DUNKELD NEWS Diocesan Newsletter of the of No. 18 December 2019

INDSIDE - Parish news stories; Lourdes reports, Our pilgrims in Spain and Italy, Schools and Youth News Emotional welcome for the Little Flower What a grace-filled event it was for our for everyone present. It seemed to everyone to have the of St Therese of that her saintly presence was enough as she Lisieux visit us in our own spoke in the silence of everyone’s heart. Cathedral in September. It was as though Therese, one of the most popular in Therese had come not for herself but for the history of the Church, had indeed come everyone in every diocese in and to visit us to inspire us, to encourage us, the people present were delighted that she and just to be present with us for a few days was really here in our where she will listen to us and speak to us with devotees, young and old, who loved in the depths of our hearts. Never has the her and wished to spend some time in her Cathedral been so bedecked with so many physical and spiritual presence. Most of all beautiful roses, symbols of her great love to learn from her. The good humour spread Fr Anthony McCarthy, parish priest for God and her promise to all of her devo- quickly among the congregation, and the of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Broughty tees. sense of incredulity at her closeness was Ferry, died on Thursday 10th October, awesome. Everyone, from the very young 2019. In her lifetime, Therese, a young Carmel- to the elderly and wheelchair-bound, ite nun wished nothing other than obscu- crowded into the packed Cathedral carry- Fr Tony was born in Cork and studied rity, yet her autobiography, ‘The Story of a ing their roses and flags of welcome. for the priesthood at All Hallows Col- Soul’, made her a household name in the lege, Dublin. He was ordained priest for whole Catholic World. Bishop Stephen greeted Therese and then Dunkeld on 22nd June 1958 by Arch- blessed and incensed the while bishop Patrick Skinner CMI of New- As she arrived quietly on the Wednesday the Choir sang the hymn “All that we have foundland. evening, a hushed silence prevailed, but a and all that we offer”. Following Fr Tony’s Requiem Mass, silence full of promise and expectation, celebrated by Bishop Stephen and his with orderly queues and smiles of joy re- The procession commenced with the fellow priests from across the diocese, Fr vealing the sense of wonder and excitement continued on p14 his body was taken to Cork for burial in the family grave.

Since his ordination he served as a curate at St Serf’s, Highvalleyfield 1958- 1962; curate at St Patrick’s, 1962-1964; curate at St John’s, Perth 1964-1971; parish priest of Holy Cross, Strathtay 1971-1973; parish priest of St Bride’s, Pitlochry 1973-1977 and parish priest of St Fillan’s, 1977-1984 and for the last 34 four years, as Parish Priest of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Broughty Ferry.

Under Bishop , in 1982, Fr Tony’s already well established reputation for printing and publishing enabled the launch a new initiative in the diocese committed to ‘communica- tion and caring’ - it was to become the Dunkeld’s Lay Carmelites come to venerate the relics of St Therese start of the Dunkeld News. INSIDE THIS ISSUE: News, views and coming events from around the diocese

©2019 DIOCESE OF DUNKELD - SCOTTISH CHARITY NO. SC001810 Learning to sing in the dark recent visit to the island of South Uist for a family wedding was a rich and bittersweet experience. AWe journeyed through Skye, and chatted to cousins and aunts and Bishop Brian McGee on the ferry - after the ritual of Cal-Mac fish and chips. The remoteness of island life is a great leveller. Hebrid- ean life is personal and intimate - and the weather and sea remind us all that we are fellow travellers, subject to the same tides Mary O’Duffin of life. So to with my own sons, dashing to catch learn to sing in the dark, trusting that God The familiar ritual of driving and ferry- a French ferry on the way home from camp- has plans for our rescue? What would such ing back to our roots for weddings and fu- ing in France, our overladen car, with bikes singing in the dark feel like? Would we dis- nerals, and the joy of seeing the increasing and tent, they would break into singing cover some hope beyond ourselves? Some brood of younger cousins and the solace of with rugby-type gusto school hymns, out transformation and light? visiting Hallan, the ancient graveyard be- of season carols and surprising devotional side the Atlantic where grandparents and hymns to the Blessed Sacrament - and In November, we remember those we now parents rest. All these human experi- somehow - drawn into hope - we always have loved and lost. We also remember ences knitted together by the life of faith. seemed to catch the ferry against the odds. those who have let us down and disap- pointed us, sometimes departing from this Memories of long summers and East- In the chapter 16 of the Acts of the Apos- life before we have been reconciled. We ers and occasional Octobers in the care of tles, St Luke shares with us a very power- bury all this in the mercy of God. our grandparents, set to work on the croft. ful experience of “singing in the dark”. One abiding memory I have is lying in bed, Paul and Silas, beaten and bruised, found We are united to the unknown angels and cocooned in the attic sleepless and restless themselves chained up in prison, unable to saints of our lived experience as well as the but daring not to disturb the grandparents move, with nothing but each other’s com- known ones. The divide between the living below. They had raised 9 children and now pany for solace. They could have become and the dead is no more. We gather up all took on 4 or 5 or 7 grandchildren for the bitter, and complained loudly about their the sufferings and losses of this present life, holidays. With cows and sheep and hens plight. It was also possible that they lost all the hurts and desires of our most human and dogs, late night visitations with grand- hope and shrank into a darker corner of de- natures - and we sing hymns and pray to- children were not encouraged. spair than any prison could afford. Instead gether. We pray that our beloved dead rest they sang, praises and hymns to God, and in perpetual light. We pray for lost and poor We developed the art of singing in the as the Eucharistic liturgy encourages all of souls who have no-one to pray for them. dark - usually hymns and in them ex- us to do, they lifted up their hearts. pressed all the longings, energy, hope and United in our faith in Jesus, the Christ, missing-our-mothers that filled our young Suddenly, the earth began to shake and who braved the darkness of sin and death, hearts. Only much later did I discover that the walls and ceiling of their prison crum- that we might live in the hope of the Res- this heartfelt music moved and warmed the bled and a door opened wide, with the light urrection - even if that hope is sometimes apparently stony hearts below. and freedom of possibility before them. lived by learning to sing in the darkness.

DUNKELD NEWS We all have our prisons, the circumstanc- es that we cannot change: Ill-health, sepa- Eternal rest grant into them, O Lord, Coming editions ration and loss; grief or addiction; growing and let perpetual light shine upon them. 1st March 2020 old, or being young and without hope. Can 14th June 2020 we dare to reach out to one another and May they rest in peace. Amen. 20th September 2020 DUNKELD DIOCESAN CENTRE, 24-28 LAWSIDE ROAD, DUNDEE, DD3 6XY

Email your stories and photos Concluding series of talks in the Echoes series Photos need to be high resolution .jpg [email protected] 7pm: on Mondays 2nd December, on Twitter @DunkeldNews 9th December and 16th December Editor - Andrew Mitchell CALL or TEXT 07806 789791 Presented by Mary O’Duffin page 2 Setting out on the Road Gillian Janvier gives her personal reflection on teaching in a Catholic Primary Gillian Janvier with her class at St ’s, Cupar School

I have always regarded teaching as a vo- At its heart, and this is where our voca- ‘big picture’. It also means that we have to cation. However, through engaging thor- tion differs from others, is the recognition have positive relationships with the wider oughly with my studies this year, I realise that all our pupils are unique, each having community in which we belong, and work that the vocation of a Catholic teacher their own set of God-given gifts, and each closely with families and the Church. is a far greater responsibility, and it has is made in the image and likeness of God. completely transformed my approach They should all be valued, despite the chal- As well as the importance of community to teaching and learning. Not only am I lenges, and it is our unique job to ‘touch bonds, I have embraced the values of Cath- called to teach, but I now understand that h e a r t s’. olic Social Teaching, apparently named ‘our I am in the privileged position of being best kept secret’. This movement reflects called to ‘evangelise, to catechise, to wit- The Catholic teacher is dedicated to the not only adherence to the commandments, ness, and to lead and accompany young pursuit of excellence, not just in terms of but also to the actions of Jesus during his people on their own personal journey’. knowledge, but also through the formation public ministry. Just as Jesus had ‘a particu- of the whole person, one who has encoun- lar concern for those in need’, the Church This knowledge has had a profound im- tered Jesus personally and who can under- and Catholic schools continue to follow his pact on me both personally and profession- stand and demonstrate Gospel values based example through their charitable work. ally. Not only do I now permeate my teach- on the Beatitudes. Teaching these values ing and human interactions with Gospel explicitly should not be confined to teach- At its heart is the fundamental belief in values and the Catholic ethos, but I have ing religion, but are integral to vocational humanity as one family sharing a need for also been prompted to re-examine and re- excellence. truth, freedom and justice with a ‘preferred flect on my own religious identity, values, option for the poor’. I believe that it is my faith and wisdom, and reconnect person- It is our responsibility to ensure that our duty to embed this vision in teaching and ally and spiritually with Jesus Christ. I have pupils become religiously literate, which learning ensuring that ‘living faith’ is trans- explored the Good News with an open means that religious education is not to formed into ‘loving action’. heart and mind, and feel myself equipped be seen just as a discreet subject, but is the now to view the themes through the eyes heart and soul of the curriculum, and per- I have much respect for Catholic Social of a child in order to be a wise and faithful meates everything we do in the school. Teaching, and it has a tangible presence companion facilitating their spiritual jour- in our school community demonstrat- ney, and help them encounter Jesus as ‘the For me, another major difference be- ed by the large number of fund raising way, the truth and the life’. (John 14:6) tween teaching in a Catholic school and and charitable events which take place teaching in a non-denominational school, throughout the school year. This vision Through working in a Catholic Primary having taught in both, is the importance of also reflects the core value that we are a School, and through extensive reading, I community. We are not only a community community which welcomes all, and is now recognise a number of fundamental of learning but a community of faith. This open and inclusive. differences between being a practitioner in we means that we always need to look at the a non-denominational school, and being a teacher in a Catholic school. AN INVITATION TO THE RELIGIOUS OF THE DIOCESE Firstly, there is the holistic approach adopted by Catholic schools. Not only do An Advent time of Prayer and Reflection as well as sharing, we strive to achieve the highest quality of beginning in the Convent Chapel at Lawside on education, but we also have a distinctive Friday 20th December, at 3pm. mission to promote Christian values: val- ues proclaimed, relationships nurtured, All the Religious in the Diocese are invited to attend; commitments promoted and faith pro- fessed, celebrated, prayed and lived out in and also any diocesan priests who wish to share this time our lives so as to enables pupils to ‘search are most welcome to join us. for truth, meaning and purpose in life.’ page 3 Steve’s new book honours Cupar pilgrims trace an Ignatian path

