PAGE 7 PAGE 3 PAGE 9 PAGE 10 Five years on: Climate Divine Holy Week John Paul II change: Mercy feast with Pope remembered think again misplaced? Benedict

March 24 to March 30, 2010 www.scross.co.za R5,00 (incl VAT RSA)

Reg No. 1920/002058/06 No 4668 SOUTHERN AFRICA’S NATIONAL CATHOLIC WEEKLY SINCE 1920

Inside Vatican: ‘Give To fight human trafficking generously for An international workshop on human traffick- ing in Gauteng discussed practical ways of educating people about the dangers of slav- ery they could face.—Page 2 Holy Land’ Killed with paintball gun BY CINDY WOODEN Robbers killed a security guard for the S Catholics remember the death of Johannesburg-based Love of Christ Min- Jesus on Good Friday, they are also istries orphanage by shooting him at close Aasked to remember the Christians range with a paintball gun.—Page 3 who still live in the land where Jesus lived and rose from the dead. Abuse: How to respond In a letter to the world’s bishops, urging Love, honesty and devotion to Christ are them to support the annual collection for essential for facing the crisis in the Church the Holy Land, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri and in the priesthood caused by cases of said all Catholics share the responsibility of clerical sexual abuse, an Australian archbish- the Christians in the Holy Land to keep the op said as the scandal deepened.—Page 5 church alive there and preserve the sites associated with Jesus’ life, death and resur- rection. Homilies eight minutes tops Cardinal Sandri, prefect of the Congrega- Homilies should be no longer than eight min- tion for Eastern Churches, coordinates the utes—a listener’s average attention span, Holy Land collection, which most parishes according to a Vatican archbishop.—Page 4 take up on Good Friday. His office also coordinates the committee that distributes Praying with the pope the funds. Fr Leon Lemmens, an official at In his monthly column on the papal prayer the congregation, said that in the past few intentions, Fr Chris Chatteris looks at how we years, the collection has averaged about $25 should respond to fundamentalism and million a year. observes the suffering of persecuted Chris- Many of the projects combine archaeo- tians.—Page 9 logical studies and restoration of Christian shrines with the improvement of pilgrim Getting ready for Holy Week facilities and convents at the same site, for example at the shrine of the Visitation in In her monthly column, Toni Rowland sug- Ain Karem and the convent of St Lazarus in gests ways in which families can prepare Bethany. Similar, but more extensive work spiritually for Holy Week.—Page 9 is going on in Magdala, the presumed home of Mary Magdalene, which will include a The hotline to God pilgrim itinerary designed to illustrate daily Chris Moerdyk tells the story of the journalist life in the town at the time of Jesus. and the Holy Father’s pricey “hotline to Funds collected around the world help God”.—Page 12 pay for university scholarships for Christian students in the region, support for craft- What do you think? making businesses, social and medical ser- In their Letters to the Editor this week, read- vices for the poor, financial assistance to ers discuss people who sell The Southern struggling parishes and schools and a pro- Cross in their parishes, a new Reformation, ject to build apartments for poor families criminalising homosexuality, abuse, and help and young couples. refused.—Page 8 In addition, the collection helps support the faculty of biblical sciences and archaeol- ogy at a Franciscan-run institute in This week’s editorial: Jerusalem, the Franciscan Media Centre and CHRIST CRUCIFIED: Bright spotlights illuminate a crucifix in a church in Greece, New York. the Magnificat Institute, a new music Why was Jesus killed? Catholics will observe Good Friday on April 2 this year. PHOTO: MIKE CRUPI, CATHOLIC COURIER school with 180 students.—CNS Tlhagale: Hands ‘dripped in blood’ BY JUDY STOCKILL posed by President Jacob Zuma, would be just that—a debate in which there are no absolutes and no non-nego- RCHBISHOP Buti Tlhagale of Johannesburg has said tiables. that lawmakers had been “binning God” and tolerate For Christians, however, God is the author of life and Areligion only when practised in private. they have to answer to him on the issue of abortion, the Addressing more than 2 000 marchers during an anti- archbishop said. He acknowledged tensions between indi- abortion march from Johannesburg’s Christ the King viduals as well as between the Church and politicians who cathedral to Constitution Hill, Archbishop Tlhagale said: have legalised abortion, but added that society is “too “The hands of South Africa’s lawmakers are dripping with lazy” to search for the truth. blood.” He noted that in South Africa such phenomena as child Officials from the Department of Health accepted a peti- rape, the brutal abuse of women and children, drug use, tion addressed to the minister of health, calling for an end and violent road deaths are common. Amid this violence to abortion. the Gospel calls us to protect and revere life, he said, South Africa is a young democracy, Archbishop Tlhagale adding that the Commandment “Thou shalt not kill” is said, but lawmakers wasted no time in “binning God” unambiguous. Life is of unassailable, inestimable value and when they legalised abortion by passing the Choice on abortion is a deplorable crime, he added. Yet, South Termination of Pregnancy Act in November 1996. Africa’s lawmakers deny life and offer abortion on demand. Politicians, he said, tolerate religion so long as it is prac- Archbishop Tlhagale told the demonstrators that doc- tised in private, but deny that God is the source of all free- tors and nurses are pledged to serve life, not death. He dom. The abortion act simply frees a person from moral asked how long it would be before South Africa’s Constitu- responsibility and the dictates of their conscience, he said. tion protects life. The archbishop warned against a false impression that The archbishop called on young people to respect their since abortion is approved by government legislation, it bodies and life, urging them to speak out on such issues Catholics took to the streets of Johannesburg to protest against cannot be wrong. Such reasoning, he said, reduces morali- because silence means complicity. abortion. In his address to the demonstrators, Archbishop Buti ty to a personal preference. “Love God, love your neighbour. Protect and defend Tlhagale said lawmakers had blood on their hands for legalising abortion. He said that the debate around moral regeneration, pro- life—life from its inception,” he told the marchers. PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHDIOCESAN NEWS, JOHANNESBURG 22 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 LOCAL International workshop tackles Br Thomas Sheehy has been elected regional superior of the human trafficking South African sector of the De La Salle Brothers in the St BY MICHAIL RASSOOL “Relatives have been known tation of such a nationwide Charles Lwanga province of to ‘sell’ these hapless victims plan,” she said. “It is obvious English-speaking Africa. Br EVENTEEN sisters from dif- into a life of the worst kind of that great vigilance is needed in Sheehy succeeds Br Gabriel ferent congregations partic- slavery.” Griffin, who held the position order to protect the children.” Sipated in a workshop on Sr Shanley said concerns She said workshop partici- for the past 13 years. counter-human trafficking at were raised as schools and edu- SUMBITTED BY BR GEORGE WHYTE pants also voiced their concerns the Carmelite Retreat Centre in cational institutions would be about tourists being potential Benoni, near Johannesburg. closed for five weeks during the victims of unwitting human The workshop, a follow-up Fifa World Cup. trafficking agents. A circular on two previous training ses- “Millions of children and warning letter was drafted giv- sions, was co-funded by the youths will be unsupervised ing guidelines for their protec- International Union of Superi- and vulnerable, and could tion and safety, she added. ors General and the Leadership become prey to criminals who Sr Shanley said a further Conference of Consecrated Life, may lure them with promises of plan involved the creation of and was aimed at intensifying job opportunities and use them materials—caps, pens, toys, counter-trafficking efforts espe- for cheap labour, for the selling cially with Fifa World Cup rulers, arm bands and coasters, of drugs or for sex work,” Sr carrying such slogans as “2010 approaching. Shanley said. Participants came from is about the games; Let’s kick A sister from Thailand spoke out human trafficking” and Brazil, Thailand, Ireland, Nige- about the continuous stream of ria, Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbab- “Blow the whistle on human young women from her coun- trafficking”. we, Namibia and Zambia, said try who respond to advertise- She said posters, cards and Loreto Sister Monica Shanley, a ments for employment in Thai brochures developed by Holy member of the Western Cape massage parlours in South Family Sister Melanie O’Connor Counter-Human Trafficking Africa, only to end up in broth- Forum. els or as sex slaves, said Sr Shan- of the bishops’ Human Traffick- She said each participant was ley. ing Desk were available to par- involved in counter-human The Thai government was ticipants, as were posters and trafficking activities through concerned and eager to cooper- pamphlets in different lan- raising awareness in schools, ate with organisations working guages from the International parishes, youth groups, writing towards implementing preven- Organisation for Migration articles and disseminating tion strategies to protect their (IOM). posters, brochures. women from such exploitation, The IOM’s Stefano Volpicel- Sr Shanley said a counter- the sister said. lo and Salesian Sister human trafficking campaign Sr Shanley said the South Bernadette Sangma, both from would be launched in South African department of educa- Rome, were the workshop's Africa on May 6, and aims to tion was planning to provide facilitators. involve every bishop, priest, activities and food for school Sr Shanley said at the end of religious and Church worker, in children