MEMBER OF THE AUSTRALASIAN CATHOLIC PRESS ASSOCIATION ISSN 1446-0041 CIRCULATION 6,200 Catholic VOL 24 - NO. 2 WINTER 2015 Viewpoin DIOCESE OF ARMIDALE His 9th decade begins!
Happy 80th birthday, Bishop Luc
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 1 The World The comes to Bishop Armidale Speaks The face of the priesthood in the Diocese of “top ten” of youngest priests. That’s right. 8 of our Armidale is changing. Within the living memory of 10 youngest priests have come to Australia from many parishioners, the priests of the diocese would overseas with a missionary spirit. have virtually all been Australian-Born with a few This trend of aging Australian-Born priests and Irishmen still about. This is certainly not the case increasing numbers of young international priests anymore. There are currently 25 priests in active is set to continue. Given the significant number of ministry in the Diocese of Armidale: 16 were born immanent retirements amongst our older priests and in Australia; 5 in the Philippines; and 1 each in only one Australian Born candidate for priesthood India, Vietnam, Ghana, and Nigeria. 64% of our in the seminary, I have been searching the world for active priests were born in Australia and 36% born priests and seminarians. overseas. Fortunately the Church is blessed with many Looking more closely at our 16 Australian Born generous souls who are willing to take Jesus’ words priests we see that 6 of them are over the age of 75, literally and leave everything behind, even home, the standard retirement age for priests to step back family, and country, to follow him and to go wherever from active parish ministry, and 2 more are nudging th they are called and needed. And so, dependent upon closer to their 75 birthdays. In 2017 we might have the Department of Immigration, later this year I only 8 Australian Born priests in active ministry. I am expect two seminarians and two priests to arrive the youngest Australian-Born priest in the diocese! from Nigeria; I am hopeful of a priest arriving Looking at the 9 priests who were born in other from India either this year or next year; and I am countries but who now call Australia home we see in discussions with the Provincial of the La Salette the younger face of our clergy. 8 of them are in our Fathers in the Philippines about additional priests of
Fr James Poovathinkal with Chris Smyth Frs Joseph Armah & John Carey
Frs Paul McCabe, Paul Aguilar, John Willis with Bishop Kennedy Clergy at the Chrism Mass
2 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT the order coming to join the three already serving in can only benefit when newly arrived priests bring our parishes. By 2020 I expect 65% of our priests to with them the best aspects of their particular local have come here from overseas. Our priesthood, like culture and pick up the best aspects of our Aussie our Church, is certainly becoming more “Catholic”, culture, and discard the worst aspects of both. Yes, more “universal”. our new priests have quickly taken on the smell of I am incredibly grateful to the priests and seminarians their Aussie sheep! who have sacrificed so much to come here for us. I In two thousand years of missionary activity the hope the whole diocese shares this gratitude. It really Church has always seen the emergence of what it is no small thing to leave behind one’s family and calls a “native clergy” as a sign that the Gospel is homeland. Additionally, our priests and seminarians well and truly planted in a new land. When a country come here from societies and cultures in which no longer relies on missionary priests from another priests and the priesthood are looked upon with the country but can produce enough priests on its own utmost awe and respect, whereas in Australia, whilst was a sign that the faith life of the local Church parishioners do indeed demonstrate great respect and was strong and that the Gospel had been truly love for their priests, our wider society, “enculturated” or planted in the lives often for understandable and hearts of its people. Clearly reasons, demonstrates Australia has a problem scorn and contempt. “every here; we have taken This must be difficult a step backwards, for a newly arrived maybe even two or priest. flock needs its three! With the Grace I have never heard a of God our efforts single one of our priests will bear fruit in turning or seminarians from overseas shepherd” this around and our families, complain or lament for what they have left parishes and schools will be ‘fertile’ behind. I find in them only joy for the opportunity ground for priestly vocations. to serve the Lord and his Church in our wonderful Admittedly, the behaviour of some priests and even country and our welcoming diocese. I know they some bishops in recent times make our task of are happy here, which only increases my sense of encouraging priestly vocations more difficult, but gratitude to them. I am similarly grateful to you, our not insurmountable. With the history of the Church many parishioners, who have been so welcoming of as our guide we have every reason to hope that our these new priests and drawn them to your hearts. present difficulties and sufferings as a local Church The years since the Second Vatican Council have will be the seedbed of a flourishing Church and rightly seen an increase in the participation of lay generous vocations into the future. people in parish liturgy, ministry and decision I, along with the whole diocese of Armidale, making processes. Nevertheless, every parish still welcome those priests and seminarians who come needs its priest, most essentially for the celebration to us from across the seas, and I plead with every of the sacraments, but just as importantly to be the young man of the diocese to ask God whether he shepherd amongst the flock. It is for good reason that might be calling you to the priesthood too. the Scriptures and the Fathers of the Church give us this image of priesthood as shepherd, and that Pope Francis says the priest needs to have the “smell of the sheep on him”. There is no such thing as a “priest-less parish”; every flock needs its shepherd. If it were not for our generous brothers from over the seas many of our flock would indeed be without a shepherd; a situation I am keen to avoid. We are blessed in the fact that all of our priests from overseas Most Reverend Michael Kennedy have made great efforts to “enculturate”, to get to Bishop of Armidale know and understand and be a part of our Aussie culture, of our particular way of communicating, of doing things, and approaching life. Our local Church
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 3 Bishop Doody CLERGY APPOINTMENTS
Medallist - Paul O’Keefe From 6th July, 2015
Paul O’Keefe was recently • Fr Paul Aguilar – Parish Priest Saint awarded the Bishop Doody Edward’s Parish South Tamworth Medal at the University of New England. This award, • Fr Tuan Tran – Parish Administrator Saint with the medal itself sup- Andrew’s Parish Wee Waa plied by the Diocese to UNE, was set up to honour Bishop • Fr John Willis – moves into retirement Edward Doody the 5th Bishop of Armidale. “I had the pleasure to meet Bishop Doody, years ago Happy moments, now, when I came up north with Fr Ted Kennedy. The 68) as the Latin and Ancient Bishop had, of course, retired History teacher at Inverell Praise God. by then.” said Mr O’Keefe High.”, he reminisces. He Difficult moments, Paul O’Keefe spent two years later switched to teaching at at Springwood and one year at TAFE, completed a law de- Seek God. Manly studying the Philoso- gree and spent 25 years as a Quiet moments, phy course for the priesthood lawyer, in practice in the Wol- where Bernie Frize and Mi- longong area. Worship God. chael Green were classmates. In retirement Mr O’Keefe Painful moments, He then studied at Sydney University for his Bachelor of took up Latin and Greek Arts and Diploma of Educa- again at the University of Trust God. tion and taught for 12 years New England after a gap of Every moment, in the State School system. several plus decades. A wor- “During that time I spent two thy winner of this prestigious Thank God. very enjoyable years (1967- award.