Mgr Pat McInally reports on this year’s Perth’s proud WWI service two parish pilgrimages to Spain: In addition to the names of those who “In October St Columba’s, Cupar, em- died, Steve has collected the names of all barked on a Pilgrimage with a difference, who took up arms from St John’s parish following in the footsteps of St Ignatius of and from the Catholic School, serving Loyola. Over 70 pilgrims signed up to take as a reminder of the huge sacrifice they part this year, so it had to be split into sepa- made. rate pilgrimages.” Steve says, “As you turn the pages - “We began in Manresa where Ignatius please remember to pray for their souls. spent 10 months in a cave writing ‘The The publication ends with the great peni- Spiritual Exercises’. We celebrated a won- tential Psalm, ‘Out of the depths I have derful liturgy in the Basilica that now hous- cried to you, O Lord’, Psalm 129 - as an es Ignatius’ Cave. invocation to prayer.” On the occasion of the 100th anniversa- This was followed by two nights in the Copies are available through the parish ry of the 1st Armistice Day, Steve Clayes, Mountains of Montserrat, staying in a small website www.stjohns-perth.org.uk and/ has completed his timely publication of a hotel built beside the Benedictine Monas- or can be bought directly from St John’s book to honour the service given by pa- tery, 4000 feet above the valley floor.” rishioners from St John’s, Perth, and by Parish Shop after Sunday Masses - or from the Diocesan Centre, 24-28 Lawside the former pupils from the parish school “The day started with ‘Lauds’ at 7.30am, Road, Dundee DD3 6XY - price £7.50 - of St John’s, during World War I. sung by the monks, and ended with ‘Ves- (and on KINDLE for just £5.75). pers’, accompanied by the Boys Choir, the Together with Harry Schnitker, oldest Choir School in Europe. With sun- parish historian Steve was the joint editor shine and blue skies we took the opportu- of the 2007 publication, ‘From Persecution nity to travel on the Funicular Railway to to Integration: The Scottish Catholic Ex- the top of the Mountain, walking down to perience as seen from Perth - 1685-2007’, mountain path and marvelling at the pano- which marked the 175th anniversary of ramic views all the way down.” the Perth church. “Monserrat was followed by two nights in In a foreword to the new publication, Zaragoza where we joined in the celebra- Deacon Harry writes: ‘The First World tions of Our Lady of the Pillar, the second War’s centenary commemorations are all largest Feast Day in Spain. In the early days behind us and the war is passing from of the Church St James travelled to Spain memory into history. It is important, preaching the Gospel but, on arriving at then, to recall those who fought and those Zaragoza where he was having little suc- who died, to ensure that at least some- cess, Our Lady appeared to him at the top thing of their lives, cut short by violence, of a Pillar encouraging him to return to Je- is remembered. Steve Clayes’ meticulous rusalem, where he became Bishop, and was research has certainly managed to save later martyred.” that little something, the precious details of lives that were so strongly rooted in the “In the 9th century his body was discov- Catholic community in early twentieth- ered by the Pelayo at Compostela - century Perth, but that ended overseas.’ and the rest is history.”

Latest 2019 Clergy appointments “Our Pilgrimage finished in Loyola Mgr Canon Neil Gallagher to become Deacon Jude Mukoro, newly-ordained where Ignatius had been brought up. Here, Parish Priest of St Bride’s Pitlochry, Our Deacon from St Mary’s Seminary, Oscott, recovering from wounds he received in the Lady of Mercy, Aberfeldy and St Columba’s, was appointed to St Columba’s, Cupar, un- Battle of Pamplona, he was given a copy Birnam. der the tutelage of Mgr Pat McNally until of the New Testament to read, along with his priestly ordination on 14th Decem- the ‘Lives of the Saints. This led to a deep Fr Mark Cassidy to become Parish Priest- ber of this year in St Andrew’s Cathedral, conversion after which he decided to dedi- Moderator of a newly affiliated cluster of Dundee. cate his life to God, and travelled to Rome three Dundee parishes: St Mary’s Lochee, where he founded the Jesuits, and where he SS Leonard and Fergus and St Columba’s – Canon Kevin Golden VG, as Admin- died.” working with with Fr Alexander Obiorah istrator of Our Lady of Good Counsel. and Fr Jean Gove, who is recently ordained, This arrangement will continue for three Mgr Pat concluded, “Both groups agreed from Malta, who is studying for a PhD in months until January 31st 2020 until a per- that it was a spiritually uplifting experience St Andrews University. manent appointment can be made. throughout.” page 4 Cupar pilgrims trace an Ignatian path

page 5 PERTH ITALIAN ASSOCIATION - from Rome to Amalfi Walking in the footsteps of the saints

Pilgrims at the tombs of St Benedict and St Scholastica in Montecassino

Perth’s Italian Association’s annual pro- That meant that they could be early birds Three days in Rome had flown past – and gramme includes a Christmas Dinner at the Vatican the next morning – 8am soon they were on they way to Sorrento Dance; a November Mass for the Dead Mass in St Peter’s – just as the doors open. – but stopping along the way at the Ben- in Italian in Glasgow, theatre visits to Pit- The vast Basilica was empty – the morning edictine Abbey at Montecassino – perched lochry in December and June each year – light reflecting off the highly polished floor. almost 2000ft above the valley below. A stopping for their afternoon tea along the The Mass was celebrated in the crypt – sur- dramatic hairpin climb – with breathtaking way; an Italian Film night; the Carnevale rounded by the Tombs of the Popes – and, views at every turn. Masked Ball on Shrove Tuesday…. a May close by, the tomb of Bonnie Prince Char- Procession and October Devotions. Time lie, his father and uncle. The abbey was founded by Benedict too to raise funds for the Mukuro Street himself around 529AD. It was ravaged by Children in Kenya and for Mary’s Meals – Next stop was the Tivoli Gardens – Lombards in the sixth century, pillaged by and a pilgrimage! famed for its extraordinary system of foun- Saracens in the ninth, knocked down by tains; fifty-one fountains, 398 spouts, 364 an earthquake in the fourteenth, sacked by Mgr Aldo Angelosanto is their chaplain water jets, 64 waterfalls, and 220 basins, fed French troops in the eighteenth, and re- – supporting them with a monthly Mass by 875 meters of canals, channels and cas- duced to rubble by Allied bombs and shells in Italian and travelling with them wher- cades, and all working entirely by the force in the twentieth century. ever they go. On their pilgrimages to Italy of gravity, without pumps. “Simply breath- a more experienced Italian guide would be taking,” said one of the pilgrims. Almost immediately, funds started to be hard to find – offering daily Mass and en- gathered for its rebuilding and – in 1964 – gaging like a native with hotel staff and bus Next morning Mass, at the Divine Mercy Pope Paul VI rededicated the to drivers – sorting out problems before they Church of Sancto Spirito, before slipping peace and European unity and formally de- got out of hand. As a Chaplain to the Papal into St Peter’s Square for the weekly Papal clared the abbey’s founder, St Benedict, as Household he is welcomed like royalty – Audience. It wasn’t long before Pope Fran- the patron saint of Europe. and the rest of the group along with him. cis passed through the crowds, and they found themselves in the perfect spot for a Mgr Aldo celebrated a Mass for Peace In their bi-annual cycle of pilgrimages – close up! The Pope’s message was summa- at an altar in Sacristy of the Abbey which this year should have taken them to Rome rised in about a dozen languages – includ- overlooks his ancestral home – followed by and Assisi – but in a bold change to tradi- ing Arabic. an excellent guided tour which included tion they were off to Rome, the Benedic- the tombs of St Benedict and his twin sister tine Abbey at Montecassino, Sorrento, the The wisest pilgrims took shelter from the St Scholastica. Shrine of St Andrew at Amalfi and Capri. growing heat in the shade of the obelisk in the centre of the square. For the remainder Arriving in Sorrento – just beyond Na- In Rome they settled into a small hotel in of the day the pilgrims had free time to ex- ples – there was a first sight of Vesuvius. the Borgo Pio – within sight of the gates of plore the piazza’s, churches, shops – fuelled Conveniently for the camera it sported a Vatican City at the Porto Sant’ Anna. by pizza, cold beer and ice cream. beautifully positioned adiabatic cloud – page 6 creating the illusion of an eruption! apostle taken there by its Bishop after the : sacking of Constantinople in 1208. The 62 Rt Rev Their hosts for the next four nights were steps leading up to the front door proved [email protected] the Oblates Sisters of the Baby Jesus – Bra- too much for some of the pilgrims – but for zilian nuns who run a Residenza – a guest those who managed it – the visit to Shrine Vicars General: Very Rev. Mgr. Aldo Canon Angelosanto house - in a beautiful building set aloft on with the relics revealed a beautiful setting St Anne’s, 46 Corbie Drive, the dramatic coast. The sight of the Medi- – worthy of Our Lord’s first-called disciple. Carnoustie, DD7 7NU terranean – the capes and bays – and the [email protected] quickly setting sun – another perfect end to The final day took the pilgrims to the ru- Very Rev. Kevin Canon Golden a perfect day. ins of Pompei. For those familiar with Had- St Andrew’s Cathedral, rian’s Wall and Scotland’s Roman landscape 150 Nethergate, Dundee PH1 5PY A new day and our coach set off on the – or even the Forum in Rome – this was Tel 01738 622241 1730 bends along the infamous Amalfi like a virtual reality experience – so much Diocesan Centre Road. Plans to visit the mountain top vil- had been preserved for 1600 years under 20 Chancellor: lage of Ravello – with even more sharp feet of volcanic ash. Mr Malcolm Veal B.A. hairpins – were swapped for a short cruise [email protected] which allow the pilgrims to appreciate the Mass was celebrated in Our Lady of the Vice-Chancellor: Fr Michael Carrie scale of the rugged coastline – with Rav- Rosary, in the chapel of the Blessed Bartolo Finance Administrator ello high above - home to many famous Longo, along with the Emeri- Miss Melissa Walton, A.C.C.A. names over the years - from Sophie Lauren tus Bernard Moras, from Bangalore, India. [email protected] to Beyonce, from Rodger Moore to Rudolf Director Very Rev. Kevin Canon Golden Nureyev… On the final evening there was a charity 24-28 Lawside Road dinner, attended by Bishop Ricardo Álva- Dundee, DD3 6XY Back on dry land – and Amalfi’s great Ca- rez, auxiliary Bishop of Lima, in aid of the Tel 01382 225453 thedral of St Andrew – with the relics of the work of the Sisters of the Baby Jesus. Religious Education Advisor Mrs Mary O’Duffin [email protected]

