the same? sentimental thing. priests who have responded to such as his Is it because when he pleaded for the I am for Benedict, I am for Francis. inclusion of St Joseph in the Canon of the ‘poor and marginalised’ Pope Benedict was Maybe what we need to bring us to our Mass in this day and age of non-marriages, citing the rights of those who are being senses is a good dose of that third pillar of and his demand of a cross of the crucified actively denied that treasure of the Catholic the Middle Ages—St Dominic, with Logic Voices raised—in praise and Christ on the altar when the Sacrifice of Church—the Extraordinary form of Mass. and the Rosary! Mass is said with the back to the tabernacle Surely a simple justice which is right there MT Kielty opposition—with respect or facing the people, to return the focus to at the fingertips of every priest to bestow! CLYDEBANK

T IS inspiring to see that the relationship between the indie band Religious bigotry predates statement that mixed campuses would A pilgrim’s progress at the The Vaccines and St Anne’s Primary School in Glasgow’s East catholic schools alleviate bigotry is harmless shows an Papal Canonisations End flourish, taking flight in a single for the Commonwealth alarming naivete on the part of Mr Gray, as Games principle charity UNICEF. The band was originally so I AM unaware of the details of previous that statement is predicated on the DIVINE Mercy Sunday April 27 was a inspired by the primary school’s choir and its anti-sectarian exchanges between Peter Kearney and assumption, with absolutely no evidence, date always bound to be etched in song Fix This that it invited choir members to London as special Charles Gray on the SCO letter’s page on that separate schools are a material cause legend— the SCO coverage of the Papal guests at a concert in March 2013. the question of shared campuses or of of bigotry. Canonisations (May 2) evoked many INow the band has made the return trip north to work with St Anne’s accusations of disingenuity on the part of Religious bigotry in Scotland predates inspirational memories. pupils and other pupils from Glasgow’s East End to launch the char- Mr Gray. Catholic schools by centuries. Family members and myself formed part ity single Let the Games Begin, released ahead of the 2014 Com- I must, however, point out that Mr Michael Creechan of a group jetting from Glasgow to Rome monwealth Games in Glasgow. An inspiring tale of voices raised in Gray’s impression that a council leader’s GLASGOW for the celebrations—aptly headed by our praise for a good cause indeed, and a single tipped for the number Spiritual Director Fr Joseph Calleja. We one slot. swiftly bonded as an inter-diocesan, On that note, criticism has, in the past, been levelled at the Church, inter-generational team who spent a and those within it, when there is any sign that everyone is not Faith First Kids needs to become the body and blood of Our Lord , prayerful week in the Eternal City, united ‘singing from the same hymn sheet.’ Dissent is not often seen as an beware of heresy sacramentally but really and truly present : in the desire to fly the Saltire on that admirable, nor as a heroic, trait. Yet it can be required, and effective, the substance of bread and wine are by special occasion. if done with respect. I THINK that the sentence in the Reflection God’s power quite gone. And what an occasion it proved... when For example, one of Bishop Joseph Toal’s first acts following the section (on the Faith First Kids page of the To give the impression to children that two pontiffs were Canonised and two announcement of his selection as Bishop of Motherwell has been to SCO April 25 edition) which reads “Every our Eucharist is merely some kind of others so movingly convened to bear make public ‘significant concerns’ about North Lanarkshire Coun- time we go to Mass the priest breaks bread symbolic sharing of human food and drink witness to the august legacy of their cil’s ‘commitment to provide Catholic schooling.’ In a letter to the (now we use hosts) and shares it along with is quite wrong. And if the writer of the predecessors! council, which accompanies a lengthy submission delivered to the the wine” betrays a depth of ignorance of Reflection does not believe in the Church’s We cheerfully left our accommodation chief executive, Bishop Toal said he ‘stand[s] together with the Catholic teaching on Transubstantiation and teaching on the Mass and the Eucharist, I near St Peter’s around 3 am to take our Catholic community’ in opposing proposals which would dramati- the Real Presence of Christ under the respectfully suggest that use of his/her place among the international cally reduce the number of Catholic schools in the diocese. appearances of bread and wine. services be discontinued as potentially multitudes—and just who knows how The diocese is opposed to three particular proposals—a shared As you know, what the priest shares is no tending to propagate heresy! many millions of our brethren called upon campus involving St Stephen’s Primary School, Coatbridge, a shared longer bread and wine once the words of John Clark Mamma Roma that day [but it was more campus in Airdrie, involving the merger of St Dominic’s Primary consecration have been spoken, but have ADDRESS SUPPLIED than we could tally]? School and St Edward’s Primary School and a non-denominational To have attended the Canonisation Mass school and the merger of Taylor High School and Our Lady’s High was as great a privilege as I could hope to School in Motherwell on Ravenscraig site which has been in the head- know. lines of late. G SCO reserves the right to edit letters to conform with space or style requirements And through participating in that Perhaps those within, and outwith, the Church can learn from G This page is used solely for reader opinion and therefore views expressed are not necessarily unprecedented ceremony, I would say Bishop Toal’s approach of tackling issues of concern head on by shared by SCO our motley band of believers discovered respectfully and constructively going through the proper channels and G If you would like to share your opinion, send your correspondence to the above address the true meaning of what it is to be a transparently and effectively getting the point across. pilgrim. Regardless of the outcome, Bishop Toals’s approach in opposition G Whether you use e-mail or post, you must provide your full name, address, and phone number or Marie Grant your letter will not be used is admirable as opposed to those who adopt the stance of taking per- DUMBARTON sonal pot shots at the Church, its clergy and/or its laity if and when issues of concern arise. WRITE TO LETTERS, SCO, 19 WATERLOO STREET, GLASGOW G2 6BT [email protected] 10 COMMENT SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 A nature, desire and soul pilgrimage

ATURE, desire, and soul thereby improve the ways we receive —we rarely integrate the fruits of the earth, but we struggle these well. Yet they are to see the primary responsibility we so inextricably linked bear for the small but cumulatively that how we relate to one significant explosions of energy we deeply colors the others; and, indeed, access and transmit as we respond to spirituality itself might be defined as our own longings to connect, merge, whatN we each do in terms of integrat- and be fruitful. Learning how to stew- ing these three in our lives. ard the way we bear fruit ourselves as More recently notable spiritual spiritual/sexual beings with a full set authors such as Annie Dillard, Kath- of animal desires and angelic ambi- leen Norris, Bill Plotkin, and Belden tions may be more important to the Lane have argued persuasively that human journey than we fully under- physical nature profoundly affects the stand.” This is not a language that’s soul, just as how we manage our pri- BY FR RONALD easily digested by either the right or vate desires deeply influences how we ROLHESIER the left. treat nature. Spirituality is naïve when Like Allan Bloom’s book a genera- it is divorced from nature and desire. tion ago, The Closing of the American In a book just released, The Road days, we watch truckloads of grain Mind, Mr Herriot’s book is poised to Knows How: A Prairie Pilgrimage pass by and sense that something in us have equally strong critics on both through Nature, Desire and Soul, and in the earth is harmed when food sides of the religious and ideological Canadian writer Trevor Herriot (right) is grown and consumed with little inti- spectrum. Religious conservatives will joins these voices in calling for a bet- macy, care, and respect. The local and be upset about some of his views on ter integration between nature, desire, slow food movements are showing us sexuality, but I fear that many secular and soul. that the way we grow, distribute, pre- liberals will be just as upset by those The flow of the book follows its pare, and eat food is important for the views as their right-wing counterparts. title. Mr Herriot does a walking pil- health of our body-to-earth exchanges. The same holds true for some of his grimage across part of Saskatchewan’s The next step may be to realise that the views on soul, church, historical prairies, a land roamed for centuries energy that brings pollen to ovary and Christianity, patriarchy, feminism, by the buffalo, and lets nature and grows the grain, once it enters our gender, homosexuality, and global desire speak to his soul as he does this bodies, also needs to be husbanded. warming. prairie Camino. The result is a remark- The way we respond to our desire to Conservative Christians will find able chronicle, a deeply moral book. merge, connect, and be fruitful—stir- themselves stretched in ways that they As a naturalist, he is involved in rings felt so deeply, but often so shal- would prefer to not think about and various conservation projects from lowly expressed—determines the strident secularists will find them- saving grassland birds to preserving quality of our body-to-body selves constantly incredulous that the historic grass upon which the buf- exchanges.” someone like Mr Herriot, whom they falo once roamed. Thus it’s no surprise From there it is a short step to his consider an ally, will speak of soul, that one of his central themes is the reflections on sex and desire. Mr Her- how we treat nature. And the reverse is from the same absence of intimacy, spirituality, lust, and chastity in ways connection he intuits between nature riot submits that ‘there is a sadness just as true; how we treat nature will care, and respect? Will we learn that that they have long-considered naïve; and spirit: “I worry about what hap- that comes of misappropriating sexual help determine how we treat our own any given expression of our erotic but holding very complex truths often pens when we separate spirituality energy, a kind of functional despair bodies, our spouses, our lovers, and energies either connects us to or creates precisely this kind of tension. from bodily life and culture, both of that hums away in the background for the other gender: “In a world bathed in divides us from the world around us James Hillman used to quip: “A which are profoundly connected to most men if they stop long enough to industrial and impersonal sex, where and our souls? We are discovering symptom suffers most when it doesn’t soil, climate, and the other givens of listen to it.’ In brief, for him, how we real connection and tenderness are that we must steward the energies cap- know where it belongs.” The Road place.” treat our bodies, our spouses, and the rare, will we sense also that something tured by nature in the hydrocarbons or Knows How tells us where many, And we should worry too: “These other gender greatly helps determine in us and in the earth is being harmed in living plants and animals, and many of our symptoms belong.

The views expressed in the opinion What do you think of FR ROLHESIER’S comments on nature? Send your points of view to the pages of the SCO are those of SCO. Write to or e-mail informed individuals and groups and Letters, SCO, 19 Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 6BT [email protected] not necessarily those of the newspaper or the Church In death’s dread moments, remember life flourishes in God’s kingdom

THE name Clayton Lockett may at seeing his naked body. They authorised the drugs that were judiciary. We are the country that image that we are given does not be too familiar to us. He died last were obviously not going to be used in this particular execution. had so many capital offences that presuppose that all evil is week. He died in Oklahoma of a offended by his death. The drugs The law required that if an execu- executions were routine and cause removed from the world and that massive heart attack some min- Fr Eddie that were to be used to end his life tion process is stopped that efforts for holidays and general merri- we live in some kind of naive fan- utes after his intended execution were untested. Within a few min- are made to resuscitate the person ment. Judicial death was for cen- tasy land. Living in the real world, had been halted. McGhee utes of the beginning of the execu- concerned. There is not evidence turies an integral part of life. I we are challenged to work tire- Clayton Lockett was a con- tion process it became obvious that that this was done. My own would like to think that it is lessly for the values of God’s victed murderer, let me be per- it. Murder and capital punishment things were not going to plan. instinct asks why draw the cur- because of the values of the kingdom, truth and justice, love- fectly clear about that. He took a are not opposites that cancel one Eventually, a curtain was drawn tain? Surely, the full horror gospel that we have changed our and peace. God’s kingdom is still young woman’s life in the most another, but similars that breed over the observation window, so needed to be witnessed to give a attitude to capital punishment. In being built. We are the builders appalling of circumstances. Not their kind…” that those witnessing the execution real perspective on the implica- the 1960s when the death penalty and in the Gospels we have the for an instant do I condone or The reports of the death of could not observe the nightmare tions of judicial killing. I find it was suspended and then abol- plan for the kingdom. The king- excuse the crime. I continue to Clayton Lockett make horrific unfolding before their eyes. The sad that in this Easter season ished, there would have been a dom encourages a positive wonder, however, why nations reading. Earlier on the day of his execution process was concluded when we are celebrating resurrec- stronger Christian influence in the response rather than a destructive persist in trying to solve the prob- execution, he had to be ‘Tazered’ but Clayton Lockett died of a heart tion, when we are celebrating new country. Nowadays I think we response, while the building lem of the taking of a life, by tak- by staff for refusing to cooperate attack a few minutes later. life, that we have not learned the simply realise the futility of it. process takes place. God’s king- ing a life. with the process. He had already This tragic story poses many lesson of the death/resurrection of The death penalty had always dom is a kingdom where life Here in Britain, as in most of slashed his arms to try and avoid questions. The American Consti- Jesus. been an emotive subject. There flourishes. All our efforts have to Europe, we have long since abol- the fate that lay ahead. When he tution expressly forbids cruel and Inevitably, it is easier to point are many still in favour. I would be directed towards this goal of ished the death penalty. Our judi- was taken to the execution cham- unnatural punishment. It seems the finger at someone else. hope that we, as men and women life renewed for every individual. cial system may not be perfect but ber and strapped to the gurney the that the US government at the Although Britain is without the of faith, would be opponents of This is the challenge of Easter. it is, at least, asking different staff in charge of the execution very highest levels should have death penalty now, it featured judicial killing. The Gospel this This is the call of the shepherd.We questions. Judicial killing does had difficulty finding a vein into something to say. Untried drugs? prominently in our history. We are week gives us the image of the are invited to hear it individually not act as a deterrent it simply which to insert the IV drip that The drugs are untried because the the nation that beheaded a shepherd and the security of the and to respond secure in the adds another death to the list of would carry the lethal cocktail of companies in Europe that manu- monarch. We are the nation that sheepfold. We are God’s family knowledge that we will not be pointless deaths. Many years ago drugs. Eventually the IV drip was facture them for other purposes, beheaded several monarch’s and he cares about each one of us harmed. George Bernard Shaw, playwright inserted in his groin. The execu- will not allow them to be used for wives. We are the nation that individually. We are called by and sometime philosopher tion process was begun with this taking life. There are important beheaded high born nobles, and name. Sometimes we stray. I [email protected] observed: “ It is the deed that groin covered so that those questions that need to be asked almost always on the whim of the Always the shepherd comes seek- I Fr McGhee’s column will return teaches, not the name that we give observing would not be offended about who ordered and who monarch or of his hand chosen ing us and offering us safety. This after two weeks. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER COMMENT 11