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Have you ever composed an epitaph for yourself? Or followed by a litany of requests for blessings on sailors, perhaps ordered a headstone for a family member and fishermen, farmers, doctors, priests etc, until exhausted decided what the inscription should say? Perhaps, like we would fall asleep. But somewhere along this journey, me, you have antecedents’ names inscribed on a war her own devotion to Mary was rekindled with a deeper memorial. My father and maternal grandfather’s death understanding than ever before. in WWII and WWI respectively are memorialised. But We are taught that Faith is a gift of the Holy Spirit. But my mother’s wish to be cremated and her ashes dispersed I believe my mother ran the local Holy Spirit Agency, means there is no place with a written epitaph to mark her because she imbued in us a great faith. My mother was tiny life. If there was a headstone, after my mother’s name in stature, 4’8” (142cm), but strong willed, courageous would be written “Defender of the Faith”. Because her and faith filled. She buried her firstborn baby, lost her faith filled her utterly and she almost certainly suffered father and husband to war, cared and provided for her the ‘dark night of the soul’ in her journey. aged and legally blind mother and two children through Born in Ireland in 1909, she spent her early years the hardships of WWII, including being twice bombed travelling between Cobh and Liverpool as her father out of house and home. My mother has no name on a was a boatswain with the Cunard Line. In 1914 her memorial. She accepted the gifts of the Holy Spirit and baby brother died and the following year her father was returned them to the Father through the Son. She was a spiritual giant. killed at Gallipoli as a Reservist in the Royal Navy. Her childhood was one of deprivation as she and her mother Contributed by John Smyth struggled to survive. They eventually settled in Plymouth where three of my mother’s aunties lived. And it was there my parents met and married, after my sailor father converted to Catholicism. His belief was such that when Never too war broke out, he told my mother not to worry as “Our young to Blessed Mother would keep me safe in her mantle”. This loving marriage came to a crashing halt when my start praying father was killed off Singapore in 1941. My mother’s life and her belief were shattered with the unanswered questions of HOW?, WHY? Her faith in Mary was lost and she explained this to the Naval Chaplain, who was also a family friend. He advised her to pray the Hail Mary with her children each night regardless of her own doubts. She faithfully did as she was asked and I can remember our night prayers – especially the Hail Mary
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 5 Sr Margaret Cusack celebrates
In January, 29 Golden Jubilarians gathered for a Solemn Mass in the Mary MacKillop Memorial Chapel, North Sydney. Sr Margaret Therese Cusack was one of these women. On the Feast of St Joseph, there was a special Mass involving the Principal and children of St Philomena’s, Moree, Principals of Mungindi and Warialda schools with some of their students. This celebration took place so that Margaret’s mother, Mrs Stella Cusack, could attend. Some of the Junior Josephite Associates (‘Junior Joeys’) and some of Sister’s relatives and friends were L-R: Srs Jan Baker, Kerry Gardiner, Geraldine Leahy, Kathleen Price, Margaret present at the Mass, concelebrated by Frs Paul McCabe Cusack, Maria Harrex, Anita Vagg, Margaret Stapleton, Yvonne McGettigan and Joseph Armagh. Eight members of Margaret’s community joined her on the day: Community Coordinator- Sr Margaret Stapleton, together with Srs Jan Baker from Mungindi, Anita Vagg and Yvonne McGettigan from Warialda, Maria Harrex from Boggabri, Geraldine Leahy from Wee Waa, Kerry Gardiner from Walgett, Kathleen McGettigan from Lightning Ridge and the Community Together they renewed their vows during the Mass. Following this, two of Sister Margaret’s current students, Sean Bryant and Grace Carter, played and sang the hymn in honour of St Joseph: Carol for the Carpenter’s Son. Sr Margaret entered the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Sr Margaret on her profession day with parents, Jack and Stella Cusack, and Heart at Baulkham Hills on January 14, 1962 from her brothers, Stephen and Michael home in Lilyfield, NSW, and was the second of four Sister Margaret thanks God for the opportunity of children, two of whom are deceased. Prior to Novitiate belonging to a Congregation of women committed to in 1963, Sister spent one year of formation as a pupil the poor and disadvantaged and the growth of faith in teacher at Kiama Convent and Primary School. Australia.
The Bishop Michael Don’t Mess with Kennedy said in relation to the current media and political coverage: Marriage “In the current marriage debate it is easy for any Catholic Bishops of Australia have written a pastoral of us to be swayed by letter to all Australians as the debate on same-sex emotional arguments “marriage” gains momentum. or by one line catch We wish by this pastoral letter to engage with this phrases. But this issue is far too important and the debate, present the Church’s teaching to the faithful, and consequences far too great to be decided simply on explain the position of the Catholic faithful to the wider emotion or catchy slogans. This issue requires considered community. thought and reflection. The Bishops’ Pastoral letter reflects on the issue in a very sensitive way. I urge people Because of this, every man, woman and child has great to read it, reflect upon it, and discuss it with others. We dignity and worth which can never be taken away. This Catholics, and other people of good will, have a valuable includes those who experience same-sex attraction. They contribution to make to the discussion. We must not must be treated with respect, sensitivity, and love. remain silent.” The Catholic Church opposes all forms of unjust This booklet and Bishop Kennedy’s pastoral letter discrimination. We deplore injustices perpetrated upon Marriage Reinvented can be found at armidale.catholic. people because of religion, sex, race and age. org.au
6 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Stand out memories - Sr Guiseppe Walsh Sr Guiseppe recently celebrated her diamond jubilee as a Sister of St Joseph. She entered the Order on 19th January, 1952. Here are some top memories of her time in the Armidale Diocese working in the schools. • Learning about rugby league whilst based in Warialda • The many sports days attended and the many eisteddfod items entered many of which we won! • Monthly trips to Nundle for Mass, the car being quite crowded with two sisters, two altar boys, the families we picked up along the way and of course the Priest. • After Mass we taught the children and then enjoyed tea and toast at Manvell’s. • The love and support that was given to me by the beautiful people of Manilla after the death of my father helped to lighten the pain. • At West Tamworth in the late 1970’s Saturdays were either taken up with Minor League or Junior Cricket in the right season. • For 13 years I became the Motor Mission Sister for half the Diocese. When visiting the Parishes, I visited the classes, often teaching the lessons to Sr Guiseppe Walsh on the day of her profession give the catechists the week off, when they could watch the lesson instead of having to give it. • On one occasion one youngster gave trouble the whole lesson through. One comment from his weekly teacher was, “Well now I know it’s not my failure. Even you couldn’t master him!” • Some years later I was at a shopping Centre when I was greeted by “Hello Sister Pizza”. I turned to see who was calling me. I replied, “I can’t remember your name but I know for sure that you were at Quirindi Secondary because you were the only ones who gave me that nickname.” It is not surprising then that I returned to this Diocese for a celebration, with friends and past pupils, of my Diamond Jubilee. This took place in Dungowan where I began my long association with the many Parishes and their people. Sr Guiseppe Walsh rsj L-R: Kate Emery, Deacon Paul Manvell, Fr Bernie Flood, Sr Guiseppe Walsh rsj. Jobs for the Bishop Bishop Michael Kennedy is involved in a number of state and national bodies following a reallocation of responsibilities earlier this year. • Member of Bishop’s Commission for Family, Youth & Life • Bishop Delegate to Australian Catholic Marriage Family Council • Member of Bishops Commission for Justice, Ecology & Development • Bishop Chair of Catholic Earthcare • Bishop Member of the NSW Catholic Education Commission • Bishop Member of NSW Catholic Commission for Employment Relations
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 7 Terrorists Amongst Us
After the massacre of 148 Christians at the university in beforehand – many of these men and women were the north Kenyan town of Garissa, Cardinal John Njue, Christians. Archbishop of Nairobi, called for the nation to stick In view of the accumulation of terrorist attacks, Cardinal together. John Njue, standing by the mortal remains of the The islamist terrorist militia al-Shabaab killed 148 victims, called on the Kenyan government and security students and employees of the University of Garissa in the authorities to develop emergency strategies for schools north of Kenya and injured 80 others on Holy Thursday. and universities. “We must ask ourselves: How well According to reports from eye witnesses, the terrorists prepared are we to deal with acts of terror?” selected Christian students specifically to be the victims. Aid to the Church in Need supported the work of the The cruel attack on Christian students is already the third Catholic Church in Kenya in the total of 20 dioceses terrorist attack by al-Shabaab on Christians in Kenya to the tune of $1.24 million in 2014. This financial aid over the past few months. In December 2014 al-Shabaab went towards church construction projects in Kenya, militia went berserk in a quarry in Kormey in the north mass offerings and other subsistence aid for priests and of Kenya. There they separated the Muslim workers from members of religious orders, as well as the training of the others and murdered 36 people, mainly Christians. pastoral workers and the acquisition of vehicles for A month before they had hi-jacked a bus in the same pastoral work in this East African country. region and killed 26 non-Muslims they had selected By Antonia von Alten
Catholic Viewpoint
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8 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT 1st Encyclical on environment
At the time of going to press Viewpoint was awaiting the release of the 1st encyclical on the environment. By the time that Viewpoint is in your hands the document will have been made public. For the full text go to armidale.catholic.org.au In anticipation here is what we know today! The title of the encyclical is expected to be “Laudato Sii”, meaning “Praised Be You”, with the subtitle: “Sulla cura della casa comune” (“On the care of the common home”).