Safeguarding Mr John Smith [email protected]

Episcopal Vicars: Very Rev. Mark Cassidy (Vocations) Immaculate Conception 41 High Street Lochee, Dundee, DD2 3AP Tel 01382 611282

Very Rev. Michael Freyne (Mission, Justice & Peace) The Presbytery, St Bernadette’s Baingle Brae, Tullibody. FK10 2SG Tel 01259 213274

Very Rev. James High (Laity and Lay Organisations) 23 Market Street, Montrose. DD10 8NB Tel 01674 672208

Very Rev. Ronald McAinsh CSsR (Religious) St Mary’s, Hatton Road, Kinnoull, Perth. PH2 7BP Tel 01738 624075

Very Rev. Steven Canon Mulholland (Ecumenism and Interfaith Relationships) St John the Baptist’s, 20 Melville Street, Perth. PH1 5PY Tel 01738 259371

Very Rev. Mgr. Basil Canon O’Sullivan JCL (Clergy) St Clare’s, Claredon Place, Dunblane. FK15 9HB Tel 01786 822146

Very Rev. Thomas Canon Shields (Education) The Presbytery, St Fillan’s Ford Road, Crieff, PH7 3HN Tel 01764 653269 The Shrine of St Andrew at Amalfi Cathedral, Italy

page 7 Kirsten Friedman, a student at the University of St Andrews, who was on her first trip to Lourdes this year “Words cannot describe being in Lourdes” Anybody who has visited Lourdes will of the Cross – the physically demanding Now I understand just how impossible tell you that it is nearly impossible to de- “High Stations” or the more accessible, but it is to describe being in Lourdes. When scribe what they discovered there. Travel- no less beautiful, “Low Stations”. thinking back to being in Lourdes, you ling to Lourdes to help those less able is can’t help but focus on the incredible highs, such a rewarding, albeit challenging, expe- Tuesday was one of our busiest days. We and it’s easy to forget how demanding the rience for all involved, and it is the perfect all travelled to Bartrès, a town near Lourdes pilgrimage is, with the slow pace of sim- place for prayer and reflection. where St Bernadette spent much of her ply getting from A to B among the huge youth. Mass was celebrated at the parish crowds, made all the more testing by the With this in mind, I set off to join the church, dedicated to St John the Baptist, intense heat. The tiredness, however, fades Diocese of Dunkeld Annual Pilgrimage where St Bernadette had her Catechism into memory on shift when spending time to Lourdes for my first time in July 2019. lessons. Bishop Stephen at this Mass, who with the assisted pilgrims in the Accueil The overland group left Dundee on Tues- helped administer the Sacrament of the whose love for Lourdes is a constant. day 9th July, followed by the main pilgrim- Sick to our assisted pilgrims. age group, led by Bishop Stephen Robson, The 2019 Dunkeld Lourdes pilgrim- flew from on 12th July. We were That evening, Dunkeld took part in age was definitely reflective of its theme: also joined for most of the week by a group the Marian Torchlight Procession. Most ‘Happy are the poor’. It was not only a lot of from Xaverian College in Manchester, who of the pilgrimage group took part in the fun, but also insightful. It made me realise helped the Dunkeld group on shift in the procession, but some, myself included, what I take for granted, and reminded me Accueil Notre Dame, where the assisted were able to join the choir. In the choir that there are a lot of basic things that come pilgrims were staying. we were grouped together by the language easily to me that others struggle with. The we speak, and there were many different week is really about the assisted pilgrims, The week we spent in Lourdes was one language groups including English, Span- and being able to accompany them to Mass, of the most intense weeks I’ve ever had the ish, French, Dutch, German, and Russian. 24hr adoration, praying of the rosary, and privilege of experiencing, as well as the The Hail Marys in each Decade are start- Stations of the Cross (to name just a few most spiritually demanding. Being able to ed by a few people who are selected from things) and seeing their enthusiasm helps attend Mass every day in different churches the choir, and I had the honour of leading you to forget your own inconveniences and within the Sanctuary was incredible, and three of the Hail Marys in English. The to reflect on what is really important in life. the itinerary (coupled with my wanting view over the domain, looking out at thou- For more information on our fund to see absolutely everything) barely al- sands of people holding candles and pray- raising activities, or to travel to Lourdes lowed for any time off my feet - not that ing the rosary, is something I’ll never for- with Dunkeld in 2020, visit the Dunkeld you would want to risk missing anything in get. Lourdes Service website at www.dunkeld- such an amazing place! lourdesservice.com or the Facebook page On Wednesday, the group split for Mass, “Dunkeld Lourdes”. The overland pilgrim- Our week started with a penitential ser- with some attending Mass at the Grotto age will run from 7–21 July 2020, at a cost vice, where everybody had the opportunity (led by the ) and of £800. to go to individual confession. On Sunday, some attending the International Mass in Dunkeld led Mass in the Grotto, before the underground Basilica of St Pius X. Our Our upcoming events include our annual participating in the Blessed Sacrament Pro- pilgrimage party took place that evening, Carol Service in Ss Peter and Paul’s on 22nd cession that afternoon. In the evening we where a variety of very talented performers December at 3pm and our fund raising Ball all had an amazing view for the Bastille Day entertained the entire group. Thursday was on 29th February – if you’re interested in fireworks, which we watched from the roof our final full day in Lourdes, and after the the 2020 pilgrimage, please come along to of the Acceuil. Our busy schedule contin- Closing Mass, some pilgrims went to the one of our events to meet some of our ex- ued on Monday when pilgrims were given baths while others participated in a short isting volunteers and hear more about their the opportunity to be led in the Stations prayer service on the banks of the river. experiences. Join DLS for a Festive afternoon of Carols, Readings and Musical Performances! Ss Peter & Paul’s Church Byron Street, Dundee 3pm, Sunday 22nd December A retiring collection will be taken for the Dunkeld Lourdes Fund in support our fundrais- ing efforts for Lourdes 2020. page 8 Perth’s new ‘Blood of Christ’ community - is first in the UK Wspólnota Krwi Chrystusa - Perth - Sz- Jablonski has been a member for about 25 kocja” or the ‘Community of the Blood of years. Christ’ is a congregation of traditions. This community was initially called the ‘Broth- Kris said, “For many years I had a deep erhood of the Most Precious Blood of Our desire for such a community to be created Lord Jesus Christ’ and was established in here in Scotland. Now, our modest group the Basilica of San Nicola in Rome during a in Perth meets once a week and has the very difficult period of great poverty, unbe- character of a prayer community. At meet- lief and crime. ings, we read the Holy and consider it. Reading the Holy Scriptures is an extension It was St Gaspar del Bufalo who gave the of the life of the Lord Jesus. When we read, inaugural sermon of the Brotherhood of we choose a quote that we try to live for the the Precious Blood on December 8th, 1808. next week. We take this quote with us to Rev. Deacon Kris Jablonski He accepted those who loved the crucified work, home, to the family, everywhere we Lord Jesus Christ and wanted to glorify His live, that’s why we call this quote the Word innocent, who cannot defend themselves. Blood shed for us. of Life.” Currently, the group consists of the Polish community, but it is not exclusive to the The community was founded to vener- Our General Statutes show that we are to Polish community and it welcomes any- ate the Blood - the price of our salvation. care for and support priests in our parish. one who wants to join them to worship the His relics are still venerated in many plac- We are also obliged to pray for the inten- Most Precious Blood of the Saviour. es around the world - including Poland, tions of our parish and the entire diocese. at the Mission House of St Lawrence in Our desire is that the Blood of the Saviour You can find the community at St John’s, Częstochowa. should not be shed in vain, for it flows wher- Perth every Saturday after the morning ever harm and violence occur. That is why 10am Mass or contact them through their The community of the Blood of Christ we support through prayer all those who Facebook page Wspólnota Krwi Chrystusa is international and Perth’s Deacon Kris suffer and we care a lot about those who are w Perth - Szkocja St Matthew’s, Auchtermuchty marks 60 years Bishop Stephen and Fr Martin Pletts Fr Pletts thanked Bishop Stephen for James Malaney who served St Columba’s, were the main celebrants at a Mass to mark coming to help us mark the special moment Cupar and St Matthew’s for over 30 years. the 60th anniversary of the opening of St in the history of this faith community: Matthew’s, Auchtermuchty, . “May God continue in his goodness to “We give thanks, too, for the ministry of pour out an abundance of graces and bless- The church was built in 1959, St Mat- those priests who have served here over the ings upon St Matthew’s and its parishion- thew’s is a beautiful brick-built con­ years, nourishing and guiding the Lord’s lit- ers, together may we move forward in faith temporary building with a dressed-stone tle flock in this area.” and charity, praying for and supporting each other, on this journey of life towards front. The lovely white interior is enhanced There were fond memories too of Canon by five oaken ribs which support the roof our heavenly homeland.” and the altar is enclosed in a semi circular arch with a background of blue.