known around town. WI According to legend, a Life with a saint, by the legendary RE Carmelite friar tried to D convince the people of San IN Angel to rebury the mummies but the town refused on the press secretary of St John Paul II grounds that they had already adopted them as citizens. In An SCO diary 1929, the mummies were placed in their velvet-lined AN ODD story from Mexico wood and glass caskets that were a dozen mummified are still in use today.” So your parishioners have been mummified remains could still adopted as beloved citizens. be hanging around your The remains lay undiscovered parish years after you shuffle beneath a monastery in San off the mortal coil. Ángel after it was abandoned in 1861 and were only found GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG again more than 50 years later. But when a local friar IT IS not just Vatican City implored the residents to commemorating the rebury the corpses and lay Canonisations of Sts John XXIII them to rest, they refused. and John Paul II through Legend tells the townsfolk postage stamps and coins. BY RONNIE had already adopted the Post offices and treasuries bodies as citizens and felt around the world have taken CONVERY they were an important part of steps to honour the Catholic the area. So instead the Church’s newest saints. At mummies were placed in least 11 countries have joined ARDINAL velvet-lined wooden and glass the Vatican in creating philatelic Thomas Winning caskets—where they have delights for collectors. Among was not a man who remained for 85 years. them are Poland (a joint issue was short of ambi- The monastery school and with the Vatican, see below), tion. And so when chapel were founded in 1615 Benin, Chad, Republic of he asked me to come and work and were run by Carmelite Congo, Croatia, Djibouti, for him and the Archdiocese monks. In 1857 the site was Liechtenstein, Madagascar, secularised under Mexico's Malawi, Malta and the back in 1997, he decided that I C Reform Laws, which were Philippines. should have a quick familiarisa- designed to chip away at the The new issues come in tion meeting with people who Church’s power and led to the both single-stamp and might be useful to know. school being abandoned by souvenir-sheet formats. In So it was that I found myself 1861. The bodies were some cases the souvenir being introduced to a certain Dr for an early morning Mass with room where a makeshift chapel lation which surrounded Papal rediscovered when a crypt sheets include multiple Joaquin Navarro Valls, Pope John Paul in his private chapel in had been set up and put the light health. When asked by a collab- under the Catholic college colorful high-denomination, (now St) John Paul’s legendary the Vatican to find the Polish on there. John Paul did not go orator, “How are you this morn- was opened again in 1917, large-format stamps. While press secretary just a few weeks Pontiff already on his knees in back to bed for the rest of the ing Holy Father?” the Pope but no decision was taken on technically valid for postage, into my new job. front of the tabernacle. The car- night ... responded: “I don’t know, I them for another 12 years. they are primarily issued in an Last week I met Dr Navarro dinal recalled how he could “For St John Paul prayer was haven’t seen the papers yet!” Elizabeth Harper, a lecturer at attempt to attract collector Valls again. He was speaking at almost hear him groan; how he like breathing. He couldn’t not What emerged from Navarro’s the Morbid Anatomy Museum money. Still, they are fun to the Church Communications saw his back band deeper and his pray!” said his longtime press talk was the sense of awe that this in Brooklyn, New York, collect. Among the most Conference in Rome which whole body become a prayer. secretary. extraordinary man, John Paul II, recently studied the bodies. interesting issues are the two brings together directors of com- Later the Pope told how he trav- In terms of work, Dr Navarro lived among us and affected us— “For those not scared off by 3-D, embossed gold foil munications from dioceses and elled the whole world in his Valls recalled how John Paul II every one of us—through his life. their skeletal features, a closer stamps from Philippines Post bishops’ conferences all over the prayer, moving in his mind and accomplished an unbelievable When asked to sum up the life look at the mummies allows a each with a face value of 200 world. glimpse into their lives,” she pesos, about £3. Printing soul from continent to continent, amount. “He never wasted even and work of St John Paul II, Dr said. “These are clearly the quantities were 10,000 for the This time the conversation was raising petition for the Church one minute—and I mean that lit- Valls went back to a warm sum- bodies of well-to-do sheet featuring St. John Paul II not about me and Glasgow and and the peoples of each geo- erally—but at the same time he mer evening in the gardens of parishioners. They wear and 5,000 of the St John XIII dealing with the press. It was of graphical area. never seemed to be in a rush. He Castel Gandolfo in 1986. Pope cravats, vests and jackets. sheet. A new stamp from far greater import than that. Dr Navarro Valls recalled a had enormous self-discipline. He and journalist were alone, in the One woman even wears a Croatia marks the Dr Navarro Valls spoke mov- similar incident... It seems that would have total concentration evening glow, looking over the jaunty hat with a bow. Though Canonisation of St John Paul ingly of his life with a saint. I felt every lunctime and dinner time, on the work at hand. Finish it lake. Dr Navarro Valls asked dehydration has twisted their II. Another of similar design privileged to listen to his unique John Paul would stop for two completely and then move on to him: “What would you say is the faces into grimaces, their depicts St John XXIII. first hand experience of St John minutes prayer in his private the next set of papers. That was essential theme of your pontifi- bodies don't show signs of Croatia issued single Paul. But his insights were not for chapel while going to lunch. The his way. Work was an extension cate Holy Father.” trauma brought on by poverty stamps for both men and me alone or for those in that uni- Pope entered, with Dr Navarro and a form of prayer.” He recalled how the Pope and dangerous living Liechtenstein’s single-stamp versity aula just off Piazza taking the pew behind, as he And in terms of humour, Dr needed no time to reflect. He conditions. It's fascinating to souvenir sheet Navona. They were too impor- always did. Two minutes passed, Navarro Valls shared many knew the answer and answered see them looking out from commemorates only St. John tant to remain talking points over then four, then 10 ... Suddenly moments of mirth, which dispel clearly and with no hesitation: their velvet-lined coffins.” Paul, who visited the small a dinner table. They deserve to be the Pope turned round and said: the old myth that sanctity and “The main point is my responsi- The corpses were put on Alpine nation in 1985. known far and wide so that more “Oh I’m sorry, I forgot you were smiles are mutually incompati- bility to maintain the transcen- prominent display in 2012 The Vatican and other and more people can benefit here ...” He had gone so deep into ble! dent aspect of man which can after the monastery nations have joined the from the extraordinary life- prayer that his physical sur- He told of a meeting between easily be lost and become objec- underwent an extensive commemoration parade by lessons taught by Karol Wojtyla. renovation, becoming the minting coins depicting the roundings were no longer present an important world leader and tivised. This is the basis of all I Museo de El Carmen. new saints. The Vatican’s And so I wanted to share them in his mind. John Paul II, near the end of his try to do. The evil of our times is “The crypt was simply issues include 50-euro gold with you ... Dr Navarro Valls spoke of the life, when he was already mas- the degradation, the pulversiation sealed up with its current set and 15-euro silver coins. Dr Navarro Valls described times they went on holiday to Val sively incapacitated by illness. of the uniqueness of every of dead parishioners inside. Elsewhere, the Royal living with John Paul II under d’Aosta—always less than two The statesman walked in to the human being.” Until around 1917 when Canadian Mint has issued $25 three headings—prayer, work weeks because the Pope did not Pope’s office and said politely, It was a typically mystical and members of a revolutionary gold and $10 silver coins and humour. And it was in that want to miss two consecutive “You are looking well Holy philosphical answer from the army from the South of honouring St John Paul while first area that he said he quickly Angelus addresses to the pilgr- Father.” Pope. It was also the answer of a Mexico raided the school. The Poland has minted a series of became aware of being in the tims in Rome. On day one of the To which the Pope responded: a great saint. soldiers left the mummies four coins depicting its Polish company of a saint. holiday in a modest mountain “You’ve got to be kidding. I see intact and the crypt son. I remember hearing similar chalet, Dr Navarro heard the myself on TV!” I Ronnie Convery is director of uncovered,” Ms Harper Perhaps the most unusual words from the late Cardinal Pope rise and put the light on at On another occasion he communications for Glasgow added. “Within release comes Winning. He described arriving 3am, then heard him move to the referred to the enormous specu- Archdiocese the next few from the treasury years, the of the Pacific (Top) Pope John Paul II bodies were island nation of prays at the Hill of discovered yet Niue with its Crosses in Siauliai, again, this time colorful Lithuania, in 1993. by citizens of rectangular (Left) Pope John Paul II San Angel triptych coin. laughs while speaking secretly If you are so with Italian Cardinal exploring the inclined, most of Camillo Ruini on board decrepit school. the stamps and a Papal flight in 1991. “Word coins can be (Right) Dr Joaquin gradually got ordered online Navarro Vall with St out and the direct from the John Paul II mummies appropriate post became well office or mint.

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 LIFE MATTERS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LIFE MATTERS 13

(Far left) More than 120 people took part in the St Margaret of Scotland Hospice West Highland Way sponsored walk, in memory of Angela Nicol, who died at the hospice. (Above) Angela’s family: Her daughter Anna, sister Sharlene, dad Peter, step mother Janice, Uncle Edward, nurses Sharon Low and Laura Garry with William Seenan, head of fundraising at the hospice. (Left and below) Volunteers help make life more pleasant inside and outside the hospice

