Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your OCTOBER 4, 2020 minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is honourable, TERHAD PP 8460/11/2012(030939) whatever is just, whatever is commendable, if there ISSN: 1394-3294 excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, Vol. 27 No. 39 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY think about theses things. Phil. 4:6-8 Pope calls for new economic model to rebuild post-COVID world ATICAN: Pope Francis has To prepare for this healing mission, he ex- called for a new economic plained, it was essential to “contemplate and appreciate the beauty of every human being Vmodel to help rebuild the and every creature,” recognising Christ espe- world after the coronavirus pan- cially in the poor and suffering. demic. He said that Christians were called to help In his general audience address in the San society emerge from the pandemic in “a Damaso Courtyard, within the Vatican’s ap- human way,” rather than a “mechanical ostolic palace, Sept 30, the Pope criticised way,” displaying the tenderness that is “the “trickle-down theory,” which proposes that tax very sign of Jesus’ presence.” breaks for high-earners will ultimately yield He said: “A small virus continues to cause economic benefits for the rest of society. deep wounds and to expose our physical, so- He said: “And certainly we cannot expect cial and spiritual vulnerabilities. It has laid bare the economic model that underlies unfair the great inequality that reigns in the world: and unsustainable development to solve our inequality of opportunity, inequality of goods, problems. It has not and will not, because inequality of access to health care, inequality it cannot do so, even though some false of technology, education: millions of children prophets continue to promise the ‘trickle- We cannot expect the economic model that underlies unfair and unsustainable development to solve our cannot go to school, and so the list goes on.” down’ that never comes.” problems. It has not and will not, because it cannot do so, even though some false prophets continue to “These injustices are neither natural nor promise the ‘trickle-down’ that never comes. (FMT photo) He added: “You have heard yourselves, the inevitable. They are the work of man, they theory of the glass: it is important that the glass has highlighted and accentuated. The malaise by hope and by charity. Here we have found come from a model of growth detached from is full, and then overflows to the poor and to was already there: the pandemic highlighted it, solid help so as to be transformers who dream the deepest values ... And this has made many others, and they receive wealth. But there is it accentuated it.” big, who are not stopped by the meanness that people lose hope and has increased uncertainty a phenomenon: the glass starts to fill up and “We have walked the paths of dignity, soli- divides and hurts, but who encourage the gen- and anguish. That is why, to come out of the when it is almost full it grows, it grows and it darity and subsidiarity, paths that are essential eration of a new and better world.” pandemic, we must find the cure not only for grows, and never overflows. We must be care- to promote human dignity and the common He challenged pilgrims, who sat spaced the coronavirus — which is important! — but ful.” good. And as disciples of Jesus, we have pro- apart in the courtyard as a safety measure to also for the great human and socio-economic The audience began with a reading from posed to follow in His steps, opting for the prevent the spread of COVID-19, to keep their viruses.” Hebrews 12:1-2, in which St Paul the Apostle poor, rethinking the use of material goods and eyes fixed on Christ. He continued: “We need to set to work ur- urges Christians to keep their “eyes fixed on taking care of our common home.” “Jesus, who renews and reconciles every gently to generate good policies, to design Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith.” He continued: “In the midst of the pandemic creature, gives us the gifts necessary to love systems of social organisation that reward The Pope said: “In recent weeks we have re- that afflicts us, we have anchored ourselves and heal as He knew how to do, to take care participation, care and generosity, rather than flected together on how to heal the world that to the principles of the social doctrine of the of all without distinction on the basis of race, indifference, exploitation and particular inter- is suffering from a malaise that the pandemic Church, letting ourselves be guided by faith, language or nation,” he said. ests.” — CNA Vatican proposes renewal of agreement with China on bishops’ appointments VATICAN: The Vatican has proposed to “the results have been