Before the church was opened, Catholics in the area had only been able to hear Mass thanks to the generosity of benefactors. They included the Dick family at Montrave, who provided the first chapel in Cupar in 1864; the Fairlie family who built a private chapel at Myres Castle in 1890, and the Bute family who built a private chapel at House of Falkland in 1901.

The area was served by priests from the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh until 1948 when the responsibility was taken over by Augustinian Fathers from Dundee,. It was one of them, Fr Leo Mc- Cabe, built the present church in Auchter- muchty. page 9 The pupils are buzzing to learn at St John’s Academy, Perth

Depute Headteacher, ing warnings about climate change, it’s even we hope to expand the apiary and have two more important that the community of St hives up and running so hopefully even Dr Robert Staines writes John’s Academy creates a positive environ- more honey! mental footprint. To this end we now have “Here at St John’s we have started up bee- a flourishing rural skills group that have “32 jars of lovely golden honey, each with keeping with the installation of a hive and created a vegetable garden at the back and a piece of honeycomb, have been bottled by a colony of bees that came to us from the also look after our quad garden; which is to pupils in the home economics department. Perth and District Bee keepers Association, be redesigned in the October holiday and The Advanced Higher Graphic Design for which we are now members. They ar- replanted with bee friendly plants. Bees are pupils designed the labels which say - ‘St rived in June and the bees have been busy important pollinators and are worth mil- John’s Honey; Exclusively and Organically producing honey all summer long which lions of pounds to the agricultural and hor- produced on site by Native Bees located we have recently harvested. This is very fit- ticultural industries and indeed to our own in St Columba’s garden. Thanks to pupils ting as our Patron St John the Baptist had ecosystem and very survival. from: Rural Skills, The Eco Group, Health a strong association with honey. “John’s & Food Technology; Graphic Communica- clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he “A number of pupils from the eco-group tion and Fairtrade. had a leather belt around his waist. His food have now tried their hand at bee keeping, was locusts and wild honey.” (Matthew 3:4). as can be seen in the pictures with Isabella “It is now ready to be marketed and sold Macdonald and Nikoletta Szimelfenig suit- by the Fair Trade group at parent’s nights “John was a man living on the edge in ably suited up, as novice beekeepers, and and other special occasions. We gave a Jar the wilderness of Judea and foraged for his standing next to the statue of St Columba, to Bishop Stephen so if you bump into him food preferring to eat alone. He probably Patron of Dunkeld Diocese, in the quad you can always ask did he enjoy it on his had a connection with the Essenes who garden where the hive is located. Next year breakfast table?” were a monastic community at Qumran and who wrote the Dead Sea scrolls. Indeed throughout the century’s monks and bees have enjoyed a long association, for honey is used not just as a food source but also medicinally and the wax used for candle making and balm.

“However, John was a fiery prophet in the footsteps of Elijah, from the Old Tes- tament, who prepared the way for Jesus, calling people to turn away from their sins and seek salvation. His message was one of repentance, pointing out that the King- dom of God was very near. His baptism with water was an initiation ritual meant to cleanse and open peoples’ hearts to per- sonally receive the Saviour. It is only with a pure heart that we can truly see the beauty of the world around us and ultimately God himself.

“St Francis of Assisi also reminds us of this in his “Canticle of the Creatures” writ- ten a thousand years later in Umbria, Italy, in 1224 where he encourages us to be good stewards of creation when he writes: “All praise be yours, my Lord, through our Sis- ter Mother Earth, who sustains us and gov- erns us, and produces various fruits with coloured flowers and herbs.” For this rea- son he is the patron saint of ecology and his message is as relevant now as it was then. Novice beekeepers - Isabella Macdonald and Nikoletta Szimelfenig “As an eco-school, and with ever increas- page 10 Dunkeld’s Religious Communities gathered for the Annual Vocations Mass at St Andrew’s, Cathedral Scotland’s youngest priest looks at the role of the priest Fr Mark Cassidy, Dunkeld’s Voca- tions Director, led the Annual Vocations Mass in St Andrew’s Cathedral, Dundee. Priests and Religious came from across the diocese and were joined in prayer by representatives of schools and parishes. Canon Kevin Golden directed the Dioc- esan Choir which was accompanied at the organ by Sheriff Kevin Veal.

Scotland’s youngest priest, Fr Jean Gové, preached. Fr Jean was ordained in the Quoting - Fr Gové said, “the As to the ideal qualities for candidates Archdiocese of Malta earlier this year. He priest must have the smell of the floor” - in for the priesthood, Fr Gové reflected on the has come to Scotland to study at St An- other words, the priest must be prepared to human weakness of many priest and bish- drews University and is based with Fr Cas- get his hands dirty. ops, including the apostles themselves. sidy, serving the parishes of Immaculate Conception, Ss Leonard and Fergus and St He is called to imitate Christ’s mission Above all, a candidate for the priesthood Columba’s, Dundee. to be with the poor, the marginalised, the should be a man who is faithful. God does addict, the alcoholic, the prostitute and the not call someone because of his merits, tal- Addressing the question about why we unloved and to free them from the things ents or capabilities - this is because God’s need priests, Fr Gové examined the role that have captured them. The priest should grace alone is sufficient. Let us pray for men of the priesthood and what are qualities a speak up against injustice and lies in favour who are faithful to the Gospels. priest should have. Rather than wise words of truth and love. The priest is called to of wisdom from long experience, he felt continue to carry out Christ’s mission - and Perhaps is good to remind ourselves from that he could simply share the naïvety ide- that is to bring salvation to all mankind. time to time of our naïve idealism! alism of his youth. SVdP at St Columba’s, Kirkton, reaching out to those who are most in need of help Members of the St Vincent de Paul So- Part of the Society’s remit is ‘to be fully district, became self-sufficient in 1994. ciety (SVdP) at St Columba’s, Kirkton in concerned with the complete development St Columba’s then adopted a second twin Dundee looked back on a busy year - both of mankind, whose primary need is respect from Kerala; this time St George’s Parish in raising funds and reaching out to those of his dignity’. the Arthinkal district. who are most in need of help. A twinnage programme was initiated so Due to continued support from the pa- Working under the Society of St Vincent that conferences, groups and councils could rishioners of St Columba’s, who contribute de Paul’s principle that ‘No work of charity take on a struggling Parish abroad and sup- so generously to our black boxes, a good is foreign to the Society’ there are a tremen- port it through prayer and especially finan- deal of poverty has been relieved. Houses dous range of activities into which their cially. On the ground, these twinned SVdP have been built, people have been fed, and members can become involved. conferences would assess the immediate clothed. Dignity has been restored and, al- needs in their own local area and help as though miles apart, part of the Gospel has These works of charity, initially, are usu- required. been ‘lived out’. ally at a local level where the brothers and sisters of the local conference attend with The Twinnage programme itself can This, of course, is not unique to St ‘hands on’ assistance to try and alleviate be found in several countries around the Columba’s. Across the globe many Parishes any hardship. Further afield the conference world including Africa, South America mirror this effect in the twinning project will give support to the local Group Coun- and, maybe surprisingly, Malta. In 1965, bringing relief and hope to the poor and cil, the Diocesan Council and the National St Columba’s in Dundee was matched with needy – bringing relief and hope due to Council if at all possible when required, its first twin, a Parish in the Kerala state of the kindness and generosity of many loyal quite a lot of which is to help bring relief India, and due to continued support the parishioners who with their donations con- after natural disasters. St Thomas conference in the Kottayam tinue to ‘do unto others’. page 11 NEWSPASTORAL AND PICTURES LETTER FROM - Relics AROUND of St Therese OUR of SCHOOLSLisieux