PICS FAR LEFT AND ABOVE: PAUL McSHERRY

HEN a patient or relative integrated into the organisational structure and looks out of a window in the that mechanisms are in place for them to St Margaret of Scotland Hos- actively contribute to the organisation’s aims. pice today, overlooking the gardens, they will see the olunteers in St Margaret of Scotland most wonderful array of flowers and colour. Hospice come from many different The gardens really are a work of art, from a backgrounds and walks of life. Some welcomingW display at the Hospice gate to the areV family members of patients who have The gentle art of hospice thoughtful layout around the Hospice experienced first-hand the care and support of grounds. the Hospice and wish to contribute by giving A volunteer, with specialist gardening their time, skills and talents to help others, knowledge, created this work of art by helping whilst other volunteers wish to become the hospice gardeners. involved in the hospice after retirement, or as The flowers are a talking point for patients, a result of unemployment when they have relatives and hospice staff. The colour and some time to share—or for younger adults, attractiveness of the displays around the who wish to develop their skills and confi- grounds provide such a beautiful welcome for dence whilst giving their time and talents. visitors to the hospice, and such a therapeutic The contribution by volunteers is invalu- value for the patients who can be taken out- able in so many aspects of hospice life, adding side to see the gardens, or for the benefit of to the care provided and making a difference patients who can see the gardens from their in a variety of ways to the quality of life of the windows. patients. The gardens add to the tranquillity of the The fundraising department relies heavily hospice environment and provide a therapeu- on volunteers to assist with events. Two vol- VOLUNTEERING tic outdoor space, enabling precious experiences unteers, who greatly support the fundraising for patients who are living with a life limiting in the hospice, spoke of their motivation for Fundraising, as seen above, is a great way to support ST MARGARET OF SCOTLAND HOSPICE which benefits illness and family members away from the bed- volunteering: “We both feel that by doing side. The hospice gardens also provide areas for some volunteering work for the hospice, we from such generosity. Another much appreciated resource for the hospice is the work of volunteers who give retreat and reflection, and these are accessible are giving a little back. Both of our parents and enjoyable for patients in wheelchairs, not spent the final chapters of their lives in the selflessly of their time and talents to make the hospice environment supportive and pleasant inside and out only in-patients, but also patients who attend for Hospice and received the best of everything, day hospice, counselling and out-patient from medical care, compassion, emotional appointments. support and most importantly for them, dig- In line with the hospice’s mission statement nity. Our families also received support when- and core values, St Margaret of Scotland Hos- ever it was needed. The staff helped my Dad provide unwavering support and demonstrate the hospice. The core values are respect for Hospice volunteers also support art therapy beneficial to patients by helping them to n each Friday, the day hospice is also others in a similar situation, however, the nity-based volunteers. These volunteers pice involves volunteers in the following areas: come to our wedding day in the hospice. So a tremendous capacity to care for and laugh human dignity, compassion, justice, quality of open group sessions in the day hospice, which express their thoughts and feelings, commu- home for ‘drop in’ which takes place conversation is wide ranging—we can organise fundraising events, coffee mornings giving some of our own time volunteering is with the patients. Duties includes ensuring service and advocacy. are facilitated by the art therapist. nicating with others, promoting relaxation, once a week for those people who are deal with Scottish independence, the intrica- and afternoon teas, craft fairs or church I Fundraising—running small events, assist- the least we can do.” patient comfort, using their creativity to facil- Many of the patients describe the Day Hos- Art therapy is a psychological intervention giving the patient a sense of making a contri- grievingO the death of a loved one. It involves cies of tweeting, right through to TV pro- events, to name but a few. ing in large events, everyday fundraising In addition to regular volunteering, the hos- itate appropriate activities, some administra- pice as a ‘little piece of heaven’ and the vol- which uses art materials for self-expression bution, improving concentration, relieving the hospice counsellors, art therapist and grammes! These projects happen when people can matters pice benefits from corporate volunteering tive tasks and assisting staff to organise unteers are the angels who make it happen! and reflection in the presence of an art thera- symptoms of anxiety, depression, pain and social worker. A hospice volunteer has sup- “I began volunteering to try to give some- afford time to organise them, whereas hos- I Hospice shop work from some of the leading banks including classes and groups, attendance at religious The day hospice is also supported by a team pist. Sometimes people can be emotionally tiredness. ported this group since it was established and thing back to the hospice for the care and pice-based volunteers usually commit a period I Clerical assistance — assisting in the day Clydesdale Bank, Bank of Scotland, San- services, accompanying patients for lunch and of dedicated volunteer drivers who demon- distressed about their previous experiences, Hospice volunteers help support the art ther- shared her role as the ‘tea maker’: kindness shown to my sister-in-law. Very of time. to day running of the hospice. tander and the Royal Bank of Scotland. the serving of meals. strate good decision making and always present circumstances or their illness. For apist to provide a group which encourages and “I have been involved in ‘drop in’ almost quickly I realised that I was receiving an IEdwina Bradley Day Hospice—supporting Day hospice is another area which greatly remain calm, allowing patients to feel safe some people talking about these may be diffi- supports patients to fully participate in the group since the beginning. awful lot more than I gave—friendship, trust I If you would like further information about Day Hospice staff within the unit benefits from the services of hospice volun- s with all members of the hospice when in their care. The day hospice team cult. and to gain therapeutic benefits. The Hospice “The atmosphere is welcoming, as it is and kindness.” hospice volunteering, please contact St I Clerical duties in clinical areas teers. At the Edwina Bradley Day Hospice, the team, the volunteers maintain strict could not be more thankful for the drivers’ In the art therapy open group session, volunteers contribute a variety of their skills and throughout the Hospice. The visitors to drop Volunteering can happen anywhere. Not Margaret of Scotland Hospice on 0141-952 volunteers support staff and patients in the day confidentiality and underpin each task abilities to transport patients safely to and patients come together to create art. The cre- attributes which considerably enhance the pro- in get an opportunity to talk about their loved every volunteer comes to work in the hospice 1141, email: [email protected] or visit The hospice ensures volunteers are properly to day running of the department. Volunteers withA the core values and mission statement of from the day hospice. ation of art within a therapeutic group can be vision of this therapeutic group. one, to express their sorrow and to share with setting, many people are happy to be commu- www.smh.org.uk WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 12 LIFE MATTERS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER LIFE MATTERS 13

PICS FAR LEFT AND ABOVE: PAUL McSHERRY

HEN a patient or relative integrated into the organisational structure and looks out of a window in the that mechanisms are in place for them to St Margaret of Scotland Hos- actively contribute to the organisation’s aims. pice today, overlooking the gardens, they will see the olunteers in St Margaret of Scotland most wonderful array of flowers and colour. Hospice come from many different The gardens really are a work of art, from a backgrounds and walks of life. Some welcomingW display at the Hospice gate to the areV family members of patients who have The gentle art of hospice thoughtful layout around the Hospice experienced first-hand the care and support of grounds. the Hospice and wish to contribute by giving A volunteer, with specialist gardening their time, skills and talents to help others, knowledge, created this work of art by helping whilst other volunteers wish to become the hospice gardeners. involved in the hospice after retirement, or as The flowers are a talking point for patients, a result of unemployment when they have relatives and hospice staff. The colour and some time to share—or for younger adults, attractiveness of the displays around the who wish to develop their skills and confi- grounds provide such a beautiful welcome for dence whilst giving their time and talents. visitors to the hospice, and such a therapeutic The contribution by volunteers is invalu- value for the patients who can be taken out- able in so many aspects of hospice life, adding side to see the gardens, or for the benefit of to the care provided and making a difference patients who can see the gardens from their in a variety of ways to the quality of life of the windows. patients. The gardens add to the tranquillity of the The fundraising department relies heavily hospice environment and provide a therapeu- on volunteers to assist with events. Two vol- VOLUNTEERING tic outdoor space, enabling precious experiences unteers, who greatly support the fundraising for patients who are living with a life limiting in the hospice, spoke of their motivation for Fundraising, as seen above, is a great way to support ST MARGARET OF SCOTLAND HOSPICE which benefits illness and family members away from the bed- volunteering: “We both feel that by doing side. The hospice gardens also provide areas for some volunteering work for the hospice, we from such generosity. Another much appreciated resource for the hospice is the work of volunteers who give retreat and reflection, and these are accessible are giving a little back. Both of our parents and enjoyable for patients in wheelchairs, not spent the final chapters of their lives in the selflessly of their time and talents to make the hospice environment supportive and pleasant inside and out only in-patients, but also patients who attend for Hospice and received the best of everything, day hospice, counselling and out-patient from medical care, compassion, emotional appointments. support and most importantly for them, dig- In line with the hospice’s mission statement nity. Our families also received support when- and core values, St Margaret of Scotland Hos- ever it was needed. The staff helped my Dad provide unwavering support and demonstrate the hospice. The core values are respect for Hospice volunteers also support art therapy beneficial to patients by helping them to n each Friday, the day hospice is also others in a similar situation, however, the nity-based volunteers. These volunteers pice involves volunteers in the following areas: come to our wedding day in the hospice. So a tremendous capacity to care for and laugh human dignity, compassion, justice, quality of open group sessions in the day hospice, which express their thoughts and feelings, commu- home for ‘drop in’ which takes place conversation is wide ranging—we can organise fundraising events, coffee mornings giving some of our own time volunteering is with the patients. Duties includes ensuring service and advocacy. are facilitated by the art therapist. nicating with others, promoting relaxation, once a week for those people who are deal with Scottish independence, the intrica- and afternoon teas, craft fairs or church I Fundraising—running small events, assist- the least we can do.” patient comfort, using their creativity to facil- Many of the patients describe the Day Hos- Art therapy is a psychological intervention giving the patient a sense of making a contri- grievingO the death of a loved one. It involves cies of tweeting, right through to TV pro- events, to name but a few. ing in large events, everyday fundraising In addition to regular volunteering, the hos- itate appropriate activities, some administra- pice as a ‘little piece of heaven’ and the vol- which uses art materials for self-expression bution, improving concentration, relieving the hospice counsellors, art therapist and grammes! These projects happen when people can matters pice benefits from corporate volunteering tive tasks and assisting staff to organise unteers are the angels who make it happen! and reflection in the presence of an art thera- symptoms of anxiety, depression, pain and social worker. A hospice volunteer has sup- “I began volunteering to try to give some- afford time to organise them, whereas hos- I Hospice shop work from some of the leading banks including classes and groups, attendance at religious The day hospice is also supported by a team pist. Sometimes people can be emotionally tiredness. ported this group since it was established and thing back to the hospice for the care and pice-based volunteers usually commit a period I Clerical assistance — assisting in the day Clydesdale Bank, Bank of Scotland, San- services, accompanying patients for lunch and of dedicated volunteer drivers who demon- distressed about their previous experiences, Hospice volunteers help support the art ther- shared her role as the ‘tea maker’: kindness shown to my sister-in-law. Very of time. to day running of the hospice. tander and the Royal Bank of Scotland. the serving of meals. strate good decision making and always present circumstances or their illness. For apist to provide a group which encourages and “I have been involved in ‘drop in’ almost quickly I realised that I was receiving an IEdwina Bradley Day Hospice—supporting Day hospice is another area which greatly remain calm, allowing patients to feel safe some people talking about these may be diffi- supports patients to fully participate in the group since the beginning. awful lot more than I gave—friendship, trust I If you would like further information about Day Hospice staff within the unit benefits from the services of hospice volun- s with all members of the hospice when in their care. The day hospice team cult. and to gain therapeutic benefits. The Hospice “The atmosphere is welcoming, as it is and kindness.” hospice volunteering, please contact St I Clerical duties in clinical areas teers. At the Edwina Bradley Day Hospice, the team, the volunteers maintain strict could not be more thankful for the drivers’ In the art therapy open group session, volunteers contribute a variety of their skills and throughout the Hospice. The visitors to drop Volunteering can happen anywhere. Not Margaret of Scotland Hospice on 0141-952 volunteers support staff and patients in the day confidentiality and underpin each task abilities to transport patients safely to and patients come together to create art. The cre- attributes which considerably enhance the pro- in get an opportunity to talk about their loved every volunteer comes to work in the hospice 1141, email: [email protected] or visit The hospice ensures volunteers are properly to day running of the department. Volunteers withA the core values and mission statement of from the day hospice. ation of art within a therapeutic group can be vision of this therapeutic group. one, to express their sorrow and to share with setting, many people are happy to be commu- www.smh.org.uk WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 14 STRONG IN FAITH SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014

The last weekly discussion chaired by young strong in faith Catholics until after summer

DISCUSSION: Does it matter are, God accepts us as we are. Corinthi- what we wear to Mass? ans 10:7 (NIV): “You are judging by appearances. If anyone is confident that ADAM COATES: Absolutely, man is a they belong to Christ, they should con- union of body and soul, a psychosomatic sider again that we belong to Christ just being. Therefore, whatever one does on as much as they do.” the outside (the body) necessarily influ- And in 1 Samuel 16:7: “The Lord ences the inside (the soul), and vice does not look at the things people look versa. To deny this is to fall into dualism. at. People look at the outward appear- We must ask ourselves what we are ance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” doing when we attend Mass: we are For what is it but judgement that we coming before the King of kings, The pass when we decide that someone is not Lord of all, Creator of the Heavens and wearing the ‘right’ clothes? the Earth and all that is in it. When we go out to a nice restaurant we make an ADAM COATES : Christine, you’re creat- effort, so when we come to the wedding ing a false dichotomy between rich and banquet of the lamb we should too. poor. After all, all are called to give their It’s telling that in past times people best as shown when Our Lord pointed to would pay a small fortune to pay for the widow in the temple. She was only beautiful churches, vestments, statues, able to give a few pennies, yet this was art, etc. all for the glory of God. Yet looked upon more kindly by The Lord today we are happy with things which than the actions of the Pharisees. should be for the glory of God being practically ugly.Ancient records showed STUART IRVINE: I personally think that that when the Romans confiscated things you need to make an effort. You would- from the first Christians they found that n’t go to a party without wearing some- everything they used in the Liturgy was thing smart. of the highest quality. The Council of Trent reminds us that beautiful things SUSAN MCQUISTON: You go to Mass to and outward signs of piety are positive feel comfortable with God. God does not contributions towards inward piety, and look at the clothes you wear. People anathematises those who deny this. The should wear what they like within rea- Second Vatican Council too reminds us son. The church is not a fashion show. too that the things we do should be simple, naturally so that we can see beyond COLUMBA SAINT IONA KNIGHT: It matters them, but so too should they be noble, if God the Father is important to you. and too many forget the latter. Would you go to a black tie evening to honour someone important in jeans and ANDREW McMANUS: What is going to ing someone we were in love with. But the attention they would rather give to CHRISTINEGLEN: If your family has a T-shirt? NO. Then why would going to Mass but a participation in Heaven and it’s not just our own self meeting the Christ who is acting through the ministry tradition of Sunday best that’s good. But Mass be different? the raising of the heart and mind to Lord, it’s everyone in the building, so we of the priest. should not the Mass be a participation Christ’s Passion and Resurrection? Of should take into consideration how we If our attention becomes diverted then for all and not the few? I Have your say on this and upcoming course we should make some sort of might affect others’ participation. Our the Mass for ourselves stops being about Should we not feel comfortable when topics at http://www.facebook. effort, just as we would if we were meet- own attire should never rob anyone of Jesus. coming to Mass? God wants us as we com/scostronginfaith Sunday best: a reflection of our attitude towards Mass?