positive, although The US Secretary of State also tweeted between the pastors of the Chinese Catholic the Chinese government that they extend an limited, and suggest going forward with the that “the Vatican endangers its moral author- Church with the bishop of Rome and with the agreement signed in 2018 regarding the ap- application of the agreement for another de- ity, should it renew the deal,” a public tweet bishops throughout the world.” pointment of bishops. termined period of time.” that one Vatican official described as “mega- “The goal of the provisional agreement, The agreement, the details of which have Tornielli’s article in Vatican News and in phone diplomacy.” therefore, has never been merely diplomatic, never been made public, is set to expire Oct L’Osservatore Romano was published Sept. Tornielli wrote that from the moment the much less, political,” he said. It was “always 22. 29, the day before US Secretary of State Vatican announced the agreement, it made genuinely pastoral. Its objective is to permit “By October, a decision is expected re- Mike Pompeo was scheduled to arrive in clear that it did not cover “direct diplomatic the Catholic faithful to have bishops in full garding the Vatican proposal to extend the Rome for a conference on religious freedom relations between the Holy See and China, communion with the successor of Peter who provisional agreement ad experimentum (on and meetings with officials of the Vatican the juridical status of the Catholic Chinese are, at the same time, recognised by the au- an experimental basis),” wrote Andrea Torn- Secretariat of State. Church, or the relations between the clergy thorities of the People’s Republic of China.” ielli, editorial director of the Vatican Dicast- Urging caution over renewing the agree- and the country’s authorities.” In the two years since the agreement was ery for Communication. ment, Pompeo had written an article for the Instead, he said, the agreement deals only first signed, only a handful — five or six — The COVID-19 pandemic and its travel- magazine First Things Sept 18 asking the with “the process for the appointment of bishops acceptable both to the Vatican and related restrictions slowed negotiations over Vatican to use its “moral witness and author- bishops: an essential question for the life of to Beijing have been named. — By Cindy extending the agreement, Tornielli said, but ity in support of China’s religious believers.” the Church and for the necessary communion Wooden, CNS 2 Forum / Reflection HERALD October 4, 2020 Building hope, one brick at a time he country has been in a state of flux othy Day as an inspiration in the struggle in recent weeks as political leaders Sunday Observer against oppression, war and injustice. Day Tmake their moves to secure positions herself inspired others like Thomas Merton or wrest power. By and the famous Berrigan brothers, Daniel While the momentum towards more in- and Phil, who were at the forefront of the clusiveness moves on inexorably, it encoun- Anil Netto anti-war movement. ters resistance. [email protected] They all worked from the ground to cre- In politics, the momentum is often sty- ate awareness of injustice and struggle for mied by a mixture of wheeling and deal- change. ing, money politics, unethical practices and unethical and corrupt practices through their to enhance the people’s wellbeing? Will Jesus himself spent most of his time on compromises — all of which chip away at silence and inaction. these leaders improve public education and the ground, meeting the outcasts and forgot- good governance. There is nothing new about all this. This healthcare and build more homes within the ten in society, to herald the good news of Many politicians succumb to the temp- was going on even during the time of the reach of the people? the kingdom. He put forward his simple but tations of power, wealth and personal am- Roman Empire when the emperors knew We can never move forward if we don’t radical charter for the transformation of so- bition. Some of them may turn into ‘ka- what it took to impress the people and win restore principles and ethics into public life. ciety, the Beatitudes. taks’, disappointing the voters who elected popular support — extravagant building Politicians need to take principled positions He stayed away from the centres of power them. Betrayals and political backstabbing projects, lavish gladiatorial games, hand- on socioeconomic and environmental is- for the most part of his ministry, shunning abound. outs, perhaps even starting a war to win sues, to promote social solidarity and uphold the movers and shakers of his time. Instead, Voters may be swayed by handouts — and new territory. Meanwhile, rivals and family the common good. These are key tenets of he