during the World Cup, the training session the South- an effort to reach every person, which takes place from June 11 ern African Women Religious young and old, with whom to July 11. There would also be against Trafficking in Persons they are in contact, to convey a “fan park” in each host city was formed. It is now a member information about the with large television screens on of Talitha Kum (Mk 5:41), an “stranger danger”. match day. international network, which “But it is not only strangers “One tends to be sceptical comprises of 19 member net- who lure victims,” she said. about the practical implemen- works worldwide. Catholics step out to celebrate cathedral’s anniversary ATHOLICS of Kokstad included Bishop William Slat- serve the Lord in South Africa. took to the streets to cele- tery of Kokstad, who was With the help of the communi- Cbrate the 85th anniver- accompanied by his predeces- ty of Kokstad, St Patrick’s sary of St Patrick’s cathedral. sor, Cardinal Wilfred Napier of School, under the leadership of Accompanied by drum Durban, papal nuncio Arch- the sisters, served the people of majorettes, floats representing bishop James P Green, Bishop Kokstad for 107 years. The tra- spiritual themes, choirs, drama Stan Dziuba of Umzimkulu, dition and name of the school groups and a concourse of Bishop Xolelo Kumalo of is now proudly borne by the singing flag bearers and public Eshowe, and public works min- new school of St Patrick, Bish- the Catholics of Kokstad gave ister, Geoff Doidge. op’s said. thanks to God for his presence The first Catholic church in In 1924 the sisters felt that  Kokstad was opened in Septem- among them for so many years. Kokstad needed a better and HOT POT PAINT Following the procession ber 1884, with the first chapel J.M.J more ample church and so through the town, a short his- constructed by soldiers of the financed the building of the AND HARDWARE tory of the cathedral and greet- Cape Mounted Rifles. With the ings from dignitaries of Church chapel a school was founded present cathedral, which has and state was given. and a resident priest moved to become a landmark in the (PTY) LTD Over a thousand guests, the city. town. some travelling from Bhong- Four years later, in 1888, a “This Church in Kokstad weni, shared in the celebration. small group of Holy Cross Sis- unites our people with God and 46, 12th Street, Springs, 1559 Celebrations were led by the ters made the three-week jour- with each other. It reminds us Tel: (011) 362 3071, (011) 362 4682/3, (011) 8121655/6/7 parish priest, Fr Joseph ney from Umtata to establish a of our common origin, we Methanath. school. The leader was Sr belong together in God. Here Several other guests shared Philothea Kruger, who as a we celebrate our belonging to BRANCHES: in the two day’s events. These young woman left her home to God,” said Bishop Slattery. 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Looking to open franchises in ALL areas. www.volunteersafaris.co.za completed church building Please send them to: OMI Stamps, Box 101352, If interested please contact Scottsville, 3209. 082 450 9930 Trevor Nero or Gerald on 083 4606650 Reservations: 082 444 7654 Piero 082 506 9641 Anthony Thank you! LOCAL The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 33 Orphange security guard killed with paintball gun BY MICHAIL RASSOOL patrol duties between midnight case of an attack. Police from near- and 04:00. by De Deur are investigating the security guard of the Love of On the night of the attack, Mrs possibility that criminals had sur- Christ Ministries (TLC), a Jarvis said friends of her son were prised the guard from behind, AChurch-based organisation leaving around 01:30, and the that provides refuge and accom- grabbed the gun from him, and guard was not available to let them shot him several times at close modation for children with off the property. range with fatal consequences. HIV/Aids, died after being shot She said her son sensed some- several times at close range with a thing was wrong, investigated and De Deur station commander paintball gun at the premises in found Mr Makado sitting on his Senior Superintendant Sonja Slab- Eikenhof, south of Johannesburg. chair “in a very bad state” after bert said a murder docket had TLC director Thea Jarvis said being attacked. been opened, but no arrests had- Macson Makado, 54, who had Mr Makado was taken to Barag- been made. She said details at the been with TLC for several years, wanath Hospital where he died of time of going to press were still was found seriously injured by her his injuries. speculative, as there were no eye- STATIONS: Archbishop Buti Tlhagale of Johannesburg carries a cross son Rhys. Mrs Jarvis explained that the witnesses to the attack. while Frs Michael van Heerden (left) and Vincent Brennan reflect on Mrs Jarvis said the TLC property paintball gun, which fires marble- Senior Superintendent Slabbert Christ’s Passion on the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem during a pilgrimage had over the previous three sized paint-filled bullets, is not appealed to the community of the to the Holy Land and Jordan. The Via Dolorosa marks the Stations of months been targeted by criminals defined as a firearm under current Eikenhof area to come forward the Cross, culminating in the church of the Holy Sepulchre. Good Fri- in the area, who have already legislation. It is used recreationally day is on April 2. stolen children’s bicycles, lawn- in outdoor fun-filled pursuits by with any information that can PHOTO: VAL TANGNEY mowers and garden implements. adults. If used at close range it is assist them in their investigation. She said Mr Makado was one of known to cause serious injuries, Originally from Venda, Mr two guards patrolling the property she said. Makado lived in Orange Farm. He on alternate nights, with her son She said her son had given the leaves behind his wife, daughter Parish nurse resource centre personally augmenting existing guard a paintball gun to use in and four sons. mooted for SA BY MICHAIL RASSOOL Parish Nurse Resource Center, a Climate change needs new values similar coordinating structure. REGIONAL Parish Nurse The centre would be run from “But even if the overall process unparalleled power, ecological Resource Centre in Africa BY MICHAIL RASSOOL Cathca’s premises in Melrose, is drawn-out and widely-spread, stewardship is required of them, Fr will soon be established in A Johannesburg. BOUT 300 000 people die when it strikes a particular locality, Chatteris said. South Africa. Ms Mzamane said it made every year as a result of nat- it can come with a sudden, terrify- “Here the Catholic concept of The centre will be a coordinat- sense to have a parish-based Aural disasters, such as ing and destructive force in the the common good applies not just ing and training structure for nurse in a place that is central to drought and the spread of disease parish-based nursing efforts shape of a Caribbean hurricane or to humanity, but to all of cre- life on a continent where med- in Africa, floods in Asia, mudslides an Australian bushfire.” ation,” he said. across the continent. in South America, extremely hot ical conditions such as HIV/Aids What does one make of this Fr Chatteris reminded his audi- Thuli Mzamane, development summers and bitterly cold winters and tuberculosis, and their phenomenon as one stands before ence that God, who made creation and training officer at Catholic effects, are almost ubiquitous. in Europe, because of climate Health Care (Cathca), said the change, a leading Jesuit has said. God, Fr Chatteris asked. He said it good and who demonstrated this A parish-based nurse would might be helpful to see God as a in the incarnation, calls upon idea was endorsed at a meeting not only be there to deal with ill- In the Lenten lecture organised good parent, whose love will not humankind to rise to the spiritual held at St Benedict’s House, ness, but would actively promote by the Jesuit Institute of South waver through all of this. challenge contained in the crisis of Johannesburg. The meeting was good health by running pro- Africa, Fr Chris Chatteris SJ said attended by nurses from six grammes promoting better this figure serves to underline the He said perhaps the most diffi- climate change. African countries: Ghana, Zim- knowledge and understanding of fact that climate change is not cult thing for parents is when their “This is not an airy fairy task; babwe, South Africa, Swaziland, a range of issues, Ms Mzamane something that may happen in a children’s behaviour becomes self- rather very down to earth. It Nigeria and Zambia. said. vague and distant future, but is destructive—drugs, bad company means that everything we do is She said the meeting agreed The centre would provide happening. and other unwise choices, an anal- done with the earth in mind— that it made sense to have such a mainly education and training “Climate change is therefore ogy that can be applied to the what electrical goods to buy, resource in South Africa for logis- for prospective parish nurses in not a sudden and apocalyptic environment. choices about travel, about diet, tical reasons, but is something three stages. If the whole venture event like in the movies; rather a Here, he said, humanity has how much we should work and that has to be financed and is successful it will make a differ- slow piecemeal process,” he said. chosen a consumerist develop- the size and design of our houses. fundraised for. ence for how sick people are “This is why we are often scep- ment path, which, while promis- In the climate crisis, God calls us The meeting was facilitated by treated, especially if nurses are tical about it. We are like the frog ing a better life for a minority, ulti- to a radical reassessment of our two American parish nurses, qualified and work collaborative- in the slowly heating pot of water, mately creates toxic side effects for spiritual values and a fresh under- Marabel Kelsey and Maureen ly with community health work- unaware of the danger of a grad- all, particularly the poor. standing of the very meaning of Daniels from the St Louis-based ers, said Ms Mzamane. ual, imperceptible increase in tem- This caring parent reminds our lives as human beings,” Fr perature. humankind that because of their Chatteris said.