The main title is taken from St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Sun which praises God for his creation. The prayer reads: “Be praised, my Lord, through all Your creatures, especially through my lord Brother Sun,” and continues to praise God for “Sister Moon,” “Brothers Wind and Air,” “Sister Water,” “Brother Fire, and “Mother Earth.”
In accordance with the Rule of Benedict, there is a great focus on balance in daily life, with a community sched- Our work is to pray ule designed to provide time for prayer, work, leisure/ community and rest. Work includes making candles and crafts for sale, farming, spiritual direction, retreats and other tasks associated with caring for guests and the up- keep of The Abbey. Sub-Prioress, Sr Maureen Therese, says the way of life reflects an intense desire for God. “Because from the time you open your eyes in the morn- ing until the time you go to sleep, your whole being is focused on God,” she says. “Our Abbess, Mother Mary Barnes, says that prayer is simply desire. And I think that’s a good way of describ- When visitors enter the Jamberoo Abbey church, the ing our life here. It’s intense desire for God, and that first thing to strike them is the stunning backdrop of full reaches out to people in the world, all religions, all types length glass windows behind the altar and tabernacle, of people.” bringing the beauty of God’s creation right into the heart of the church and allowing all who worship there to turn their prayer outward, for the world. “We are Benedictines and our work is to pray, so we pray for the world,” says The Abbey’s guest mistress, Sr Therese. “The glass windows are a symbol of our prayer going out to the world and of the world coming to us, so we’re very connected with everything that’s going on out there. I try to assure our guests that even when they go home they can know that we are here praying for them and I ask them to pray for us.” Sr Therese says the life of the Abbey is ordered towards one goal – seeking God - and the whole structure of the day is focused on that seeking, both individually and as a community. Sr Therese and Sr Maureen Therese at the Abbey door
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 9 Trish and Glenn Mowbray with their sons, Peter, Luke and Paul, their daughter, Emmalee Special thanks to birth mothers and grandson, Noah
Trish Mowbray pays tribute to the courage of birth mothers who refused to terminate their pregnancies and put the best interests of their child first Canberra mother of four, Trish Mowbray will never forget the day she and her husband Glenn met the birth mother of the couple’s adopted son, Peter. Peter, like his elder and younger brothers, was born with Down syndrome. In addition, at just 10 weeks of age, he was diagnosed with six holes in his heart which would require a series a life-saving operations from which cardiologists advised he might not recover. “His birth family did not have the resources or skills to care for Peter, let alone cope with the surgery he needed or to help him reach his full potential,” Trish says explaining why Peter, now 27, was put up for adoption when he was just under three months old. “We were lucky in that we had the resources to take over Peter’s care and blessed to be able to become his adoptive parents,” Trish says. Peter’s birth family kept in touch with Trish and Glenn and when he was Trish with two of her sons, Peter and Paul four months old a meeting was arranged. “That’s when Glenn and I realised how deeply they had been affected by their heart wrenching decision to give up their birth son. They had made a huge sacrifice to put the best interests of Peter ahead of everything else,” Trish says.”I have never seen someone as distraught as Peter’s birth mother. She had others she cared for and loved, but she was obviously still grieving for her baby son and suffering deeply at having to give him up. She was so upset, I think if we had taken Peter to the meeting with us, I’d have wanted to give him back to her - anything to stop her pain,” she says and praises Peter’s birth mother for her selflessness at putting Peter’s needs ahead of her own. “Giving him up to a family with the resources to care for him and his special needs was a huge sacrifice for Peter’s mother, but she wanted him to have a chance not only to be loved but to reach his full potential,” Trish explains. Peter’s birth parents continued to keep in touch with Trish and Glenn for the next several years. “Most people don’t understand how much most of these mothers love their babies,” she says. “I thank God every day for our three sons and our daughter. I also thank God they were born in the 1980s and early 1990s when few women were given prenatal tests for Down syndrome,” she says. The full version of this story can be found in Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese, 7 May 2015 Trish's favourite photo of Peter with his nephew Noah 10 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Couple Prayer Couple prayer is any prayer said by a couple in each Prayer is intimate other’s presence. Couple prayer is when an engaged or Couple prayer requires a level of intimacy that can be married couple speak to God about their needs, hopes challenging. However, God, the source of the couple’s and concerns while allowing the other person to hear. It love can work powerfully through their prayer, deepening may be expressed by one or both. their relationship with each other. We believe that The importance of couple prayer couple prayer should be as variable as there are couples. Our enthusiasm for this stems from recognition that: Promoting one way over others should be avoided. Combinations of approaches may be useful – for example, saying prayers together that are common • while individual prayer is always essential, there (eg Hail Mary, Our Father, praying the Liturgy of the is a special grace that comes through couple Hours, prayer books, scripture) can be combined with prayer. spontaneous prayer for one’s personal concerns. This can • couple prayer creates a sacred space in our be done in any number of combinations. It helps bring marriage where we open ourselves to God’s into play the prayers with which we are comfortable in presence. communal prayer situations and intersperse them with • there is an extraordinarily high correlation personal expressions of one’s awareness of God. between couple prayer and marriage stability. Contributed by Ron & Mavis Pirola • the married couple is the foundation stone of the family and the family is the basic community of society. We also propose that couple prayer may greatly assist in maintaining family prayer beyond early childhood into the teenage years. There is an apparent fall in family prayer within families as children move into teenage years. We suggest that the intimacy required of teenagers in such a situation is often too challenging unless the parents themselves are at ease with each other in couple prayer. 5 Easy Steps
One spouse finds the scripture reading of the day One opens the prayer with a phrase like “Lord, we come before you at the start of our day.” Read the scripture out loud. Sit in silence for a while. (We may think about the scripture, the upcoming day and how we will live it out, or perhaps put some thoughts in a journal). Inevitably for PHOTO QUALITY me, some time is spent daydreaming. I’m not proud of If your photo has not appeared, it may be due to its this, but I would do you no favor to suggest that you fail size and quality. Please ensure that the photo is a when not fully concentrating. Sometimes I just offer up jpg image of at least 1.5mgb. the distraction and figure I’m honoring God by the effort I made just to show up. At the appointed ending time, each spouse makes a petition flowing from the silent prayer. “Who Me, Pray? … With Her?” Jim & Susan Vogt from the USCBC website www.foryourmarriage.org
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 11 Friends and family with ADIG Everything seems a little brighter when friends are around you. At the Armidale Diocesan Investment Group, we try and make every visit you have with us just like catching up with a friend. Have you told your friends about all the work that ADIG does? Our commitment to the Diocese and contributions to the schools and churches is growing every year thanks entirely to your help through investing with ADIG. Every member of the ADIG family helps the entire Diocese grow and continue our work throughout the community. Why not join us? St Albert’s scholarships St Albert’s College at the University of New England, recently held their annual Academic Presentation Dinner. ADIG is proud to be associated with this and sponsor two academic scholarships to two worthy students. ADIG Marketing Officer, Jason Crocker, was on hand to present these scholarships to students who had shown exceptional contributions within the college and beyond in the previous twelve months. Oliver Bartlett was one of the lucky recipients of an ADIG scholarship for his involvement Oliver Bartlett receives his award from Jason Crocker in the community. Spirit of Catholic Education Awards ADIG was also a sponsor of the 2015 Spirit of Catholic Education awards again in March. Recognising outstanding achievements in Catholic Education, these awards allow the Catholic Schools Office to showcase the hard work and commitment to the Catholic ethos that our Catholic School educators put in all year round. ADIG congratulates all of those teachers and staff who were recognised with these awards and we believe that this shows just what is possible Chris Smyth speaking at the Spirit of Catholic Education with commitment to your work in the context of our faith. Awards ceremony With your help, all this is possible
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12 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT No Ordinary Day in Walgett
The morning began as any ordinary morning, but this to find our experiences to be very different. While Fr was no ordinary day. Anthony was presented to us and installed as our new parish priest, we had a strong sense of our need to care Bishop Michael Kennedy was yet to arrive. There was an for him, just as we desire and expect him to care for us. air of the unknown as most of us had never experienced This was a two way commitment and our need to work the installation of a new parish priest. Any sense of the together for the good of all was a warm gentle reminder unfamiliar or uncertainty soon gave way to being totally of who and what we are. absorbed into the celebration of our Sunday Mass. Mr Dan Gale, Chairperson of the Parish Council, thanked We gathered. Our Bishop arrived, the celebrations began. the Bishop for the wonderful priests who have blessed Since Walgett has seven out stations it was important us with their presence in the Walgett community and to include the ‘whole’ parish in the celebration. The ministered to our needs. It is with anticipation and offertory procession brought together our different, but expectation this wonderful tradition of caring pastoral one community. ministry will continue to grace us and enrich our lives. The procession was led by an Aboriginal Elder carrying Fr. Anthony ‘s response was simple and from his heart. a carved emu egg of St Mary MacKillop and the younger He committed his ministry work in Walgett, Lightning generation of Aboriginals were represented with the Ridge and surrounding areas to the care of Our Blessed didgeridoo being placed at the foot of the altar. The Mother Mary. The congregation joined with Father gifts followed and were carried by all sectors of our vast Anthony and the Bishop praying the Hail Mary. community. The convivial presence of our Bishop made our morning While we may have been expecting to sit back and feel tea a beautiful gathering and a wonderful conclusion to a like a spectator at the installation of Fr Anthony, we were blessed morning.
“Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” Saint John Paul II
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 13 Obligated to do what?
About our Faith
Historically derived, holy days of obligation were special In 1917, the Code of Canon Law raised this figure again, occasions on which Catholics, over the age of reason, to a total number of 10 non-Sunday Holy Days (adding were obliged to attend Mass. They were also encouraged in the Feasts of the Body and Blood of Christ and Saint to refrain from any work or involvement with commerce Joseph), however local Bishops were permitted the which would interfere with their participation in divine ability to alter the days in their dioceses. worship. Canon Law 1246 now provides that with the prior In Australia, the Catholic faithful should observe as holy approval of the Apostolic See, the conference of bishops days of obligation: can suppress some of the holy days of obligation or transfer them to a Sunday. • Christmas Day (December 25 – the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ) In May 2001 the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference • The Assumption (August 15 – the Feast of the exercised this option and promulgated a decree Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) announcing the only feast days to be observed as holy • All Sundays of the year days of obligation are Christmas Day, the Feast of the Assumption and all Sundays of the year. Early in the twentieth century Catholics used to observe 36 non-Sunday Holy Days, in addition to all Sundays of The change became effective on 16 September, 2001 and the year. This was reduced by a Motu Propio of Pope remains in place. Pius X to the much lesser number of eight. These were: • The Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ • The Epiphany Bevan Douglas Funerals • The Ascension has been serving Tamworth and districts • Holy Mary the Mother of God with care and concern for • Her Immaculate Conception • Her Assumption over 35 years • Saint Peter and Saint Paul the Apostles • All Saints Guiding Lady Funerals with a females soft touch. PERSONALISE Your Loved One`s Farewell AW1666645 AW166664
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14 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Around and About Centacare Drought Appeal Around 130 locals attended the ‘Groovin’ The Blues’ mini music festival at Myall, in Lightning Ridge. Annette and Doug Wilson were fantastic hosts, with many neighbours taking the chance to reconnect and have a night off. The lineup included the Giggalees Crazy Circus Show, Allison Forbes band, The Urban Chiefs, and multi Aria Award winner Jeff Lang. The highlight of the night was definitely a beautiful and bright display from local priest and pyro technician, Fr Holysmoke - Fr Anthony Koppman - and his fabulous team. Many children at the event had never seen fireworks before and A Call From Australia were amazed by the show! Events like these play an important part in keeping communities strong Archbishop Charles Maung Bo had barely wrapped in tough times, as part of the Federal Governments up celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Catholic Drought Support Package. Church’s presence in Myanmar when he got a call If you’re doing it tough in the drought, Centacare from Australia. “I was in Calcutta; my niece phoned NENW can help. Call 1800 372 826. me to say that she saw my name on a list of the names of the cardinals announced by the Holy Father. I thought she was joking, at first,” Cardinal Bo said, speaking at his residence behind St. Mary’s Cathedral in Yangon, the biggest city in Myanmar (also known as Burma). The archbishop of Yangon (formerly Rangoon) since 2003, the 66-year-old prelate was one of 20 new cardinals created by Pope Francis on Feb. 14. He is the first cardinal from Burma, a country home to only 800,000 Catholics, spread across 16 dioceses. Though there are hints of a Catholic presence in Burma going back to the 13th century, the first church in the country dates to 1514 — founded by missionaries accompanying Portuguese traders.
Blackville Heritage Church Recently Quirindi Heritage Village celebrated the relocation and restoration of Saints Phillip & James Blackville Church to the Village. Mr Bob McInnes, Chairperson of the Heritage Village, explained to all present the many months of hard work and planning by volunteers that resulted in a magnificent job of restoration. Fr Roel Llave, PP of St Brigid’s Parish, then blessed the Church and handed the keys of the Church to Mr McInnes. Many past parishioner families were represented and were overjoyed and amazed by the restoration of the Church which had been left empty and neglected for many decades following its closure.
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 15 Around and About Celebrating catholic education at Gunnedah St Xavier’s Catholic Primary School Gunnedah celebrated Catholic schools week. It was lovely to see a number of parents present for our special Assembly. Students read some prayers including the following. “We thank you for the passion, love and sacrifice of our parents, carers and local community as they work together to ensure a Catholic education for us”. At the end of our Assembly balloons were released signifying the recognition St Xavier’s students have for those children who do not have the access to a beautiful school and an education.
Wee Waa catechetics A pleasant and prayerful day was led by Ricky Withers, the Diocesan CCD, at Wee Waa Convent. The Wee Waa and Narrabri Catechists were given support and advice to teach the students in the Catholic faith as well as the opportunity to share information, experiences and life stories with each other.
Mothers at St Joseph’s School Uralla An assembly, followed by Mass and morning tea were celebrated at St Joseph’s School, Uralla to honour mothers and grandmothers for Mother’s Day. The children presented drawings, poems and writings expressing why their Mums were the Best Mums. They had also made pompom flowers to give to their Mum as gifts. Some of the unique qualities of their special Mums compiled by the children were: “Mum shows me right from wrong. She tells me when I can do better like when I don’t do my chores well. Not only does she tell me but she actually will do the chore with me so I know. “My Mum sends me to bed on time. She sends me to bed on time so I can have a good sleep and wake up happy.”
16 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Around and About
Quirindi cross & plaque blessed On the feast day of St Brigid, Father Roel unveiled and blessed a commemorative plaque and cross which was placed in the church grounds of St Brigid’s, Quirindi, in recognition of the triple celebrations which were held for the parish in September 2014. The cross was made from 2 pieces of sandstone which were originally the steps to the first Catholic Church at Wallabadah.
St Edward’s Book Fair St Edward’s Catholic Primary School South Tamworth held their annual Book Fair! It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic students and parents eager to purchase books for their enjoyment and to benefit our school. The book character Geronimo Stilton made an appearance at the fair and we had many Queens and Princess guiding and helping throughout the day. Thank you to our wonderful parents who helped make both the Infants and Primary Book Fair successful.
Fr Castelli Celebrates This celebration Mass took place in the parish hall, which is the exact location of the sanctuary of the original Werris Creek church where Fr Castelli was ordained 55 years ago. It was decided to relocate on the day to this place, and a lunch and speeches followed. A dozen or so visitors from Gunnedah arrived, as well as Quirindi people and others.
