o u r CATHOLIC c o m m u n i t y Volume 3 No. 5 March 2014 Issue A publication of the Diocese of Roseau, Dominica $2.00

Ash Wednesday Mass In Our Catholic Schools

Budding Photographers Workshop 2014

His Eminence Annual Clergy Lenten Retreat Kelvin Cardinal

Synod Implementation -- Felix Bible Blessing Sunday Editor’s Pen Inside

Bishop’s Message: Go And Make Disciples In Lent 03 LENT and the Joy of the Gospel OUR CLERGY, RELIGIOUS AND LAY ASSOCIATES he story is told of an encounter Brother Paul McNiven, You Will Be Missed 04 between two friends. John had Tbeen a Christian for several years, LAPC Profile: Josephine Rodney 05 whereas his friend, Harry, professed to The Congregation Of The Sisters Of St. Joseph Of Cluny 05 be an atheist. It happened that on that Annual Clergy Lenten Retreat 2014 06 day John seemed to be carrying the Homily Of His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix At The weight of the world on his shoulders. He was truly depressed. Harry, after several Thanksgiving Mass 07 efforts to cheer him up, confronted him with a simple question: You say you are OUR DIOCESE a Christian, where is your joy? Tell Fr. Ben 08 In his recent Apostolic Our Catholic Heritage - The History Of The Church Of St. Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, , addressing the Church on the Francis Xavier In La Plaine 09 Proclamation of the Gospel in today’s Know Your Faith: world, encourages the Christian faithful I Believe.... 10 to “embark upon a new chapter of Synod Implementation -- Bible Blessing Sunday 10 evangelization marked by this joy” that ADVENIAT Visits Church Projects In The Diocese 11 comes from encountering Jesus in the Gospel. The Holy Father then proceeds Ash Wednesday Mass In Our Catholic Schools 12 to expound on the theme of joy as His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix’s Thanksgiving Mass 13 found in the Old and New Testaments. Christian Leadership: Lead Now, Not Later -- Now Is The Through the prophets, Isaiah, Zechariah, Favourable Time 14 Zephaniah, he shows how the books of the Old Testament predicted that the joy Prayer Corner 14 of salvation would abound in messianic Events & Notice Board 15 times. In his words, the “Gospel, radiant The Feast Of Our Lady Of Lourdes 16 with the glory of Christ’s cross constantly Budding Photographers Workshop 2014 17 invites us to rejoice.” He encourages all In Defense Of God’s Image 17 missionaries to be realists “but without losing our joy, our boldness and our SVP Workshop On Customer Service 18 hope-filled commitment.” (109). Obituary To Mr. Clifford Albert Mendes 18 The Season of Lent, though at first What Is A Cardinal And What Is His Role 19 glance might be seen as a time of austerity and seriousness, is better described as OUR CATHOLIC WORLD a season of joyful expectation. This joy comes from the fervent observance of The Rome Experience 20 our baptismal calling through works of charity, prayer and fasting. This KID’S CORNER 21 joy comes from the expectation of the conversion that will become a reality in the lives of so many who respond to the OUR YOUTH: EDUCATION, RECREATION AND FAITH call “now is the acceptable time... now Looking Forward To The Diocesan Youth Rally 22 is the day of salvation.” (2 Cor 6:2) As Catholic School’s Winners 22 Scripture says: “There is more rejoicing Catholic Schools Carnival Costume Bands 22 in heaven over one sinner who repents Calibishie Catholic Youth Group Carnival Costume Band 23 that over ninety-nine who have no need of repentance.” (Lk. 15:7) Let this year’s Lent be for us a time of experiencing joy that comes from The Social Communications Office our desire to draw closer to the Lord by paying greater attention to self-discipline Diocese of Roseau, Turkey Lane, P.O. Box 790 through fasting and prayer, and through Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica the sharing of our resources with those Tel: (767) 448-2837 - (767) 448-8717 who are in need. Let us look forward to Fax: 1(767) 448-3404 celebrating Easter joy with hearts and Email: [email protected] mind renewed. . 02 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Bishop’s Message Go and Make Disciples in Lent

reflect on the passion and death of returning “in” will only wear the Jesus, which happened for the sake Christian thin. Only by keeping of human salvation. Introspection, our eyes on Christ in the “internal therefore, is a prerequisite for forum” will make viable the task of the evangelical task entrusted to evangelization. the Church. A lack of it limits the At this point it is fitting to ask evangelizer to his or her own measure, what we have done in the past two which inadequate for the extent of years of the implementation of the renewal needed in the social order. Diocesan Pastoral Plan to prepare The proclamation of the word the ordinary Catholic of the Diocese of God is largely ineffective without to “Go and make disciples!” From the proper internalization of the the very beginning in November word. The word only becomes 2011 on the Bible Blessing Sunday, internalised when it is pondered on, all parishioners and groups in the ruminated, digested and applied to Church were encouraged to begin the Christian’s daily life. Lent, once the practice of Lectio Divina at every again, calls Christians to reflect more opportunity they had, whether as deeply on the great salvific event, family or parish or even as social which gives meaning and purpose group. This practice has taken to our evangelical task. The one who root among our Catholic Schools: has not internalised the word has at religious education classes, at little to give since the word has not class retreats; at principal meetings; he Diocesan Pastoral Theme: become his or her own, so to speak. meetings among teachers: on teaches “Go and make disciples” The ultimate call is for the word of development days, know-your-faith is apt for the third year of T God to become for us second nature. sessions; at catechist meetings, implementation of our Diocesan Closely associated with the latter among Chancery staff, in Diocesan Pastoral Plan. It takes for granted quality is that of interiorisation. youth groups, among the Clergy that much preparation has been Christianity calls the individual to and Religious at retreats and other made prior to this moment. In order be a person of depth as opposed to meeting, etc. On occasions I have been to “go out,” as the New Evangelization being superficial; it is a challenge to amazed at the interest generated in demands, one must have been “in.” authenticity as opposed to phoniness. various groups when members get to The evangelizer must have been a Lent is by its very nature a time of share on the scriptures in the exercise good disciple of the one who is the challenge when the Christian is called of Lectio Divina. These practices are object of evangelization – Jesus to make greater sacrifice in order to certainly not exhaustive, especially Christ himself, and the Church shaper the human character into that with respect to the magnitude of the through which He is communicated. which is progressively Godly. Ours is work ahead, and the number of the A disciple of Jesus and of the Church, a task to image God more profoundly faithful who still need to be touched. therefore, knows the inside story. by our practice of the Christian faith. However, it is a very commendable Of necessity, he or she is a person Having established these start. Additionally, all the activities of of introspection, internalisation, prerequisites for evangelization, it the liturgical year are guided by the and interiorisation. These three is necessary for us to realize that Pastoral theme. dispositions are favorable to the the “going out” and the “coming This pastoral year I encourage liturgical season, which we presently in” are meant to work together on all Clergy, Religious and faithful to enjoy – Lent. a continuum. This is to say that get on board with the new thrust of Introspection is that noble there is no particular moment the Antilles Bishops in making Bible quality which requires each Christian when one is totally prepared for Animation central to all pastoral life in to look into self to discover what evangelization to the detriment of the diocese, whether on the domestic, personal adjustments are needed in the internal dimension. In other communal or Church level. May this order to augment the embrace of the words, introspection, internalisation Lenten seasons serve both as a time good life and to enhance capacity for and interiorisation, remain a of nourishment to our faith and an ministry. There is no better time for constant need for the fulfillment impetus to our going out to spread deepening this experience than the of the evangelical task. A constant the Good news we have received. holy season of Lent. It calls us to “going out” without the concomitant A Happy and Holy Lent to All!.

“IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OF CHRIST” 03 Brother Paul McNiven, You will be Missed “In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the he would spend listening to their stories, often times house, and went off to a lonely place and prayed there” in their cells or through the bars for those in solitary Mark1:35. confinement. There is great mourning in the prison for rother Patrick Paul McNiven of Canada was born him. on 17th March, 1934 and passed peacefully away Slightly reworked, the scriptural verse quoted Bat the Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau above, aptly describes Brother Patrick Paul McNiven. “In Dominica after a short period of illness. Patrick the morning, long before dawn, he got up and went Paul was a dedicated Christian Brother who to the chapel where he could be alone with celebrated his golden jubilee in September Jesus and prayed there.” Any Brother 2006. He radiated the joy and love of who lived with Paul for any length of Jesus and, without doubt, is now time will confirm that was his daily experiencing the reward of his ritual. He rose every day around fidelity. 4 o’clock and went, without Brother McNiven was disturbing anybody, to the a professional educator chapel. His death between 4 who will be remembered and 5 o’clock in the morning fondly by his many friends was a very appropriate in Antigua, St. Kitts, time for him to join Jesus Grenada and Dominica. forever. Other members He was a terrific of the Community would teacher, an excellent usually arrive in the administrator (he was chapel around 5:30 for

OUR CLERGY, RELIGIOUS AND LAY ASSOCIATES RELIGIOUS AND LAY OUR CLERGY, appointed a school the Morning Prayer, principal at least four certain that Paul had times) a topnotch already spent an hour bursar. Twice in prayer. Brother principal of St. Joseph French who lived with Academy in Antigua, Paul for a number of Br. Paul played a years said, “He never part in the formation missed a Hail Mary.” of many young Yes, a holy men on that Island. man, a scholar and a Brother McNiven gave gentleman; so was – lectures and sessions and still is – Brother to teachers in all four Patrick Paul McNiven. Caribbean Islands Of course Paul was a mentioned above. very practical man too, It was with great and a sun-worshipper. sadness that so many He enjoyed being in the in Grenada received the Caribbean because he loved news of Bro. Paul’s passing. the sunshine and the warm After some prodding and with weather as much as he loved palpable resistance, he had the people, and it was his wish on one occasion accompanied to be buried there. Paul, who loved a Brother Robert to the prison, to cook and did so very well to the complaining all the way that this was joy and satisfaction of his confreres not his vocation. How ironic that in just and friends, is likely preparing dinner for few weeks, he was going on his own at least the Holy Family. Either that or he is probably twice weekly. He loved it so much that he Brother Paul McNiven busy setting things in order in heaven, all became the prison chaplain and visited with a smile, of course. the prison regularly. When asked whether Paul was Like his patron St. Paul he can say, “I have fought a member of their religious community, Br. Robert’s the good fight to the end; and kept the faith, I have run wry response was always, “No, he is a member of the the race to the finish; I have kept the faith; all there is to Richmond Hill Prison Community but he visits us come now is the crown of righteousness reserved for me, sometimes!” They loved him at the prison; the guards which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on and prisoners alike. Any monetary gift he received was that Day” (2 Tim. 4:7). . spent buying medication or clothes for them. The hours

04 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE PROFILE: JOSEPHINE RODNEY The Congregation of the Lay Associate in Pastoral Care Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny for the Parish of St. Mark y mom (now deceased) The Holy Will of God”, Anne Marie Javouhey, a used to bring me woman of many parts, called by many names -- left Mto morning Masses “to her daughters – Sisters of the Congregation of and novenas all the time in St. Joseph of Cluny. This was the beacon-light which Soufriere. Because I am the last guided her through the troublesome time of the French she brought me everywhere she Revolution and the years following, to far-flung lands went. When I was old enough and myriad races and peoples. I used to attend Vespers on This was also the vision and challenge she left the Sunday afternoon. thousands of young women, who, for two centuries, have I got married on the 4th followed her in the service of Christ and of humanity. of September 1969 to Patrick And this is still the inspiration of the body of 3,600 Rodney at the age of 24. We Sisters, belonging to all races, nations and tongues, produced a girl and a boy (but continuing in the Church, local and universal, the work Josephine Rodney he fathered 4 children) who confided by God to their Foundress. In 379 Communities gave us 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. scattered over 45 countries; in the Caribbean, in Haiti, My husband left for the Virgin Islands a month after Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, since 1836 we got married on the 30th of October. He sent for me in these English speaking Islands, 66 Sisters in 15 shortly afterwards. We stayed in the Virgin Islands for Communities in Trinidad, Tobago, Grenada, St. Vincent, 30 years. During my years there, I began my church St. Lucia and Dominica; discern the signs of the times ministry. I was a lector, choir member, sacristan, and and respond to universal needs, so as to collaborate in

was housekeeper to the parish priest present. the human and spiritual growth and development of all. ASSOCIATES RELIGIOUS AND LAY OUR CLERGY, We returned to Dominica in 2003. Fr. Reginald They witness to Christ by their prayer and presence, La Fleur was the priest who got me involved in testify to His Love by their courage and fidelity and church ministry in the parish. He asked me to be an proclaim His Truth by their deeds and lives. extraordinary Communion Minister in the church. Mrs. Caprice Bleau informed me that Father was looking for someone to count the collection so I took on that responsibility as well. Presently I still count the collection and deposit it as well. I am also the treasurer of the Church Committee and read at morning mass every Monday. Even when no one is assigned to read, I just get up and do it. Fr. La Fleur encouraged me to be a Lay Associate in Pastoral Care but at the time I was not ready to take up that responsibility. He allowed me to do communion service when he was out of the island. So when Fr. Felix came to the parish he insisted that I train at the Pastoral Center with Msgr. William John-Lewis and Sr. From Left: Sr. Grace Ramlakhan & Sr. Jaya Fernandes Lorraine Royer. I was commissioned in 2013 The Congregation, now canonically founded, took I am happy with what I do for the Lord. Being a as its motto: “The Holy Will of God”; as its protector, St. Lay Associate encouraged me to take up more roles in Joseph; and as its name, that of the Benedictine Abbey the church and be part of societies. Currently I am a of Cluny, near which the first Convent of the Order was member of the Sacred Heart Society. In the absence of established - gift of a long-suffering and ever-forgiving the parish priest or the other Lay Associate, I would father, later when the Congregation had spread to many lead the Holy Hour. parts of France and overseas, the Mother House of the I am one of the core members of the prayer meeting Congregation is at Paris. and I am part of the fundraising team. God has called Anne Marie Javouhey sought in all things to me to do all these things and I feel that is the right accomplish God’s Will. This was her bequest to her place for me now. daughters – “Let us not desire anything but God’s Holy Everybody supports me and gives me Will”; and this was her exhortation to them “Let us encouragement. My husband is proud of my work in belong to our times”. the Church. I am interested in joining the Legion of So we are here to do His Holy Will. We two sisters Mary society and continue to do God’s work. Anything are in Dominica to carry out the mission confided to for the Church, I am always there. Every World Day for each of us. One Sister is fully engaged in Care for the the Sick, I help cook for the function. And I am always Elderly. And the other sister helps at the St. John’s willing to assist Father whenever he needs me. . Academy and the Parish. .

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Diocesan Priests ishop Gabriel Malzaire together with the priests joked and poked fun at each other in a relaxed and deacons serving the diocese of Roseau, environment. Bgathered at the Holy Redeemer Retreat House It could be said that the joy and laughter of the in Eggleston, during the first week of Lent, as is the clergy was quite fitting as the document studied during custom, to spend time with the Lord and each other in the retreat is titled “The Joy of the Gospel.” However as retreat. the discussions among members intensified, it The time away was obvious that Pope Francis’ message to the was more than just Church is no laughing matter. While all are an opportunity for exhorted to share the message of Christ, since OUR CLERGY, RELIGIOUS AND LAY ASSOCIATES RELIGIOUS AND LAY OUR CLERGY, physical rest however, that message brings joy to the soul, the clergy as members of the was unanimous in agreement that Evangelii clergy delved into the Gaudium is a direct challenge to those whose Apostolic Exhortation daily task it is to break open the word of God. Evangelii Gaudium by One of the chapters of the document which Pope Francis. During generated much discussion is the Proclamation seven sessions led by of the Gospel. One of the challenges issued members of the clergy by the Holy Father concerns the themselves, the group studied, homily at Mass and specifically albeit briefly, the entire document. preparation for preaching God’s The retreat began with a message. Pope Francis says, “I service of reconciliation and presume to ask that each week a healing with the opportunity for sufficient portion of personal and individual confession on Monday community time be dedicated to evening. this task (of preaching), even if The remaining days began less time has to be given to other with Morning Prayer important activities.” The Holy with one session on the Father does not mince words as he continues document in the morning. on to state that, “A preacher who does not The celebration of the prepare is not ‘spiritual’; he is dishonest and Eucharist, the high point irresponsible with the gifts he has received.” of each day’s programme, Needless to say everyone was impacted ended the pre-lunch by the study of the document. It is the hope activities. Another session of all that the time away with Jesus in prayer was held during the and study will bear much fruit in ministry afternoons with time for during the year. . discussion on the day’s presentations. Evening Prayer, Eucharistic Adoration and Night Prayer ended the days’ proceedings. Opportunities for all the members of the clergy to share meals together are few. Meals therefore, were always joyful moments during the week. The sound of laughter rang through the dining area of the Holy Redeemer Retreat House thrice daily as the shepherds