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CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC CHURCH

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Thursday 8th April 7.00pm Friday 9th April 6.30pm IN ADDITION WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: Saturday 10th April10.15am  The manufacture of crucifixes, Madonnas & St Christophers in gold and silver Feast of Divine Mercy on Sunday 11th April  The remodelling of old jewellery into classic modern elegant styles  We buy unwanted jewellery and oldgold Holy Hour 2.00pm  We offer a fine selection of pre-owned jewellery for sale including Mass 3.00pm sapphire, ruby, emerald and diamond rings, pendants and earrings  We undertake engraving and the restringing of pearl and bead necklaces Contact: Fr Susaikannu Esack and Fr Michael Clement  New and updated valuations are done on the premises whilst you wait. 2 Clare Road, Wynberg/Wittebome 7800 Tel: 021 761 3337 Fax: 021 761 3388 JHI House Office Block; 3rd Floor; Cnr. Baker & Hours: Mon-Fri: Tel: 011 880 5243; 011 788 7866; 011 788 6128 Cradock Avenues; ROSEBANK; Johannesburg 11h00-16h00; Sat: 11h00-13h30 Fax: 011 880 1238 E-mail: [email protected] 44 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 INTERNATIONAL Pope: Get people back to confession BY SARAH DELANEY Priests are called on to educate ed them that the Church seeks to their flocks in the “radical require- help “even in situations that are RIESTS today are challenged ments of the Gospel” and help humanly so difficult that they seem with the task of drawing the them resist “the mentality of this to have no solution”. Pfaithful back to confession and world” and make choices that take Archbishop Girotti warned that assuring them that their true repen- courage and are sometimes unpop- in the case of repeat offenders, who tance will be met with mercy and ular, the pope told the group. don’t show even a minimal inten- compassion, Pope Benedict has The times are difficult and tion to change, absolution must said. marked by “a hedonistic and rela- not be granted. However, the priest In an address to several hundred tivistic mentality that cancels God must be very patient because a con- young priests, Pope Benedict said from peoples’ lives”. This mentality version is always possible. that “we must return to the confes- makes it difficult to “distinguish Showing that there is a better sional” not only as a place to con- good from evil and develop a prop- way to live is always the job of a fess sins and receive absolution, but er sense of sin”, the pope said. priest, especially as an antidote to also as a place where “the faithful Priests must be particularly good increasing hedonism and selfish- can find mercy, counsel and com- examples in their lives so that ness in contemporary society, said fort, feel loved and understood by Catholics will understand their Archbishop Fortunato Baldelli, who God”. own sins and find the courage and heads the tribunal as major peni- The pope addressed some 700 desire to seek God’s forgiveness, he tentiary. priests at the conclusion of a course said. “It’s the duty of the confessor to MAESTRO REMEMBERED: A painting of Baroque artist Michelangelo designed to develop their skills as During the course, Archbishop open the consciences of people and Merisi, known as Caravaggio, is seen on a wall near the house where he confessors; the course was offered Gianfranco Girotti, regent of the make them understand the needs was born in the northern Italian town of Caravaggio. A selection of Car- by the Apostolic Penitentiary, a Apostolic Penitentiary, spoke to the of others, showing them that doing avaggio’s work is on display at the Scuderie del Quirinale building in Vatican court that handles issues priests about the challenges and so won’t take anything away from Rome, celebrating the work of the Baroque master on the 400th anniver- related to the sacrament of complex situations that confessors them, but will make them richer,” sary of his death. PHOTO: ALESSANDRO GAROFALO, REUTERS/CNS penance. are required to handle. He remind- he said.—CNS Cardinal’s GM food warning MISSIONARY SISTERS OF BY CAROL GLATZ took over the reins of the coun- of infliction of poverty and cil in January. hunger,” Cardinal Turkson said. THE PRECIOUS BLOOD ENETICALLY modified But the issue becomes prob- “Everybody is for the THE PRECIOUS BLOOD food crops could be used lematic when a company that advancement of science and Gas “weapons of inflic- controls the use of genetically everybody is for the improve- tion of hunger and poverty” if modified seeds and crops is ment of human conditions and they are managed unjustly, the motivated more by profit than livelihood through the products head of the Pontifical Council by “the declared desire to want of scientific research.” for Justice and Peace has to help feed humanity”, he said. If further research and study warned. There are also doubts about on the effects and impact of Cardinal Peter Turkson said the efficacy and long-term GMOs could alleviate people’s that he would urge an attitude effects of genetically engineered fears and concerns, he said, of caution and further study of crops, he said. Given the disput- then maybe “everybody can the possible negative effects of ed claims and doubts, “I think come on board to fashion food genetically engineered organ- that we should go easy and security for the world”. isms. probably satisfy all of these The Vatican newspaper Under Cardinal Turkson’s objections to the full satisfac- L’Osservatore Romano said that predecessor, Cardinal Renato tion of those who raise these the Vatican has never pro- Martino, the Justice and Peace objections”. nounced an official position council sponsored several con- The biggest concern is how supporting or opposing geneti- ferences on genetically modified small farmers are affected, he cally modified foods. food as a way to alleviate said. However, the paper said it Our name identifies us and gives us our mission work in response hunger in poor countries. to Jesus who shed His Blood out of love for all people. Some critics say genetically was not a coincidence that in Agri-businesses and biotech modified crops could breed fur- 2009 the use of genetically Why don’t you come to share with us in this industries that produce geneti- ther dependence by small farm- modified food crops grew by redeeming love of Christ. cally modified organisms are ers on corporations who supply 13% in developing countries justified in wanting to recoup the seeds. Because of the com- and that GM crops covered Please Contact: the expenses laid out for panies’ control over the patent- almost half of the world’s total research and development, and ed seeds, “what is meant to alle- arable land, and yet “the num- Provincialate Eastern Cape Provincialate Mariannhill they have a right to want to P.O. Box 261 P.O. Box 10487 viate hunger and poverty may ber of hungry people in the make a profit from their work, actually in the hands of some world has for the first time MTHATHA Ashwood said Cardinal Turkson, who people become really weapons reached 1 billion people”.—CNS 5099 E.C. 3605 KZN Tel: 047 535 0701 Tel: 031 700 3767 ‘Keep homilies to eight minutes tops’ BY CAROL GLATZ it’s not unusual for preachers to should not go over eight min- recognise that they have less- utes—the average amount of OMILIES should be no than-perfect communications time for a listener to concen- longer than eight min- skills or that they struggle with trate”. Hutes—a listener’s average preparing homilies. Everyone A preacher would do well to attention span, according to the should spend an appropriate find inspiration from not just head of the Vatican’s synod amount of time to craft a well- the Bible, but from the newspa- office. prepared and relevant sermon per, too, so that the homily can Priests and deacons should for Mass, he said. address the current concerns also avoid reading straight from He said Pope Benedict starts facing the world or the local a text and instead work from working on his Sunday homilies community, he said. A homily notes so that they can have eye on the preceding Monday so can also offer ideas for what contact with the people in the that there is plenty of time to people can do after Mass in the pews, said Archbishop Nikola reflect on the Scripture readings way of prayer, readings, and Eterovic, secretary-general of from which the homily will activities at home, work or in the Synod of Bishops. draw. society to help carry out Gospel In a new book, The Word of Archbishop Eterovic praised teachings. God, the archbishop highlighted an initiative by the archdiocese Homilies can be written out, some tips that came out of the of Paris, called “Improving Archbishop Eterovic said, but a 2008 Synod of Bishops on the Homilies”, that has been offer- preacher should work from brief Bible. The Vatican newspaper ing courses and guidelines for notes or a bare outline that lets L’Osservatore Romano, repro- priests and deacons him follow the logical path of duced a few passages from the Among the guidelines’ many his talk while still being able to book. helpful suggestions, he said, is engage and look at the congre- The archbishop wrote that that “the homily in general gation.—CNS Holy Land priests face three daily traps BY EVANS CHAMA the Church into a welfare A “ghetto attitude” is the organisation” when it is solely third pitfall when a priest HREE traps threaten priests reduced to solving material becomes inward-looking and in the Holy Land, said the problems of the Christians. ignores members of other Tchancellor of the Latin Power is another trap in the churches and religions, the patriarchate of Jerusalem. country where a priest is recog- monsignor said. Mgr William Shomali nised as “a leader even by the Mgr Shomali described the addressed priests and seminari- civil authorities since the time book as a “masterpiece and ans at the launch of the book, of the Ottomans”, strengthened nourishing for the priests in the Priests of Christ in the Church for by various church-owned insti- Holy Land, as anywhere else” the World, published by the tutions. In Jerusalem alone, he and suggested to use it as a Salesian Institute of Theology in pointed out, “the Orthodox workbook for the forthcoming Jerusalem to mark the Year for Church and the [Franciscan- renewal course for the young Priests. held] Custody of the Holy Land priests in the patriarchate. “The temptation of turning own more than 1 000 housing  The book costs about R120 an stones into bread” said Mgr units”, occupied mostly by can be obtained from secre- Shomali, “is the lure of turning Christians. [email protected] INTERNATIONAL The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 55 How to deal with Church’s sex abuse crisis? BY CINDY WOODEN, SARAH Benedict himself, when he headed The official said the Vatican has DELANEY& JOHN THAVIS the Vatican’s doctrinal congrega- never given bishops directives tion, ordered bishops not to inform against cooperation with competent OVE, honesty and devotion to civil authorities about accusations civil authorities. On the contrary, Christ are essential for facing of sexual abuse by priests. he said, the Vatican expects local Lthe crisis in the Church and in The minister’s reference was to bishops to comply with laws that the priesthood caused by cases of the 2001 document, De delictis grav- mandate reporting of sex abuse alle- clerical sexual abuse, an Australian ioribus (“On more serious crimes”), gations. archbishop has said. which gave the Congregation for Since the 1990s, when the scan- the Doctrine of the Faith juridical he Vatican has also responded to dal first broke, “everyone has control over how the Church han- Ta German report about a priest learned that several points are cru- dles cases of sexual abuse of minors accused of sexually abusing a child cial: care for the victims, following by priests. It was seen inside the who was allowed to return to pas- the law, dealing effectively and deci- Vatican as an important tool in toral work in the archdiocese of sively with perpetrators, making making sure perpetrators were dis- Munich and Freising at the time sure we have proper procedures in covered and brought to justice. Pope Benedict XVI was archbishop. place to safeguard children and But much media attention has The Vatican press office said in a backing up what we believe with focused on the fact that the 2001 brief statement that the archdioce- our actions”, said Archbishop Philip document said such cases were cov- san official who made the decision Wilson of Adelaide. Archbishop Gerhard Müller of Regensburg, Germany, and Honduran Cardi- ered by “pontifical secret”, which at the time had taken “full responsi- The archbishop is a long-time nal Óscar Rodríguez Maradiaga both rejected suggestions that clerical sex participant in what is known as the abuse is linked to obligatory celibacy. meant they would be handled in bility” for the decision. Anglophone Conference, an inter- PHOTOS: PAUL HARING, CNS strict confidentiality. Critics saw The archdiocese said that in national group of bishops and that as a way for the Church to hide 1980, then-Archbishop Joseph Church child protection officers accusations from civil authorities. Ratzinger was involved in the deci- who have met annually for almost latest scandal has involved the in clinical psychology and psy- Vatican officials said it was sion to let the priest stay at a recto- 20 years to identify effective strate- diocesan cathedral’s famous boys’ chotherapy, said the Catholic important for people to know that ry in Munich while undergoing gies for combating and responding choir and school, was one of the Church “must compensate victims, the confidentiality imposed on the therapy after the accusation sur- to clerical sexual abuse. main speakers on the opening day not just with money, but with real Church’s internal handling of abuse faced. The archdiocese said that “We must be humble and accept of the conference. assistance”. cases does not exempt bishops or later vicar-general Fr Gerhard Gru- the pain of the present moment as He told reporters it was “stupidi- others from reporting serious facts ber, allowed the priest to return to the horrible realities are revealed,” ty” to believe that celibacy caused eanwhile, Vatican officials are and accusations to civil authorities. pastoral work after therapy and that he said during a break in a theologi- clerical sexual abuse. Any priest Mconcerned that the Church’s They emphasised that the Vatican the future pope was not involved in cal conference on the priesthood. who sexually abuses a child has long-standing insistence on confi- document dealt with how Church the decision. More than 500 cardinals, bishops placed himself outside of the priest- dentiality in its treatment of priestly law treats such cases, not as a substi- Pope Benedict was archbishop of and priests gathered at Rome’s Pon- hood, even before the Church acts sexual abuse cases is being misinter- tute for civil law, which deals with Munich and Freising from 1977-82. tifical Lateran University for the to formally dismiss him, he said. preted as a ban on reporting serious the crime separately. The priest returned to ministry opening session of the conference Honduran Cardinal Óscar accusations to civil authorities. “The purpose of ‘pontifical until early 1985 when new accusa- sponsored by the Congregation for Rodríguez Maradiaga of Tegucigalpa As past episodes and accusations secret’ here was to respect the rights tions of sexual abuse were made, Clergy to mark the Year for Priests. told reporters. “There is no relation- of abuse have come to light recently of the accused and of witnesses, the archdiocese said. On January 29, The clerical sex abuse scandal ship between celibacy and pae- in Germany, Austria and the including the victim, to confiden- 1985, he was suspended from the was mentioned only in passing the dophilia”. Netherlands, media attention has tiality,” said one informed Vatican priesthood and in 1986 he was con- first morning of the conference “I do not see how there can be a focused in part on what kind of official. He said civil law often has victed of sexually abusing minors. when an Italian sociologist said the connection between celibacy and guidance or instructions local bish- similar provisions to protect confi- The archdiocese also said the scandal in the United States has not abuse because there are also abusers ops received from the Vatican on dentiality when a potential crime is priest was relieved of his duties at appeared to have had a negative found among those who are not how to handle such cases. under investigation. the parish when Archbishop Rein- impact on vocations. celibate. It’s just that people don’t An increasingly widespread “But this is an ecclesiastical law. hard Marx, who was installed in Bishop Gerhard Müller of hear about it.” impression—and a mistaken one, It does not affect the duty to obey 2007, decided the priest should not Regensburg, Germany, where the The cardinal, who holds degrees Vatican officials say—is that Pope civil law,” he added. remain in parish work.—CNS Church ‘unfairly singled out’ BY MICHAEL KELLY “We bishops have made terrible mistakes when it comes to child SENIOR Irish bishop criticised protection, but we know the over- the singling out of the whelming amount of child abuse ACatholic Church for mishan- takes place in families, and families dling allegations of child sexual cover that up too,” he said. abuse. Bishop Jones added, “for the first Bishop Christopher Jones of time now victims all across the Elphin, chairman of the bishops’ board are being given the chance to Committee for Family and Children, speak out and be heard”. said 95% of abuse happens within Irish Catholics were awaiting a families and that people are afraid pastoral letter from Pope Benedict to to talk about it. address the issue of clerical abuse “The Church is being isolated. after the Church was rocked by two Some people are being extremely judicial reports which found that unfair and unjust towards the bishops and religious superiors put Church. The cover-up of child abuse the avoidance of scandal ahead of has gone on throughout society. the welfare of children.—CNS