By Aidan Michael Cook be at Mass without having got the king invited everyone and dressed up than not to be there anyone. One man came with- EVEN in a secular context at all. But too often, it is not a out a wedding garment and he the issue of dress can be choice between going dressed was unable to give an explana- controversial, but even down and not going at all, but tion why, and so the king had more so when religion is simply a choice not to make him thrown out (Matthew added to the mix! It is obvi- the effort. 22:1-14). Of course, it should ous then that many at least To turn up at Mass in casual be said that the man’s external feel that what we wear mat- dress can suggest that we take dress here symbolises his inte- ters. But should it? Mass casually. rior state, but that is the point: As a starting point, we can Of course, religious who How we dress is a strong sym- note that just as external pos- wear habits go in the same bol and speaks volumes; it is tures of prayer can aid internal dress that they wear all the not something we can ignore. participation, so too can exter- time, but that dress itself has a If someone sees us going to nal preparations aid internal deeper significance: the total Mass in the morning in jeans preparations. Of course, it we consecration of their lives and T-shirt and then out with put all our efforts into external to God. friends in the evening dressed appearance then it will be a We are all in very different to the nines, then that says hollow experience, but if used circumstances and so it can be something about the relative properly then external prepara- hard to generalise, but one importance we place on each, tions can help bring our whole thing is true for all: that we even if we do not intend it to. being closer to God. owe God the very best of what St Benedict reminds us that What we wear gives a we have. There is no set style God should be glorified in all strong message: It can show us of clothing beyond general things, and so we could do to be rebellious, fashionable, standards of modesty, and well to ask ourselves how we fans of a particular sports Mass should certainly not be a can best glorify God in our team, practical, ill-prepared, fashion show. We should not dress, both in general but and so on. be dressing to draw attention especially at Mass. Making an effort in our to ourselves, but ostentation dress for worship is a sign of can come anywhere on our commitment, respect and the scale. (Above) young people are often seen devotion and sends the mes- The parable of the wedding casually dressed, so casual dress at sage (both to ourselves and feast in Matthew 22 provides a youth Mass is not unexpected. others) that what we are dress- some food for thought. The However, Sacraments such as First ing for matters. original guests turned down Holy Communion (right) reminds us It is true that it is better to their invitations to the feast so what a special occasion Mass is

WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER REFLECTION 15 EWTN PROGRAMMES

SUNDAY MAY 11 FORGOTTEN HERITAGE: EUROPE 11AM AND THE EUCHARIST REGINA CAELI WITH POPE FRAN- 9PM CIS LAST CALL: STORIES OF LATE 1PM VOCATIONS LIVE SUNDAY MASS THURSDAY MAY 15 5PM 1PM LIVE MASS, PROCESSION & DAILY MASS DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET IN 5.30PM THANKSGIVING FOR THE CANON- EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY ISATIONS OF POPE JOHN XXIII 8PM AND POPE JOHN PAUL II EWTN LIVE ENCORE 8PM 9PM FATIMA, OUR HOPE LAST CALL: STORIES OF LATE 10.30PM VOCATIONS EWTN & GREAT BRITAIN 9.30PM MONDAY MAY 12 EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY WITH 1PM COLLEEN CARROLL DAILY MASS FRIDAY MAY 16 9PM 1PM LAST CALL: STORIES OF LATE DAILY MASS VOCATIONS 5.30PM 9.30PM EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY WITH LIVE OUR LADY OF FATIMA: COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL INTERNATIONAL ROSARY AND 8PM CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION WORLD OVER LIVE, THE TUESDAY MAY 13 10AM (ENCORE) LIVE HOLY MASS IN HONOR OF 9PM OUR LADY OF FATIMA LIVE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF 1PM AMERICA BACCALAUREATE MASS DAILY MASS 10.30PM 5.30PM SAINT LEONARD MURIALDO, MY EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY WITH STORY COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL SATURDAY MAY 17 9PM 1PM LAST CALL: STORIES OF LATE DAILY MASS VOCATIONS 5.30PM WEDNESDAY MAY 14 EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY WITH 1PM COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL DAILY MASS 7PM 5.30PM INTERRUPTED LIVES: CATHOLIC EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY WITH SISTERS UNDER EUROPEAN COM- COLLEEN CARROLL CAMPBELL MUNISM 7PM 9PM Measure of our Faith can CATHOLIC LIVES CONVERSATION WITH CARDINAL 7.30PM DOLAN be found in our Holiness LAY READERS’ GUIDE In the latest article on our series on spirituality, A BENEDICTINE MONK from PLUSCARDEN ABBEY says God must always be our main focus SUNDAY MAY 11 Acts 2:14a, 36-41. Response: The Lord is FTEN when people consider the like God, to put ourselves in His place. There my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. Christian religion they see its A SPIRITUAL are human beings who resent the fact that 1st Peter 2:20b -25 John 10:1-10. value because it is useful to soci- God is God and they are not. ety. It brings people together. It REFLECTION God is not what we expect Him to be. He encourages the kinds of behav- does not fit our picture of Him; He is always MONDAY iour that make living together possible and greater than we can realise. We tend to look Act 11:1-18. Response: My soul is thirst- even pleasant. It inspires people to be kind to for status and to stand upon our dignity, yet ing for God, the God of life. John 10:11-18. Oeach other and to do good, and its organisa- God, whose greatness has no boundaries, has tions make the good acts more effective. no interest in status. He came to save us as a They also point out that the Christian reli- man and did it by allowing Himself to be TUESDAY gion is the source of the ethics that underlie executed as a criminal. He defeated death by Our Lady of Fatima. Acts 11:19-26. Western civilisation. undergoing it and not by avoiding it. Important as the social aspect of religion Equally, if God does not care for his own Response: O praise the Lord, all you is, it is a bye-product of Christianity. God is dignity or status in the way humans do, nei- nations! John 10:22-30. the focus of the Christian religion. In our t is not only non-Christians who fail to ther does He care about our status or dignity. care for other people we are trying to reflect see God behind Christian activity. We If we are high up on the human tree it does the love that the God in whom we believe ourselves can sometimes be so busy not matter to God and neither does it matter WEDNESDAY has for us, for all human beings and for all doing God’s work that we forget God Him- if we are hidden on the lowest branches. God, Acts 1:15-17,20-26. Response: O praise that He has created. Iself. Indeed we can even use the work of who is greater than all that exists, reaches out the Lord, all you nations! John 10:22-30. Sometimes this activity can obscure the God as a way of avoiding God. God, the true to human beings. He gives us dignity and fact that we are doing what we do for God’s God, is not always comfortable company. respect, even if no one else does. He loves sake. Many years ago a Cistercian monk told We know from the Gospels and the rest of each of us and wants to bring each one of us THURSDAY a group of us why he had become a monk. Scripture that God loves us; He loves the to Himself. That is why He made us in the Acts 13:26-33. Response: Your are my He had been a member of a missionary order world so much that He gave His only Son. first place. He calls us in a way that respects in India and was involved mostly in educa- He loves the Son and the Son personifies his our dignity and leaves us free to answer. He Son. It is I who have begotten you this tion. This was before the days of Indian eco- love. This beloved Son underwent the Cross also respects our refusal to answer his call. day. John 14:1-6. nomic growth. An Indian friend asked him and death for us. But we can only follow the God can surprise us, ask things of us that why Christians did what they did in schools, Son by way of the Cross. we never even thought of. But if we do not hospitals and social projects. He asked what God takes us very seriously and that respond to Him and refuse to meet Him we FRIDAY lay behind all these works. This friend could means that we have to take ourselves seri- will be less than we could be, less than we Acts 9:1-20. Response: Go out to the not see that it was done from the love of ously. Our actions have serious conse- should be. In Christ, God became man and whole world; proclaim good news. John God. The motivation was a mystery to him. quences for others and for ourselves. We He has told us that He is present in the least 6:52-59 The missionary was disappointed that his must therefore approach God seriously; we of his brothers and sisters. So we can expect friend could not see God lay behind his cannot take Him for granted. In the relation- to meet Christ in other people and to hear actions and the actions of all the other mis- ship between God and us God is the more His call in their needs. But we must also SATURDAY sionaries and decided to join a contempla- important party. Being human we tend to respond to God who is beyond all our human Acts 13:44-52. Response: All the ends of tive monastery so that it would be clear that forget it. We are full of our own importance. categories and reach out to Him. The meas- God was at the centre of what he and other God made us in His own image and likeness, ure of our Faith is not our social utility but the earth have seen the salvation of our Christians did. but the original temptation was to want to be our Holiness. God. John 14:7-14. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 16 FAITH IN CULTURE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 People must not be the cost of progress FAITH IN CULTURE is proud of the redevelopment of Glasgow’s East End, but worries about those left behind