worked the ground, inspiring and em- who can blame them when many of them members backstabbed each other to rise to Catholic social teaching. powering the people with his vision of God’s struggle to provide for their families. power. Radical change, however, is rarely kingdom that would transform the world. As politicians scramble for power, reform Too few leaders or parties talk about the achieved from the top down. It is usually Sometimes we may ask, what can we do ideals are often tossed out of the window. real issues that matter to the people: job gained from the bottom up, when enough to change our society and the world? How They may make compromises with unethi- losses, high debt, lack of genuinely afford- people believe the time has come for change. can our small efforts make a difference? cal or tainted politicians. able housing, poor quality of education, This often requires a leap in consciousness, Dorothy Day put it eloquently: “People Once in power, instead of focusing on inadequate funding for healthcare, poverty. an awakening – sometimes triggered by an say, what is the sense of our small effort? the needs of the people, leaders indulge in Concern for the environment and the threat incident or injustice. They cannot see that we must lay one brick mega-projects that do little to empower the of climate change are often sidelined. Look at the history of the civil rights at a time, take one step at a time. A pebble people or lift communities from poverty. The focus seems to be on power and the movement. Change came about through cast into a pond causes ripples that spread These projects may even degrade the envi- prestige and patronage that come with it. the actions of ordinary people who dared to in all directions. Each one of our thoughts, ronment. Amid shifting alliances, it is difficult to speak out and make a difference. Think of words and deeds is like that. No one has a In the face of corruption, even kleptoc- know what each bloc stands for. What are Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. right to sit down and feel hopeless. There is racy, many turn a blind eye or acquiesce to their blueprints for socioeconomic reforms The Bishop of Rome himself held up Dor- too much work to do.” Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time: Tenant Farmers All! or the last three weeks, our gospels have people exorbitantly for their own financial Fbeen about vineyards. Two weeks ago we support. The people were also their means of had the parable of the labourers in the mar- power before the Romans. They would use the Reflecting on our Sunday Readings ketplace. The good employer called people to sheer number of the people as a threat to the from the Church or from others. I have seen 27th Sunday of Ordinary Time work in his vineyard throughout the day. Last Pax Romana. They did not prepare the peo- this. Perhaps you have too. I have seen people Readings: Isaiah 5:1-7; week we had the parable of the two sons who ple for the Messiah. In fact, they did not even who come to church to see and be seen, but were called to work in their father’s vineyard; want a Messiah. What if the Messiah elimi- who are not there to grow in their faith life Philippians 4:6-9; one said, “No,” but went; The other said, nated the need for the Temple? What would or to bring their faith to others. I remember Gospel: Matthew 21:33-43 “Sure,” but did not go. This week we have the Temple priests and Levites do? What if the celebrating a funeral Mass for a government another vineyard story, the story of the evil Messiah were to tell the people that God was worker. A man who was Catholic but never God’s Grace in Word and Sacrament so we tenant farmers who tried to steal the vineyard not looking for them to revolt against Rome, attended church and who had a very ques- can bring the Lord’s presence to the people from their Master, even putting his messen- but was looking for them to build a spiritual tionable moral life, came to the Mass and of the world who long for God. The Mass is gers to death and finally putting his son to kingdom? What would the Temple priests and marched right up to the front of the church. about being strengthened to produce fruit for death. Levites do? No, they didn’t want a Messiah. He then proceeded to make a great show of the Lord. So why all these vineyards? The vine- He would disrupt their system of using God’s his supposed religion. By the way, he just We come to Mass and use the grace we yard was a fixture in Jesus’ time. Everybody people to enrich themselves. happened to be running for office that year. I receive here to lead our children, our class- drank wine. Wine cannot be produced un- “So,” the Lord says, “the vineyard will be have seen, and perhaps you have seen, family mates, our