06 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Photos by Fr. Rodney Olive, C.S.s.R Homily of His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix at the Thanksgiving Mass n the 26th of February, just a few days after it is the faith in God without whom such a task would the appointment of Cardinal Felix, the Diocese be impossible, that we stand before here before God’s Oof Roseau celebrated with His Eminence at his holy people. And all of us have a sense of that feeling Thanksgiving Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church in of inadequacy and unworthiness whenever we come Newtown. In his homily His Eminence graced us with to a holy Mass and approach the Sacrament. That’s these words. why we say like the centurion “Lord I am not worthy What shall we render to the Lord for all he has for you to come under my roof, only say the word given me, “I will take the cup of salvation and call and my soul will be healed.” The Lord has not got to upon the name of the Lord.” make his presence felt there in This quote is from psalms person. He can speak wherever 115:12,13. I have chosen this he may be and it will be done text for two reasons, first of accordingly to one’s wishes. all, because this Mass is one And so we come to communion of thanksgiving to God for with that same trepidation. It is his unspeakable goodness, because the Lord calls. When he kindness and generosity to a calls, he makes us worthy. But humble servant, and secondly of ourselves we are not worthy. because this was the text chosen And that is why Mother for my ordination 56 years ago. Theresa now ‘blessed’ once said, At that time, I was the first “The Lord does not call us to do local priest ordained for service great things for him, he wants in the Diocese of Roseau by Bishop Moris. He us simply to be ASSOCIATES RELIGIOUS AND LAY OUR CLERGY, came here as a priest in 1922 and served as faithful.” Do bishop until 1957. My ordination by him to little things. And the priesthood was the last public act that the this is where bishop performed in his Diocese. many young It is not easy to forget an occasion like this, men and women because the Cathedral in Roseau was bursting have excelled in at its seams. It was certain that the people were holiness. They happy and supported the first priest, and that realize that of support has lasted even up to now. And that themselves they is why I chose this topic for this sharing with can do nothing you on this first day of my return from Rome. but they can do The ordination to the all things in him priesthood, at that who strengthens them. The significance time, was something of this appointment is not only for out of the ordinary. Dominica or St. Lucia. As a matter of fact And so just as it was I would like to help people to understand the first ordination if there is a misunderstanding that I in the Diocese of am not Dominica but St. Lucian. It is Roseau, it has a because my official title is ‘ similar resemblance Kelvin Felix Emeritus of Castries, St. to this occasion. My Lucia’. When I was made Archbishop appointment as a there 33 years ago I received the ring Cardinal is the first in wedded to the Church of Castries. Now I the Antilles Episcopal have received another ring from the Holy Conference (AEC) which is the Conference of Bishops in Father as a Cardinal and he has assigned me a Church the Caribbean Region. in Rome. We have an historian here with us from Rome This appointment as all of us will understand is Msgr. Karel Kasteel and he can correct me if I am wrong one which is not easily and fully understood because because he knows the history of the Church and he is it is the first, and so we have to explore its significance referred to as a ‘walking encyclopedia’ . for the Church and for the people of the Caribbean. One The pope, early in Church history, was appointed becomes aware of this unspeakable act of kindness and by the parish priests of Rome. They appointed the generosity on the part of God. Every religious brother or bishop. You must remember the Bishop of Rome is also sister and every priest who comes for ordination realise the Pope. That is why when one becomes a Cardinal their shortcomings and sinfulness as we stand before he is assigned to a Church in Rome keeping that same the Lord. I say therefore, but for the grace of God, as link. That tradition is very strong. cont’d on page 08 “IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OF CHRIST” 07 Homily of His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix at the Tell Fr. Ben Thanksgiving Mass Dear Fr. Ben: Cont’d from page 07 What is the Catholic Bible? And so we have three categories of Cardinal: Cardinal Curious Bishops, Cardinal Priests and Cardinal Deacons. It was OUR DIOCESE very fortunate to have visited the Church assigned to me Dear Curious on Sunday afternoon and to have met the priests, three Many Christians are surprised to learn that assistants, and some of the parishioners. But then I have the Catholic Bible is different from the Bible used by to make a formal visit to officially take over the Church Protestants. While all 66 books found in Protestant as my ‘so called’ responsibility, a spiritual responsibility. Bibles are also found in the Catholic Bible, the Catholic I have no direct responsibility in the affairs of the parish Bible also contains other books, and additions to books. except that I must pray for them and they pray for me The Catholic Bible contains a total of 73 books, 46 in and in whatever way I can assist the building up of that the Old Testament (Protestant Bibles have 39) and 27 Church, well it would be a good thing. So the significance in the New Testament (the same as Protestant Bibles). of being a Cardinal is, you are attached to a parish in The additional books in the Catholic Bible are Rome, recognising that the parish priests of Rome were known as the deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha. They the ones who elected the Pope and his assistants. are Tobit, Judith, 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees, Wisdom Many are asking me “What is a Cardinal?”, “What (Ecclesiasticus), Sirach, and Baruch. The Catholic are you going to do?”, “Are you going to work in Rome?” Bible also includes additions to the books of Esther and Oh no, I don’t think so. I am the responsibility first Daniel. Should the Apocrypha be included in the Bible? of the Pope and secondly of the Bishop of Roseau. I There was significant debate in the early Christian continue to be a priest in his Diocese. And furthermore, church, with a majority of the early church fathers I am a retired person. Six years ago I had to retire at the rejecting the idea that the Apocrypha belonged in the age of 75, according to the Canonical requirements. But Bible. if the Pope has called me at that age to do something, However, under tremendous pressure from Rome, it means that there is something more that the Lord Jerome, the translator of the Latin Vulgate, included is asking me to do. As you know we cannot do it alone. the Apocrypha, despite Jerome’s insistence that the I need your help. The responsibility of the Pope for the Apocrypha did not belong in the Bible. The Latin Vulgate Caribbean will be gratefully enhanced by a Cardinal. So became the dominant and officially sanctioned Catholic it is not my choosing what I am going to do. The initiative Bible, and remained that way for around 1200 years. must come from you. So I depend on you and the Bishops Thus, the Apocrypha became a part of the Catholic of the Dioceses to see in what way I can assist in bringing Bible. the needs of the Caribbean closer to the ears of the Pope, The Apocrypha was not formally/officially made and what can be done by the Universal Church to further a part of the Catholic Bible, until the Council of Trent, and deeper our Faith. in response to the Protestant Reformation. The early I want to thank you for your presence here this Protestant Reformers, in agreement with Judaism, evening to join me in thanking God for his numerous determined that the Apocrypha did not belong in the blessings. I want to thank those who have accompanied Bible, and therefore removed the Apocrypha from me on pilgrimage to Rome both from Dominica and St. Protestant Bibles. Lucia. And I look forward to giving my all as the Pope The most popular English translations of the said, “A Cardinal is not one of a position of power it is one Catholic Bible today are the New American Bible, the of service. You have to open your heart wider to the love of New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition, and Christ. And that love of Christ, you have to live and preach the New Jerusalem Bible. Aside from the inclusion and to teach others.” As we all know, the Holy Father has of the Apocrypha, each of these Bible translations is been embraced by one and all, by the majority of people reasonably good and accurate in how it renders the in the world today. And it is not only listening to what he biblical text into English. has to say but following him. As he always asks, as I met In summary, the Catholic Bible is the version of him a few days ago when I was leaving, he said “Pray for the Bible promoted by the Roman and me.” and that is what he says to everybody. used by the majority of the world’s Catholics. Aside This is our task now, so the ball is in our court. We from the inclusion of the Apocrypha, the Catholic Bible have to support the Holy Father in whatever he wants is identical to Protestant Bibles in terms of the canon to do to change the face of the earth. Let us therefore (the books belonging in the Bible). plunge ourselves in this sacrifice of the Mass recognizing Yours in Christ, that we are not worthy but the Lord has called us to his Fr. Ben table and with our Faith and sincerity he will make us worthy. Thank you and thanks to all who have supported Credit: www.gotquestions.org me from the day of my ordination to now. . Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-Bible. html#ixzz2sbDfnj00

08 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Our Catholic Heritage Art * Music * Culture Celebrating our many talents The History of the Church of