A renewal of Faith My Dear Brothers had been planned and gone ahead. The visit needed to hear the teaching of the Gospel to England then had been a great success, trumpeted but with her characteristic gen- and Sisters in Christ and I knew that our people would respond tleness. St Therese had also promised to As you are well aware, just a short while to the once-in-a-lifetime visit of Therese ‘spend her heaven doing good on earth’. We ago we had a four-day visit of the major rel- this time round in great numbers. And so are among the beneficiaries of this promise ics of St Therese of Lisieux to our diocese. you did! fulfilled in our own time. There were not a few in our country were sceptical about such a visit. In fact, last time Why? Because Therese, in spite of being a Over four wonderful days we prayed, this was proposed for our country in 2010, cloistered Carmelite nun, cut off from ‘the venerated the relics, adored the Lord Jesus it was decided that the visit would have world’, was a great evangeliser. Through her in the Most Blessed Sacrament, participat- been a waste of resources and so the bish- spiritual teaching on humility, on her ‘Lit- ed in our masses and in our various other ops decided not to sanction the visit here. tle Way’; in her letters to missionary priests, liturgies and devotions. One of the greatest What was the result? Our people in Scot- in her ‘Story of a Soul’ her spiritual auto- fruits of this Visit was how Therese drew land went by the thousands down to Eng- biography and in her persistence in prayer people to Confession and brought many land to Manchester, Liverpool and Newcas- she was able to reach out beyond the walls people back to the practice of their faith. In tle where the visit of the relics to England of the Monastery into the world which addition, many pilgrims came from other – even from other churches - and the general impression was that we were greatly strengthened in our Catholic Faith by her presence among us.

What will be the legacy of this Visit? Per- haps the best gift we could give Therese in return is to keep that sense of enthusiasm and rejuvenation for our faith and to share

page 12 www.dunkelddiocese.org.uk @DunkeldDiocese NEWSPASTORAL AND PICTURES LETTER FROM - Relics AROUND of St Therese OUR of SCHOOLSLisieux

it with others – with members of our fami- mittee and to the constant presence of the of the visit and finally to the ladies of the lies who are lapsed, or who feel perhaps al- Knights of Saint Columba who accompa- Cathedral who provided hospitality for all ienated from the Church. That would be a nied the relics from diocese to diocese and those who were helping during the Visit in wonderful lasting legacy to flow from our who kept guard over the relics during the various ways. Visit of St Therese. Over these past few days Visit. Within our own diocese I would like we have been blessed with so many graces to thank again Canon Kevin Golden, Ad- Finally I would like to thank all of you and blessings ourselves; so let our thanks- ministrator of the Cathedral who managed Faithful People who took part in this mem- giving be to double our efforts and inten- the entire visit, printed and prepared all the orable visit; for your love for the Saint, for tions to make the Lord Jesus known and Mass sheets and rehearsed the Diocesan your faith in action and for your devotion loved and to bless and thank him for the Choir and led them during the liturgies. to the Church. May the visit of Saint Ther- Crowning of the Saints and for intercession I would also like to thank Sheriff Kevin ese be a real boost to our renewal in Faith of the heavenly Church in support of our Veal who led the music from the organ and as a spur to urge us on during this time work of evangelisation here on earth - and in the Cathedral; the cantors; the readers of confusion and doubt. May the Little especially for the intercession of St Therese and the servers let by our Cathedral MC Flower bless all our efforts at renewal and of the Child Jesus and of the Holy Face. Tom McPherson. I wish also to thank the strengthen our Faith. many priests who heard confessions and There are many people I would wish to brought their people by car and bus from Yours devotedly in Christ, thank for their hard work during the plan- the more far flung parishes in the diocese ning phase and during the Visit itself. I and to Eleanor McBride for her flower ar- would like to thank in particular the Gen- rangements. A special thanks must go the eral Secretary of the Conference, Diocesan Choir who excelled themselves in + Stephen Fr Jim Grant who masterminded the entire ‘Singing for the Lord’ during the four days Bishop of Dunkeld visit to Scotland form beginning to end; to Canon Kevin Golden who was our dioc- esan representative on the National Com-

page 13 the abortion figures make clear that there’s always more to be done. High abortion figures inspire After a year liaising with crisis pregnancy groups in both Glasgow and London, pro- new Dundee pregnancy and life advocates were delighted to have Bish- op Stephen Robson open our own volun- parenthood support group tary organisation - Dundee Pregnancy and Parenthood Support (DPAPS).

Over 40 people attended the opening with many of those signing up to pray, de- liver clothing and equipment, knit or sort out donations. The aim at DPAPS is to offer help that will facilitate the important role of parenthood and support those nurturing life at every stage of development.

This includes, not only supply of baby equipment and clothing but, companion- ship at appointments and help with ac- Photo by Eddie Mahoney cessing benefits and financial assistance. Where DPAPS can’t currently offer help, we The latest abortion figures for Scotland can liaise with other crisis pregnancy and have recently been published and they post-abortion counselling groups as well as provide grim reading indeed. The num- established groups in Dundee that provide ber and rate of terminations of pregnancy assistance for families. in Scotland in 2018 were at a ten year high with 13,286 terminations, a rate of 12.9 per With the financial assistance of the Dio- 1,000 women (aged 15- 44). cese of Dunkeld, and in particular the un- swerving support of Bishop Steven Robson, Tayside has had for many years around DPAPS will widen the pro-life witness in 1200 abortions each year. The increasing our Diocese by reintroducing a practical number of abortions performed in Scot- pro-life support group. land, and the figures in Dundee, serve as a (continued from front page) stark reminder that our lovely city is caught We are looking for donations of baby Clergy and Bishop closely followed by up in the culture of death lamented by Saint equipment or clothes; volunteers to knit the Knights of St Columba who carried the Pope John Paul II. baby blankets and clothing; and, most of reliquary to the heart of the church where all, prayers to help build the Culture of Life it would remain for the next three days. There has been an active pro-life presence here in Dundee. The processional hymn, beautifully writ- in Dundee since the 1967 Abortion Act was ten by nuns of Dysart Carmel, was sung passed. Those involved have worked tire- to the tune of ‘Highland Cathedral’ lifting lessly to get the pro-life message to the peo- Get in touch the hearts and minds of all present. During ple of our city by acts of witness, education, the opening Mass, a reflection on the life fund raising and practical support from the If you have any enquiries regarding of Therese was given by Fr John Udris who likes of SPUC, The Innocence and latterly DPAPS, please visit their Facebook page, reminded everyone that Therese shows us the 40 Days for Life Campaign. However, or call 07453 784295. that the true road to holiness was to be- come little, and that humility is the key to our true identity.

The Choir also sang St Therese’s Canticle of love which was followed by the bless- ing of the Roses. As Mass ended queues of people venerated the relics which was also a most prayerful and spiritual experience for everyone participating as they drew so close to Therese touching the reliquary and placing their roses around it. May the spirit of Therese and her wisdom live on the hearts everyone and draw us all into the divine love of the Blessed Trinity. Anyone who wishes to know more about St Therese and all of the Carmelite Saints can contact Dundee Secular Carmel – Secretary Helen Photo by Eddie Mahoney Wylie on 01382 669598. page 14 This year’s Sixth Year RE Conference Schools’ Sixth Year RE Conference took place on 20th September 2019 in St addresses CARITAS - a Living Service John’s RC High School in Dundee. Mr John Paul Cecil, PT of Religious Education, welcomed S6 students and staff from across the diocese – including St Paul’s Academy, Dundee, St John’s Acade- my, Perth and Kilgraston School, Bridge of Allan, together with their school chaplains. A warm welcome was also extended to Dunkeld’s Vicar Episcopal for Education, Canon Thomas Shields and Bishop Stephen Robson.

The theme, ‘Caritas – Living Service’ was intended to invite the young people to re- flect on ways to share God’s love in their communities. There were speakers from Missio, SPUC Scotland, SCIAF, St Vincent de Paul, Dundee Pregnancy and Parent- hood Support, HCPT, and Mary’s Meals as well as from the Dunkeld Lourdes Ser- vice who, in turn, shared their work with Photo by Aleksandra Molon young students. The conference ended with a Prayer Service by Fr Michael Carrie. Learning more about the faith at St Bride’s, Monifieth - by Joanne McCourt Catechism classes have been running at ships at the classes and helps to deepen the which can count towards their Duke of St Bride’s for over 40 years. During that children’s relationship with God. Edinburgh Award volunteering commit- time, many people have attended for for- ments, retired people who enjoy being with mation, preparation for, and reception of, All of this relies on the commitment of the children and looking after the practi- the sacraments; and some people have re- volunteers. We have a number of catechism calities of the group, former teachers from turned as adults to help out. teachers who prepare for the lessons and primary, secondary and university back- teach the classes. We also have adult help- grounds together with nurses and stay at The format of the catechism classes ers who sit in during the lessons to support home mums. changed around 10 years ago and we now the teachers and other volunteers who pro- have primaries 3 to 7 coming together on a vide hospitality for the children who come We are always grateful to welcome any- Thursday evening and primaries 1 and 2 on straight from school. one who wants to volunteer in any capacity a Saturday morning. big or small and are always in need of new Our volunteers are a varied bunch. We helpers and teachers to keep this wonderful This approach allows us to accommo- have young people who come to help out vocation going in our parish. date the children straight from school on a Thursday where half an hour of social time together is followed by a period of prayer and teaching in the church from Father Aldo our parish priest. The children then split into their individual classes for 45 minute catechises. After this we experience the wonderful grace of weekly benediction followed by the Divine Praises concluding at 5.15pm.