spouses, and yes, even our par- less there are grapes. Therefore, there were taken from those evil farmers and given to members who come down to Florida to visit ents, to Jesus Christ. We do this, first of all, many vineyards in the ancient world that had others who would nurture it and bear the fruit grandparents or great grandparents and who by growing closer and closer to the Lord so to be worked. Actually, there are still many of the Kingdom.” come to Mass for the sole reason of being that our words and actions naturally reflect wine producing areas of the modern world That is one level of truth that this parable remembered in grandma or grandpa’s will. His Presence. We do this by standing up for and therefore many vineyards throughout conveys. It has its merit in understanding Yes, there are many visitors who have been all that is right and moral. We do this by being the world. You might be familiar with the salvation history. But does this parable really away from the faith and who come with their kind to others with the kindness of the One vineyards of California, the Napa Valley and have a message for us who live 2020 years grandparents to bring them to church and to who was the kindest man to ever live. Think Sonoma Valley, or maybe you are aware of after the birth of the Word Made Flesh? take another look at the faith themselves. But about how kind Jesus was, think about the the wonderful vineyards of Italy in Tuscany, It certainly does! We, the baptised, have these are not the ones of whom I am speaking. sick he cured, the dead he raised. Think about Umbria and throughout Italy, or the vineyards been entrusted with the vineyard of the Lord. I am speaking about those who use the church the woman brought to him and accused of of France in Bordeaux and Burgundy and all We are given the deep responsibility of pro- for their own selfish reasons. I have seen, adultery and think about little Zacchaeus, the over France, or those throughout Spain and viding fruit for our Master. We must produce and perhaps you have seen, young adults and short tax collector and robber of the people, Germany and Greece. The production of wine fruit for Him, not for ourselves. high school students ting a girl or guy to go who climbed up a tree to see Jesus and heard is still a large enterprise throughout the world. Sadly, I have seen people use the vineyard out with them and are completely closed to him call him down. Think about how Jesus The vineyard in today’s Gospel was con- for themselves and not for God. The absolute anything happening at Mass. I have seen high said to those who were sinners, and says to us, structed to produce fruit for its owner. Only, in worst example of this, the most horrific period school students and young adults use their “You are better than that. Now receive God’s today’s Gospel, the labourers in this vineyard of our modern Church’s life, was the revela- own attendance at Church as a motivation mercy and change your lives.” decide to steal the vineyard from the Master tion that some priests were using their posi- in their perverted minds to lead the serious We have been entrusted with the vineyard and keep the fruit for themselves. tion in the Church to groom and attack chil- Catholic they want to date to repay them for of the Lord to produce fruit for our God. Who are these wicked labourers? On one dren and teens. Thankfully, these priests have their attendance. Grapes, sweet smelling grapes, bundles of level, they were the leaders of the Jewish peo- been removed from ministry and procedures Using the Church for one’s personal gain grapes, bundles of love, must be nurtured by ple of Jesus’ day. They were entrusted with were put into place to prevent further occur- is not the reason why we come together to our kindness to be transformed by the Lord the Vineyard of the Lord. They were called rences, but the thought that clergy would use celebrate Mass. The Mass is the Sending Cer- not just into wine, but into the very Blood of upon to provide fruit for the Lord. They were their position to take advantage of minors still emony. The word Mass is derived from the Christ. For we, the tenant farmers, have been given the mission to nourish the people in the sickens all of us. last words of the Mass in Latin, Ita Missa Est entrusted to do no less than to fill the world Word of God and prepare them for the Word On a morally lesser scale, but still wrong, (Go, you are sent). The Mass is the liturgy, with the Presence of Christ. Become Flesh. However, they used the peo- some people use their attendance in church the prayer of the people and priests united May we work hard to care for the Lord’s ple for their own selfish gain. They taxed the for nothing other than what they can receive to Christ our Head. At the Mass we receive vineyard. — By Msgr Joseph A Pellegrino HERALD October 4, 2020 Home / Pastoral 3