St. Francis Xavier in La Plaine OUR DIOCESE By Bernard Lauwyck n 1864, Mrs. Anne Elizabeth Royer made a grant to Bishop Micheal Monaghan, and his successors in Ioffice, of the La Plaine estate, containing a little more than 161 acres. The present church is located on what is left of this grant, barely 11 acres. The parish of St. Francis Xavier was canonically established in 1864. The parish priest at that time was Father Eugène Vigroux, a young French priest, who started the present church building. He was allowed to collect and use the cut stones of the Tabary Estate schoolhouse rose from its ruins. After completing all by its proprietor Mr. Thomas Davies. By the time Fr. these construction projects, Fr. Baudry hoped to occupy Vigroux left the parish, in 1870, the church was far from his time with taking care of the spiritual interests of the completed and the completion became the task of the parish but then suddenly “his health gave way” and he newly arrived FMI Missionaries from France. had to return to France. His place was taken in 1928 by Three members of the French congregation named Father Chaigneau, FMI, a young and energetic priest. “Les Fils de Marie Immaculée” (FMI) or Sons of Mary Two years later, the hurricane of 1930, badly th Immaculate arrived in Dominica on February 7 , 1872. damaged the church and presbytery of La Plaine. Again Members of this congregation have served the La Plaine the parish priest of La Plaine became a builder and “in Parish faithfully and consistently up to the time of my a little over a year’s time all the damaged buildings were writing in March 2014. Today we have Fathers Louis repaired, and a large substantial schoolhouse erected Vrignaud and Michel Favalier in this parish. at La Plaine, as well as a spacious and comfortable Father James Hipolyte Couturier was the first FMI presbytery erected at la Roche”. But the pity is that the missionary to be assigned to La Plaine and he became good Father lost his health through overwork and had for 9 years, “the heart and soul of the whole district by to leave the island early in 1932. Father Joussement his unceasing labours.” He remained most of these 39 succeeded him. years alone in the parish, without any outside help or On August 29th, 1979, Hurricane David demolished support. the roof of the church and the La Plaine presbytery. As Barely a year after his arrival, the parish church, in the past, the roof of the church in la Roche lifted from “the very same one which stands there today”, was the church, but this time deposited itself in the yard completed and dedicated to St. Francis Xavier. Gradually of the La Roche presbytery, then inhabited by the DJ Fr. Couturier improved the church “by painting and sisters. decorating it handsomely”. He also built a spacious new It took an able man like Fr. Jean Martin FMI to school, erected a calvary in front of the church and laid reconstruct the roof and also the other chapel in the out a beautiful garden. Then he went on to construct a Parish namely the chapel in Boetica, which was a heap church and presbytery at La Roche. of stones. But disaster loomed on the horizon in the shape The most recent renovations were started by Fr. of the hurricane of September 1883. The church of La Jean Guéry FMI when a complete new steel framed roof Roche, just finished, was battered down to a heap of structure was installed with Aluminium roof covering. ruins, the roof borne on the wings of the winds to a Fr. Vincent Esprit FMI renewed the windows and neighbouring precipice and the walls entirely destroyed. tiled the floor. He is also responsible for the colourful Luckily the La Plaine church only suffered minor windows and the round window of St. Francis Xavier damage. above the front entrance. In 1908 Fr. Hypolyte Couturier (+1911) resigned The FMI Fathers or Peres de Chavagnes (FRANCE) his office and put the parish in the hands ofFr. have been very good to this parish, providing the people Ferdinand Baudry, FMI. Eight years later the hurricane with spiritual guidance and direction and living among of 1916 caused considerable damage to the church them, in sometimes, extreme poverty but never wavering and presbytery of La Roche and to the presbytery of La dedication to spreading the Word of God, under the Plaine. It also levelled to the ground the schoolhouse of motto “GOD AMONG US” “VERBUM DEI” as can be seen La Plaine. above the side entrance of the La Plaine church. . All the damaged buildings were repaired and the

TUNE IN TO DOMINICA CATHOLIC RADIO 96.1 FM 09 Know Your Faith I Believe....

OUR DIOCESE “Jesus Christ suffered under Pontius Pilate was What are the results of the sacrifice of Christ on crucified, died, and was buried.” the cross? Jesus freely offered his life as an expiatory sacrifice, In what way did Christ offer himself to the Father? that is, he made reparation The entire life of Christ was a free offering to the Father for our sins with the full to carry out his plan of salvation. He gave “his life as obedience of his love unto a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45) and in this way he death. This love “to the end” reconciled all of humanity with God. His suffering (John 13:1) of the Son of God and death showed how his humanity was the free and reconciled all of humanity perfect instrument of that divine love which desires the with the Father. The paschal salvation of all people. (606-609, 620*) sacrifice of Christ, therefore, How is Jesus’ offering expressed at the Last Supper? redeems humanity in a way At the Last Supper with his apostles on the eve of his that is unique, perfect, and passion Jesus anticipated, that is, both symbolized his definitive; and it opens up free self-offering and made it really present: “This is for them communion with my Body which is given for you” (Luke 22:19), “This is God. (613-617, 622-623) my Blood which is poured out...” (Matthew 26:28) Thus Why does Jesus call upon his disciples to take up he both instituted the Eucharist as the “memorial” (1 their cross? Corinthians 11:25) of his sacrifice and instituted his By calling his disciples to take up their cross and follow apostles as priests of the new covenant. (610-611, 621) him Jesus desires to associate with his redeeming What happened in the Agony in the Garden of sacrifice those who are to be its first beneficiaries. (618) Gethsemane? In what condition was the body of Christ while it Despite the horror which death represented for the lay in the tomb? sacred humanity of Jesus “who is the Author of Life” Christ underwent a real death and a true burial. (Acts 3:15), the human will of the Son of God remained However, the power of God preserved his body from faithful to the will of the Father for our salvation. Jesus corruption. (624-630) . accepted the duty to carry our sins in his Body “becoming *Excerpt from the Compendium Catechism of the Catholic Church, obedient unto death” (Philippians 2:8). (612) United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Synod Implementation -- Bible Blessing Sunday unday, March 9, 2014, was The thrust on the Bible has been observed in the Diocese as further enhanced by the decisions of S“Bible Blessing (Enthronement) the Bishops of the AEC to promote Sunday.” We will all recall that bible Animation of all Pastoral life two years ago, to commence the of the Church. As the bible is the implementation of the first leg of principal tool for evangelization, and the Diocesan Pastoral Plan, which to give new impetus to the drive, it focuses on Evangelization, we had is was fitting that all parishes repeat a similar enthronement ceremony. the Bible enthronement ceremony Throughout the diocese we have in the Churches and chapels, encouraged all parishes, groups, serving also as a model for a similar Catholics schools, and work groups, enthronement in each family home. etc., to seek greater knowledge and We continue to encourage understanding of Holy Scriptures that the Bible become the point of through the practice of Lectio Divina. convergence for the prayer life of This was enhanced by our focus on each family in the diocese and for the sub-themes: “Your word is a lamp study and reflection of all Church to my steps and a Light for my path” groups. It cannot but be a great and “Ignorance of the Scriptures is source of nourishment and the ignorance of Christ” in the two years much-needed unity in families, in respectively. This year we focus on communities and in the Church at the theme: “Go and make Disciples.” large. .

10 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Photos by Bernard Lauwyck Portsmouth Church Committee Members Calibishie ChapelCommittee Members ADVENIAT visitsChurchProjectsintheDiocese Dublanc ChapelCommitteeDublanc Members Mahaut Chapel CommitteeMahaut Members “IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OFCHRIST” OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE “IGNORANCE By BernardLauwyck churches inneedDominica.. churches the assisting continue to promised and visit inspiring this for thanks his expressed he Dominica, touring of days 3 projects. andpresent future of financing the on Malzaire Gabriel Bishop with meetings Mr. Huber stayed at the Bishop’s House and had extensive Adveniat. and Bishops German the of behalf on Soufriere, Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix, at his humble residence in His greet to went also He communities. various the in life church of vibrancy the showed and welcome warm very a Dublanc, Mahaut, Loubiere and Pointe Michel. All gave him building committees in Calibishie, Vieille Case, Portsmouth, God. This is why Mr. Huber met with the or church chapel of people the by and with for, be to have projects the and the pastoralworkoflocalChurches.” and peaceasarealityofGod’sKingdomstrengthening solidarity on the basis of one’s faith, speaking up for justice halls. parish scholarships to priests. Their aim is to “practise worldwide presbyteries, chapels, Adveniat also helps and to finance parish vehicles and provides churches of construction the includes This Roseau. of Diocese the projects in church 240 than more sponsored has Adveniat Churches in Latin America and the Caribbean. Since 1961 local the for help pastoral provide to Conference Bishops’ B hn dopd r Hbr f a te ipr after airport the at off Huber Mr. dropped I When poor the benefit which projects to given is Priority German the by 1961 in launched was ADVENIAT sponsored byADVENIAT.sponsored HUBER visited the church projects which are partly ten ac 9 March etween Vieille Case Church Committee Members Loubiere ChapelCommittee Members th n 12 and th 21, r Christophe Mr. 2014, , cont’d on page18 11