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 17 Around and About Boggabri students impress Students from Sacred Heart School Boggabri attended the Gunnedah Eisteddfod and were awarded 1st Place in the Choral Speech section (school with less than 65 students). They performed two poems, Granny Pippen by Annette Kosseris and Confessions of a Choc-o-holic by Dulcie Meddows. The adjudicator was very impressed with the children’s appearance saying they all look delightful. She said they presented a lovely natural poem with great gestures, was well rehearsed and very enjoyable. The total score for both poems was 85 points.
Ordinations are up Statistics about men to be ordained priests this year in the United States show numbers are up. On average, a recent report states, the men were 17 years old when they first considered the vocation of priesthood, and 71% said they were encouraged in that regard by a parish priest, “as well as friends (46 percent), parishioners (45 percent), and mothers (40 percent).” And the number of men to be ordained is up 20% from last year: “The total number of potential ordinands for the class of 2015, 595, is up from 477 in 2014 and 497 in 2013.” The average age for this year’s ordinands is 34, 69% of the men are Caucasian/European American/white, with 14% being Hispanic/Latino and 10% of Asian or Pacific Islander background.
Give Your All for Nepal St Nicholas Catholic Primary School Tamworth staff and students came to school dressed with all manner of fluoro accessories for our ‘Fluoro Friday’ to raise money for the earthquake stricken region of Nepal. Our theme for the day was “Give Your All for Nepal” and for a coin donation students and staff were able to accessorise their school uniform with any number of fluorescent items. Our Mini Vinnies group also sold felt hearts on the day where children could write their names and decorate. These were eventually compiled on to a beautiful banner by our Mini Vinnies coordinator Mrs Patrice McMullen that is now on display in our school office. All up over $800 will now be forwarded to CARITAS Australia to help the Nepalese people in need. 18 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Around and About Guyra Mother’s Day BBQ breakfast When you become a mother you realise why no one has ever printed out a job description for this very important role - it’s endless! Suddenly you find yourself using skills that you never even realised you possessed and finally you find the truth in the old saying ’A mothers work is never done’. But while the work can be tough, the rewards are never ending. To celebrate Mother’s Day, and say thank you, St Mary of the Angels Catholic Primary School Guyra P&F hosted a barbeque breakfast before school for students to enjoy with their mums and grandmothers. We had a wonderful turn out with a great morning being had by all.
St Albert’s Retreat The Board of Saint Albert’s College recently took time out of busy schedules to spend time together at a mini retreat. Greg Moin a Board member and local solicitor lead a session on board and director roles and responsibilities. Bishop Michael Kennedy led a session on the role of the Church in a secular society. Dr David Daintree spoke of his experiences running Catholic residential colleges within university settings. The Board were actively engaged in lively discussions of the challenges of providing a first class facility for the benefit of the students, university and wider community. The mini retreat was mini in time but maxi in content!
Buy a Hand to Lend a Hand In response to the recent earthquake in Nepal, St Edward’s is raising funds to help those who have been affected by this terrible disaster. Students are able to purchase a cardboard hand, write their name on it, these hands are then displayed around our school. This fundraiser will run for 2 weeks and we hope to raise over $1500 in this time. To date the Infants have raised $180 and the Primary have raised $267 which is a total of $447. We would like to extend a huge thank you to all students and families who have already purchased a hand to support the victims of the earthquakes in Nepal.
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 19 Proclamation of Year of Mercy 8 December 2015 - 20 November 2016 Pope Francis proclaimed an extraordinary Year of Mercy saying: Saint Paul reminds us that we have been saved through numerous signs of the tenderness which God offers to the the mystery of the death and resurrection of the Lord whole world and, above all, to those who suffer, who are Jesus. He is the Reconciler, who is alive in our midst alone and abandoned, without hope of being pardoned offering the way to reconciliation with God and with or feeling the Father’s love. A Holy Year to experience each other. The Apostle recalls that, notwithstanding the strongly within ourselves the joy of having been found by difficulties and the sufferings of life, the Jesus, the Good Shepherd who has come hope of salvation which Christ has sown in search of us because we were lost. A in our hearts nonetheless continues to Jubilee to receive the warmth of his love grow. The mercy of God is poured out when he bears us upon his shoulders and upon us, making us just and giving us brings us back to the Father’s house. A peace. year in which to be touched by the Lord Jesus and to be transformed by his mercy, Many question in their hearts: why a so that we may become witnesses to Jubilee of Mercy today? Simply because mercy. Here, then, is the reason for the the Church, in this time of great historical Jubilee: because this is the time for mercy. change, is called to offer more evident It is the favourable time to heal wounds, a signs of God’s presence and closeness. time not to be weary of meeting all those This is not the time to be distracted; on who are waiting to see and to touch with the contrary, we need to be vigilant and to reawaken their hands the signs of the closeness of God, a time to in ourselves the capacity to see what is essential. This offer everyone the way of forgiveness and reconciliation. is a time for the Church to rediscover the meaning of the mission entrusted to her by the Lord on the day of May the Mother of God open our eyes, so that we may Easter: to be a sign and an instrument of the Father’s comprehend the task to which we have been called; and mercy (cf. Jn20:21-23). For this reason, the Holy Year may she obtain for us the grace to experience this Jubilee must keep alive the desire to know how to welcome the of Mercy as faithful and fruitful witnesses of Christ.
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Not associated with or connected to any other funeral company bearing the name Hamilton A Parent Perspective as a child
I am writing this time from the perspective of a child, find her old prayer book full of holy cards, many rosary my mother’s eldest daughter. Over the past four years beads and the book of prayers that had been given to my family has been supported by the prayers and the my grandmother in 1902 when she became a Child of care that so many people in our parish have given as Mary, another institution that is no longer with us. I had we supported my mother in her journey with dementia. never seen some of these things before and I am so glad I Mum passed away in March. She was in her ninetieth was able to save these treasures to share with my family. year. Mum lived her life in Sydney; her childhood was They have given my girls and I an insight into a Catholic spent in the Irish community around the parish of Our Church that in some ways is vastly different to 2015. Lady of Mount Carmel Waterloo and it was here during As Mum’s life was nearing the end she first went into the years of the Depression that she received the faith that St George Hospital and then into Calvary Hospital for sustained her all her life. Palliative Care. It was a sad and distressing time and the Mum was definitely one who loved the way that Catholics St Mary’s School family were very supportive as I came lived and worshipped before the Vatican Council, and so and went back and forth to Sydney until I just stayed I was raised in some of the old ways I rarely hear of these there with my family. My brothers and sisters gathered days. Every month seemed to have another reason for from all over Australia, most of Mum’s ten grandchildren a Novena, first Friday Mass or even daily Mass for one were able to have those last reason or another- May for visits with their Nana. Mum Mary, July I think the Month had always said she would of the Sacred Heart and be surrounded by her family other ones I have forgotten. when she died, and in the I have to admit that I was end she was. She had the slightly resentful of Mum’s generations of her family insistence on so many daily with her as she went, just as Masses. As the eldest of six she said she would. children I had to wrangle everyone as we walked to Mum’s funereal Mass was Mass and then home in time held at Our Lady of Fatima to get to school. My younger Kingsgrove, the church brothers and sisters didn’t her and Dad attended all listen to me much as I tried to their married life and she is get them to hurry along. We buried with Dad at Botany all had Immaculate medals Cemetery. Mum’s time had pinned to our singlets and come, she had lived a long Rosary beads in our pockets, life and after the struggles of my brothers were Altar Boys the last years I cannot be sad and I must have been one that she is at rest. I have learnt of the very last of that old many lessons these last few years, many lessons on how time group of girls, the Holy On her 90th birthday Veronica Bridget McNamara Angels. to make things easier for my family. I learnt more about the Guardianship Tribunal, Mum’s faith certainly was a most important part of her the Aged Care landscape and family dynamics than I ever life. When we had to place Mum into fulltime care it wanted to know but for all the stress and bureaucracy, was a regret that we could not secure a spot in a Catholic I am thankful that I was able to be with Mum. Thank Home. However, she had many visitors from her parish, you to friends in our parish who asked after Mum and and her parish priest was a regular visitor. It was amazing prayed for her and for me and thank you all for the many that as Mum‘s memories faded one of the things that she messages I received after she died. I am glad that I have hung onto was her habit of saying the rosary last thing at had the opportunity to share a part of this journey with night. After she couldn’t say the words anymore she still you. Life has a different perspective for me now; Mum held the beads every night. was the last of her family so now my brothers and sisters When my sister and I had to sort through Mum’s things and my cousins are the elders in the family. Perhaps it is prior to selling her home I was surprised and lucky to now time to grow up. Catherine Ible
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22 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT We need prayers not gossip
The Pope said recently that the Church is committed to Pope Francis proposed that the Church once again renew the care of the family, saying that the bond between the prayers for the Synod of Bishops on the family, in order Church and the family is “sacred and inviolable.” for the Church to “be animated by the compassion of the Good Shepherd.” “The Church, as a mother, never abandons the family, even when it is disheartened, wounded, and mortified in “There is need of this, not of gossip!” he exclaimed. so many ways; it will always do everything to seek to “I also invite those who feel far away, or who are not cure and heal it, to invite it to conversion and to reconcile accustomed to do so, to pray. it with the Lord,” he said.‘We Need Prayers, Not Gossip’ The full version of the article can be found at: www.zenit.org New Commission for Family, Youth and Life
Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, Chair of the new ACBC support marriage and family life, and to engage with young Commission for Family, Youth and Life with commission people, especially through youth ministry. members Auxiliary Bishop Mark Edwards, Bishop Peter “Some of the biggest challenges for the Church and the A.Comensoli and Bishop Michael Kennedy and also wider community today are in the areas of marriage, family, Executive Secretary Alison Burt. life issues and engagement with young people, and the The new Commission will liaise with several councils and Bishops have decided that it is time to create a Commission lay bodies working to defend human life at all stages, to specifically devoted to these tasks,” Archbishop said.