Archbishop Poh Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur Chancery Notice thanks everyone Chan/MC/12/2020 for their dedication 1.0 COVID 19 Update on Pastoral 5. Private functions, in-house dining responders. Guidelines and meal fellowships. 6. Participation of BEC members at 1.1 In the Chancery Notice dated 29th 2.0 Blessing of Cemeteries - Com- funeral wakes. September 2020, we highlighted the re- memoration of All the Faithful cent spike in new COVID-19 cases. Yes- Where possible, the above activities Departed (All Souls Day) terday, 1st of October 2020, we witnessed may be conducted virtually using on-line 2.1 The clergy of the various districts of the highest spike in the number of new platforms. the Archdiocese are requested to make ar- cases (260) since the start of the RMCO. 1.5 Distribution of holy communion to rangements for the blessing of Christian 1.2 In the light of this latest development, the homebound should be reviewed to cemeteries falling within their respective the Archdiocesan Crisis Management determine if the present protocols in each jurisdiction. Task Force has issued a medical alert and parish are sufficient to protect both the 2.2 Due to the current public health situ- has advised the local church to treat this extraordinary minister of holy commun- ation, no public gatherings (Masses or matter with urgency and exercise greater ion and the home-bound communicant. prayer service) are to be organised in the vigilance within our communities to miti- The Parish Priest may exercise his dis- cemeteries. gate the spread of infection and protect cretion to defer distribution of holy com- 2.3 The priests and the assisting minis- KUCHING: “In our parishes, churches the most vulnerable members of our com- munion until such time when the situation ters, upon arriving at the cemetery at the have now reopened and are seeing a grad- munities. improves. appointed time, should proceed to bless ual increase in the number of Catholics 1.3 Following the above advisory, Most 1.6 Weddings, funerals, Confirmation the graves immediately. coming back to participate in Masses,” Reverend Julian Leow D.D., the Arch- Masses, Masses for First Holy Com- said Archbishop Simon Poh in the Sep- bishop of Kuala Lumpur has decided munion, confessions, anointing of the 2.4 The Archdiocesan Liturgical Com- tember issue of Today’s Catholic. to call all parishes to scale down all in- sick, and infant baptisms may continue. mission will be preparing a short prayer “I would like to take this opportunity to person activities to ensure that our most Parishes, however, must adhere strictly format for use by families during their express our gratitude to the priests, parish essential activity, which is the Mass, can to the MKN SOP and the Archdiocesan visit to grave sites. pastoral councils and liturgical ministries continue for the spiritual good of the Guidelines. and service teams who have dedicated and faithful. Public Masses may continue in 1.7 Extra precautions must be taken to committed their time and energy towards accordance with the MKN SOP and Arch- protect those within high-risk catego- the re-opening of churches for Masses. We diocesan Guidelines. acknowledge your labour of love that has ries. The current medical advisory on blessed and enabled many Catholics to re- 1.4 Pursuant to paragraph 1.3, the fol- increased risk should be made known to Rev Fr Michael Chua ceive Jesus in Holy Communion. lowing in-person activities should be de- those intending to participate in public Chancellor “In particular, I am thankful to our ferred until further notice: Masses. 1. BEC Gathering; Archdiocese of priests and burial ministers who have un- 1.8 Let us continue to pray for the recov- 2. Sunday School classes; Kuala Lumpur failingly ministered to our departed loved ery of those affected by this pandemic ones for the burial and cremation rites 3. RCIA sessions and for the safety of our front-line first October 2, 2020 throughout this RMCO period.” 4. meetings/ formations.