Park and provided a stunning new public realm sumably to keep the costs down. For the Bellgrove is social history will develop around this fresh marker area for the benefit of our supporters.This fresh a privately-run facility that rakes in several million as it did the day social reformer Michael Davitt laid and modern development is hugely positive for the pounds a year for its owners. They make their money the first sod of turf on the site in 1892. A coffee shop club—and for the continued regeneration of the from the housing benefit these men receive each fort- and museum are also part of the plan for a regener- By Richard east end of Glasgow.” night. Basically, the state hands over millions of ated Celtic Park. Beyond the aesthetics, profit and The experience as you exit London Road leaving pounds every year to keep its most embarrassing citi- entertainment Brother Walfrid birthed Celtic to assist behind the impressive EmiratesArena constructed for zens away from polite society.” a cause; social justice. Driven by his faith and con- Purden the Commonwealth Games to take in the new Within clear view on The Celtic Way are two Glas- science, Celtic was created to aid the poverty and des- panoramic vista of Celtic Park is one that supporters gow tower blocks known as the Gallowgate Twins peration around the east end. As the classical RIOR to Celtic’s recent match against will savour for years to come. (the Whitevale and Bluevale towers). These two composer James MacMillan once pointed out, Aberdeen, Lisbon Lion Celtic captain The Road to Paradise is changing and so is the social relics suggest a bygone age of public housing and Gospel values are essential to the unique character of Billy McNeill opened a new entrance to history of the east end. In the shadows of Celtic Park feature in a recent documentary Round Ma Bit:The Celtic and they continue to represent many that sup- Paradise: The Celtic Way. The response is the Bellgrove Hotel, a notorious marker amid the Gallowgate Twins. Film-maker and presenter Liam port the club. What would Brother Walfrid make of from supporters was overwhelmingly Celtic bars dotted along the Green Mile. In the spirit of Young considers another perspective on what regen- the men left to die in the Bellgrove Hotel or people positive as many gathered before and after the regeneration, it is worth considering the slum condi- eration means to the community around the east end, without means to stand up against an ancient law that game to experience the impressive new face of tions that vulnerable, ill and addicted men are living it is a presentation that Celtic supporters who care unfairly displaces ordinary people from their home CelticP Park. On arrival you now feel like you are under there. Freelance writer and SCO contributor about the social fabric of the club should watch. He and community? What would he make of commu- entering the grounds of a European football giant Kevin McKenna described it as ‘the evil that is allowed visits Celtic Park and in the context of the surround- nity centres being closed to make way for a tempo- of world repute. Club chief executive Peter to flourish on Glasgow’s Gallowgate.’In a recent arti- ing environment. It is a thought provoking juxtapo- rary car-park to be used for the Commonwealth Lawwell said: “We feel it has transformed Celtic cle he wrote: “This hell-hole has a staff of two, pre- sition especially when talking to one of the last Games. It is likelyAndrew Kerins would take us back remaining residents from the disconcerting heights to the value of ‘whatever you did for one of these of the towers, Willie McGonigle. As he looks out least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ One thing is onto Paradise, he has mixed feelings about leaving certain, wherever he saw injustice and inequality he Gordius No 142 what he regards as home. Three years ago Margaret would utilise the club to be a compassionate voice CROSSWORD Jaconelli was displaced from her red sandstone ten- and an agent for change in our society. He would tend ement home of 34 years after being served with a to the broken, he would respect the dignity of every compulsory purchase order. She was removed by human life in the community around him and realise 123 4 5 6 7 police and sheriff officers at 5am. She can no longer the potential for transformation not just in bricks and afford to live in the area’s newly built housing and mortar. Beyond the ‘more than a club’sentiment, and remains deeply affected by the experience. Glasgow the importance of entertaining, Celtic should always 89 University researcher Neil Gray suggests the pur- stand for the reason it was created in the first place. chase orders are implemented to remove people ‘who don’t have access to lawyers and lots of funds.’ He I To view Round Ma Bit: The Gallowgate Towers adds that outgoing residents ‘don’t have the ability to visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= 10 11 12 5uf5nLYXlDg First entry out the hat next fight against (the orders) or reclaim the value of their I Richard Purden is a freelance journalist, the 13 14 TUESDAY will be the winner homes where large scale property developers are making a lot of money out of the process.’ author of We are Celtic Supporters, Faithful Today outside Paradise the club crest on Celtic Through and Through, an SCO feature writer and Send your completed a married father of two 15 16 Way represents a new meeting place. A different 17 crossword entries—along with 18 your full name address and daytime phone number—to 19 20 CROSSWORD CONTEST SCO 19 SUDOKU 21 22 23 WATERLOO ST GLASGOW G2 6BT 3 6 8 7 SIMPLE 24 25 The winner’s name will be printed next week 8 7 6 2 74 6 5 8 3 1 9 8 5 6 3 9 1 274 26 27 The editor’s decision is final 493 9 3 164 2 7 5 8 2 1 5 7 6 9 8 4 3 ACROSS 1,19a, 21a LAST WEEK’S 2 7 3 6 8 1 6 7 948 3 152 & 33a 'Phoenix ties foot bracelets?' Madness - that could SOLUTION 3 4 8 251 7 9 6 literally provide an opportunity to show devotion! (10,2,3,7,9) ACROSS 5 7 8 2 5 4 93 61 6 Injections (4) 1 Accustomed 6 Ovid 5 9 3 167 4 8 2 10 Stunned (5) 10 Cargo 11 Appraisal 1 6 4 9 8 2 3 75 11 There's prohibition aplenty here in India (9) 4 3 715 9 12 Uninhibited use of braille (7) 12 Cowslip 15 North 17 15 Happening, occurrence (5) Reno 18 Exam 19 FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY 17 Heroic tale, saga (4) Wagon 21 Central 23 9 12 AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 18 Wander, rove (4) Outdo 24 Peru 25 Mini 19 See 1 across 26 Charm 28 Nowhere AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS 21 See 1 across 3 4 5 THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 23 Pleasant smell (5) 33 Lemon sole 34 Valve 24 Acreage (4) 35 Dune 36 Consecrate WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 25 Lesley leaves Charles for the cleaner (4) Down 8 5 7 3 IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE 26 A lock may have strayed onto this garment (5) IS THE OCT 11 SIMPLE SOLUTION 28 Lured (7) 33 See 1 across DOWN 34 Pillages (5) 35 Ride a board on the waves (4) 1 Arch 2 Cormorant 3 MODERATE 36 You have to pay to cross the river here - does that Shows 4 Okapi 5 Espy ring a bell? (4,6) 7 Visor 8 Delphinium 9 9 7 Barn owl 13 Lice 14 5 8 9 624 7 31 DOWN Protein 16 Reconciled 9 63 2 3 6 1 897 425 1 Finishes (4) 20 Guerrilla 21 2 Instruction beloved of plucky musicians (9) Command 22 Avow 27 7 4 2 3 5 1 8 69 3 Plant this by the southern border (5) 9 1 8 574 2 6 3 4 Shinbone (5) Amman 29 Obeys 30 8 5 Possesses (4) 4 2 7681 3 5 9 7 Without company (5) 8 Copper or iron, perhaps, used as bed-linen? (5,5) Last week’s winner was: 8 1 6 9 6 5 3 7 8 9 2 4 1 9 With some coverage, fish make it to this part of Ron Smith, Keith 1 746 2 3 8 5 9 Massachusetts (4,3) 13 Move like a ball (4) 4 2 239 516 7 4 8 14 Relaxation - i.e., rules broken (7) 8 3 4 19 5 7 6 2 16 Transmits (10) 20 Triple (9) 6 7 9 5 FILL IN THE GRID IN SUCH A WAY 21 Yap for what one's boss owes one (4,3) Scottish Catholic Observer: 22 Way out (4) Scotland’s only national AS EVERY ROW AND COLUMN 27 He has an extra-large automobile (5) Catholic weekly newspaper 12 AND EVERY 3 BY 3 BOX CONTAINS 29 Relating to birth (5) 30 One who perpetually lazes about (5) printed by Trinity Mirror, Oldham. THE NUMBERS 1 TO 9. NO GUESS 31 Nought (4) Registered at the Post Office 3 5 6 WORK IS REQUIRED AND THERE 32 Arthur, 1975 Wimbledon champion after whom a US tennis stadium is named (4) as a newspaper. IS ONLY ONE SOLUTION. ABOVE IS 71THE OCT 11 MODERATE SOLUTION WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER CHURCH NOTICES 17 CHURCH&PUBLICNOTICES

THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES CARFIN GROTTO SCHEDULE The Sisters of the Gospelof Life invite you to a SPONSOR A MAY-OCTOBER 2014 Monthly Mass for Life ROADSHOW At Our Lady of Consolation Church PARTICIPANT Inglefield Street, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7PZ Could you help sponsor a young person to participate in the Project Truth Roadshow across Scotland this summer? ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT Celebrant: Fr Liam O’Connor Monday-Friday 9.30am-8pm Priests wishing to concelebrate please bring Alb The full cost per person for 6 days = £300 Saturday 9.30am-6pm Sunday 12noon-6pm Wednesday May 21st For more info or to donate, please email Exposition 6pm, Rosary 7pm, Mass 7.30pm [email protected] HOLY MASS Monday-Friday 1pm Followed by tea, coffee & a chance to meet SUNG EVENING PRAYER AND BENEDICTION up with pro-life friends Scottish Catholic Charismatic Renewal Monday-Friday 8pm National Service Team gospeloflifesisters.wordpress.com OPEN MEETING THE RECENTLY OPENED CHAPEL OF THE ANGELS AND THE (all welcome) NEW SHRINE OF SAINT THERESE OF LISIEUX Saturday 17th May 2014 FIRST SATURDAY DEVOTION to 10am - 4pm Are open daily from 9.30am until 8pm OUR LADY of FATIMA (SCOTLAND) Community of the Risen Christ CONFESSIONS Feast of Our Lady of Fatima Bellisle Street Glasgow Tuesdays and Thursdays 1.45pm-2.15pm “A DAY with OUR LADY” Thursdays 6.30pm-7pm With Mass Celebrated by Bishop John Keenan May 13th Carfin Grotto C ontact: Ged 01542 882116 10 am: Mass First Saturday Devotion to Our Lady of Fatima Scotland Principal CelebrantBishop Joseph Toal Blessed John Duns Scotus Church LEGION OF MARY Ballater Street, Gorbals 11.30 “Our Lady Speaks at Fatima” “Our Lady Speaks at Fatima” A Play for children performed on the A Play in 2 Acts performed on the Sanctuary Pray for World Peace Sanctuary by Primary7, St Francis by Primary 7, St Francis School, Gorbals School, Gorbals Sunday 18th May 2014 at 3pm Rosary at 2.30 Renewal Young People Vocations Lunch (Cafeteria or packed lunches) Tea’n’scones afterwards in the Hall You are invited to a monthly 1.30: Rosary, Benediction, (Retiring collection for the Franciscan Foreign Missions) Come and hear Our Lady’s message of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage to Blessing of the Roses Peace when she appeared in Fatima in 1917. Carfin Grotto Come andcelebrate this wonderful on 13th of each month Feast Day with School children, from May to October at 7.30p.m. Parents andParishioners EXPERTSERVICES Rosary, THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES CARFIN Consecration to Our Blessed Lady, FREEPHONE 0800 389 8084 MONTHLY PILGRIMAGE For quality & expertise, all types of Procession IN HONOUR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA upholstery work undertaken - Holy Mass and Benediction TO CARFIN GROTTO contract, commercial & domestic begins on Buses arranged in some parishes. w w w . s c o t c o v e r . c o . u k Tuesday 13th May and thereafter on the 13th of each month until October To Advertise: Website Directory 0141 241 6105 ROSARY PROCESSION in the Grotto (weather permitting) 7.30pm www.jandmsewing.com [email protected] www.forevermaria.myflpbiz.com Top quality, reasonably priced Aloe vera products for home, health Share Church Robes (Bishops, Clergy, HOLY MASS and wellbeing. Specialist sports your Faith, Invite Deacons, Diocesan Vestments, Celebrate Prayer Meetings products. Weight others in! Choirs, Servers) all made to order National Events ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT Management Program. Our Faith! in the UK. Local Events AND BENEDICTION www.sconews.co.uk Keep People www.customartkids.co.uk Reunions With a readership of 50,000, the informed of Made to measure, designed for life, Devotional Groups Scottish Catholic Observer is All welcome personalised for you. Wall art, local & Services Scotlandʼs only weekly Catholic Personalised gifts. Any Occassions Small Businesses newspaper and is available in 98% national events www.sconews.co.uk gifts of parishes. Saint Leonard’sPrimary School EastKilbride [email protected] ADVERTISING TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1968 - 2014 Advertisements submitted must contain complete and accurate information and comply with requirements of all relevant legislation, the The Head Teacher, Staff and Pupils of British Code ofAdvertising Practice, and the Advertising Standards B e a d s w i t h F a i t h Authority. The publisher has the right, at its discretion, to refuse, omit, Saint Leonard’s Primary School East Kilbride Handmade Rosary Beads and Chaplets. suspend, or change the position ofadvertisements, or require artwork or extend a warm invitation to Whole Class orders taken copy to be amended to comply with any moral or legal obligations. The former staff, parents and pupils to join us at a publisher will not be liable for any loss of revenue to the advertiser Whole School orders Considered. incurred as a consequence ofnon-publication or incorrect reproduction Mass of Thanksgiving & Open Evening Workshops available. ofan advertisement. Advertisements may be cancelled within 14 days of an order being received and not less than a minimum of24 hours before on deadline for entry. Any cancellations outside this period will not affect the Thursday 15th May at 7.00 pm R o s a r y R e p a i r a v a i l a b l e buyer’s liability for payment for the advertisement. Payment for [email protected] advertisements must be received within 30 days. Any order, verbal or in Saint Leonard’s Church East Kilbride 07925337894 written, which is placed for the insertion of an advertisement amounts to and afterwards toan Open Evening in the school an acceptance ofthese conditions. www.beadswithfaith.com 18 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