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 23 Children are never ‘an error’
So many children are rejected from the beginning, does not forget a single one of these children! Not one of abandoned, robbed of their childhood and their future. their tears is lost! Nor is our responsibility lost either, the Some might dare to say, almost to justify themselves, that social responsibility of persons, of each one of us, and of it was an error to make them come into the world. This is countries. disgraceful! Please, let’s not unload our faults on children! Think what a society would be like that decided once and Children are never “an error.” Their hunger isn’t an error, for all to establish this principle: “It’s true that we aren’t as their poverty isn’t, their fragility, their abandonment perfect and that we make many mistakes. However, when -- so many are abandoned on the streets; nor is it their it is a question of children who come into the world, no ignorance or their incapacity -- there are so many children sacrifice of the adults is deemed too costly or to great, in who don’t know what a school is. If anything, these are order to avoid a child thinking that he is a mistake, that he reasons to love them more, with greater generosity. What had no value and that he is abandoned to the wounds of are we doing in our solemn declarations of the rights of life and to the arrogance of men.” How beautiful such a man and the rights of children, if we then punish children society would be! I say that much would be forgiven such for the errors of adults? a society, its innumerable errors -- much, truly. Those who have the task to govern, educate -- however The Lord judges our life by listening to what the angels I’d say all of us adults are responsible for children and for tell him about the children, angels that “always behold each of us to do what he/she can to change this situation. the face of the Father who is in heaven” (Cf. Matthew I am referring to the “passion” of children. Every 18:10). We must ask ourselves always: What will the marginalized, abandoned child who lives on the street children’s angels tell God about us? begging and with all sorts of devices, without school, without medical care, is a cry that goes up to God and Edited extract of Pope Francis General Audience that accuses the system that we adults have built. And, address 8th April 2015 unfortunately, these children are prey to criminals, who exploit them for unworthy traffic or commerce, or to train them for war and violence. However, in so-called rich Thou wilt keep him in countries so many children also live dramas that marked perfect them in a heavy way, because of the crisis of the family, peace, whose mind is stayed on of education voids and of conditions of life that at times thee: because he trusteth thee. are inhuman. In every case they are children violated in Isaiah 26:3 body and soul. However, the Father who is in heaven
24 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT How St Jude helped me build a school
L-R: Kerry Steller, Sally Scott-Hamilton, Felix Mollel, Gemma Sisia, Sue Rice
Catholic Women Connecting hosted a Catholic Witness of its first Year 12 students. Day with special guest Speaker Gemma Sisia from the Kerry and David Stellar will travel to Tanzania Africa School of St Jude, Tanzania at St Anne’s Hall Armidale. along with Charlie and Maria Allen in May this year Gemma Sisia spoke to around 100 women and men to celebrate the graduation with Gemma. Many people about how she prayed to St Jude (Patron Saint of Hope from Armidale have contributed to the building of the and Impossible causes) in time of need when building school and have visited her over the years. the school in Tanzania. She spoke of how she spent her Catholic Women Connecting would like to congratulate early years on a wool sheep property just outside Guyra Gemma on behalf of everyone. in northern New South Wales, Australia. She is the only daughter among the eight children of Sue and Basil Rice (local family of Armidale). At 22 years old, with a passion and zeal inherited from her ancestor, Edmund Rice (founder of the Christian Brothers movement), Gemma devoted some time to helping the poor in Africa. She travelled to Uganda, East Africa to work for three years as a volunteer teacher. This experience led to a fervent belief that a free, high-quality education should be the right of all children in the world, and that education is the strongest weapon in the fight against poverty, corruption and political instability. In 2002, The School of St Jude, Tanzania opened with only a handful of sponsored students. Through hard work and determination, the school has expanded to over 1,900 students–across three campuses that include boarding facilities–where over 95% receive a free, high-quality education at the primary and secondary levels. In May, 2015 The School of St Jude will celebrate the graduation
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 25 Pope Recognizes Miracle Attributed to St. Therese of Lisieux’s Parents The Holy See has announced that Pope Francis has recognized the miracle attributed to Louis and Zelie Martin, the parents of St. Therese of Lisieux. The Holy Father approved the decree during a meeting this morning with Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. At an event earlier this month, Cardinal Amato already announced long-awaited canonization of the saintly couple. “Thanks be to God in October two spouses, parents of Saint Therese of Lisieux, will be canonized,” the Salesian Cardinal said, at a recent meeting organized by the Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV). The pair was beatified on October 19th, 2008 by Pope “Saints are not only priests and nuns, but also lay people,” Emeritus Benedict XVI. Most notably, although the he said, referring to the exemplary French married couple. precise date of their canonization has not been announced, This will be the first time that a married couple is canonized their canonization in the month of October will coincide together. with the 14th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. The Synod will discuss the theme: “The Married in 1858, they had nine children, five of whom followed the religious life. vocation and mission of the family in the Church and in the contemporary world.” Zelie died of a very painful cancer at 46. Louis was left with five very young daughters: Marie, Pauline, Leonie, Louis and Zelie Martin are the parents of Saint Therese Celine and Therese, who was only four and a half years of Lisieux, Patroness of the Missions and one of the most old but who always remembered her Mother as a Saint. loved Saints by Pope Francis. St. John Paul II proclaimed Louis died in 1894, after suffering a serious mental illness. her Doctor of the Church in 1997. When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking
When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator and I immediately wanted to paint another. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw you make my favourite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick and I learned what it means to serve one another in brotherly love. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I heard you pray over me and kiss me goodnight and I felt loved and safe. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities even when you didn’t feel good and I learned what it means to glorify God in all things. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw you give of your time and money to the church and people in need and I learned that God loves a cheerful giver. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw tears come to your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it’s all right to cry. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted to be everything that I could be. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I saw you praying and reading God’s word and I learned to depend on and trust in him too. When you thought I wasn’t looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, “Thanks for all the things I saw…when you thought I wasn’t looking.” By: Mary Rita Schilke Korazan
26 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Twofold visit to Philippines
In April Bishop Kennedy visited the Philippines for a Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette near Manilla. The week. As the Australian Bishop delegate to the upcoming La Salette’s have three priests ministering in the Diocese 51st International Eucharistic Congress in Cebu in of Armidale. January 2016 he attended preparatory meetings with Their Provincial and former parish Priest of Wee Waa, other bishops, priests, religious and lay people both from Fr Rosanno Soriano, introduced Bishop Kennedy to all the Philippines and from around the world. the members of the order at their annual study days and “Having spoken with the organisers, visited the various showed him some of the local sites and attractions. The congress venues, and seen the preparations in place to Bishop and Fr Rosanno also spoke about their mutual welcome the thousands of expected international visitors, desire for more La Salette priests to come to the diocese. I am very excited about the upcoming Eucharistic Congress” Bishop Kennedy said. The Bishop will be leading a group of participants from the Diocese of Armidale and is encouraging participation from other parts of Australia as well. He said “The 51st International Eucharistic Congress in January 2016 in Cebu Philippines presents us with a rare opportunity. The Congress is being held in the Asia Pacific region in an English speaking country close to Australia. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to experience the Church in Asia, and the truly and dynamic Catholic culture of the Philippines, as well as the opportunity to be confronted by real material poverty.” Bishop Kennedy also took the opportunity to visit the Provincial House and the National Shrine of the