Our time together at catechism is a great blessing for both the children and all the volunteers. The children are given an op- portunity to be around other young Catho- lics to socialise, share their faith and pray A Party in the Park for the children and their catechists together. This encourages strong relation- page 15 Catholic Education and the Mass - Canon Tom Shields Engaging in the real story “Everyone seems to be working harder ing of time, living in a dreamlike world Given debates over religious observance these days. We are all running around like that goes on forever. No wonder practices in schools, the increasing number of stu- headless chickens. What is the solution, like mindfulness and yoga are gaining new dents coming from secularist families who do you think?” I nearly answered, “Go to practitioners every day. “Stop the world, I may request their children to be removed Mass,” but my friend is not a Catholic and want to get off!” from worship, and also the shortage of doesn’t really believe in God. Thinking priests, we might be tempted to give up on on it, I should have suggested it anyway. I am… moving on providing Masses in schools. The vast ma- Why? jority of the students who are Catholic don’t Yet, it is not only natural to move from attend Mass with any regularity. Perhaps It is to do with the way we think and live. one period to another, to evolve, it is also other types of prayer and liturgical services We live in the present, the past and the fu- supernatural. Being present to the present might be more appropriate and life giving. ture all seemingly at the same time. We car- might be the state we crave, since we waste They are also often easier to manage and ry the hurts from yesterday, worrying about so much time worrying, but even the most engage people of all ages more effectively. the meeting to come, running for the bus disciplined of minds will time shift neces- now. Many novels these days flit backwards sarily. Indeed, being stuck in an instant can It is the Mass that matters and forwards. sometimes be harmful and lead to mental They start at a point in time, but they and emotional illness. I am for more creativity in prayer, and very quickly transport you to the future there is a rich tradition of paraliturgical or the past. It is as if the novelist is really Yes, God is a God of the moment, but he and devotional practices to draw from. a painter, going over the canvas from left is also the Lord of all moments. It is about Working in smaller groups does tend to to right, up and down, until the picture how we view time and ourselves. It is about reduce disruptive behaviour and increase emerges. Sometimes the work is finished; having direction. engagement. These experiences can often sometimes not. The modern tale for those be quite moving, especially when they chasing their own tails. The journey take place in the context of school trips or pilgrimages. Meanwhile, we miss so much. We long to Central to our understanding of time as recapture that feeling when, during an all Catholics is the . The presence of But, to use an old phrase, It is the Mass too brief holiday we looked at a sunset, the Christ in the Mass is not a static one: he is that matters. This is the great gift given to trees turning golden brown, our children the one who died and rose again for us in the Church by God to renew the world. playing, seemingly unaware of the pass- the past, brings us from darkness into light This is the worship that defines us as Cath- now, and will return to bring about the full- ness of the Kingdom.

Time is not so much suspended in the Eucharist as transformed. Our stories are rewritten, and we are redefined. We are not on a treadmill; our lives are not our work; our anxieties do matter to God. We are brought out of the humdrum and for a time reminded of our true dignity.

What’s more, we remember that Christ is present here and now to give us a fresh perspective on ourselves, our neighbour, on creation itself. In giving thanks for what he has done for us, we look to the future with confidence and are able to live more fruitful and happy lives in the present. Life is not just one thing after another.

Mass in our schools

Celebrating Mass in schools can be the most rewarding, terrifying, and frustrat- ing experience of a priest’s life. The staff go on heightened ‘security alert.’ The students often feel awkward and bored, leading to pranks and showy behaviour; the only good thing being that they get out of class. page 16 shaped to ‘introduce’ and prepare for up- coming Eucharistic celebrations, and even exposition be available, with the right prep- aration beforehand.

Role of the priest

I wonder if we as priests need to make ourselves more not less available to schools, despite the shortage of clergy. Celebrat- ing Mass more often, with smaller groups, with a view to leading whole school Masses might just address a whole raft of problems.

Celebrating the Mass is something priests are comfortable with. It gives them a reason and a purpose to be in school to do what they do best. A more imaginative and diverse way of looking at chaplaincy and Mass preparation, involving parishioners as well as teachers, might solve the problem olic Christians with something different to Prayer throughout the day could be of priests feeling awkward in their relation- offer. structured better to reflect the rhythm of ships, particularly with teenagers. the Eucharist. When gathered first thing, It is also the best catechetical instrument students could be encouraged to renew They would be there as part of the team known to us: we can learn more about the themselves by recollecting and asking for- with their own sacramental and spiritual Church, warts and all, from attending one giveness. role to play. Mass than by going to a hundred teaching sessions. Life is not just about timetables. A short passage of scripture could be And so read, perhaps part of the reading for the Connections weekday Mass. During the day petition and At Mass, the real presence engages with thanksgiving could be encouraged along the real story: Christ, the High Priest, the What I’m suggesting is that we rediscover with reflection and silent thanksgiving. At one who returns to take us to where he is, the insights of the Fathers of the Church, the end of the school day, students could be is also the Christ of the Road to Emmaus, that the Mass, its elements and structures, urged to go and live the good news. listening to his disciples as they tell their can help teachers form the catechetical and story. It is not time to give up on school liturgical life of all Catholic schools. Services and paraliturgies might be Masses, It is time to rediscover them. The Mass... is the great gift given to the Church by God to renew the world...

Fr Jim Walls celebrates an open air Mass at St Columba’s Bay, Iona

page 17 Dunkeld’s Extra-Ordinary Month of Mission

St Modan’s High School (Stirling), St Bernadette’s Primary (Tullibody) and St Mungo’s Primary (Alloa) joined with Bishop Stephen, Fr Mike Freyne with priests and parishioners from across their deanery for a Mass in St Mungo’s (Alloa) to launch the Month of Mission in the deanery - praying for mission work being undertaken across the world.

Pope Francis has declared that October 2019 will be a special month of prayer and action to strengthen and grow God’s mission through the Church – an Extraordinary Month of Mission (EMM2019). It was an opportunity for many parishioners from across the diocese to reflect on and pray for the Church’s mission, and for the whole Church to fully realise that in our rapidly changing world the Gospel is needed now more than ever! Fr Mike Freyne said “It has been 100 years since Pope Benedict XV issued the Apostolic Letter Maximum Illud, which Pope Francis describes as ‘a milestone in the evolution of the Church’s missionary work’. One century later, the call to mission ad gentes is as urgent as ever.”

page 18 Pupils say a fond farewell to their head teacher at St Mary’s Lochee

Deacon Jude Mukoro has been study- ing St Mary’s Seminary, Oscott, and was recently appointed to St Columba’s, Cu- A Mass of Thanksgiving for the career of thirteen of these years. (1982 - 1984) St par, under the tutelage of Mgr Pat McI- Mrs Liz Conroy was celebrated by Fr Mark Dominic’s, Crieff; (1984-1986) St Stephen’s, nally for an extended diaconal pastoral Cassidy at St Mary the Immaculate Con- Blairgowrie; (1986-1992) St Dominic’s, formation until his priestly ordination ception, Lochee. Mrs Conroy was the high- Crieff; (1992 -1994) St Luke’s, PS Dundee; on 14th December of this year in our ly respected and much loved headteacher (1994-1998) Senior Teacher, SS Peter & Cathedral in Dundee. of St Mary’s Primary School. Paul’s, Dundee; (1998-1999) Acting DHT, SS Peter & Paul’s, Dundee; (1999-2006) We wish him every blessing as he em- Fr Cassidy said, “She will be greatly DHT, St Joseph’s, Dundee; (2006-2010) barks on his vocation - and invite you missed by pupils, staff and the wider school Headteacher - Our Lady’s, Forebank, pray for him. community. Mrs Conroy’s career spanned Dundee and (2010 - 2019) Headteacher - St 37 years, and she was a Head Teacher for Mary’s, Lochee, Dundee.” St Stephen’s Mass celebrates cultural diversity Parishioners from Coupar Angus and Al- yth gathered at St Stephen’s, Blairgowrie for a Mass to celebrate the wide range of cul- ture represented within their parishes.

Fr Gregory Umunna said, “Our Parish is blessed! We are a people drawn from diverse nations: Scottish, English, Polish, Ukrainian, French, German, Romanian, Filipino, Nigerian, Irish, Spanish, Kenyan, Belgian, South African, Indian, Colombi- an, Czech, Dutch and more! We are united joyfully as one family of God’s people. To- day as we celebrate our gifts and talents.”