100TH BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE MEMORIAM CLARK McCABE MacKINNON In loving memory of our Precious memories of Joe, 38th Anniversary dear mother, Patricia a beloved husband, father, In loving memory of my BENSON Mallan, who died May 12, dear father and mother, Treasured memories of grandfather and great- 1992, our dear father, Angus, who died May 9, Edward, who died May 10, grandfather, who died on James Clark, died July 30, 1976, Annie, who died Jan- 2005. May 12, 1999. 1978, our nephew, Martin uary 23, 2004, also my Eternal rest grant unto him, Kinnaird, died November 7, May the winds of heaven cousin, Donald, who died O Lord and let perpetual 2009, and all loved ones blow gently, May 4, 1974 and also my light shine upon him, may gone before. And whisper for you to dear husband, Charlie, who he rest in peace. Amen. They never die who live in hear, died November 16, 2011. Sadly missed by Jean and the hearts they leave McAVOY, Abraham Wales That we still love and miss On whose souls, sweet family. Precious memories of my behind. you, Jesus, have mercy. dad, Abie, who died May St Anthony, pray for them. Always wishing that you Peggie, Cumbernauld. BRAWLEY CAMPBELL, Janet Rose 10, 2006. In memory of Mary Brawley Cathie, 9 Ardnahoe 2nd Anniversary You have just walked on were here, (née Caffrey) on the cente- Avenue, Glasgow, G42, MacLEAN In loving memory of our ahead of me, Every day we think of you, nary of her birth, May 8, and Pat, Canada. Fourteenth Anniversary very dear and so much I have to understand, We miss you more and 1914. A loving wife, mother Treasured memories of loved Janet; mother, nanny, How we must release the more, and grandmother, who died Catherine, a dearly loved sister and sadly missed ones we love, on April 21, 1981. Just wishing we could see mother, grandmother and wife of Jim. And let go of their hand, you, great-grandmother, who With love and affection she With pride we speak your is remembered every day. I carry on as best I can, Come walking through the died on May 11, 2000. name, praying for you But I miss you oh so much, Fois shiorruidh thoir dhi a We have loved her in life, always. door, Let us not forget her in If I could only see you, Thighearna, May you see the face of the Time has not healed our death. To once more feel your Agus solus nach dibir Living God; Mary, Mother of heartache, Peter, Marie, Mary hugs. dearrsadh orra. God, keep her always in Or stopped our falling Bernadette, Amanda and Yes, you’ve just walked on Gu’n robh fhois ann an sith. your protection. tears, her great-grandchildren, ahead of me, Mary and family. May you rest, Janet, for- Ciaran, Erin and Lauren. I pray that I’ll be fine, We cherish still the mem- ever in the loving arms of Our Lady of Lourdes, pray GALBRAITH But now and then oh how I ory, MacLEAN Jesus Christ. for her. 34th Anniversary wish, Of the one we loved so In loving memory of our Jim, family and sisters. In memory of my dear I felt your hand slip into dear. dear brothers and uncles, daughter and sister, Mary mine. Love from all your loving Alastair, who died May 9, BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE CARRUTH Teresa, died May 13, 1980; Loved and missed more Treasured memories of also loved ones gone than words can say. family, Glasgow, Canada 1975, and Angus Peter, Robert, a dearly loved hus- before and after. R.I.P. Inserted by daughter and Australia. who died May 7, 1981. DOLAN band, dad and grandad, Always sadly missed. Patricia, grandson Paul and In our hearts you will In loving memory of our whose anniversary occurs Inserted by the family, family. IRVINE always stay, beloved son, Mark, who May 8. Nask. (Till we meet again). 50th Anniversary Loved and remembered died on August 22, 2008, Our Lady Queen of Peace Precious memories of our every day. and whose birthday occurs and St John Ogilvie, pray GRANT loving and much loved dad, Inserted by Mary Margaret, on May 7. for him. Loving and treasured mem- Joe, who died May 1964. Archie, Catherine, Sarah Please remember him in Love from Helen, Julie, ories of Joseph, loving dad Devoted husband of the Claire and Fiona. your prayers. Robert, Cheryl and Daniel. and gramps, who died May St Anthony, pray for him, 15 Whitewisp Court, Irvine. 11, 2001. late Lena. Memories have such lovely St Joseph, pray for him. KA11 1LZ. Eternal rest grant unto hiim Forever in our hearts. ways, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, O Lord, Margaret, Anne-Marie, Of bringing back our yes- pray for him. And let perpetual light Kathleen and Mary terdays. shine upon him, Therese. Inserted by Lachie, Anna RELIGIOUS MEMORIAM May he rest in peace. and Donnie. Your loving family. LYNCH McAVOY Loving memories of our McMENEMY 8th Anniversary BRADLEY ELLEN KERR dear father, James, who 2nd Anniversary of Eleanor Treasured memories of Please pray for the repose Remembering Ellen on her died suddenly on May 4, McMenemy, died May 9, Abraham, dear dad, father- of the soul of our dear anniversary. 2003. 2012. A loving wife, mother, in-law, grandfather and uncle, Fr. Clement C.P. Gone but not forgotten. We often sit and think of gran and great-gran. great-grandfather who died who died May 13, 1991. Inserted by husband Martin you, Sadly missed by the whole on May 10, 2006. May his soul rest in the and all the family. And think of how you died, family. CHISHOLM To live on in the hearts of peace of Christ. To think you could not say Eternal rest grant unto her 7th Anniversary those you love is not to die. LINDSAY your goodbyes, O Lord. Remembering with love our In memory of my dear Rest in peace. Before you closed your Amen. beloved son, Alec, who mother and loving granny, ‘Till we meet again’. eyes. died on May 15, 2007. Katie Mary, died May 7, Inserted by Anne, David Sad and sudden was his R.I.P. 1994 and John, died May and family. MacNEIL call, We cannot bring the old 8, 2011. Also remembering In loving memory of our His sudden death surprised days back brothers and sisters gone McCABE us all. uncle, Murdoch (Murchadh When we were all together before and after. 10th Anniversary Sadly missed by all your Beag), who died May 10, The family chain is broken May they all unite in God’s In loving memory of James now kingdom. (Jimmy) dear dad and loving family. 2003, and our aunt, Kate But memories live forever. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray granda, who died on May Ann, who died May 10, Mum and Dad, Arbroath for them. 6, 2004. MacKINNON 1998. CORLESS and brothers Paul and Inserted by Mary Margaret, Thank you for the years we Please pray for the souls of Eternal rest grant unto Martin. shared, 24th Anniversary Donald Angus and family. Donald Allan, died May 9, them, O Lord, Please pray for the repose The love you gave, the way 1995, Donald died May 20, And let perpetual light of the soul of the Reverend CLARK LINDSAY you cared, Thomas Corless, beloved 1st Anniversary Remembering my mother, Deep in our hearts your 1995, Donald, died Febru- shine upon them. Parish Priest of St John the In loving memory of Annie, Katie Mary, who died May memory is kept, ary 8, 1999, and Angus, May they rest in peace, Baptist, Uddingston, who beloved wife of the late 7, 1994, Shonnaidh, died Too dearly loved to ever died November 18, 1999. Amen. died May 11, 1990. Matt, loving mum and May 8, 2011 and Flora, forget. Our Lady of the Isles, pray Our Lady, Star of the Sea, Queen of Peace, Beautiful granny, died May 9, 2013. November 27, 2012. Loved and remembered for them. Mother of God, pray for Loved and missed every Our Lady of the Isles, pray every day. pray for them. him. day. for them. From Jamie, Anne Marie Inserted by their family, St Anthony, pray for them. Friends and parishioners. Your loving family. Jessie and family. and grandchildren. x South Uist and away. Inserted by their family. FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 19 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS

MacRURY REID WALKER BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, PRAYER TO THE NOVENA TO ST CLARE Treasured memories of a In loving memory of Patrick 8th Anniversary you who can find a way BLESSED VIRGIN Say nine Hail Mary’s for beloved and dearly loved Reid, loving husband of the In loving memory of a dear when there is no way, O Most Beautiful Flower of nine days with a lighted mother, mother-in-law, late Shona and loving brother, brother-in-law and please help me. Repeat six Mount Carmel, fruitful in the candle; publication prom- nana, Mary MacRury, East father, grandfather and uncle, Shonnie, who died ised. – G.H. times. Publication prom- splendour of Heaven, Gerinish, who passed away great-grandfather, who May 12, 2006 and also Blessed Mother of the Son ised. – C.C. on April 28, 2005. sadly died on May 10, Mayac, who died February of God, Immaculate Virgin, DEAR HEART OF JESUS We lost a mother with a 2008. 13, 2011. R.I.P. assist me in this my neces- Dear Heart of Jesus in the heart of gold, Lonely is the home without Eternal rest grant unto DEAR HEART OF JESUS sity. O Star of the Sea, past I have asked you for Dear Heart of Jesus in the How much we miss her can you, them, O Lord, help me and show me many favours, this time I past I have asked you for never be told, Life to us is not the same, And let perpetual light herein You are my Mother. ask you for this special one many favours, this time I She shared our troubles All the world would be like shine upon them. O Holy Mary, Mother of (mention favour), take it ask you for this special one and helped us along, heaven, Neil, Morag and family. God, Queen of Heaven and Dear Heart of Jesus, and (mention favour), take it If we follow in her foot- Just to have you back Earth, I humbly beseech place it within Your broken Dear Heart of Jesus, and steps, again. WALKER You from the bottom of my heart where your Father place it within Your broken We will never go wrong. If we could have a lifetime 8th Anniversary heart to succour me in my sees it, then in his merciful heart where your Father So rest in peace dear wish, In loving memory of a dear necessity. There are none eyes it will become Your sees it, then in his merciful mother, We would never ask brother, brother-in-law and that can withstand Your favour, not mine. Amen. eyes it will become Your And thanks for all you’ve another, uncle, Shonnie, who died power. O show me herein Say for three days, publica- favour, not mine. Amen. done, Just for God to turn back suddenly on May 12, 2006. You are my mother. O tion promised. – J. McG & Say for three days, publica- We pray that God has the hands of time, Always in our thoughts. Mary, conceived without H. McG. tion promised. – J.H. given you, And give us back our treas- Loved and remembered sin, pray for us who have ured father. The crown you’ve truly every day. recourse to Thee (three GRATEFUL thanks to St won. As time goes by without May he rest in peace. DEAR HEART OF JESUS times). O thank you for Joseph of Cupertino for all Our Lady of the Isles, you, Duncan, Patricia and fam- Dear Heart of Jesus in the Your mercy to me and prayers answered in pass- please pray for her. And days turn into years, ily. past I have asked you for mine. Amen. Say for three ing exams. - W. D. From all the family at home They hold a million memo- many favours, this time I days. Holy Mary I place and away. ries, this cause in your hands, GRATEFUL thanks to St And so many silent tears. THANKSGIVING ask you for this special one Holy Mary I place this Francis, St Anne, St O’NEILL Eternal rest grant unto him, (mention favour), take it cause in your hands, Holy Anthony, St Pio and all In loving memory of our O Lord, Dear Heart of Jesus, and saints to whom I pray. Still dear father, grandfather And let perpetual light GRATEFUL thanks to the place it within Your broken Mary I place this cause in your hands. Publication praying. - J. M. and great-grandfather, shine upon him, Sacred Heart, Our Blessed heart where your Father May he rest in peace. Lady, St Anthony and St promised. – F. McN. Hugh, who died May sees it, then in his merciful NOVENA TO ST CLARE 13,1990, and our dear Our Lady of Lourdes, pray Clare. – A.O. eyes it will become Your THANKS to the Blessed Say nine Hail Mary’s for mother, grandmother and for him. nine days with a lighted GRATEFUL thanks to St favour, not mine. Amen. Virgin Mary, St Francis, St great-grandmother, Peggy Inserted by all your loving candle; publication prom- Anthony for prayers Say for three days, publica- Martha and St Pio for McConnell, died March 18, family. ised. – I.R. 1993. answered. – A.M. tion promised. – P. McS, prayers answered. - P.T. St Anthony, pray for them. REILLY Peggy, John, Anne, Clare, In loving memory of Jack, a GRATEFUL thanks to St Mark, Mark Jnr, Paul and dear father and grandfa- Clare for prayers Martin. ther, died May 12, 1987. answered. – A.F. We treasure the memories REID we have of you. GRATEFUL thanks to St 10th Anniversary Inserted by his loving Joseph, St Jude and St SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY SUBSCRIPTION OFFER Precious and loving memo- daughters, Jacqueline, Clare for favours received – ries of our dear mum and Yvonne and family. M. gran, Jean, who died May 6 ISSUES FOR ONLY £5 8, 2004. SHERRY NOVENA TO THE Ten years have passed 18th Anniversary SACRED HEART OF We want you to experience the benefits of having since that sad day, In loving memory of Joseph JESUS. The Sco'sh Catholic Observer delivered to your door every week – and When the one we loved Sullivan, beloved husband, O Jesus who said ‘ask and to show you how good our newspaper is. That is why we are making was called away, father and grandfather, who you shall receive, seek and The blow was hard, the died May 10, 1996. you shall find, knock and it you this excep&onal offer, which has gone down a storm with readers shock severe, St Joseph, pray for him. shall be opened to you,’ who are keento get anintroduc&onto Scotland’s We little thought the end Inserted by his loving wife through the intercession of na&onal Catholic weekly newspaper. was so near. and family. Mary your most Holy To know we never said Mother, I knock. I ask that goodbye, SWEENEY my prayer will be granted Will always bring regret, Precious memories of (make request). O Jesus But the hearts that truly Helen Sweeney, loving who has said whatsoever loved you, mother of Margaret and you ask the Father in my Are the hearts that won’t Jonathan, loving gran and name, it shall be granted to forget. great-gran, who died May you through the interces- Love and miss you so 11, 2006. sion of Mary, your most much mum. A loving heart stopped Holy Mother. I ask the 6 ISSUES FOR ONLY £5 Loving daughters Jane and beating, Father in your name that Return with cheque to:Scosh Catholic Observer, Elizabeth. As we watched you slip my prayer be granted We do not need a special away, (make request). O Jesus 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT or telephone day, Our hearts were truly bro- who said ‘Heaven and To bring you to our mind, ken, Earth shall pass away but 0141 241 6112 to order and pay by card The memories we have of As you fought so hard to my words will not pass Name: you gran, stay. away’ through the interces- Are the everlasting kind. God saw you were getting sion of Mary your most Address: Eternal rest grant unto her tired, Holy Mother, I feel confi- O Lord, But a cure was not to be, dent that my prayer be And let perpetual light He put His arms around granted (make request). shine upon her, you, Publication promised. Say Email Address: May she rest in peace. And whispered come to hourly for nine hours. One St Pio, pray for her. me. day only. Also thanks to St Telephone Number: Love you always. Forever in our thoughts. Anthony and St Martha. – This offer is only available to new subscribers & can only be used once Your loving grandchildren. Your loving family. K.M. 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORY SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 FUNERAL DIRECTORY BISHOPS ENGAGEMENTS ARCHBISHOP TARTAGLIA Archbishop of Glasgow, www.rcag.org.uk