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In our missionary life of Prayer and Work (Ora et Labora), we try to effective- ly proclaim the Good News to all people, especially to the poor and needy, so that there are “Better Fields, Better Houses, Better Hearts!” To know more about us contact: Director of Vocations PO Box 11363, Mariannhill, 3601 or PO Box 85, Umtata, 5099 66 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 Advertising FOCUS The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 77 Celebrating the life of Pope John Paul II Judaism, the Eastern Orthodox Church and phere homely. As the Church marks the fifth anniver- the Anglican Church. He was both criticised The cardinal also spoke of Pope John sary of the death of Pope John Paul and praised for his firm, orthodox stances Paul’s reaching out particularly to the II. MICHAIL RASSOOL looks back at on contraception and the ordination of Church in parts of the world where it is the life of the pontiff who led the women as well as his support for the regarded as “of secondary importance”. Second Vatican Council and its reform of He said whatever people might have Church for 26 years. the liturgy. thought of his position on women and their Someone whose path crossed with Pope role in the world, the pope saw to it that PRIL 2 marks the fifth anniversary of John Paul’s on numerous occasions was Car- women’s voices were heard in the synods he the death of Pope John Paul II, who dinal Wilfrid Napier, archbishop of Durban. convened in Rome. Knowing well the domi- Ahad one of the longest pontificates at He spoke of the legacies, innovations and nant voice of men in these forums, he 26 years. Many commentators say he led the significant trends set by the pontiff. would organise special preliminary meetings Church through a significant period of Pope John Paul attached tremendous sig- for women to hone their input, thus illus- modern history by sheer force of personali- nificance to the Synods of Bishops, at which trating his sensitivity to their needs, Cardi- ty. Some say he restored or renewed the he used to emphasise the Church’s univer- nal Napier said. Church's prestige and fostered an apprecia- sality, he said. “It was under Pope John Paul that tion of Catholicism worldwide. Cardinal Napier praised Pope John Paul’s appointing women to exalted positions in Commentators say the Church may have role as the Church’s “chief public relations the Vatican increased,” he said. been in disarray when he became pope, and officer” in cementing stronger relationships He said any discussion about the pontiff through his personality and travels he made between the Church and the world. would be pointless without speaking of his many people, even those who were not This was expressed in reaching out to special relationship with youth, relating to Catholic, aware of his view of Christ’s mes- other denominations and faiths and making them almost as a caring parent, and show- sage. the Church’s position clear on current ing them that he cared, fully realising that Some say that before his pontificate affairs and significant issues debated on the the future of the Church is in their hands, began on October 16, the Church had world’s stage. an approach that guaranteed their love and become trivialised in the face of modern The cardinal referred to Pope John Paul commitment. popular culture, especially in respect of its as an internationalist whose strategy of All this, he said, was self-evident at the views on sexuality, which went against the bringing the Church into the modern world World Youth Days held in different coun- A special Southern Cross memorial edition was grain. was partly to instil in people a sense of the tries from 1986, a project that was very close published when Pope John Paul died. Pope John Paul, they say, did everything dignity of the person, and to recognise God to his heart. inner sanctum, knew the form, content, and he could, using modern means at his dispos- in him or her. Cardinal Napier also spoke of Pope John essence of papal life, and certainly that of al—especially media—to show that there Another quality the pontiff was distin- Paul's successor, Pope Benedict XVI, a differ- his predecessor’s. was far more to the Church than that, even guished for, Cardinal Napier said, was his ent personality and a clear and deep thinker He could simply take over, without any if it meant that, for many, the Church accessibility. with a particular facility for expressing the cataclysmic occurrences that might have fol- became embodied in him. He said visitors to Rome, whether Church most abstruse concepts in the simplest, yet lowed a long and successful pontificate, Car- The only Polish pope to date and the first figures from abroad or people from other very intelligent terms. dinal Napier said. non-Italian one in more than 400 years, this significant sectors, were encouraged to visit He said perhaps the late pontiff may not However different their personalities, he pontiff was the most widely travelled and him. Pope John Paul embraced the impor- have shared the same quality in his writings, said, the two popes were essentially the widely acclaimed as one of the most influ- tance of getting to know people personally, but the range of his subjects was phenome- same in their ideas, although their emphases ential leaders of the 20th century. the cardinal said. nal, as he held a position on most issues, may differ. Many hold that he was instrumental in He said the bishops on their obligatory especially those governing human life. They were both, for example, touched by ending communism in his native Poland Ad limina visit would have had an opportu- The cardinal said the transition from one the Church in Africa, shared a deep, spiritu- and eventually all of Europe, and signifi- nity to have lunch or to dine with the pope, pontificate to the other was good. Here, he ality and, as it turned out, both related well cantly improved the Church’s relations with where the fare was simple and the atmos- said, the successor, who was part of the to youth.