Diocese of Archdiocese of Malacca Johore MJD News Update #10 Kuala Lumpur Greetings and the Peace of the Lord b) Participation of the faithful in the sion awareness and missionary activi- Chan/MC/10/2020 Jesus Christ be with you, dear People Liturgical Celebration should be fa- ties, with proposals from the Pontifical of God. cilitated, not improvised. Missionary Societies of Malaysia, Sin- c) Rites should be distinguished by gapore and Brunei. More info will be 1.0 A Thought for the Week: The call their noble simplicity (SC34). communicated by the Parish Priests. Chancery Notice to physical presence and physical con- d) The faithful should be recognised as That Sunday’s collection will go for tact is getting stronger. The KKM has announced that all persons re- having the right to receive the Body, mission work under the care of the This is what Cardinal Joseph Robert turning from Sabah will be subject to mandatory and worship the Lord in the Eucharist. Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) Sarah said: This physical contact with screening/testing and home surveillance/quaran- Something to reflect on? Can we the Lord is vital, indispensable, irre- 2.6 The Apostolic Nunciature of Ma- tine beginning on Sept 27 until Oct 7, 2020. Move from fasting to reconnecting? placeable. Once the concrete measures laysia is pleased to announce the ap- Due to a spike in new COVID-19 cases in Sa- Move from distancing to contact? that can be taken to reduce the spread pointment by the Holy Father Pope bah, and the appearance of new cases in public Move from absenteeism to presence? of the virus to a minimum have been Francis of the new Apostolic Nuncio areas in the Klang Valley, and in keeping with the identified and adopted, it is necessary 2.0 Announcements for the Week: to Malaysia, Timor-Leste and Apos- current government advisory, parishioners and that all resume their place in the as- 2.1 On October 4, Sunday, the MJD tolic Delegate to Brunei, His Excel- close contacts (especially those from the same sembly of brothers and sisters, redis- Creation Justice Commission launch- lency Archbishop Wojciech Zaluski. household) of those who have travelled to Sabah cover the irreplaceable preciousness es the five-year campaign,Protect Our in the last 14 days are kindly advised to refrain 3.0 Questions & Queries? Is your from physical participation in any public Masses and beauty of the celebration of the Earth, Protect Our Children. In addi- suffering in this pandemic that bad? Is liturgy, and invite and encourage again tion, let us conserve energy by devel- or gatherings in churches for the next two weeks. God dead to you? We wish to remind our parish communities to those brothers and sisters who have oping a culture of Use Less Electricity. Fr Richard Rohr shared the experi- been discouraged, frightened, absent take additional precautions with regards to per- 2.2 The October 4 Mass Collection ence of a young Jewish woman, Etta sons falling under the high-risk categories, that or uninvolved for too long. goes to Rome for Peter’s Pence. The Hillesum, who suffered much injustice Jesus said: “He who eats my flesh they be informed of the risk and be updated with diocese sent RM69,308.45 to Rome in the concentration camp. She wrote: the latest medical advisories. and drinks my blood remains in me last year. “There is really a deep well inside and I in him” (Jn 6:56). It is our obligation to fight this pandemic and 2.3 The Korean Catholics of Johore me. And in it dwells God. Sometimes curtail its spread by cooperating with the health Without the Eucharist, we cannot I am there too. And that is all we can live to be Christians. We cannot live with their pastor, Fr Joseph Lee are authorities and adhering strictly to the medical naming their Centre for Prayer, Mass manage these days. And all that re- advisories, MKN SOPs and guidelines issued by without participation in the sacrifice of ally matters, that we safeguard that the Cross. We cannot be without the and Fellowship, St Laurent Imbert the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. In particular, Centre, after the MEP Bishop who little piece of YOU, GOD IN OUR- parishes are to ensure that contact listing through banquet of the Eucharist. We cannot SELVES.” be without the Christian community. was martyred in Korea, together with registration (either through scanning of MySe- Fr Jacques Chastan. jahtera QR code, pre-registration listing, record We cannot be without the House of the Let us together continue building His Lord, our home. book, Parish Exit Code) is properly conducted 2.4 From Oct 12 to 15, the clergy, pas- Kingdom. God bless you all. and maintained for all visitors. We cannot be without the Day of the toral workers and administrative staff Lord. will be participating in the Critical Some Principles were provided by Leadership Training Programme at Cardinal Joseph Robert Sarah: Majodi Centre. Rev Fr Michael Chua a) Liturgical norms are not matters on 2.5 The Oct 18 Weekend is World Bishop Bernard Paul Chancellor which civil authorities can legislate. It Mission Sunday 2020; with the theme October 2, 2020 Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur has to be in the hands of competent ec- Here I Am Send Me, Is.6:8. The whole clesiastical authorities (SC22). month of October is dedicated to mis- Click here to watch the video September 29, 2020 4 Home HERALD October 4, 2020 Outreach to the Orang