OUR DIOCESE Ash Wednesday Mass In Our Catholic Schools OUR DIOCESE

12 Photos by Jemina Bernard Photos JnoBaptiste &Charles Louis by Jervez His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix’sThanksgivingMass His EminenceKelvinCardinal

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OUR DIOCESE Christian Leadership: Lead Now, Not Later -- Now is the Favourable Time By Norris Prevost “In a favourable time I listened to you, and in a day of grown up Catholic men both in Church and out of salvation I have helped you. Behold, now is the favourable Church; as we nurture the leadership skills of our men time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2Cor 6.2 in service, both those who now hold leadership positions OUR DIOCESE arish Priests, Deacons, Religious Brothers, in our various ministries in our Parishes and those who Religious sisters, Lay Ministers, and other leaders don’t; so will our Parishes experience growth in faith in Pand servers of the various Church Ministries such our families, in our Church and in our Communities. as Catechists, Communion ministers, youth, readers, Reflection- Jesus Calls Four Fishermen ushers, church maintenance, choir, St. Vincent de I leave you with this reading for your reflection: Paul members, together with our general Church Lk.10:2, Mt.4:18-22 and Lk.9:59-62. He said to them, going congregation would all have heard of the Seeds “There is a large harvest, but few workers to gather it. of Success (SOS) Christian Leadership Retreat for men Pray to the owner of the harvest that he will send out which was scheduled to take place at the Holy Redeemer workers to gather in the harvest.” Lk.10:2. “As Jesus from Friday 7th to 9th March. This SOS Retreat for Men walked along the shore of Lake Galilee, he saw two was published in the Church bulletins throughout brothers who were fishermen, Simon (called Peter) and the Diocese for several weeks, read out on Sundays his brother Andrew, catching fish in the lake with a net. after Mass in most Parish Churches and Chapels, and Jesus said to them, “Come with me, and I will teach you published boldly in Our Catholic Community Bulletin to catch people.” At once they left their nets and went for January and February. with Him. He went on and saw two other brothers, James The day after, that is the morning of Monday and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were in their boat 10th, as we greeted each other in the Church yard after with their father Zebedee, getting their nets ready. Jesus morning Mass, one of our devout Catholic leaders, a lay called them, and at once they left the boat and their minister, who was one of the “could not make it men”, father, and went with Him.” Mt.4:18-22. for good reason, asked me: “How was the weekend ?” I In the days ahead, leading up to our SOS calmly replied, “We had to reschedule it to April 4th to 6th” Retreat for men, now rescheduled to weekend of and continued “I hope you can make it then”. He replied. Friday 4-6th April, as you wrestle with the many “That is better for me.” things you have to do that could easily classify and Our conversation did not end there. I continued. comfort you in the category of “the could not make it “We had to reschedule the SOS Leadership Development men for good reason” ,take the opportunity to Build, Retreat for Men because not sufficient men registered develop and improve your leadership now. Not later. for the Retreat. We did not get but three men from “Now is the favourable time.” 2Cor 6.2. . each Parish to register for the Retreat. Even with some parishes willingness to sponsor the cost of the Retreat, a few parishes were able to find two willing men, a few Prayer Corner got one willing man, and several parish priests had to report that they could not get any men willing to come to the Retreat.” A Prayer for Lent Encouragement, Commendation and Thanks to all As coordinator of the SOS Christian Leadership Program, under the authority of His Lordship Bishop O gracious Master, infuse in our hearts the Malzaire, I wish to commend and thank most sincerely, spotless light of Your Divine Wisdom and open the men who have so far registered for the SOS Leadership the eyes of our mind that we may understand Development Retreat. Some Parish Priests put a lot of the teachings of Your Gospel. Instill in us effort into trying to find suitable men candidates for the also the fear of Your blessed commandments, SOS Retreat, whilst some may have put less, or even so that having curbed all carnal desires, we insufficient. None the less, my heartfelt thanks go out to all our Parish Priests, for their varying degrees of effort may lead a spiritual life, both thinking and in finding men leaders, in their Parishes. Leaders are doing everything to please You. For You, O called to continually develop their own leadership skills, Christ, our God, are the enlightenment of our and to discern and develop leadership in others. It’s not souls and bodies; and to You we render glory, an easy task. But Second Epistle to the Corinthians together with Your eternal Father, and with encourages us as “workers together with Him,” with Your holy, life-creating Spirit, now and ever, Jesus, to enter into God’s plan of salvation, his plan of redemption, of bringing the reality of God’s love into and forever. the lives of our men. It’s an unending journey we must http://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=1687 continue to walk together. Indeed, as we sow seeds of leadership in all our young catholic men and all our

14 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE • • • • • • • • • • • • • Feasts &solemnities 25 at theHoly R 19 13 Beaupierre PrimarySchoolinLalainefrom 9:00p.m. Feast Mark, Evangelist ofSt. 27 20 19 18 18 17 16 12 4 th - 6 th th th th th th th th th th th Solemnity oftheAnnunciation Lord: Solemnity Joseph-P ofSt. : Solemnity : Divine Mercy Sunday : Easter Sunday -Patron ofThibaud : Holy Saturday - Easter Vigil : SpecialCollection fortheHoly Land : GoodFriday -Celebration oftheLord’s Passion : Holy Thursday -MassoftheLord’s Supper : ChrismMass : Palm Sunday : Diocesan World Youth Day Rally attheJones EVENTS th : SOSChristianLeadershipRetreat Program forMen edeemer R etreat Housefrom 5:00p.m. march april april Joseph atron ofSt. “IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OFCHRIST” OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE “IGNORANCE • Theme: • • • • • • • • Theme: • • Theme: • • Theme: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Theme: DisciplesonMission • • Theme: parish lentenretreats March 12 April 8th:MenR April 7th:Youth R March 23rd -31st:Novena, oneineach community March 31 churches Triduum March 17 Mid-day Massevery Wednesday Way oftheCross eachFriday chapel March 17 March 24 March 17 April 6 March 17 March 24 April 6 community March 17 March 19 March 31 March 19 April 3 March 24 April 7 April 2 Way oftheCross eachFriday ineachchurch andchapel Way of theCross eachFriday April 9th:Women R March 31 April 7 March 9 March 17th-21st:Youth R March 31st-April4th:P March 17 “Forgiveness” “Go andmake disciples” “Go make disciples” “Create inmeaclean heart” th th nd th rd th email usat [email protected] our lady offair haven cathedral -12 -11 -Youth Day ofR -11 th -Children Liturgy attheWesley Church &3 -22 st th th th th th th st th th st th th th th Send usyourSend parishevents ¬ices -April4 -April4 &April1 -28 -21 &13 -21 &18 -21 -28 -21 &20 &18 -27 -20 rd th th th attheWotten Waven chapelfrom 7:00p.m. : Preparation for Holy Week &theP : Men&Women’s R : Youth R nd st th th th st st th st attheCapuchinchapel -MenR -Women R : HomeVisits th th th th atSalisburyfrom 7:00p.m. : P : Family R attheTocarie chapel : Daily Teachings onthe CatholicFaith inall etreat inSanSauveur our lady ofhealth our lady oflasoie our lady offat ima -OpenAirServiceinBourne atCoulibistriefrom 7:00p.m. attheMorneProsper chapelfrom 7:00p.m. attheLaudatchapelfrom 7:00 p.m. etreat inA arish R S Call usatCall 4482837or S th th etreat inMahautRiver ts. john&lewis t st attheP : Week-long R attheTrafalgar chapelfrom 7:00p.m. . Ann&st S S etreat t etreat attheMarigotChapel t . Theresa ecollection attheWesley Church arish R . P etreat, oneineachcommunity etreat atOurLady ofFatima Church etreat etreat attheWesley Church atrick tkinson ortsomouth Church etreat . P etreat attheCathedral evival, oneineach a ul

aschal 15

OUR DIOCESE The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes By Edmay Caprice Bleau OUR DIOCESE