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For further info, contact: Vocations Director, St Norbert’s Priory PO Box 48106, Kommetjie, 7976 (Cape Town) OR Tel 021 783 1768 Fax 021 783 3742 88 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 LEADER PAGE

The Editor reserves the right to shorten or edit published letters. Letters below 300 words receive preference. Pseudonyms are acceptable only under special LETTERS TO circumstances and at the Editor’s discretion. Name and address of the writer THE EDITOR must be supplied. No anonymous letter will be considered. Editor: Günther Simmermacher  The Southern Cross team is Praise for Southern Cross sellers always profoundly appreciative of the many people, usually unknown to us, who participate in the social commu- Why was Jesus killed? OUR Parish of the Month fea- gent Southern Cross promoter Man- nications apostolate by promoting the ture features parishes that excel fred, who encourages fellow Y newspaper in their parish. The Parish HY was Jesus cruci- love and forgiveness. at selling of your excellent parishioners to buy the newspaper Even today, Christ’s message of the Month feature is a way of fied? The short Catholic publication. every Sunday as they leave Mass. answer resides in the is subversive. He stands with expressing that appreciation. The W I buy The Southern Cross every Could you not equate sales vol- selection of the featured parishes does the powerless in a world that resentment and fear of the reli- weekend if it is available, but am umes to size of parish? For some gious establishment of the day, still seeks profit and power. His take into account the size and loca- frequently frustrated by the non- less affluent parishes, the R5 price which allowed no theological message of love is radical in a tion of parishes. If parishes would like arrival of latest issues to our Good could represent a goodly portion dissent to its jurisdiction or world still governed by hatred to pay tribute to their Southern Shepherd parish in Hartebees- of their weekly food bill. challenge to its authority. And and indifference to suffering. Cross sales team, we will gladly pub- it resides with the savage jus- Alas, that message of love poort, NW province. So is our dili- Loz Hayden, Hartebeespoort lish a photo of them.—Editor tice of the Roman governor, often remains unheard even Pontius Pilate, who con- among Catholics when they demned Jesus not only to react to the distress of others bly in ancient Greece. death by crucifixion, but also with apathy, and when they Another Refor- Abuse in families What has happened is a grow- to merciless torture before his fail to show one another, never T is with distress that I have ing tolerance and acceptance of execution in a bid to deter oth- mind people of other creeds, mation? Iread of abuse of children by homosexuality in many coun- ers from making proclamations much charity. AS it reached the point that clergy, especially since a priest is tries—a far more Christian that may threaten Rome’s This can be evident in Hthe world needs a second seen as one who is going out of approach, I think, than marginalis- political hegemony. parishes where people are jock- Reformation? his way to be holy and morally ing, imprisoning or even executing Historians may debate the eying for position or subtly The first was caused by the correct. homosexuals. minutiae of the events leading denounce their pastors, and in “selling” of indulgences by the I understand that priests Comments like those of Mgr up to the crucifixion, but it is the corridors of high ecclesias- Church. This second Reformation account for one quarter of one Kauta dodge the issue and give evident that Jesus was per- tical office when differences of could well be as a result of the percent of all child abuse—a quar- tacit approval to an inhumane ceived to be a real threat. opinion are not addressed by criminal paedophile action of so ter percent too much, yes, but law. His rhetoric, of course, was charitable discourse but by many ordained clergy in the Unit- what of the other 99,75%? Mar- Miranda Voss, Cape Town provocative—declaring himself injurious reaction. ed States, Ireland, Germany, Hol- ried men are said to account for to be a king of any kind was Catholics can be particularly land and now in South Africa, most of this figure, mainly father- Out of tune and the arrogant refusal of Church on-daughter abuse. not going to be well received lacking in love for neighbour Y daughter left South Africa when defending their faith and authorities overseas to strip the Yes, let us stamp out abuse by by the religious and political offenders of their office or even clergy. But let us also look at the Ma year ago for a two-year authorities. This was the hook doctrines. There are times accept resignations where these dreadful abuse involving family work/study holiday in England. On arrival there she contacted on which the Sanhedrin (the when Catholics behave not as have occasionally been offered. members and close friends. the local Catholic Church and religious court) and Pilate Christ would, but like the San- I am continually embarrassed R Sheldon, Cape Town could condemn Jesus. hedrin, pronouncing judg- and appalled at the almost daily priest near to where she was But it was not only the pos- ments and insisting on the reports in the press and on televi- residing. A competent organist, sibility of the Nazarene spear- sanctions of the Church’s law sion. Surely I am not the only one. Not for sale she was prepared to offer her ser- heading a physical uprising when Christ’s way is loving How do we get His Holiness to N February 21 I attended Mass vices to help with choir duties. that exercised his enemies, but correction. understand our anger and huge at a Gauteng church. When I The parish priest informed her O that she needed a police clear- Often we see in those with disappointment in the manner he tried to buy a Southern Cross after the notion that Jesus would ance from South Africa, and is dealing with the matter? Mass. The gentleman concerned instigate a revolution in the whom we disagree not fellow would have to appear before the We need someone with the refused to allow me to buy a copy hearts and minds of people— individuals existing with us in Church council before permission courage of Martin Luther to stand of The Southern Cross advising me as he has done ever since. unity and community in would be granted. She is still up and say “no more”. We would in front of a number of bystanders Jesus was a subversive and a Christ, but as ideological ene- waiting for the priest to contact not need 95 Theses; just one that they were on sale for regulars dissident. He consorted with mies. Even in matters on her. would do to “protect and respect only. sinners and with despised tax which there is agreement With the recently revealed the children in your care”. To say the least, I was totally collectors; his inner circle among Catholics, such as abor- abuses and the cover-ups com- Spare a thought, too, for the shocked. Surely if you are offering tion, differences in nuances mitted by the Catholic Church included peasants and fisher- many wonderful priests who have such a facility, you make allow- worldwide, should I be surprised men who were not versed in occasion rancorous and un- a shadow cast over them by their ances for visitors. that she now attends Mass and the finer points of social eti- Christian discourse. fellow deviant priests. When the offertory collection is sits in the pew and cringes? quette. He challenged the So often, love—which must Denise Gordon-Brown, Rand- taken up, is that also only for “reg- No one plays the organ, no priests and broke religious not to be confused with affec- burg ulars”? taboos. He spoke of things the tion—is missing even in the Errol Pollitt, Johannesburg singing. Do we all have to pay lower classes were not supposed Body of Christ. the price? Pen pal wanted Glenn Muller, Strandfontein to concern themselves with. By As we look at Our Lord on Homosexuality chasing the moneychangers the cross, we prayerfully medi- AM a born-again Zimbabwean Catholic aged 40, and have from the Temple, he accused tate on the reasons for his cru- I not ‘cultural’ Opinions expressed in The Southern the religious establishment of cifixion. We give thanks for his served three years of a 10-year sen- tence at Pollsmoor Correctional OUR report “Church silent on Cross, especially in Letters to the hypocrisy. He opened the gates ultimate victory over death. Service Centre in Cape Town. YUganda’s anti-gay law” Editor, do not necessarily reflect the to God’s kingdom of which the And as we do that, we should I am looking for a pen pal aged (December 30 to January 5) refers. views of the Editor or staff of the high priests had considered also examine our conscience. 45-80. My interests are Gospel The response by the secretary of newspaper, or of the Catholic hierar- themselves gatekeepers. In everyday life, how much music, human relations, reading the Ugandan bishops’ conference, chy. The letters page in particular is And in a society which put do our actions resemble those of books and magazines and The Mgr John Baptist Kauta, to the a forum in which readers may people to death for what we Christ, and how much do they Southern Cross. I hope to find a country’s proposed anti-gay law is exchange opinions on matters of now would regard as minor reflect those of the Sanhedrin, friend. silly. Though probably a feature of debate. Letters must not be under- transgressions (if at all), he Pontius Pilate, the triple-denier My address: Section B5, Private all cultures across all ages, homo- stood to necessarily reflect the communicated a message of Peter, or even Judas? Bag X4, Tokai, 7966. sexuality has not been a “tradition- teachings, disciplines or policies of Naison Sikaruva al culture” anywhere, except possi- the Church accurately.