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 27 Homeless in Sistine Chapel
‘I Was In the Sistine Chapel, I Saw A Door Open. “We applauded very loudly. He greeted us; we thanked The Pope Came Out ... My Goodness!’ him. Then, we recited the ‘Our Father’ together. The Pope even allowed photographs to be taken with us. So many Kristoph, a homeless “resident” in the portico of Via photographs were taken and Don Corrado promised that della Conciliazione is 51, and has spent 20 of those years he would bring them. Then, the Pope greeted each one on the street, working “until they caught me.” of us. He shook the hands of all 150, do you realize? My Separated, with a 23-year-old son, this gentle, middle- goodness ...” aged man has been occupying his little post very close to Kristoph was also able to shake the Holy Father’s hand. Saint Peter’s for about seven months. He and his friends “I said to him: Thank you, Pope. I wish you so many were in a group of 150 homeless that visited the Vatican good things, especially health and strength. He smiled Museums, invited by the Apostolic Almonry and that, and said ‘Thank you, thank you ...” unexpectedly, shook Pope Francis’ hand. “Were you moved?” we asked him. “How could I not be,” “It is an experience that I will carry within me until the he answered promptly, adding delightfully, “I also had last days of my life,” he said. His little group has done tears. My friends here also wept, even if now they appear nothing but discuss the extraordinary day they had. And to be hardened ... I wept because I know I’m fortunate: they talked about it to journalists, through Kristoph, not everyone has the possibility to meet the Pope so chosen as their spokesman because of his knowledge of close, to kiss his hand, to embrace him ...” Italian, and who gives interviews with great aplomb. In fact, yesterday’s visit was such a memorable event that On the other hand, it does not happen often that one has every trace of it is treasured. Above all was the umpteenth a private tour of the Vatican Museums, assailed daily by confirmation that “Pope Francis loves us.” lines of kilometers of tourists; even rare still is it to end “He is doing so much for us: the showers, barbers, the tour in the Sistine Chapel and find oneself before the umbrellas, museums ... I also heard that he wants to Pope who says: “Welcome. This is your home!” prepare a small ambulatory for those who need medical care. We are truly happy about everything,” stressed the Kristoph’s cerulean eyes flash with joy on recalling that “spokesman” of the homeless of Saint Peter’s. instant: “We were in the museums so long .... They are very, very, very beautiful! At the end we went to the All these “are really important things for us, they are Sistine Chapel and we were told to sit down. We thought useful. The Pope understands this. He loves us.” And the there would be a Mass, a prayer, something like that ... gang does not fail to return this affection, perhaps not Instead, from behind the door, Don Corrado came out materially, but with prayer, which, if humble and sincere (almoner Konrad Krajewski,) and close to him, the Pope. is worth more than a thousand gestures of charity. My goodness!” By Salvatore Cernuzio
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CCI CatholicViewpoint ad - fullpage MAY15.indd 1 12/05/2015 10:01:08 AM Wake Up to the World: Celebrating the Year of Consecrated Life I have called you by your name, you are mine Isaiah 43.1 Each of our Brothers and Sisters in the consecrated life, brothers and priests living and ministering here for almost recalls a word, an event, a priest or religious who inspired one hundred and seventy five years. Their particular them; something as simple as a word of Scripture or the charisms have included education, healthcare, prison kindness of a dedicated religious. With a simple and chaplaincy, working with the marginalised and forgotten, humble ‘yes’, they began a journey by which the Lord inter-Church work, care of the elderly and helping those drew each one into a deeper relationship with himself. with special needs. Religious today are actively engaged So that his word was deeply understood and cherished: ‘I in many apostolates, past and present, seen and unseen, have called by name; you are mine.’ great and small, both in the church and the wider society; On the first Sunday of Advent last year, Pope Francis others dedicate their days to prayer and contemplation. proclaimed 2015 a Year of Consecrated Life. This year is We know that despite their various expressions of the the fiftieth anniversary of the Dogmatic Constitution on consecrated life, our sisters and brothers are united in the church Lumen Gentium, which speaks of religious in pointing us to God; by the way they dedicate their whole its sixth chapter, and of the Decree Perfectae Caritatis on lives to the Lord. We thank God for their incalculable the renewal of religious life. This Year will conclude with contributions as they witness amongst us. the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple on 2 This year provides the opportunity to acknowledge February 2016. Religious who have consecrated themselves to God. We welcome the invitation of Pope Francis to make this We are grateful for who you are, for what you do, for a year of thanksgiving and of deeper reflection on the your spirit of faith and your pursuit of service, your calling of the consecrated men and women among us. stewardship and for your witness to the Gospel. Pope Francis, who identifies himself as a Religious, However, let us remember, ‘you have not only a glorious shares with us his hopes for this year of consecrated history to remember and to recount, but also a great life. ‘May this Year be an occasion for bearing vigorous history still to be accomplished! Look to the future, and joyful witness before the world to the holiness and where the Spirit is sending you in order to do even greater vitality present in so many of those called to follow Jesus things” (Vita Consecrata N110). in the consecrated life.’ We must emphasise that those who have consecrated Australia is blessed to have had so many religious sisters, their lives to God are primarily the workforce for the
30 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Church. Rather, they are catalysts for renewal; exploring As we just get on with life, this does mean a daily dose of new frontiers and possibilities. Their task is to inspire realism. In the short term, the Church may seem deeply and to keep the fire of the Gospel burning for the sake of unpromising in any number of ways to many of us; the the Church and of the world. Saint Mary of the Cross is Church also may disappoint. And yet God remains the an example of hope, renewal and creative fidelity in times God he has always been. The Church is real today, and of transition; critical yeast for crucial times. the promise of God is still as powerful, wonderful and Our Holy Father challenges consecrated women and men joyful, as it was yesterday, is today and will be tomorrow to be ‘experts in communion: to offer a concrete model of and forever. community which, by acknowledging the dignity of each Religious congregations, some old, and maybe even some person and sharing our respective gifts, makes it possible new, will continue to quietly inspire us by selfless lives to live as brothers and sisters’. Those who live the Gospel of poverty, chastity and obedience; offering a humble, in this way radiate a joy that can only come from God, a yet powerful, counter-witness to the emptiness that so joy that is attractive to those around them. often surrounds us. If we are to ‘wake up the world’, ‘I am counting on you to ‘wake up the world’ said Pope there is much work to be done, but we need not fear, Francis. He is forever urging Christians With joy and love in our hearts we to be people of joy, not prophets will find ways of bringing the of doom. ‘I thank you for counting newness of the Gospel to all the witness you give as our people. stewards of God’s mysteries and for how you consistently on you to ‘wake up the For many busy and harried face up to the challenges posed Catholics, it is often the human by modern culture in such a cosmopolitan world presence of those in consecrated life, as and secular society, as you live the Gospel in your well as their houses and prayer centres, which provide everyday lives’. important reminders, occasions and resources for St John Paul II wrote that religious are first and foremost personal prayer, reflection and quiet. The great ‘schools’ called to be the icon of the transfigured Christ. The of Christian mediation and contemplation have long transfiguration here is the result of the deep and personal been the tradition of apostolic societies and religious union with Christ and at the same time the result of the institutes, with many continuing to provide leadership suffering with Christ. Religious life will change in its and formation in the techniques of prayer and meditation. expressions, shapes and sizes. We should not fear these “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and changes. The only thing we should fear is the failure to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” and bear the wounds of the suffering Servant and to be the “spent much time together in the temple” (Acts 3:42,46). icon of the transfigured Christ for our Church and for our Marvelling at how God the Father always provides the world. Church with the testimony of the consecrated life, we A Gospel passage which strikes right at the heart of the thank each religious institute and apostolic society in our matter of true discipleship is in Matthew 16 where we country, and all of you who are their members, for your read a recurring theme: ‘Take up your cross’, the cross generosity and faithfulness. We pray that the Lord Jesus of the everyday commitments, the everyday demands in will continue to call men and women to be his evangelical which we meet God. In following Christ, we must also witnesses. take up the cross of Christ. We must take up also, the triumphant assurance that God has given us all we need, Pastoral letter prepared by the Australian Catholic and will give Religious all they need for their consecrated Bishops Commission for Church Ministry to celebrate lives. the Year of Consecrated Life during 2015. Advertise with Viewpoint