ach year parishioners of St. Mark’s church, February with a Eucharistic Annointing Mass for the Elderly (Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes) Soufriere, celebration. The presider was Most Reverened Bishop EScott’s Head and Gallion, prepare for the Feast of Gabriel Malzaire. Parishioners including all Church Lourdes. This year, the Novena of reflection and prayers societies in their uniforms and visitors assembled at was held from the 2nd - 10th of February. 9.30 a.m. in the Church to begin a procession with the Parishioners and pilgrims from the various Statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, carried by four youth, in parishes filled the church each night to listen tothe the village of Soufriere while singing hymns in honour of teachings and to pray to our Lady. Our Lady. Among those present were Fr. Peter Wamititu, Each night the various church groups and societies Sr. Mary Gallager, and two visiting Religous Sisters, Sr. -- Legion of Mary, St. Jackie Kowalski and Vincent de Paul, Sacred Sr. Juliette Sabo from Heart, choirs, youth Cincinnati. group, cleaning ministry There was a great and fund raising group -- turn out of pilgrims shared the responsibility who took part in the of performing the various Novena. This year’s ministries of the evenings. celebration attracted On the first night, many pilgrims from in the absence of Bishop various parts of the Gabriel Malzaire, Msgr. Eustace Thomas, Novena Diocese.The novena programme was well (Vicar General)presided. The presiders for the various advertized by Marpin 2k4 LTD, SAT TV, D.B.S Radio and nights were fathers: Peter Wamititu, Charles Martin, the Dominica Catholic Radio, which led to this year’s Brancker John and Msgr. William John-Lewis. celebration being a great success. We are grateful to The format of the Novena nights included the holy the Dominica Catholic Radio Station who ensured that Rosary, songs of praise culminating with the celebration people were aware of the celebration, bringing it live of Eucharist. On the 7th of February there was also to the homes of those who celebration of Mass were unable to physically for the Catholic Feast Mass attend.. school children from the Convent Preperatory, St. Luke’s primary, St. Martin primary, St. Marys primary and Soufriere Primary. Then on the 11th of February, as part of the Novena the Mass of Annointing of the Sick, with Cardinal Kelvin Felix as presider. Several priests of the Diocese assisted in the Anointing of the Sick from the parish and other parishes including those in various homes and institutions. After Mass there was a luncheon for the clergy and religious while the congregation was treated with meals in the parish hall. All were refreshed. The climax of the Feast was on Sunday 16th

16 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Photos by Jemina Bernard & Fr. Larry Budding Photographers Workshop 2014 by the magazine. The magazine also wants to give the participants an opportunity to improve their photography skills in general as

there are very few opportunities for OUR DIOCESE this type of training in island. One participant said that she hoped that more workshops of this type could be organized by the magazine perhaps several times per year. Another participant said he group of persons gathered at liked taking pictures of the models. The majority of the participants said the Cathedral presbytery for that what they liked most about the A the third installment of the course, was the practical application. Budding Photographers workshop One participant said the topics that on Saturday February 15th 2014 had the greatest impact were lighting, from 9:00 a.m. in the morning. The and flash and diffusion of light. small group comprised mainly of Our Catholic Community high school students and teachers thanks all participants and hopes from the various Catholic schools. to see more even more persons who The facilitator Jervez Jno. Baptiste have an interest in photography take brought to light some of the part next time. . important areas for consideration when composing good photographs including aperture, shutter speed, natural light, artificial light, flash, the camera’s lens, etc. In the second part of the workshop, participants also had the opportunity for practical application of what they had learnt. The Budding photographers workshop is organized annually by Our Catholic Community Magazine in an effort to improve the quality of photographs received and published In Defense of God’s Image By Fr. Franklyn Cuffy, C.S.s.R n his 2014 World Respect Life Day Message, in Dominica, (IE: School Assemblies, TV Promotions, published in Our Catholic Community (Feb. 4, Pg. Radio Talks, Debates, publications, Concerts, Marches, I06), Bishop Gabriel Malzaire DD etc.) One of the highlights during stated: “January 22 of each year is the Carnival Season is the selection observed in the Catholic Church as and recognition of a Calypso which World Respect Life Day. It seeks to speaks to the defense of “God’s highlight the absolute respect, which Image”. is due to every human person and The Dominica Social Justice all human life. We cannot over state & Peace Committee Inc. therefore our responsibility for preservation, acknowledges “Baby Machine” sung protect, and promotion of human by Leona Peter and penned by Pat life at every stage of its existence. Aaron and “Murderer”, which was The value of this annual observance written and sung by Kerwin “Mighty is further augmented when we see Omee” Casimir as two of the 2014 atrocities leveled against human life Calypsoes, which address the evil in any of its dimensions.” of the Culture of Death, and call For the past twenty-one (21) for creating of a Culture of Life. The years the Dominica Social Justice Winner Might Omee winner will receive $1000:00 and & Peace Committee Inc. has join in observing this day, will be announced at a press conference, which will be which is in it 47th. Year, with a number of events here hosted by the Dominica National Youth Council. . LISTEN TO DOMINICA CATHOLIC RADIO SAT CHANNEL 7 & 112 17 SVP Workshop on Customer Service Obituary of By Rupert Lance Mr. Clifford Albert Mendes n Tuesday February 11th The Society of St. Vincent r Clifford Albert de Paul (SVP) organized a workshop on Customer Mendes was OService. The 18 workshop participants came Mborn on 16 July from the following Conferences: St. Luke, Holy Spirit - 1955 at Victoria Street OUR DIOCESE Loubiere, Our Lady of Fair Haven, St. Paul, St. Theresa in Newtown, the last of and St. Ann. five children of Ena and Mr. Ellingworth Edwards, Lay Associate in Pastoral Osmond Mendes. He Care, Manager Fine Foods Inc., Consultant and former attended the Roseau Boys’ Banker, facilitated the training session on Customer School and completed his Care/Customer Service. He stressed that as Vincentians, secondary education at our actions the Dominica Grammar must always School. Clifford Albert Mendes be guided by Mr Mendes was affectionately known as Freddie. Jesus’ love. We In 1978, he followed the call to the priesthood through are called to be studies at St John Vianney Seminary in Trinidad and Jesus to others from 1980 at Holy Ghost College in Dublin, Ireland. and others are However, this vocation was not to be, and in September to be Jesus to 1982, Mr. Mendes began a career in the public service as us. In other a teacher. He taught at Luke’s Primary School in Pointe words, we Michel until December 1983. From September 1984, must be able he substituted at St Martin School in various positions to see Jesus in those we serve. We must see Jesus in the until he gained permanent appointment in September poor, the marginalized, the destitute, the lonely. If we do, 1986. Mr Mendes pursued a two-year in-service teacher then the service we provide to them will be nothing short training programme from 1987 at the Dominica Teachers’ of excellent. it will be service provided with genuine love. Training College and became a qualified teacher in 1989. We will encounter challenges in providing service. When the post-primary vocational section of St Martin We will encounter suffering and when we do, we must School gained secondary school status in 1991, Mr embrace it as sharing in Christ’s suffering. “You have to Mendes continued teaching in the secondary school. be salt of the earth”, he pointed out. “You are representing In both Primary and Secondary sections of St Martin the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. You are representing School, Mr Mendes taught a range of subjects including the Church.” He warned: “Whatever you do, you must English Language, Social Studies, Religious Education be above board, you must be accountable. Be fair to and Science, and he was a class teacher at various levels. everyone. Do not discriminate.” He urged participants to He continuously used his manual skills and technical be “a walking prayer”. abilities for school development and everyone checked Mr The ministry of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, he Mendes first for diagnosis and repairs of damaged items. reminded participants, is one of service, a true reflection Contact cement and shoes for repair were a daily addition of Jesus Christ on earth. He lamented the fact that too to his desk area. His expert advice was sought and used few Catholics knew about the noble ideals, philosophy to bring about successful ends to many school projects. and work of the Vincentian Society. Too many see the His generous service to the school was noticeable. He Society as simply an organization that works with the played the guitar at morning assembly, school Masses, poor and distributes food and clothing to them and fail special functions, and over the years accompanied school choirs and groups to successful participation in national to see the wonderful opportunity the Society presents music and song competitions and festivals. for evangelization. The more he read and learned about Freddie ‘Man Himself’ Mendes could be considered the Society, the more he realized that the work of the a man of great spirituality, sound integrity and full of love Society was indeed, evangelization at its core. Catholics for humanity. He manifested the Lord’s commands in his should take the opportunities provided by the Society of daily life, ‘Whatever you do to the least of my brothers that St. Vincent de Paul to evangelize. you do unto me.’ Every task he undertook, he did it to Every opportunity, he said, should be taken by the best of his ability with honesty and reverence. His life members to inform about the vocation of the Society of mirrored a song’s line, “I will pass this way but once; any St. Vincent de Paul. He pointed out that it was reassuring good that I can do, let me do it now for I know I’ll never to have a group so committed to the poor. “I want you to pass this way again.” His good nature and compassion see your work as a calling, a mission” he urged. “It is not were often abused. about doing a favour to the poor. Some of those you help His legacy is of a life well lived, a gift, gentle giant, big might curse you and they may be ungrateful. you might teddy bear. In the words of his more recent compositions, be upset and ask: “Why am I doing this? But be aware his exhortations are to “Invest in your Mind” and “Make that’s the devil at work and therefore that should only your Life your Prayer.” . strengthen you,” .