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Toni Rowland A feast misplaced Chris Chatteris SJ

Family WONDER why the feast of the Pray with Friendly “Divine Mercy”, based on the reve- Allan Moss OMI the Pope Ilations reported by the Polish nun St Faustina Kowalska, is placed within the octave of Easter, celebrated on the Point of Reflect, repent, rejoice second Sunday of Easter. Debate Fundamental idolatry OTSWANA seems to consider itself rather Easter is paramount in the liturgy General Intention: That every tendency to funda- an orphan child in the region of the of the Church, the climax of the mentalism and extremism may be countered by con- Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Con- Triduum, showing God’s tremendous stant respect, by tolerance and by dialogue among all B love, sacrifice, power and glory. It is ference, and the diocese of Francistown most of believers. the joyful celebration of the Resurrec- all because it is the furthest away. HIS is a timely intention. Religious funda- I happened to be in the vicariate to attend a tion, proclaiming the Risen Lord who saves his people. Alleluia! mentalism and extremism are often a reac- workshop at Kanamo Centre, so when the bish- tion to secularism, but are also thought to op invited me to present a family workshop I Certainly, the Divine Mercy has T many theological implications, such as thrive in poverty, deprivation and humiliation. was keen to experience the people and the situ- With the world economy still recovering from ation there. divine love, divine forgiveness and (in lower case letters) divine mercy. These recession we can anticipate an increase in funda- Family life in Botswana is not really that dif- mentalism’s violent zealotry. ferent from the situation in South Africa. It implications may deserve special attention, but I wonder if they should Economic hardship and festering political sit- moves towards materialism and individualism, uations could produce more car bombs and sui- family-break up, single parent families, teenage supersede the feast of Easter itself. Easter is more than “divine mercy”; cide terrorism. The longer a solution to the pregnancy are very real problems all over Israeli-Palestinian conflict is delayed, the more Southern Africa, more so than in countries it is about God’s power and glory. It is more than Christ forgiving; it is Christ entrenched both sides become. Afghanistan and north of us, where it seems that family cohe- Pakistan seem set for a long conflict along their sion and family values are still more apparent. living, the Risen Lord. Easter is more than pardoning; it is creating a whole mutual border, destabilising both countries. In Should I be saying “still” as if it is only a Somalia political factions are trying to out-radi- matter of time before the “wicked West” catch- new world. Ultimately, it reveals God as Love, not simply in terms of mercy calise each other in their interpretation of Islam es up with everyone? Should we be focusing A painting depicting Jesus of Divine and eliminate one another. mainly on the negative aspects of family life? to humanity, but as Trinity, the Father Mercy is held up during Pope Bene- gloriously raising his Son with the Fundamentalism and extremism appear in In the Parish Family Ministry workshops dict’s Regina Coeli prayer last April. unexpected places, and we Christians should be that I run, it is hard to resist that situation. Yes, Breath of Life. The Risen Lord, seen by the apostles aware of its potential even to infect the essential- we do know and do acknowledge that there are discens: Church teaching and Church ly non-violent religion of Christ crucified. Bishop big issues around morality. President Jacob and many others, is considered an apostolic norm of revelation. Fausti- learning. And so one wonders at the Richard Williamson’s extremist Holocaust-deny- Zuma’s suggestion of a moral dialogue tends to na’s revelation of Divine Mercy is not inclusion of St Faustina’s private vision ing views are a timely reminder of this. elicit a laugh when mentioned in any group. the same. It is purely private. Here into the apostolic revelation and cele- The economy also spawns fundamentalisms But that can also be an excuse to avoid looking mercy, qua misericordia, implies bration of the Easter octave. which claim that there is no alternative but to deeply into ourselves during these last days of miseria, misery, sin, where mercy is My young friend Angelina was follow this or that economic theory. The result is Lent and the start of Holy Week. Ask not just shown. The Divine Persons are more turning pages in her mother’s Liturgi- that the economy is no longer for people, but what sacrifices I have made for Lent, but in than mercy. They are love, with or cal Calendar for Southern Africa 2010. people are sacrificed to the idol of the economy. what ways have I reflected and repented of without sinful humanity. She was looking at the pictures of All fundamentalism, religious and secular, is unacceptable behaviour. Faustina’s revelation should not Jesus, showing him as a black African. ultimately a form of idolatry, in which we make In a reflection and sharing session during impinge upon the apostolic revelation What puzzled Angelina was that the a false god out of a religious creed, a political sys- our Botswana workshop there was some of that of Easter. One cannot help but wonder other pictures of Jesus in the house tem or an economic theory and then shed blood reflection on repentance and the ongoing need at Pope John Paul II’s decision of showed him as a white European— for it. Let us pray that this era of fundamentalism for this. At the same time I believe Catholics inserting another feast into the Easter especially the one of the Divine Mercy through which we are passing, may end soon, can also be overloaded with guilt. Those the Octave. Furthermore, how much is St in her mother’s bedroom. thanks to the efforts of all believers. priest preaches to on Sunday are generally the Faustina’s vision culturally comparable In the mind of the child, and per- converted who, at the risk of being judgmental, to the One incarnated in an Afro-Asian haps in our minds, who is the real are not the greatest sinners. womb, “out of Egypt I called my son” Jesus? Is he like a chameleon and Persecuted Christians Admittedly during these days we do reflect (Mt 15:2)? changes his skin? Missionary Intention: That Christians persecuted on the sufferings of Jesus, for our sins too, but I do not wish to take Pope John My criterion would be what the for the sake of the Gospel may persevere, sustained by there is also a need to focus on our strengths Paul to task. Still, history proves that apostles saw. Jesus’ complexion must the Holy Spirit, in faithfully witnessing to the love of and positive qualities—Resurrection stuff. some papal decisions were as question- have been dark and sun-burned from God for the entire human race. Whenever I pray the Stations of the Cross with desert, sea and sky, and hair well- able as they were well-intended. S a faith we’re quite modest about our mar- families and groups I make a point of including blown in the wind. The apostles saw Pope Sixtus V in 1590 promulgated tyrs. Every year very large numbers of Chris- a 15th Station as a reflection on the positive, the same body after the resurrection, A his own translation of a Bible with tians are killed, beaten, raped, burned out of on hope in the face of desolation, which sadly and recognised him. errors (Editio Sistina). Pope John XXIII their houses and chased away from their lands. is all too common in many family relation- Who knows why Jesus appeared to in 1962 promulgated Veterum sapien- In Orissa State, India, this happened on a large ships. St Faustina in a pale form, with what tia, declaring that students were to be scale in 2008. The world media hardly noticed it. The paschal mystery lived in families can be looks like blow-dried hair? Maybe a taught in Latin. It didn’t work. One can think of other religions which would a very meaningful reflection, simplified of theological compromise is the answer. All papal documents are to be taken have made a much bigger fuss than we do. The course for different types of family situations. Maybe we just should not theologise. seriously, in virtue of the Sacred fact that persecuted Christians tend to turn the This is part of the Family Hour concept. Experience shows it can lead to liturgi- Office. Like Peter, however, the pope is other cheek, plus the idea that it’s all right to The whole of Holy Week as well as Easter cal confusion. human and can be mistaken, unless he push Christians around because they are associat- Sunday—and Easter Monday too, as Family Day Members of my family and Angeli- speaks ex cathedra. ed with the West, results in the persecution of in South Africa—provide a range of experiences na’s are devotees of Divine Mercy. It A fortiori, bishops can make ques- Christians being sometimes acceptable and often for reflection from affirmation. The people helps them live their faith well. I have tionable decisions as well at times, as invisible. wanting to make Jesus a king, but Jesus show- a preference for other devotions in the the International Commission on Eng- Amazingly in an era of universal human ing himself as a different kind of king, humbly Church. We all have our own inspira- lish in the Liturgy possibly might have rights, some countries have legalised anti-Christ- riding on a donkey. The false accusations, phys- tion and God-given space. done before and could do again. We ian persecution, for example China, Pakistan and ical distress, a mother accompanying a child on are a Church, Eclessia docens, Eclessia  Fr Moss is a pastor in Pietermartitzburg an extremely painful journey, helplessness, des- Saudi Arabia. Eight states in India have passed olation and exquisite joy such as Mary Magda- anti-conversion laws. In other places religious lene experienced when Jesus met her in the gar- discrimination is illegal but openly practised. den on Easter morning… Though persecution of Christianity often con- The Trouble with Catholics, the MARFAM tains a core of hatred for the faith, political and booklet prepared for reflection during the Lent economic factors are almost always involved. In and Easter season, also picks up some of these India, Hindu fundamentalists object to the lower ideas. For Catholic families the paschal mystery castes converting, because it upsets the social and is not just “head stuff” but real heart stuff, the political status quo. stuff of life, ideally constantly renewed life. How should we respond? Perhaps we’ve never I believe that the Botswana family life repre- quite worked out exactly how to turn the other sentatives with whom I spent the weekend did cheek, or the Lord’s astonishing prayer for his pick up some of that message, for their own crucifiers. They are both powerful and challeng- families and for their parishes. ing statements of truth, and carry a moral and Whether they’re as hooked into the “Fami- spiritual force which transcends violence. lies Play The Game” motto as we South We should also remember Jesus’ reply when Africans are becoming was not too clear. The struck across the face during his trial—he chal- April-Easter theme is “God’s game plan”, one lenged his assailant to justify himself, con- that should not be kicked into touch over the fronting him non-violently with the power of next months, else we’ll really be offside, or per- truth. haps red-carded and then left to warm a bench, So as well as forgiving and praying for the per- not even a church bench. secutors of our brothers and sisters, we are also My wish for all families, of all kinds, is an entitled to put the same question on their behalf: Easter filled with joy resulting from a new ‘If they did something wrong, then testify to the wrong. If not, then why do you persecute them?’ encounter with the Risen Lord.