Asli in Tanjung Malim TANJUNG MALIM: Close to 100 and welfare homes and in outreach are called to be God’s instruments Orang Asli comprising 20 families of all kinds. He invited all to reflect of love.” from two villages in Perak benefit- on where the spirit of giving comes Meanwhile, the Orang Asli rep- ed from an Outreach Programme from. Deacon Clement said the resentatives of Sg Bil, some 10 held on Sept 26. The Outreach was ‘culture world’ speaks about me. minute drive from Slim River jointly organised by the Church of When we give to others, it brings town, were present at the Chapel the Most Holy Redeemer together us joy and the motivation comes of St Anthony in Slim River. After with a Catholic group from Kuala from God. He was the first One the 5.00pm Mass which was cel- Lumpur. A total of 1,150kgs of to give us creation, and when men ebrated by Fr Vincent and assisted foodstuff were distributed to these rejected Him, He gave His Son, Je- by Deacon Clement, they received two marginalised communities. A sus Christ, to us and poured out the a couple of copies of the blessed total of 50 school bags were also Holy Spirit at our baptism. So we Al-Kitab, from Fr Vincent, to be given. can experience His great love of a used in their village together with Fr Vincent Paul, the Administra- loving and compassionate God. the foodstuff. tor of the Church of the Most Holy “As we go into the spirit of giv- Redeemer, and Deacon Clement ing, let us reflect on Matthew 6:3 Samuel with five of their parish- The Orang Asli families with their provisions. (But when you give to the needy, ioners (mainly university students and Catholics from the city;and visited the Church of the Most do not let your left hand know what based in Tanjung Malim), jour- that they would pray the Rosary, Holy Redeemer where the PPC your right hand is doing), and on neyed with 20 KL Catholics to visit read Mark’s Gospel, and share it chairman, Edmund Yeo, welcomed Matthew 5:16 (In the same way, the Kampung Orang Asli Sungai with others in their village, to know and briefed them about the history let your light shine before others, Lembing, located near Behrang better and be closer to Jesus Christ, of the parish. Fr Vincent, who is that they may see your good deeds Stesen. who is the Saviour of the world. also the parish priest of the Church and glorify your Father in heaven). Upon arrival, Fr Vincent gave The Orang Asli were encouraged to of St Francis de Sales in Sitiawan, Deacon Clement said when we a short introduction/welcome pray daily to deepen their faith, and together with Deacon Clement, give, we are called to be witnesses speech, after an Opening Prayer. if faced with any difficulty, they were present. There was an Open- of God’s love, not for self-promo- Two hymns in Bahasa Malaysia were told to get in touch with the ing Prayer by Fr Vincent, before tion. To purify our intentions, do were sung by all at the start and at priest at the Tanjung Malim parish. Deacon Clement presented his good things for others and be wit- the closing of the programme, led The Orang Asli were happy to Reflection on the Spirit of Giving. nesses of the Lord and give glory by the university students. Twenty have received the foodstuffs. The university students were also to our God. A representative receiving the Al- Rosaries together with several After the closing prayer by Fr present. The KL Group said they have Kitab from Fr Vincent Paul. copies of the Singa Yehuda, Kisah Vincent, all adjourned for a tea Deacon Clement was glad to been inspired by God to come out Yesus Kristus Menurut Injil Markus break. The Orang Asli Catholic see individuals and groups coming of their comfort zones, more so Fr Vincent said in his speech love were also distributed to the Orang leader had earlier prepared some to reach out. “Each one of us will during the RMCO, to reach out to must lead us to serving. Anyone can Asli. refreshment for all to savour. Many grow in the spirit of giving.” He the poor, especially the marginal- give without love; but with love we The KL Group hoped that their were seen chatting with each other, said the Catholic Church was at the ised around rural parishes, where give, because God loves us, and visit would strengthen the bond of with genuine care. forefront in social doctrine and in many are struggling to make ends out of love for God and others, we friendship between the Orang Asli Earlier in the day, the KL Group the tradition of starting orphanages meet in these pandemic times. “We give. — By Bernard Anthony CDM parishioners bid farewell Priest asks for forgiveness and prayers to Fr Martin Arlando PENANG: Outgoing Church of the for forgiveness and asked for con- PENANG: The parishioners of when the other children had left Divine Mercy (CDM) parish