St Stephen’s Master of Ceremonies, Mr Tom Buckman, thanked all who had con- tributed to planning of the Mass and the buffet that followed.

https://www.dunkelddiocese.co.uk/ blairgowrie-celebrate-diversity-mass/

Scan this QR code with your mobile to find fuller These young Polish singers are among the eighteen nationalities taking part in the Mass coverage of this event on our website page 19 Across Pilgrims look back on ‘a holiday with Our Lady’

Regular Across travellers to Lourdes will recognise this motto, representing a unique kind of pilgrimage. Across pil- grimages take place every week of the year from Easter to October and leave from different places in the UK and even from the Channel Islands. Across pil- grimages to Lourdes are available to all, regardless of health or disability difficul- ties. Each Across group of 24 people has a medical team, chaplain and volunteers who help our VIPs have an amazing pil- grimage. We travel to Lourdes by Jumbu- lance, a unique specially designed coach In the early hours of Thursday 10th Oc- noon a funicular took them to the sum- ambulance, which provides safe and com- tober, Across Group 1930 left Dundee on mit of Pic du Jer. This was a wonderful fortable transport for travellers with dis- pilgrimage to Lourdes. It was led by Pauline excursion and some group members even abilities and illnesses. Veal, parishioner of St Joseph’s, Dundee ac- climbed to the summit where there is a companied by a group of experienced and cross which is illuminated every evening. Each pilgrimage is different and struc- new helpers and VIPs. The group was privi- tured according to the needs and limita- leged to have Bishop Stephen Robson as its Time in Lourdes is of the essence and tions of our pilgrims. However, all our chaplain. On the journey, the Jumbulance first time pilgrims are keen to see as much pilgrimages have a number of activities picked up additional travellers at Bothwell, as possible. Our seven days in Lourdes in common. They all include for example: Lancaster and South Mimms Services and passed very quickly but still allowed us to time for prayer at the Grotto, Blessed Sac- then the group of 24 was complete. visit all the important sights connected to rament Procession, Torchlight Procession, St Bernadette – the parish church, Cachot, Stations of the Cross, Praying the Rosary, After a long, but enjoyable journey, with Boly Mill and town cemetery and other Anointing of the Sick, Daily Mass, the time for getting to know one another, shar- places such as the Ukrainian Church, St Baths and more. ing meals, watching films and sleeping, we Frai Chapel, Le Petit Lourdes and the Max- arrived in Lourdes in time for lunch on Fri- ililian Kolbe Exhibition. Outwith Lourdes, In addition to these activities, Across day 11th October. The Hotel Mediterranee we visited St Savin, Gavarnie, Hosanna pilgrims have access to a mini-Jumbulance had twelve specially adapted rooms that House and Bartres. whilst in Lourdes which gives them the op- include hospital beds and medical equip- portunity of easily visiting places in and ment, as well as easily accessible wet rooms. It was a very busy week but one that was around Lourdes, going shopping and even After lunch there was time to settle in be- very enjoyable and fulfilling. Our Lady was having day trips to Gavarnie or elsewhere. fore taking part in the weekly programme at the centre of our entire time in Lourdes of events that had been planned. and of course, we finished our week with the customary circuit around the statue of The weather in Lourdes can be very un- the Crowned Virgin while reciting the Hail predictable and the group were prepared Mary three times to ensure that we will re- for all eventualities. They were blessed turn again to Lourdes in the future. A big with very good weather and altered our thank you must go to all members of the programme to suit the temperatures. On group who contributed to the success of the the Saturday evening, they took part in pilgrimage. the Torchlight procession, which was very impressive on a dark autumnal evening, For further information about travelling watching the procession of candles wind- to Lourdes in the future with Across, either ing its way around the domain. as a VIP, helper, chaplain or member of the Medical team, please contact: Our Sunday Mass was held in the chap- el of the Bellevue (Polish) Convent. The grounds of the Convent has a beautiful Margaret Parke - 01382 667158 statue of Pope St John Paul II and Stations (Local Group Leader) of the Cross which were re-housed from L’Astazou, the former permanent Across Pauline Veal - 01382 668957 accommodation in Lourdes. In the after- (National Group Leader) page 20 St Paul’s Academy Pope Francis Faith Award in pupil receives action at Our Lady’s, Perth SQA’s Star Award

Our Lady’s Primary, Perth, Depute Head, “At our recent school fundraising event Mrs Lisa Brown, said, “Whilst working on ‘Bike Breakfast’ the children returned their their Pope Francis Faith Awards, our P7 hospitality and invited the Letham Friends Declan Shafi at the Awards Ceremony pupils have been living out the gifts of the Network to join in on the fun.” Prompted with Mr Swinney and Mr McCarthy Holy Spirit, making new friendships with by Pope Francis’ words to young people in the elderly community of Letham. The 2013, Mrs Brown added; “How beautiful children have been joining the members of it would be if each of our children, every Delcan Shafi was awarded the Scot- the Letham Friends Network (LFN) for fun evening, could say: ‘Today at school, at tish Qualifications Authority Star Award and chat. They have experienced different home, at work, guided by God, I showed a School Candidate of the Year. There was a activities such as chair aerobics and Boccia sign of love towards one of my friends, my high standard of nominees in this category as well as socialising over a cup of tea.” parents and an older person!’ from Edinburgh, Coatbridge, and Stirling. Among those at the gala evening in Glas- gow was Deputy First Minister John Swin- Bishop visits St John’s Academy, Perth ney as well as Declan’s guidance teacher Mr McCarthy.

The SQA Star Award recognisies his out- standing academic achievements and his role as a mentor to younger pupils at St Paul’s RC Academy. Declan surpassed all expectations by achieving the most quali- fications at the highest grade St Paul’s RC Academy has ever seen and his passion for chess saw him named Young Player of the Year – largely due to the mentoring he pro- vides. He is now looking forward to con- tinuing his studies at Cambridge University next year. Senior pupils turn out to greet Bishop Stephen at the Annual Family Mass Opening Mass at St Bernadette’s new school in Tullibody

Bishop Stephen, with Mgr Ken McCaffrey, Canon Harty, Mgr O’Sullivan, Fr Brian McLean and Fr Leszek Wiecaszek, S.A.C.

page 21 Dunkeld Christus vivit now on video Youth Just two years ago, Pope Francis set up accepted the invita- the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life tion to share with Youth Office taking over the functions of us their faith expe- Service the Pontifical Council for the Laity and the rience. Pontifical Council for the Family. The Di- castery for the Laity, Family and Life Youth A series of 26 Office, brings a stronger emphasis on youth videos has been and young adult ministry, on the office’s launched, based on different chapters of responsibility for promoting reflection on ‘Christus vivit’. They will guide viewers to the role of women in the Church and so- read this document and will help young ciety and on the office’s task of supporting people discover how the words of the Holy improved marriage preparation programs Father resound in the hearts of the “Un- and Church outreach to couples living in der30” generation.Dicastery Prefect, Car- situations the Church considers ‘irregular’. dinal Kevin Farrell spoke about in the se- ries. He encouraged them not only to read Youth Pilgrims Adressing the young people of the this document carefully, but also reminded Church in a recent letter Pope Francis said: them – “it is not about what is written in in St Andrews “It is with a great joy that we announce the the book of the law, but what is the Spirit launch of the ‘Christus vivit’ video project that guides each one of us and leads each On 31st August the Scottish Catholic prepared by young Catholics from around one of us to the knowledge of Christ.” Youth Service hosted a National Youth Pil- the world one year after the Synod of Bish- grimage to St Andrews to mark the 701st ops that was dedicated to them. This pro- A link to the series can be found here: www. Anniversary of the city’s Cathedral. The day ject is a work of collaboration between the laityfamilylife.va/content/laityfamilylife/ began with a gathering in St James’ RC Par- Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, the en/news/2019/_christus-vivit_-attraverso- ish Church, at St Andrews, and a welcome Dicastery for Communication and many gli-occhi-dei-giovani.html A new video is from Archbishop and mem- young people from different countries who available every Tuesday and Thursday. bers of the SCYS team. sale now. There are only 15 tickets on sale The gathering was then split into two at these prices, so ensure you buy today as groups, with those aged between 15 and 30 these will quickly sell out! You can get a embarking on a ‘pilgrim walk’ around the train or a bus from Glasgow to Dalmally town to several stations, where they learned and we can pick you up from there if you some of the history of the town and prayed let us know when you arrive. If you have any for different intentions. The younger pil- Come gather with hundreds of people issues regarding transport etc, feel free to grims took part in some fun and educa- and step into a life-changing relationship contact the page, email strongholdfestivals- tional activities, including exploration of with Jesus Christ with a 3-night camping [email protected] or call 01838 200 216. St James’ Church and a sing-song around stay in the stunning Highlands of Scotland If you’ve been before and are keen to come again, bring your friends! Introducing them a campfire on one of the beautiful beaches. at Craig Lodge House of Prayer for a pow- erful weekend of adoration, sacraments, to God’s infinite love is the best gift you music, talks, discussions, mountain walks, could give them. Please “Like” the Facebook The activities included completing a ‘way evening fun and loads more. page (https://www.facebook.com/strong- card’ with religious symbols which could holdfestival/) and follow their Instagram @ be found all around the town. The day This Catholic Festival is for 16-35 year strongholdfestival as we count down to this concluded with veneration of the relics of olds and super-early bird tickets are on special event. See you in the Mountains! St Andrew in the grounds of the Cathedral ruins, followed by Holy Mass celebrated by Coming shortly the Archbishop in St James’. Overall, the day Dundee University was very spirit-filled and enjoyable. From DYS Newsletter the Diocese of Dunkeld, 22 young people attended, contributing to almost 150 from Catholic Society DYS are launching an email subscription around the country. Dundee University Catholic Society will newsletter specifically for youth, bi- be raising funds to begin renovation of the monthly, online and emailed to subscrib- unused basement facilities in St Joseph's ers with news, upcoming events, teachings, Church. The project has yet to be officially testimonies, activities and more. costed, but the society would be most grate- ful for any donations, offers of assistance or Advent Retreat advice on where to get funding to support the project. Above all, they ask for prayer to Next weekend - 7-10th December - young help them flourish and grow for the future. people from parishes across the diocese To get in touch, email catholic-society@ have been invited to take part in the An- dundee.ac.uk. nual DYS Advent Retreat at Lawside. page 22 NEWS AND PICTURES FROM AROUND THE PARISHES

St Joseph’s, Wellburn is set to be demol- now be used to fund local and wider dioc- ished and replaced with a new housing. esan initiatives.” Plans to Wellburn House on Liff Road was provid- ing care to the elderly of Dundee for more “The Trustees of the Diocese of Dunkeld than 150 years until it was closed in 2017. wish to reassure donors to the Wellburn project, that their donations will be used for build on The site was purchased by the diocese the same purpose, that is, care of elderly in from the Little Sisters of the Poor and our diocese.” closed after inspectors found issues with the the legacy home’s gas and water supplies. The diocese “I hope this news will be welcomed by the has since maintained the 7.7 acre site at an local community and parishioners alike as annual cost of £60,000 and has now agreed it will breathe new life into the site of Well- of a conditional sale with property firm Per- burn House while raising money that can simmon Homes, which will acquire the site be used to support our projects. We are pas- upon the approval of planning permission. sionate about Dundee and the communities we are involved with and look forward to Wellburn Bishop Stephen said, “The money will seeing a new community thrive in the city.”