Tony Wyllie & Co. ATTORNEYS NOTARIES CONVEYANCERS Catholic Funeral Home www.ohagan.co.za Personal and Dignified For personal and professional attention 24-hour service Please allow us to help you with 469 Voortrekker Rd, Maitland Tel:  Estate and financial planning 021 593 8820  Wills, trusts and deceased estates 48 Main Rd, Muizenberg  All property transfers Tel: 021 788 3728 Call Sharon or Sean, 011 361 6050 Member of the NFDA 1010 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 FAITH

A penitent behind a metal sculpture of a crown of thorns and a cross takes part in a procession on Palm Sunday in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.  Pope Benedict dries the feet of one of 12 priests from the diocese of Rome during the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper in the basilica of St John Lateran.  A wooden cross is carried along 42nd Street during the Good Friday Way of the Cross in New York.  Easter lilies and a white cloth lie in an empty tomb, signifying the risen Christ. PHOTOS FROM CNS WithWith PopePope BenedictBenedict thrthroughough HolyHoly WWeekeek Holy Week dead Christ, waiting with hope Holy Thursday reminds us “to “Christ’s death recalls the accu- cially innocent suffering, is wor- “Holy Week, which for Chris- for the dawn of the radiant day of continually purify our memory, mulated sorrow and evils that thy of faith.” tians is the most important week the Resurrection.” sincerely forgive one another, weigh upon humanity of every Urbi et orbi Easter message, 2007 of the year, gives us the opportu- General audience, April 8, 2009 wash the feet of one another” to age: the crushing weight of our nity to immerse ourselves in the be able to gather around the death, the hatred and violence “The astonishing event of the Lord’s banquet. that still today stain the earth resurrection of Jesus is essentially central events of the Redemption, Palm Sunday to relive the Paschal Mystery, the Holy Thursday homily, 2008 with blood. The Passion of the an event of love: the Father’s love great Mystery of faith.” “[Jesus] did not come as one Lord continues in the suffering of in handing over his Son for the General audience, April 8, 2009 who destroys; he did not come “Day after day, we are covered human beings.” salvation of the world; the Son’s with the revolutionary’s sword. He in filth of every form, empty General audience, love in abandoning himself to The Holy Week liturgies are came with the gift of healing… words, prejudices, abridged and April 8, 2009 the Father’s will for us all; the not simply “a remembrance of a Jesus shows God as the one who distorted wisdom; multiple forms Spirit’s love in raising Jesus from past reality… Even today Christ loves and demonstrates his power of half-truths or blatant lies con- “We cannot be just spectators the dead in his transfigured vanquishes sin and death with as the power of love.” tinually infiltrate our hearts. All in the Way of the Cross”, which is body.” his love. Evil, in all its forms, Palm Sunday, 2008 of this darkens and contaminates an ever-repeating reality but Urbi et orbi Easter message, 2008 does not have the last word. The our soul, threatening us with the reflects “all of humanity’s suffer- final triumph is that of Christ, of “[Following Christ] involves inability” to discern or strive for ings today”. “From the risen Christ, all truth and of love.” the fundamental decision to no the truth and the good. Way of the Cross service, those who are still oppressed by General audience, April 4, 2007 longer consider efficiency and Holy Thursday homily, 2008 Good Friday, 2006 chains of suffering and death look profit, career and success as the for hope, sometimes even without “Before God, we shouldn’t take ultimate purpose of my life, but to For Judas “only power and knowing it. May the risen Christ grant that the strength of his life, refuge in pious phrases, in a ficti- recognise instead truth and love as success are real; love does not Easter Vigil peace and freedom be experienced tious world. To pray always signi- the authentic criteria.” count. And he is greedy: money “The sombre silence of Holy everywhere.” fies struggling with God, too.” Palm Sunday, 2007 is more important than commu- Saturday is a prelude to the joy of Urbi et orbi Easter message, 2006 Palm Sunday, 2009 nion with Jesus, more important the Easter Vigil, with its procla- “Poverty in the sense of than God and his love. He also mation of Christ’s victory over Christ’s resurrection “is nei- “Aware that we are sinners, but Jesus…presumes above all an becomes a liar, a double-crosser sin and death, the gift of his ther a myth nor a dream, it is not trusting in divine mercy, let us be inner freedom from the greed of who breaks with the truth. [He] grace in the sacrament of baptism a vision or a utopia, it is not a reconciled with Christ in order to possessing and the thirst for hardens, becoming incapable of and the renewal of our baptismal fairy tale, but is a singular and experience more fully the joy that power. This inner freedom is what conversion…and throws away his promises.” unrepeatable event” that brings he gives us with his resurrection.” is needed to overcome the corrup- destroyed life.” General audience, April 4, 2007 light to the dark regions of the The grace given through the tion and greed that today are dev- Holy Thursday homily, 2008 world. The “sense of emptiness, sacrament of reconciliation “is a astating the world.” “It is true: In the solemn Easter which tends to intoxicate source of interior and exterior Palm Sunday, 2006 Vigil, darkness becomes light, humanity, has been overcome by peace and makes us apostles of Good Friday night gives way to the day that the light and the hope that peace in a world where, unfortu- “Sacrifice and renunciation “If Good Friday is a day full of knows no sunset.” emanate from the Resurrection.” nately, divisions, suffering and belong to the just life. Whoever sorrow, it is therefore at the same Urbi et orbi Easter message, 2008 But while the resurrected Christ the dramas of injustice, hatred promises a life without this continu- time a particularly propitious day vanquished death, “there still and violence continue.” ing gift of self is fooling people. No to re-awaken our faith, to consol- Easter remain very many, in fact, too General audience, April 12, 2006 successful life exists without sacri- idate our hope and courage so “We who have risen with fice. When I look back on my per- that each one of us may carry Christ through baptism must now many signs of its former domin- ion.” “Let us prepare to live the Holy sonal life, I have to say that precise- our cross with humility, trust follow him faithfully with holi- Urbi et orbi Easter message, 2009 Triduum intensely, in order to ly the times when I said ‘Yes’ to a and abandonment in God, cer- ness of life, walking toward the share ever more deeply in the sacrifice were the greatest and most tain of his support and his victo- eternal Easter, sustained by the Jesus’ resurrection “gives us the Mystery of Christ. We are accom- important moments of my life.” ry.” awareness that the difficulties, certainty that despite all the dark- panied in this itinerary by the Palm Sunday, 2009 General audience, April 8, 2009 struggles, trials and sufferings of our existence—including death— ness in the world, sin will not Blessed Virgin who silently fol- have the last word. Strengthened “We have relived the tragic can no longer separate us from lowed her Son Jesus to Calvary, by this certainty, with greater Holy Thursday event of a man unique in the his- him and his love”. taking part with deep sorrow in courage and enthusiasm we can “Holy Thursday constitutes a tory of all times, who changed Regina Coeli prayer, his sacrifice and thus cooperating commit ourselves to the birth of a renewed invitation to give thanks the world not by killing others Easter Monday, 2009 in the mystery of the Redemp- more just world.” to God for the supreme gift of the but by letting himself be killed as tion… Together with her we shall General audience, April 12, 2006 enter the Upper Room, we shall Eucharist, to receive with devotion he hung from a cross.” “Only a God who loves us to remain at the foot of the Cross, and to adore with living faith.” Way of the Cross service, the extent of taking upon himself  Compiled and edited by Günther we shall watch in spirit beside the General audience, April 8, 2009 Good Friday, 2009 our wounds and our pain, espe- Simmermacher

URSULINES OF THE INVITATION BLESSED VIRGIN MARY “LORD I do not merit to The Divine Mercy Parish, Walkerville, delights in be used by you, but I wish to do all that you desire. God’s Mercy and invites all people of goodwill to I am ready to go anywhere” come and celebrate the (Mother Anne De Xainctonge’s words) Feast of the Do you feel God’s call to serve him through Divine Mercy- education of girls, women and servants, Mercy of God, social and pastoral work and the poor? on the fist Sunday after Easter, that is JOIN US Sunday 11th April, 2010 at Mass celebrated at 15.00hr. CONTACT: The Vocation Directress Priests will be available for confessions between 12 Ursuline Convent or Ursuline Convent noon and 14.30hr prior to the Mass. Box 212 Box 25 Libode Park Rynie, 4182 5160, Eastern Cape Tel: 047 555 0018 Enquiries: Fr Stan 083 468 6985 Tel: 047 555 0018 Tel: 039 976 0143 Edith 082 495 2879 Cell: 084 9030879 Cell: 072 958 2111 Rona 083 450 6300 or 084 410 1207 The Southern Cross, March 24 to March 30, 2010 1111