SAT MAY 10 10AM Mass in Our Lady of Good Counsel for MEMORIAM CARDS Plenary of the Catholic Education Commission. 10.30AM- Our caring staff are here to listen and advise you, 1PM CEC Plenary Meeting. SUN 10AM Mass in 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. St Constantine’s, Govan. MON - MON MAY 19 Pastoral 53 Morrison Street Glasgow Visitation of the Pontifical Scots College Rome. 0141 429 4433 ARCHBISHOP CUSHLEY Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh Order easily online at catholicprint.co.uk www.archdiocese-edinburgh.com For a brochure and free samples phone “Stay independent... 01610161 873 7457 SAT MAY 10 5.30PM Confirmations in St Margaret’s, Dun- Organist fermline. SUN 11AM Confirmations in St Luke’s, Banknock. family-owned... MON 7PM Confirmations in SS John Cantius and Nicholas, offer a prompt and Broxburn. TUE 11AM Mass for 50th Anniversary of the & personal service opening of St Machan’s Primary school, Lennoxtown. WED 7.30PM Fife Annual Teachers’ Mass in St Paul’s, Glenrothes. Cantor 24 hours a day... THU 1.30PM Edinburgh Catholic Head Teachers’ Associa- make it affordable.” Memorare Memoriam Cards tion - Association meeting in St Peter’s Primary School, Edinburgh. 6PM Confirmations in St John the Baptist, Available for weddings Thomas Marin 1926 Four generations later, his words are just Margaret is available daily until 9pm Edinburgh. FRI 7.30PM Thanksgiving Mass in St Francis and funeral services as important to our family business today. Call 0141 812 4491 Xavier’s, Falkirk. Listen online at: for a free sample pack. Never beaten on quality, BISHOP GILBERT www.paulcarrollmusic.co.uk Thomas Marin price or delivery INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS Aberdeen, www.dioceseofaberdeen.com 62-64 St Mary's Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SX Tel: 0131 556 7192 or 0131 556 6874 (24 hrs) T. 01698 325 493 www.thomasmarin.co.uk www.memorare.co.uk SUN MAY 11 9.30AM Confirmations, Holy Family, Mastrick. WED Confirmations Chapletown. THU 11AM Mass for the 150th anniversary St Peter’s School, Buckie. SAT Youth Pilgrimage to Pluscarden. VOCATIONS BISHOP TOAL MEMORIAMCARDS Argyll and the Isles, www.rcdai.org.uk designed & printed to your exact requirements JERICHO MON MAY 12 11.30AM Safeguarders Meeting Motherwell “The we can produce order of service for Requiem Masses 7PM Confirmations St Joseph’s Blantyre TUE Motherwell Compassion of and also design and print jubilee cards, bookmarks, Finance Committee Meeting. WED 2PM Clergy Assembly Do you feel that and acknowledgment/thank-you cards Jesus.” God is calling Motherwell. Drug & Alcohol Rehabs., please call for full details of the personalised service we can provide Refuge for Victims of you to the Domestic Violence, Missionary BISHOP ROBSON Supported Accommodation Priesthood 0141 569 4724 • 07818 645 863 mobile Dunkeld, www.rcdod.org.uk for the Destitute, the Then we Distressed, and all being can help SUN MAY 11 9.30AM Confirmation Mass, St Thomas’ you ‘passed by on the other side.’ Arbroath. MON - MON MAY 19 Visitation of the Pontifical A COMMUNITY OF Scots College, Rome (with Archbishop Tartaglia). MEN OF PRAYER FOR OUR TIMES (founded 1970) To Advertise Vocation info from Contact: BISHOP KEENAN Bro Patrick Mullen, Phone: 0141 241 6105 The Jericho Society, The Vocations Director Paisley, www.rcdop.org.uk Mater Salvatoris, Harelaw Farm, Email: [email protected] Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire, PA10 2PY SMA FATHERS Scottish Charity SC016909 St Theresaʼs SAT MAY 10 6PM Vigil Mass in St Joseph & St Patrick’s, Tel: 01505 614669 Clarendon Place, Dunblane Wemyss Bay. SUN 10AM & 6PM Masses at St Joseph & St Email: Perthshire FK15 9HB [email protected] Patrick’s, Wemyss Bay. MON 9.30AM Meeting with Dioce- san R.E. Specialists at Diocesan Offices. 11AM Visit to St Paul’s Primary School, Paisley. 12PM Visit to St Peter’s Pri- mary School, Paisley. 7PM Mass for 10th Anniversary of the Retreats& Conferencing Feature ADVERTISING TERMS AND Paisley Ozanam Centre in St Mirin’s Cathedral. TUE 7PM CONDITIONS Confirmations in St Mirin’s Cathedral. THU 2PM Meeting Advertisements submitted must contain complete with the Secondary Head Teachers in the Diocesan Offices. and accurate information and comply with 7PM Confirmations in St Mirin’s Cathedral. SAT 9AM Mass requirements of all relevant legislation, the British for the Charasmatic Renewal in the Community of the Risen Code of Advertising Practice, and the Advertising 23rd May 2014 Christ, Glasgow. 4.30PM Vigil mass in St John’s, Barrhead Standards Authority. The publisher has the right, at its discretion, to refuse, omit, suspend, or change the position of Do you offer : advertisements, or require artwork or copy to be FOLLOW THE SCOTTISH amended to comply with any moral or legal CATHOLIC OBSERVER AT Retreats? obligations. The publisher will not be liable for any loss of revenue to the advertiser incurred as a SCO_NEWS ON TWITTER. consequence of non-publication or incorrect Be first to find out the Conferencing Facilities? reproduction of an advertisement. Advertisements may be cancelled within 14 days of an order being Daysof restand renewal? received and not less than a minimum of 24 hours before deadline for entry. Any cancellations outside this period will not affect FIND AND LIKE THE the buyer’s liability for payment for the advertisement. Payment for advertisements must be SCOTTISH CATHOLIC Why not take advantage of our special rates for received within 30 days. Any order, verbal or written, which is placed for the insertion of an advertisement OBSERVER PAGE ON thisquarterly feature. amounts to an acceptance of these conditions. FACEBOOK 22 CELEBRATING LIFE SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 Bishop of Paisley celebrates a Mass for all pupils preparing to sit exams

By Dan McGinty and reminded them that the Apostles did not take the glory for this, but praised their teacher. BISHOP John Keenan of Paisley celebrated In a resounding affirmation of the partnership of Mass for the pupils of St Ninian’s High Church, home and school, Bishop John Keenan School preparing for their SQA examinations. asked pupils to remember the hard work of their The East Renfrewshire school welcomed Bishop teachers before and after the exams. They can be Keenan as the pupils were joined by family, confident that their teachers have taught them well friends, staff and other pupils for the special Mass. and that they should remember to thank their In his homily, Bishop Keenan (right) encour- teachers after the exams. aged pupils to be confident in approaching their Celebrating the partnership of Church, home exams as they had much about which to be confi- and school, Bishop Keenan asked pupils to dent, assuring them that Jesus ‘had ears’ to listen to remember the hard work of their teachers before their prayers and to pray to him knowing that he and after the exams, telling them to be confident would answer them. that their teachers have taught them well and that He spoke to pupils of the readings at Mass they should remember to thank their teachers after which showed how the Apostles learned from their the exams. teacher, Jesus, and saw the fruit of their Faith in Him through the miracles they were able to work I [email protected]

PICS: EDDIE MAHONEY Bishop Robson confers the Sacrament of Confirmation on children in Monifieth and Fintry

By Dan McGinty ment of Confirmation on Children from Our Lady of Charles Hendry, permanent Children from St Bride’s parish priest Fr Kevin Golden children from across the dio- Sorrows Catholic Church in deacon, after receiving the Church, Monifieth, received the (above right). BISHOP Stephen Robson of cese as he visited parishes in Fintry are pictured with Bishop Holy Sacrament of Confirma- sacrament as Bishop Robson Dunkeld conferred the sacra- Monifieth and Fintry. Stephen Robson and Rev tion (above left). was welcomed to the parish by I [email protected] SPOTLIGHT ON AN ARTICLE FROM THE SCO ARCHIVES .....1940s.....1950s.....1960s.....1970s.....1980s.....1990s..... Contraception was a bitter pill to swallow THE top story in The Scot- mental Christian principle,” the the high degree of virtue that tish Catholic Observer 50 statement said. “Contraception, one needs when attempting to years ago in 1964 was con- sterilisation and abortion are, as observe God’s law, which on cerned a statement from we know officially encouraged occasion can be extremely Bishops in England and in certain states to halt what is demanding. Wales that debated a number called the population explosion.” However, contraception was of key issues that were likely The statement from the not the only issue that the state- to be tackled by the third ses- Bishops in England and Wales ment highlighted, the horrors of sion of the Vatican Council. added that: “The Vatican war were also an issue that the However, the main talking Council ‘may well be called bishops brought up, echoing point of the statement was upon to give guidance’ on the the words of Pope John XXIII the condemnation of the use use of a pill to make the time of in his document Pacem in Ter- of the pill as a means of ovulation predictable.” The ris, where he called on govern- contraception. The Bishops bishops also declared that they ments of the world and military in England and Wales felt ‘bound to proclaim the personnel to end the world’s strongly condemned the pill unchanging nature of God’s arms race, that he felt was and said: “It is against the law,’ adding that they would be increasing rapidly. The bishops law of God.” failing in their pastoral duty if in England and Wales admitted This followed from a state- they were to ‘remain silent that the issue of war was some- ment from the Dutch Bishops when so many voices are being thing that would be debated where they rejected the notion raised to lead our people astray.’ further by the council fathers, of the pill that shows the feel- Although the statement did as they were interested in mak- A 100-year-old parishioner from St Columba’s Church, Edinburgh, has received a Papal Blessing from His ings in and around Europe that condemn the use of the pill, the ing a real difference. Holiness Pope Francis. Centenarian Violet Turner, who was born in Edinburgh on April 7, 1914, received the the Catholic Church had on this tone of the statement was The issue of contraception special blessing from parish priest Mgr Francis Kerr during Mass on Easter Sunday (above). Miss Turner was new form of contraception. completely compassionate. within the Catholic Church is a member of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force and worked at the Meteorological Office in Edinburgh previous to her retirement “No method of regulating the They just insisted that the an issue that is still widely size of families can be accept- Faithful Catholics of the United debated today. able which ignores this funda- Kingdom are not incapable of STEPHEN EDWARDSON E-MAIL CELEBRATING LIFE EVENTS TO DAN MCGINTY AT [email protected] FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER VOCATIONS 23 Finding a vocation in everyday life Pope Francis implores us all to turn our daily lives into a journey with Jesus