18 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE What is a Cardinal and What is his Role? OUR DIOCESE

he Cardinals of the Catholic Church are the most election process for a new pope, who must be one of their senior clergymen (priests) in the Church below number. During the reign of a Pope, the Cardinals act Tthe Pope. Although historically they were the local as a body of consulters to the Pope. Some of them are clergy of Rome, today they are Bishops of important in charge of the various aspects of Church life. Others ‘sees’ (dioceses) from throughout the world, or heads of represent whole countries and regions of countries. Even departments of the Vatican, or some priests or bishops those who are bishops of Dioceses will be expected to whom the Pope personally wishes to honour. The title of offer their service in the work of the Departments of Cardinal is given by the Pope as a personal decision. the Holy See. For example, Cardinal Murphy O’Connor The word ‘cardinal’ comes from the Latin word served in four different Vatican offices, including the for ‘hinge’. So in the Diocese of Rome, the important Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of clergy were called ‘Cardinals’. In the second and third the Sacraments, and the Pontifical Council for Promoting centuries, the bishops and senior priests and deacons Christian Unity. From time to time, the Pope will bring of the parishes and pastoral areas of Rome were the the Cardinals together for a Consistory, to consult with original Cardinals of the Roman Church. Later, the title them as a whole body. It is at these times that new of Cardinal was given to important priests and bishops Cardinals are named. Cardinals who are under 80 years who worked for the Holy See (the Diocese of Rome), and of age are allowed to vote in the election of a new Pope. later to bishops in Italy. In the Middle Ages the title was The maximum number set (though it can be changed by given to the senior bishops outside Italy, and eventually the Pope) of elector Cardinals is 120. in the modern era, to senior bishops all over the world. Some of the Cardinals of past history have not Even so, the origins of the ‘’ is seen graced the position well. However, there are others who in the division among the Cardinals into three ranks: have been models of sanctity and pastoral charity. St Cardinal Bishops, Cardinal Priests and Cardinal Deacons Charles Borromeo, in the sixteenth century, was born (most are bishops despite being called Cardinal Priests into a wealthy noble family and related to the Pope. He or Cardinal Deacons). Generally, the Cardinal Bishops was made a Cardinal at the age of 22. However, unlike and Cardinal Deacons are members of the Roman Curia, many similarly elevated clerics, he did not live in the heading the departments of the Holy See (often referred splendour which his income allowed. Having served to as the ‘Vatican’). The Cardinal Priests are mostly the the Pope in Rome for a few years, he was appointed senior of the world, e.g. Cardinal Cormac Archbishop of Milan. He immediately chose to travel and Murphy O’Connor who resides in England. Each has the visited the whole diocese, meeting the priests who were title of an ancient Diocese in Rome (Cardinal Bishops), serving their parishes. He carried out the reforms which a Church in Rome (Cardinal Priests) or an area of the had been decreed by the Council of Trent, starting with city of Rome (Cardinal Deacons). For example, Cardinal caring for the priests of his Diocese. He was keen to make Murphy O’Connor’s is “Santa Maria Sopra sure that children received religious education and he Minerva.” The senior Cardinal Bishop is the ‘Dean’ or took upon himself the care for the poor. In all he became head of the College (Cardinal Ratzinger held this position a model bishop. He was relentless in pursuing reform before being elected Pope), who presides at the election of and died at the age of 46, exhausted by his efforts to a new Pope. The senior Cardinal Deacon is the Cardinal gently but firmly deal with priests who were lax in caring who announces the newly elected Pope to the world. for the souls in their care. He once preached; “nothing When a pope dies, the Cardinals administer the brings more joy to the Church than those who restore Church of Rome until a new Pope is elected and of souls to spiritual life…glorifying the most Holy Trinity course the world’s media is focussed on them during the and preparing for themselves a never-fading crown.” .

“IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OF CHRIST” 19 The Rome Experience By Mrs. Dorothy Leevy The announcement was as exciting as it was unexpected! Rome from different parts of the globe. In addition, Bishop Our own Archbishop “Fr. Felix” was one of the nineteen Malzaire; former President of Dominica, Dr Liverpool and new cardinals appointed by Pope Francis. He would Mrs. Liverpool; Mrs. Edmay Caprice Bleau of Scottshead; receive his “Red Hat” on Saturday Feb 22nd at St. Peter’s Mr. Simeon Jospeh; Sr. Mary Gallagher; and I travelled Basilica in Rome during what is called a Consistory. from Dominica, and were joined by Fr. Nigel karam who And so, a few of us from Dominica, with close ties to is studying in Rome. Several St. Lucian well wishers as Archbishop Felix, decided to travel to Rome to be part of well as Mother Mariana were also present. this momentous event. The following day, Sunday 23rd, there was a We were given the information before we left, that concelebrated Mass, as Pope Francis celebrated with Stefania Pinto, sister of Mother Mariana, Benedictine the nineteen new cardinals. Again we stood in line, went

OUR CATHOLIC WORLD OUR CATHOLIC Abbess in St. Lucia, had volunteered to make through the scanner, and entered the Basilica, hoping arrangements for us regarding to find seats which commanded a obtaining the tickets to enter better view of the sanctuary than the Basilica, lodging, and what we had the previous day. We transportation to and from the were more fortunate, and what events. an experience it was for me, as I Saturday Feb 22nd, found found a chair next to the centre us in St. Peter’s Square at 7:45 aisle. I was therefore only a few a.m. for the Consistory which was feet away from the procession of scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. the choir boys, the cardinals and We thought we were very early. Pope Francis himself, as they How surprised, amazed and processed to the sanctuary. shocked we were, to discover that After the Mass, there was From Left: Fr. Nigel Karam, Dr. N. Liverpool & Mrs. Liverpool, Bishop already, there was a line which Malzaire, Simeon Joseph, Edmay Bleau, Dorothy Leevy & Sr. Mary a grand lunch, a banquet really, seemed to stretch for miles from Gallagher with His Eminence Kelvin Cardinal Felix in the center where congratulatory speeches the entrance to the steps of the Basilica. We Dominicans were delivered by family and friends of our Cardinal. Dr. and St. Lucians with whom the Cardinal worked closely Liverpool, a classmate of the Cardinal, reminded him of for many years, displayed our country flags proudly, the teasing he had to endure when he revealed to them as we waited in the line. The festive atmosphere, the that he wanted to become a priest. Others spoke of the jubilant feeling we all were experiencing minimized the Cardinal’s discipline, his humilty, his love for people and discomfort of the cold weather. desire to help wherever he can. The Cardinal was touched The lines, containing people from so many different by the outpouring of love and support. He thanked his nationalities, inched forward slowly. The Italian police family, and everyone who had travelled to Rome. patrolled, reminding everyone (in Italian), that only those Stefania was thanked by everyone for her assistance, with tickets would be allowed in the Basilica. Finally, our for the amount of time she had given to coordinating group arrived at the steps, and we had to shed coats, events, and also for being a “mother” to all the Dominican sweaters, and place them along with our bags through a and St. Lucian priests who studied or were studying in scanner. We then entered the Basilica, for some of us a Rome, including Bishop Malzaire. first time event. The splendour, the grandeur, could not All too soon, it was time to return home, but our be grasped fully, as we had to hasten to find a seat. unforgettable experience will remain, as it were, frozen in Those who viewed the event on television had time in our memories. “front row” seats, but as Sr. Mary Gallagher put it, “to Edmay believes that the experience deepened her be present in St. Peter’s Basilica for the elevation of the understanding of her Faith, and made her even more nineteen bishops to the College of Cardinals, and to join proud to be a Catholic. To Sr. Mary, the words of Pope in the celebration of the Mass on the 23rd with thousands Francis, exhorting the cardinals to continue giving of of others from across the globe, is a never-to be-forgotten themselves to the poor and needy, emphasized clearly experience.” the reasons the cardinals were appointed. An event followed the Consistory, which Stefania Cardinals have been referred to as “Princes” in the called “Extending courtesies”, and it entailed entering Church. Princes stereotypically occupy palaces and live a large hall where the new cardinals were present. a life of glamour often associated with corruption. This is The press was there in full force. Ipads, cameras of all why Pope Francis warnint to the new cardinals impressed kinds, and various photographic equipment were used me so strongly: “You are entering the Church of Rome. to capture the moment, as family, friends, well wishers You are not entering a Court. Avoid the intrigues, the congratulated their “cardinal” and posed with him gossip, the cliques, the favouritism, associated with individually for pictures. Court life. Let your language be that of the Gospel, your The family of our cardinal was well represented, as attitude that of the beatitudes.” his older sister, his younger brother and his wife, four We can only ask God’s continued blessings on our of his nieces, and spouses of two of them, had flown to Cardinal, and give him our support. .