Mass readings for the week Thoughts for the Sundays year C, weekdays cycle 2 Classified Advertising Sun March 28, Palm Sunday: Week on the Family Please include payment (R1,05c a word) with small advertisements for promptest publication. Is 50:4-7; Ps 22:8-9.17-20.23-24; Phil 2:6-11; Lk Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000. Tel 021 465 5007 Fax 021 465 3850 e-mail: [email protected] 22:14—23:56 Mon March 29, Holy Week: DEATH THANKS clergy.  Malcolm Salida FAMILY CALENDAR: Is 42:1-7; Ps 27:1-3.13-14; Jn 12:1-11 HINKS—Jackie. It is with GRATEFUL thanks to the 082 7845675 or mjsal 2010 FAMILY THEME: Tue March 30, Holy Week: great sadness that we Sacred Heart of Jesus, [email protected] “Families Play the Game.” Is 49:1-6; Ps 71:1-6.15.17; Jn 13:21-33.36-38 mourn the passing of Jack- Our Mother Mary, Ss MONTAGU, Rose Cot- MARCH: Keep to the rules ie Hinks, Director of Than- Joseph, Anthony, Jude tage—A luxurious self- Wed March 31, Holy Week: danani Centre, Brothers of and Martin de Porres for catering “home away from March 25, The Annunciation. It is neces- Is 50:4-9; Ps 69:8-10.21-22.31.33-34; Mt 26:14-25 Charity Services, Florida. prayers answered. RCP. home”; stylishly decorated, sary to examine the laws of the land in relation She dedicated her life to the “coolest” place in town! to the laws of God. Many people think that Thur April 1, Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord’s the members of Than- PERSONAL Sleeps 6. 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Easter Sunday, Year C (April 4) Gospels: Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-9 A big surprise for Mary Magdalene! EXT Saturday night and Sunday morning, as we come to the climax nonsensical, and they did not believe the lying with the grave-cloths but rolled up Nof our Lenten journey, we have a women”. Peter, whom we last saw denying apart in one place”. The point of this, of wonderful set of readings. that he had ever heard of Jesus, goes run- course, is that we are not talking here about If you are at the Midnight Mass, you Fr Nicholas King SJ ning to the tomb, sees the evidence, and grave-robbers, or of the disciples’ having will hear the great sweep of the lectionary Scriptural “went home, astonished at what had hap- stolen Jesus’ body: the robes on the body through the history of our salvation, and pened”. Does he believe it? Luke does not would not have been left in that way if the the story of God’s people. But space pro- Reflections say. corpse had been stolen. hibits us from considering all of this rich John’s narrative of that Sunday Finally, and on behalf of us all, after tapestry of the word of God, so what I’d morning also happens on “Day One of the Peter has been graciously allowed to enter like to do this week is to look at the Gospel these are angels, but just in case we did, Sabbaths”, but it is “in the morning, while first, “the other disciple, the one who had readings for the day. (At Midnight Mass, we see the women “becoming fearful, and you will hear the account from Luke’s bending their faces to the ground”. They it was still dark”. Mary Magdalen (don’t arrived first, went into the tomb. And he gospel; during the day, it will be the ver- are then gently rebuked, because they were ask where the men are just now) goes to saw. And he believed.” The evangelist adds sion from John’s gospel.) “seeking the living along with the dead”. the tomb, and sees the stone has been a characteristic comment: “They had not Luke’s gospel is set in brightness, and Then comes the Easter proclamation— taken away from the tomb. Now it is her yet grasped the Scripture, that it was neces- so it is that the narrative starts “on Day that which makes Christianity what it is: turn to run, “to Simon Peter, and the sary for him to rise from the dead”. One of the Sabbaths, in the deep dawn”, as “He is not here. No, he is risen.” They are other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved”, But there is more; what has happened the women come to the tomb, “carrying then reminded of Jesus’ own words, that and to them she reports the situation: to Mary Magdalen? She does not reappear the spices that they have bought”. he “had to be handed over to human sin- “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, in next Sunday’s gospel, but I ask you to This means, of course, that they did not ners, and be crucified; and on the third and we don’t know where they have put go to John chapter 20 and read verses 10- believe in Resurrection; you can’t anoint a day, rise”. him.” 18, the heart-rending account of Mary’s body that is no longer there. Bravely, they The women remember the words, and Now some more running takes place; encounter with her Risen Lord. It does not go into the tomb to perform their task, but go rushing off to “the Eleven” (Judas is no Simon Peter and the “other” disciple get to appear as a Sunday reading. fail to find a body. Instead, “Look! Two longer of the Twelve), and report what has the tomb, but not in that order. They see Remember, Mary Magdalen was the men stood over them, in lightning-white happened. As women have been told down the grave-cloths lying there, and the “sweat- “apostle to the apostles” with regard to clothes”. We do not need to be told that the ages, “these words of theirs seemed cloth” which had been on his head, not Jesus’ Resurrection. A pricy hot line to God Southern Crossword #383 FEATURE of air travel is that it savings and his dreams of debauchery in allows you at best to make new one fell swoop. He had to wash dishes in Afriends, or at worst an enemy or a dingy spaghetteria in the backstreets of two. Chris Moerdyk Fiumicino for two months to save up Occasionally, of course, one can man- enough to continue his travels. age an entire ten-hour flight without The Last Five months later found Oswieki just saying a word to your fellow passenger, south of Kerry in Ireland, traipsing but that’s highly unlikely because the Word through the rain looking for a bus-shel- mere clashing of elbows on that tiny ter or anywhere dry to spend the night. armrest will inevitably break the ice As he passed a tiny church, the parish with: “I’m terribly sorry…no it really was spartan office, he was struck by the priest, hurrying home from a quick post- my fault…no, I insist you use the arm- grandeur of the telephone. It was a huge funeral Bushmills at the local pub, took rest… really, I always sit with my arms ornate gold instrument which stood out pity on the weary traveller and invited folded under my chin while I turn the like a beacon in the dim surroundings. him into the tiny presbytery to share pages of my book with my knees…well, The pope saw him admiring it and another slug of whiskey to warm him that’s kind of you thanks very much, yes proudly told him that it was his “hotline up. to God”. I am going to Frankfurt as well...so Oswieki couldn’t believe his eyes, Oswieki shook his head in disbelief, because there on a rough-hewn deal you’re in the gas reticulation business, so the pope suggested he pick it up and table in the sparse little room was that how interesting…five children, wow… prove it to himself. Sure enough, he got same, huge, ornate telephone. no, I must confess I have never fished straight through to God, and after a chat He gagged as the Bushmills coursed for bass with a pillowcase and a dead of about three or four minutes he hung its way down his throat, and asked if chicken”—and so on, until you know up, his mouth agape and his eyes as that great telephone was perhaps a hot- ACROSS DOWN each other like lifelong bosom buddies. wide as saucers. line to God. 3. Like a church 1. He’s not on time for Apart from a 275kg Congolese woman His mind whirled as he formulated “Sure and begorrah it is, my son,” said crammed with people Mass (9) who sat next to me all the way from the article he would eventually write and the priest. “Would ye be after having a (5-4) 2. He follows ancient Paris to Kinshasa clutching two live with which he would hold Time maga- little talk to the Almighty by any 8. A go-getter holds it Chinese thinker (9) chickens to her ample bosom while zine to ransom for a fee so big he would chance?” expectantly (4) 4. Monk’s cowl (4) bemoaning the decline of the Congolese 9. How rugby player 5. Convent loses NT be able to retire to the Bahamas for a life Oswieki spluttered the Polish equiva- changed his faith? (9) among the witches (5) franc and the state of the economy in of luxury and much vaunted western- lent of “not on your Nelly” and francophone Africa, the most fascinating 10. Embrace not quite 6. Greek goddesses of style debauchery. explained to the somewhat perplexed tenfold (6) vengeance (6) person I’ve ever met on a plane was a fel- padre that while he would dearly love to 11. Do those in 6 down 7. Isle of untruths (4) low journalist called Oswieki from War- e was so taken aback, he couldn’t have a chat to God, he just didn’t hap- express it? (5) 9. The other saint of saw. Hremember the rest of the interview; pen to have the equivalent of R5 000 on 14. He’s famous for the Assisi (5) He decided to hitchhike around all he was aware of was leaving the Vati- him. award (5) 11. Not quite detached Europe in the late 1990s and his first can only to be collared by the pope’s “What are you blathering on about, 15. Mount of Jerusalem from having felt pain port of call was Rome and Vatican City. equerry who handed him a phone bill you silly Polish git,” said the priest. “It’ll (4) (5) As luck would have it, when he men- for the equivalent of about R5 000 while cost you only 35 pence for the call.” 16. Characteristic spirit of 12. In which Moses was tioned his nationality to the papal press at the same time warning him that if those (5) discovered (5,4) “But when I used the pope’s phone, it 18. Periods of history (4) 13. Deprived cleric of his office he was granted a rare interview he’d ever write a story about his experi- cost me a fortune,” argued Oswieki. 20. It refers to what they status (9) with the pope, who of course was one of ence, lightening would strike him stone “Well now, me boy,” said the priest. have (5) 17. Sort of life the artist the world’s best-known Poles. dead. “This isn’t Rome; this is Ireland…it’s a 21. He’s one of the gyp- may paint (5) Chatting away to the pontiff in his Poor Oswieki. It wiped out his life’s local call from here, you see.” sies (5) 19. Sent on one written 24. Infirmary (6) by Shakespeare (6) 25. He or she is academic 22. A line for the foreign- CONRAD head (9) er (5) 26. Escape and desert (4) 23. What a fact is (4) 27. Print teen arrange- 24. First of the murderers ment for what’s rele- (4) vant (9)

SOLUTIONS TO #382. ACROSS: 4 Abigail, 8 Laughs, 9 Steward, 10 Wanton, 11 Animal, 12 Sisterly, 18 Atlantis, 20 Strand, 21 Wonder, 22 Company, 23 Severe, 24 Dentist. DOWN: 1 All-wise, 2 Furnish, 3 Shrove, 5 Betrayal, 6 Gawain, 7 Inroad, 13 Readings, 14 Studied, 15 Usurper, 16 Strove, 17 Lappet, 19 Abodes. CHURCH CHUCKLE F you’re growing old, and one day you fall, you Iwonder what else you can do while you’re down there. They say wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.

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