- ADVERTISEMENT - St Mary’s Home in Monifieth offers a fulfilling life St Mary’s Care Home is the former Cottage to achieve their potential and provides them Hospital in Monifieth which has been ex- with a more fulfilling life in their new home.” tended and developed into a 30 bedded Resi- dential Care Home. Situated at the eastern “Accommodation at St Mary’s is 20 en-suite end of Monifieth, it is close to main transport rooms of varying sizes and 10 smaller rooms routes, yet offers a peaceful setting in mature with wash hand basin. These rooms have secluded gardens. St Mary’s is run by the nearby access to toilets, shower and a bath- Management Committee chaired by Bishop room. We also have a palliative care room for Stephen Robson. dedicated end of life care. Our chef provides a varied home cooked menu along with home Offering high standards of care and facili- baking for residents to enjoy. Specific menu ties in a comfortable homely setting. Sheena requirements can be catered for.” Renton, its Care Home Manager supervises real hit with our residents. Raised beds have a trained and dedicated team of staff who “With a choice of lounges and a small sun been planted to provide colourful and sen- provide daily care and support for residents room, residents can socialise with others if sory plants and a small vegetable plot has in order to allow them to lead as full a life as they choose to do so and also take part in our provided some vegetables and fruit for use possible. daily activities. Our activity staff lead exer- in the kitchen. Residents have been sitting in cises, crafts, quizzes etc. to provide a stimu- the new sheltered seating areas in the warmer Residents benefit from the person centred lating environment which residents can call weather.” approach to care, working with residents home. A regular programme of outside enter- and their family to create a care plan which tainers visit St Mary’s to provide sing-a-longs. Activity staff are currently planning extra is detailed, and can be adapted as their needs Wednesday outings in our minibus vary from visits from entertainers and local groups in change. The aim is that every resident feels drives in the countryside to visits to local at- the run up to Christmas. Residents love to see supported and valued. St Mary’s builds strong tractions. We will continue with these over the brownies, cubs, guides etc. We also have links with families and loved ones to create the winter months, weather permitting.” our annual visit from the Cecilian Choir and an atmosphere of partnership and common the annual Christmas Party for residents and purpose. It provides a homely and relaxed en- St Mary’s has a Chapel which residents can families. This makes December a very busy vironment that is safe. visit at any time and join in the weekly Mass time in the home which residents can enjoy. organised by our local parish. Residents can On behalf of St Mary’s, Maureen Petrie enjoy the secure and secluded garden areas. If you would like more information or to arrange said: “We believe that promoting a healthy a visit - please contact Sheena Renton (Care Home environment for our residents and support- Mrs Petrie added: “The development of a Manager), St Mary’s Care Home, 39 Panmure ing them to meet their needs enables them new garden area in the past year has been a Street, Monifieth, DD5 4EG, (Tel) 01382 533376

Residents at St Mary’s Care Home in tion Policy at St Mary’s we asked them Monifieth were given the chance to look if they had a favourite place in Scotland back on a lifetime of memories to pick or where they went on holiday, a favour- out the best scenes for next year’s Cal- ite castle, bird or animal. The pictures endar. in the calendar reflect their wishes. St Mary’s also thanked 12 of their main sup- They have created a calendar, for sale pliers who have each sponsored a page at £6 each, as part of their resident fund on the calendar.” raising campaign. The calendars can be bought at St Maureen Petrie reports: “St Mary’s Mary’s in Monifieth or the Diocesan residents provided the inspiration for Office, 24-28 Lawside Road, the calendar. As part of the Participa- Dundee, DD3 6XY. The perfect stocking filler this Christmas page 23 Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

by Mary O'Duffin In the fullnesses, our resolutions can vanish by theof first day time of February. Our own strength and willpower The first Sunday of Advent, reawakens is insufficient to the task. We achieve and our understanding of the People of God, us, succeed in living in hope for the future only journeying through human history. With our when we recognise our need of God’s Grace. strengths and weaknesses, our victories and We see this when we are drawn to spend time our failures, invited to encounter Jesus, the in prayer, heart-to-heart, opening our lives to Lord of history and our histories. He calls the gifts and graces that are beyond our imag- us to experience hope and light and joy. Can ing. you allow yourself to believe that these prom- ises are made for you? Can you pray for the The Season of Advent that begins on the Graces of hope and joy in your lived and felt 1st December is the Church’s New Year. The experience of the human journey? nights darken, vestments become purple and if we are blessed, we see the flickering of can- In the second Sunday of Advent we meet dles and devotion more that the tinsel of com- the mysterious figure of John the Baptist who e have all experienced waiting: mercialism. urges us to Prepare the Way of The Lord. This for a bus, train or a plane; a larger than life character also recognised that cheque in the post; word of a new After our journeying through this evoca- he must diminish so that Christ can increase Wjob or an unsuccessful application, a pro- tive and powerful time of November, the in our lives. What deeds of yours could help motion, a redundancy; a clean bill of health month of the Holy Souls, we are drawn to- prepare the way of The Lord this Advent? Is or a diagnosis of illness; news of an election, wards something ever new. there some encouragement of the young, the a pregnancy or a death; word from children burdened or the helpless that might be within or parents; or simply contact with a friend - In a profound way we have experienced your power to do? Can you ask for the grace an email, phone call or conversation. We all the longing and connection with our Beloved of generosity to accomplish this? know what it is to yearn for a connection... dead, and perhaps discovered our own role in Anything but this no-mans-land of waiting. the building up of the Communion of Saints, The Third Sunday of Advent kindles deep Waiting is a strange country, filled with un- through our memories, prayers and reverence joy. A rose candle and rose vestments her- certainty and an undercurrent of restrained for the Souls in Purgatory, lost souls, and the ald the fact that the wait is almost over. The tension. poor souls who have no-one to pray for them. joy of an exuberant God who draws near to We see once more our urgent need for the Creation and becomes one with us - sharing As human beings we desire markers, dates hope of the Resurrection. our human frailties and possibilities; with St or rituals that ease the anxiety of waiting for Therese of Lisieux we can rejoice to be little news, good or ill. It is sometimes measured in How have you remembered those you have because we recognise that we are Beloved. cups of tea; or glances of compassion or fel- loved and lost in these November days? Can “For God so loved the world that he sent his low feeling. you light a candle in your window or Church only son, that whoever believes in him might for the Holy Souls? Can you ask the Lord to be saved. (John 3:16) can you let this aware- Marking time is a human skill and sur- help you end the Church’s year well? Is is pos- ness soak into your heart and soul? vival instinct. No wonder, in her wisdom, the sible that this will lead you to offer a purer Church has given us a way of understanding heart to Advent, desiring your hopes and The fourth Sunday of Advent shows us the time, even hallowing it, this waiting a time for dreams to be transformed and new dreams great faith that God has in humanity, entrust- meaning and the call to holiness, or whole- kindled? ing the care of Jesus to Mary and Joseph. Both ness in the gaze of God. As we wait for the experienced their own Annunciations, Mary Lord’s appearing, the golden thread that runs Since the 12th Century, with St Bernard of visited by Gabriel and Joseph visited by an an- through our history is the liturgical year, Clairvaux, the Church has spoken of the three gel in a dream. When they angels depart both God’s sacred time. comings of Christ: in human flesh at Bethle- are trusted by God to discern and choose how hem; in our heart’s daily ; and in glory at the best to do God’s will. If you are anything like me, you greet each end of time. Can you enter, heart and soul, New Year with a certain amount of trepida- body and mind to these first two comings of The great risk of God is that he trusts hu- tion. A time of hopes and resolutions; possi- Christ, whilst patiently waiting for the next? man beings to do the right thing. He trusts bilities and challenges. Left to our own devic- you and I to discern and choose whatever in- creases his life in us. How might you discern or choose to respond to God’s promises and invitation this Advent?

May you be comforted in your journey through November, accompanied by the Advent angels and saints, and all holy men and - a time to prepare women. May you embark on this Advent, this New Year of the Church’s timekeep- ing, with fresh hope and expectation of the many gifts and graces that lie ahead. page 24