20 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Destination ---- Heaven Question of the Month Before we or our family leave on a trip, Who found baby Moses in the we make certain preparations. We pack

river? KID’S CORNER clothes and other necessary items for the Answer: Pharaoh’s Daughter journey. We must also take care of pets, turn out all the lights, and attend to other business so that we will be all ready when Previous Issue Answers the time to leave arrives. So it is with our Find the Answers in the Verses trip to Heaven. Although we do not know Listed: exactly when we are leaving for Heaven, 1. Seven; Churches; Asia or when Jesus is coming to take us there, 2. John; Island; Patmos here are some things we can do to be ready 3. life; life when he comes. 4. face Here is a checklist: 5. night; light ______Read the Bible 6. soon ______Pray everyday HEAVEN ______Make the world happier with a 1. Beautiful smile 2. Twelve ______Tell someone else about 3. Jewels Jesus 4. Pearl ______Be sure to take care of God’s 5. Gold world. 6. Glory; Sunshine .....this section is for reading..... This is the continuation of a little book called Saint Martin De Porres by Rev. Lawrence G. Lovasik, S.V.D Martin Is Declared a Saint ngels rejoiced when Martin reached his heavenly home. But on earth the rich and the poor, the sick and Athe prisoners, the widows and the orphans --- the whole city of Lima cried for its benefactor and friend. The highest dignitaries, both civil and religious, were his pallbearers. Everyone wanted to honour this holy man. God’s greatest gift to Martin was the grace to love God with all his heart and soul and strength, and to love his neighbour for the love of God. He showed this charity all through his lifetime. Martin’s closeness to Christ and the miracles he worked prompted the bishops to start an investigation into his life and holiness. Finally, the humble brother who looked for so little in life was beatified in 1837. Many miracles followed as he became more popular. Pope John XXIII declared him a Saint of the Catholic Church on May 6, 1962. A visitor to Lima can visit the shrine of St. Martin de Porres in the Dominican church there. Above the altar is his skull in crystal and close by is that of St. Rose of Lima. Holy Mother Church celebrates the feast of St. Martin de Porres on November 3. People turn to him for help. In heaven angels are filled with joy. From heaven Martin still continues to be kind to people on earth. .

LISTEN TO DOMINICA CATHOLIC RADIO MARPIN CHANNEL 94 21 Looking Forward to the Catholic School’s Winners Diocesan Youth Rally he youth of the Diocese are busy preparing for the Annual World Youth Day Rally to be held on Saturday April 12, 2014 Tat the Jones Beaupierre Primary School in La Plaine. Pope Francis has declared the following theme: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:3). The rally will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a Parish Outreach. This year’s rally will be one with a difference. The young persons gathered will be responding to Pope Francis’ call to reach out to their brothers and sisters and the less fortunate. A Parish Outreach is planned which will replace the usual street procession. Groups will be visiting homes, praying with families, sharing in Lectio Divina, spending time in Eucharistic Adoration, praying Kitianna Joseph – Shari Peter – the Rosary and spreading love in every community of the Parish 2014 Carnival Princess Miss Teen including the chapel communities. ur Catholic All participating groups are asked to bring small care packages C o m m u n i t y to deliver to families in their assigned community. A Photo Scavenger Ocongratulates Hunt will also be held throughout the day. Groups wishing to the winners in the participate in the hunt are asked to bring their own digital camera. various Carnival Activities will begin on the school grounds from 11:30 a.m. and will competitions. We include songs of praise and worship and performances from various also congratulate the parishes. Ms. Caesarina Paul from the community of Portsmouth parents and school of the individuals. will be the featured guest speaker. The rally will culminate with a Kitianna Joseph grand Eucharistic Celebration from 3:45 p.m. on the school grounds. (St. Martin’s Primary), An invitation is extended to youth and adults alike to attend Shari Peter (St. John’s the Diocesan youth rally in large numbers. For more information on Academy), Lemar

OUR YOUTH: EDUCATION, RECREATION AND FAITH RECREATION EDUCATION, YOUTH: OUR how you can be a part of this great day please contact the Diocesan Irish (St. John’s Lemar “Irish Kid” Irish -- Youth Office [email protected] or call 448-2837. . . Primary). Junior Calypso Monarch Catholic Schools Carnival Costume Bands

Convent Preparatory Costume Band St. Mary’s Primary Costume Band

Name: Dife epi La Glas (Fire & Ice) Sections: Fire Fairies, Volcano, Flames, Fog, Water Nymph Name: Pristine Dominica Band & Icicle 22 OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE Photos by Jervez Jno Baptiste, Charles Louis , Kassim Lewis & Jemina Bernard Calibishie Catholic Youth Group Carnival Costume Band OUR YOUTH: EDUCATION, RECREATION AND FAITH RECREATION EDUCATION, YOUTH: OUR

lazing Fire! Fire ‘Pon Badness’, On Fire with Green represented their youthfulness, their vibrancy, Goodness! was the Carnival Costume Band the clean environment, hope and life itself. BCalibishie Catholic Youth Group (C.C.Y.G) organized 2. What can better depict blazing fire!Red symbolized anger, for Mas Dominik 2k14 -- Nou Konnet Viv. The concept was war and destruction but the Red revellers displayed joy developed by Mrs. Freda Marie and the design was created in promoting love, beauty, courage, passion for life and by Mr. & Mrs. Webster Marie. The theme song “Fire” was desires to succeed. 3. Orange was used to depict the throwing of fire upon all written by the C.C.Y.G members and friends. Webster “The things dangerous and hazardous to them and destructive Web” Marie featuring Youngster from Calibishie performed to their environment. Orange demonstrated goodness in the song. Approximately 75 individuals consisting of Adults, amusement, activity and positive transformations. Teenagers and Children joined the band on Carnival Monday 4. Yellow, the colour of envy, cowardice and jealousy; in Calibishie and on Carnival Tuesday traveled to Roseau to behaviors to be kept far away from their developing young join the competition. The headpieces and the foot ware were people. Yellow in their exuberance and liveliness was on made by the C.C.Y.G members and in-village seamstresses fire topromote happiness, optimism and good values. sewed the costumes. 5. Blue cast out vexation and violence, sadness and crime The Concept: Fire ‘pon Badness’, On Fire In Goodness! among them and promoted behaviours of harmony, displayed “Blazing Fire!” which showcased the vibrancy of faithfulness and confidence. youth in colours that make up a flame; a clear depiction of 6. White dispelled all uncleanliness and ill-will in their village and their people; it was a chant against immorality their dynamism and positive energy in getting things done and spoke loudly against drugs in their village especially well. Each colour in the flame represented negative and among their youth. White was on fire to show and bring positive connotations and symbolisms and they intended to peace, demonstrate acts of honesty and promote purity in blaze fire to kill the negatives and be on fire to reign in the mind and health and wellness. positives while enjoying themselves in their band. The band sponsors were Save A Lot, Sign Man, Simeon The objectives of the band were: Joseph, Fine Foods Inc, Dominica Festivals Committee, Big • To enhance Calibishie village carnival 2014 Edge Financial Services, Arden Sounds & Lights, Webster & • To find a medium for generating funds to contribute to Freda Marie, Poz Restaurant/ Calibishie Gardens, KFC, Paul church building funds Bernard, Jacoway Inn, Carnival Road Parade Committee and • To actively participate in Mas Domnik 2014 as a pivotal group in the village A & A Supercenter. Special thanks to Claudia and John from • To raise funds to maintain the Calibishie Catholic Youth Creative Dynamics, DJ Pope, Sherwin “Youngster” Thomas, Group DJ Mini Me, Members of the Calibishie Catholic Youth Band Sections were as followed: Group, Dada of Cotton Studio, Club DVD Sounds, Martha 1. Green is the colour of Youth! Green is also the uniform Joseph (seamstress), Nathalie Peters (seamstress), Fr. Conan colour of the C.C.Y.G. and this section led the band. Shillingford and the villagers of Calibishie. .

Photos by Jervez Jno Baptiste, Charles Louis , Kassim Lewis & Jemina Bernard “IGNORANCE OF SCRIPTURES IS IGNORANCE OF CHRIST” 23