HEAD of the celebration of the 51st World Day of Prayer for Voca- tions on Sunday May 11, Pope Francis has called on Catholics across the world to adoreA Christ in their hearts and be led on a ‘journey of adoration of the Lord and of service to Him in our brothers and sisters.’ This year’s day of prayer for vocations draws on the theme of finding vocation in ordinary life, using the words of Jesus to turn everyday living into a journey 5RPDQ&DWKROLFSULHVWVDQGEURWKHUVVLQFH with Christ. The message also reflects Pope Francis’ personal EveryEvery human being is the objectct of God’sGod’ ’ss infinite innfifinite tenderness,tenderness, vocation, answering the call to andand hehe himselfhimsellff isis presentpresent in their eir lives…li ves… the priesthood after working as a PopePope Francis bouncer and a janitor and initially beginning studies in medicine. -HVXLWRHVXLWRUJXNRUJXN “Jesus lives and walks along Having spoken in the past about which, because they are per- more we unite ourselves to Jesus the paths of ordinary life in order his own journey towards his sonal, call for a genuine ‘train- through prayer, Sacred Scrip- to draw near to everyone, begin- priestly ministry the Holy Father’s ing in holiness’ capable of being ture, the Eucharist, the Sacra- ning with the least, and to heal us message carried the sentiment of adapted to every person’s need. ments celebrated and lived in the of our infirmities and illnesses,” personal advice as much as it was This training must integrate the Church and in fraternity, the Thinking about Life Choices? the Holy Father said. “I turn now a guide for those answering a resources offered to everyone more there will grow in us the to those who are well disposed to vocation and for those prepared to with both the traditional forms joy of cooperating with God in listen to the voice of Christ that help those discerning their voca- of individual and group assis- the service of the Kingdom of rings out in the Church and to tion along their way. tance, as well as the more recent mercy and truth, of justice and understand what their own voca- “Dear brothers and sisters this forms of support offered in asso- peace. And the harvest will be tion is. I invite you to listen to ‘high standard of ordinary Chris- ciations and movements recog- plentiful, proportionate to the and follow Jesus, and to allow tian living’ means sometimes nized by the Church.’” grace we have meekly wel- yourselves to be transformed going against the tide and also “Let us dispose our hearts comed into our lives. interiorly by his words. encountering obstacles, outside therefore to being ‘good soil’, by “With this wish, and asking “It will help you to participate ourselves and within ourselves,” listening, receiving and living you to pray for me, I cordially in a communal journey that is he said. “All of these difficulties out the word, and thus bearing impart to you all my Apostolic able to release the best energies could discourage us, making us fruit,” the Pope concluded. “The Blessing.” in you and around you. A voca- fall back on seemingly more tion is a fruit that ripens in a comfortable paths. However, the well-cultivated field of mutual true joy of those who are called love that becomes mutual serv- consists in believing and experi- ice, in the context of an authen- encing that he, the Lord, is faith- Sr Frances will help you tic ecclesial life. ful, and that with him we can “No vocation is born of itself walk, be disciples and witnesses or lives for itself. A vocation of God’s love, open our hearts to choose what’s right for you! flows from the heart of God and great ideals, to great things.” blossoms in the good soil of Visit: www.sistersofnazareth.com faithful people, in the experience he Holy Father continued of fraternal love.” his plea for vocations with Email: [email protected] a call for the Catholic Mobile: 07906 372786 s Catholics in parishes Tcommunity to support, particu- and dioceses across the larly with their prayers, those globe prayed for those young men and women who feel discerningA a vocation, that they drawn to the religious life. might hear the call, the message “I ask you bishops, priests, of the World Day of Prayer for religious, Christian communities Vocations saw Pope Francis and families to orient vocational Cistercian Monks (above right) call on Catholics to pastoral planning in this direc- aspire to a ‘high standard of tion, by accompanying young DO YOU FEEL THAT GOD IS ordinary Christian living.’ people on pathways of Holiness CALLING YOU TO THE MISSIONARYPRIESTHOOD? THEN WE CAN HELP YOU Do you feel called to seek God as a Cistercian monk within a The Society of African Missionaries (SMA Fathers) JERICHO Community, living in prayer and work, in a spirit of silence? is an international group of Missionary Priests. “The Next Compassion of Write: Novice Director, Sancta Maria Abbey, Nunraw, Today we are active in Liberia, Haddington, EH41 4LW Scotland Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Zambia, Jesus.” Email: [email protected] Tel: 01620 830 223 Tanzania, South Africa and other African countries working as vocations Drug & Alcohol Rehabs., Website: http://www.nunraw.com.uk (Scottish Charity No. SC 022611) partners in the rapidly growing Church. Refuge for Victims of feature is Domestic Violence, WILL YOU Supported Accommodation JOIN US? 13th June for the Destitute, the FRANCISCAN Send the coupon for Distressed, and all being MISSIONARIES more details 2014 ‘passed by on the other side.’ I wish to know more about our OF ST. JOSEPH about the work of the lifestyle A COMMUNITY OF Society of African Missions to advertise MEN OF PRAYER FOR Are you called like Francis of Assisi OUR TIMES (founded 1970) to live the Gospel radically? call Vocation info from NAME...... AGE...... Bro Patrick Mullen, Want to know more? ADDRESS...... The Jericho Society, 0141 241 Mater Salvatoris, Harelaw Farm, Email Sister Noel – ...... Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire, PA10 2PY POSTCODE...... Please print clearly and send to: Scottish Charity SC016909 [email protected] 6105 Tel: 01505 614669 FR. PATRICK McGUIRE Email: www.fmsj.co.uk SMA, St Theresaʼs, Clarendon Place [email protected] Reg. Charity no. 1135474 Dunblane, Perthshire FK15 9HB WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK 24 JOURNEYS OF FAITH SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER FRIDAY MAY 9 2014 St Mary of Egypt’s story is one of hope and faith DR HARRY SCHNITKER begins a series looking at different people’s journeys JOURNEYS OF FAITH of faith by giving us an insight into the fascinating life of St Mary of Egypt

NE of the Church’s rising stars from the southern Church, Cardinal Tagle, the Archbishop of Manila, gave a very interesting interview on the occasion of the Canonisation of Saints John XXIII and John Paul II. The cardinal stated that ‘even ‘ordinary’ persons such as Angelo GiuseppeO Roncalli and Karol Wojtyla could become saints through the holiness from God.’ This is a startling statement for a number of reasons. To begin with, Cardinal Tagle reminds us of the source of holiness: God. Even when we resist holiness, which we frequently do, we can be forced to comply with His will. Then there is Cardinal Tagle’s emphasis on the ordinariness of the two Canonised Popes. Now for those of us who recall either man bestriding the global stage, this is startling, too. There was little in either that suggested ordinariness. What the cardinal was getting at, though, was the humble ori- gins of the two saints, and the adversity that they had faced. These were not lives walked across a broad highway to Heaven. Indeed, the path more frequently resembled an obstacle course. Cardinal Tagle went on to state that: “It is good to celebrate a Canonisation to proclaim to the world that holiness is still real, holiness is a gift of God to us all, to ordinary men and women. We are ordinary Baptised people but all of us have been given the grace of holiness and we are called to live in holiness.” This is straight from the teachings of the Sec- ond Vatican Council, but a useful reminder of the fact that their office did not set the two Canonised Popes apart from the rest of us: we’re all Jock Tamson’s Bairns, as we would say in Scotland— or more theologically, we are all created in God’s image.

t is the first part of the interview that caught my eye, though. It chimes perfectly with the saint who is this week’s iconic example of a difficult Ijourney of Faith: St Mary of Egypt. If anyone was an unlikely candidate for sainthood, it was this fourth-century Egyptian woman. Mary makes her namesake, St Mary Magdalene, look like a paragon of instantaneous virtue. Although the Gospels do not tell us so specifically, ancient tradition makes Mary Magdalene a prostitute. However, Luke 8, the only place where she is mentioned in a negative light, just says seven demons were cast out from her. What that means is open to interpretation, and interpreted the passage has been in plenty. Thus, she became a prostitute, a repentant sin- ner. Interestingly, the tradition begins in the fourth century, with St Ephraim the Syrian (c306- colate to a wider society. As late as the sixth cen- tution. It is a sadly familiar story; the late Margo Mary’s love for the life she had chosen becomes 373AD); there seems to have been a particularly tury Roman cities were replete with women selling MacDonald worked for years campaigning to alle- very obvious from what follows at the end of 17 strong interest in repentance as a key element in their bodies, and cities such as Alexandria in Egypt viate the suffering of underage prostitutes in mod- years of being a prostitute. She was now aged 29 Christianity at the time. Now prostitution was truly or Constantinople were renowned for the numbers ern-day Edinburgh—although not all applauded and decided to join the pilgrimage from Alexandria rife in the fourth-century Middle East and Egypt, of prostitutes, working either from home or from her solutions. to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation as it had been throughout the Roman Empire in the brothels. Even Jerusalem, so often called the bride To modern ears, the age of Mary is even more of the Holy Cross. She did not go to pray, though, Classical period. It was common for Greco-Roman of God in the psalms, but frequently also compared shocking than her life-choices, but we have to but in search of more sensual thrills. As we have men to have a wife to whom they were married, a with a harlot (Isaiah 1:21), was full of prostitution. recall that the age of maturity was placed consid- seen, Jerusalem was a good place to find these, and concubine and to frequent prostitutes. It was a This was not just offensive to Christians. Jews, too, erably lower in her time than it is now. Nonethe- she frequented the entrance to the church where the practice that the Church tried to curtail and even- remarked on the transformation which the Romans less, we immediately have this rather sordid tale of relic was kept in the hope of ‘scoring.’ tually abolish, as it tried to place marriage at the wrought in that most holy of cities: Rabbi Judah a very young girl, living in destitution in the great What happened next illustrates Cardinal Tagle’s centre of the social order. observed: “How fine are the works of this people port-city of Alexandria. This was one of the major remark on God’s power to overcome human resist- It was one of the main reasons why so many [the Romans]! They have made streets, they have cities of the Roman Empire, a warren of dingy ance to holiness. Standing at the door, Mary felt early Christians were women, and so many of built bridges, they have erected baths!’ Rabbi Yose streets and poverty sitting cheek-by-jowl with great physically unable to enter the church, however hard these women who had been used to gratify the sex- was silent. Rabbi Simeon ben Yohai answered and riches and elevated expressions of learning and the she tried. Now we may think of this what we want, ual needs of men. In many ways, the early Chris- said: ‘All what they made, they made for them- arts. We can imagine her fears, her loneliness. but she clearly manifested physical expressions of tians represented a feminist challenge to male selves; they built market-places, to set harlots in She lived by begging, by spinning a little flax, remorse, and soon these turned into repentance. perceptions of women. To many modern ears, them; baths to rejuvenate themselves; bridges but above all by giving herself away. The Life Mary (above) retired to live in the desert, after attuned to notions of sexual freedom, this may to levy tolls for them.’” (Babylonian Talmud, makes an uncomfortable observation, though. having kissed the Cross, asked Our Lady for help, sound odd, yet the elevation of women’s status as Shabbat 33b) Mary, it says, was driven ‘by an insatiable and an and having been to communion. The rest of her life equals to men was profound. Prostitution was seen irrepressible passion.’ In other words, she liked the was one of quiet contemplation of the Lord, but as a deliberate turning away from the alternative t is in this context that the Faith journey of our life, and we are told she often gave her favours free what is so fascinating in this story is that everyone on offer, and the condemnation was not gendered. saint took place. St Mary of Egypt was a pros- of charge. Mary was a hedonist. One keeps com- was prepared to give this notorious girl a second Indeed, the very masculine Rome was reduced to titute. However, the Life makes it clear she was ing back to this: there is nothing new under the sun. chance, that she was almost ‘chosen’ for sanctity, a prostitute or harlot—of the male kind!—in St Imore than a woman who sold her body. She ran Human passions are the same in the fourth century and that she realised that her earlier hedonism had John’s Apocalypse. (Revelations 18:16-17) away from her parental home aged only 12. and in the 21st and there was no age where the mes- actually been a negative choice. There is indeed It took forever for these Christian notions to per- Almost immediately she turned to a life of prosti- sage of Faith was embraced by all. Sin is normal. hope for everyone. WWW.SCONEWS.CO.UK