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WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 31 A promise of a better life
In Nepal as many as 5000 to 7000 people - the majority to school for a chance of proper education. Young women of whom are women and children - are trafficked every are also persuaded and even undergo “fake marriages,” year to India, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and other convinced they have wed a wonderful caring man who nations. Tricked or kidnapped by unscrupulous human will look after them. Still others think they are being traffickers they are forced into prostitution, exploited flown to a new country to be trained for a job that will as cheap labour and maltreated, physically and sexually bring them and ultimately their family in Nepal a good abused. and stable income. Now with as many as 8.2 million “They believe they are going to injured or left homeless as a a better life but instead they are result of Nepal’s 7.9 earthquake, exploited, abused, forced into Rupa Rai of Caritas Nepal fears prostitution and used as cheap that hundreds of thousands of labour,” Rupa says. vulnerable Nepali women and children will become easy prey In addition many also become for human traffickers. unwitting organ donors, forced to have operations to remove a kidney “What is most concerning is that with nowhere to turn, desperate, or other organ that will later be sold. vulnerable and with no money “As a Catholic woman and working or home, Nepal’s women and with a Catholic organisation, children will become prey to we must remember that the first human traffickers,” she says. principle is to restore human dignity. “In an extremely poor nation like Nepal where there are Through rehabilitation, counselling, literacy programs, many with no education and where there is still a high job skills and leadership training we try to bring back that rate of illiteracy, many communities are not aware of dignity to the women who were once sold like slaves,” trafficking or what it means,” she says. “Instead they she says. believe what they are told by these traffickers.” To donate to Caritas Australia’s Nepal Earthquake Appeal Families firmly believe their daughter is being sent away log on to: www.caritas.org.au
32 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT How it all began Freeman House, Armidale
Freeman House arose from an ongoing need in the late 1970’s to address the problem of alcoholism and homelessness prevalent in parks and under bridges in the city. The members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society were regularly engaging with addicted people typically homeless as a result of their addiction. It was not uncommon to locate up to ten people sleeping rough in “hidey holes” or simply in parks. Society members worked with the constabulary to provide fresh clothing and food to offenders who were held in the cells overnight before being released the next day – often to repeat the Bishop Kennedy and Barnaby Joyce with dignitaries from St Vincent habit. De Paul Society caring rapidly outgrew the available accommodation and St. Augustine’s conference, a “special works” resources, so funding was sought from many and varied conference, was formed to care for addicted people with organisations and local fundraising. Alan Kennedy as the first President. Fundamental to the work was procurement of suitable premises, which by Early in the 1980’s a 26 bed accommodation building law needed to be registered as a “Proclaimed Place”, was constructed and this milestone heralded the ability so police could place offenders in the hands of Society to accept Government contracts to provide rehabilitation members as an alternate to accommodating them in the programmes in addition to providing short term support. cells. The Crescent Guest House was purchased in 1979. The reputation of Freeman House as a Rehabilitation The Conference included Alan and Margaret Kennedy, Centre with an excellent success history became known Joe Hanna, Noel Bible, Ron Seery and many others who across the whole of Australia and clients from far and volunteered their time and possessions to clean cook wide were being referred by families and law courts to and generally care for those clients. A rehabilitation reside in house and seek rehabilitation to overcome their programme based on the Alcoholics Anonymous 12 step addictions to enable resumption of a useful life in the formula was introduced and proved a successful formula community. when it was enhanced by specialist counselling and a Edited from a short history prepared by Don Hewitt for the official residential support network. The initial work of short term opening and blessing of Freeman House
Bishop Luc Matthys was Life Membership for Don 80 not out away from the Diocese on the day of his 80th birthday. The fact that the celebrating was to be delayed did not stop the Nazareth House community and visiting clergy from marking the occasion. In a special evening function the Sisters of Nazareth hosted this special birthday party. In addition to food and drinks, good conversation and company there was a special birthday cake. Bishop Luc blew out the candles and cut the cake with his customary Bishop Michael Kennedy with Don Hewitt after Don aplomb. was awarded life membership in recognition of his lengthy and outstanding service to the Saint Vincent Happy birthday to Bishop de Paul Society both in Armidale and as Diocesan Luc …. may you continue to President. The award, presented by Ray Reynolds enjoy good health and God’s (President of the State Council) was made at the richest blessings on your life. recent blessing and opening of the new Armidale Diocesan Central Council Distribution Centre.
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 33 Kids Kapers
34 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT Discovery 2015
Although the water levels at Lake Keepit were at a record the Good News, not to give up, but to witness to the love low of 3.5%, the excitement and expectation level of of Jesus. He is hoping to come again next year. those attending Discovery 2015 was 100%. The young people enjoyed the talks, pastoral discussion Discovery 2015 began on Monday 6th April with young groups and entered wholeheartedly into worship and people from Sydney arriving, eager to join with other praise. They participated in workshops and sporting youth from Armidale, Uralla, Casino, Brisbane and activities, along with an enthusiastic scavenger hunt. Crescent Head. This year 90 young people attended Discovery 2015 was built on the foundations of all the Discovery. past Discovery camps, with many of the young people The theme of the camp was “Trust” based on Proverbs having attended Discovery for many years. Discovery 3.5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not 2015 was more than just a Youth Camp, it was the fruit on your own understanding”. Throughout the camp, the of much prayer; of years of people giving of their time young people were encouraged to look at various aspects to serve; of young people willing to set time aside to of trust, from being a trustworthy person themselves to seek God; of the generosity of ADIG, Uralla Parish and being able to trust in God. other people who financially contribute to this work of the Lord. Our grateful thanks goes to all who have It gave the youth the opportunity to see how valuable generously supported Discovery over the years. trust is and how easily it can be lost. Discovery was a witness to these young people that they Father Joseph Armah from Moree travelled the long are valuable , with so many helpers willing to serve them. distance to Lake Keepit to celebrate Mass with the Youth They in turn will give to others so that the Good News and helpers at Discovery. will be spread and the Kingdom of God built. It was a beautiful Mass and the joy of the Lord was truly Details of next year’s camp can be found at: present. Fr Joseph spoke of the need to let others know www.discovery.org.au
WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT - 35 Meg Lawry and Bishop share during the post a moment Confirmation photo session at the Cathedral
36 - WINTER 2015 - CATHOLIC VIEWPOINT