priest, tinued prayers. the Church of the Divine Mercy them. What seemed a burden had Fr Martin Arlando expressed his He had focused on the spiritual (CDM) said goodbye to their first turned into a blessing. heartfelt thanks and was at times side of CDM by introducing vari- parish priest, Fr Martin Arlando In the gospel, the forgotten and overcome with emotions and tears. ous prayer groups, formations and at the weekend Masses of Sept 26 overlooked responded to John the He explained that he had found it the 8.05 pm daily prayer. He had and 27. It was an emotional mo- Baptist’ message of repentance most difficult to find the words to ventured to give international ex- ment when Fr Martin began his of and did what God had asked express his feelings. He related the posure in organising AACOM IV, last homily on the gospel of the of them. Fr Martin reminded the experiences when he had first -ar building the Holy Door, and having different responses of two sons congregation to let the change rived as the parish priest, and the a Children’s Christmas Musical. to their father’s request for help that always takes place be posi- help he was given. But now it was time to let go and (Matthew 21:28-32). tive and to take advantage of it, He shared an amusing story and let another carry on with the jour- He explained that there are to think better of those who have said he had followed the advice of ney. two responses to God’s call- failed and to respond by accept- two close fellow priests to always He asked for all to continue to ing. The first being those who ing them and showing them the show love and mercy. give their best to assist the new thought about the call and did it. love of God. However, as a human being he parish priest, Fr Michael Raymond While the second were those who At the end of the Saturday was fallible and bound to have hurt OFM Cap, and to reflect Jesus in heard the call but never followed evening mass, the congregation some people. For this, he begged their lives. — By Dr Ivan Filmer through. Those thought failures prayed a special prayer for Fr were the tax collectors and pros- Martin for being their shepherd titutes who stayed in the shad- these last seven years. He was ows of society. They made their given a PowerPoint presentation Fr Martin Arlando with a photo way into the kingdom of heaven. of thanks and appreciation fol- of himself. They repented like the first son. lowed by a video presentation of The second son heard the call all he had done at CDM to make hall of fame. In addition, a big but did nothing. The results of a it a vibrant Catholic community. cake was cut to celebrate the oc- single event is not reflective of a On the second day, a second casion. Due to the limited seating person’s character or ability, all video presentation was shown in church, those that came for can move on and turn failure into highlighting all those whose lives Mass were accommodated in the success by learning from it. he had touched. At the end of Faustina Hall. Fr Martin then went on to re- each video presentation, the con- For those who were unable to late a story of a couple who had gregation was invited to join in attend this memorable occasion, a Downs Syndrome child and the song On Eagle’s Wings to re- the events can be reviewed on felt burdened. But as they grew flect the parish’s feeling for him. Facebook at https://facebook. old this was the only child that A photo of Fr Martin was pre- cdm/cdmsgarapg. — By Dr Ivan remained with them to help them sented to be hung up in the CDM Filmer The congregation praying over Fr Martin Arlando. HERALD October 4, 2020 Home 5 Divine Providence: A widow and her sons get a home KOTA KINABALU: “My mother to Osimal Foundation Chairman and my brothers are those who hear Tan Sri Richard Malanjum who the Word of God and put it into helped coordinate the fundraising practice.” and construction of the house. Aptly, this was the reading on “I’m very thankful to Tan Sri for Sept 22 when a newly-built house the house. Only God can repay his was handed over to a 44-year-old (and the donors) kindness,” she widow with three children in Kg said. “If it weren’t for him, I would Kobusak, Penampang. The family probably still be living in the make- lost their home in a fire over a year shift house.” ago. Initially, the funds to build the Marthina Mojunggal, whose new home should have come un- plight was highlighted by Catholic der the Housing Assistance Pro- Sabah last year, finally has a home gramme (PPRT). to call her own after living in a However, it was through the ini- makeshift house for months. Prior tiative of the Sacred Heart Cathe- Marthina Mojunggal (6th from left) receives the key to her new house in Kg Kobusak, Penampang from to that, she and her children – now dral Parish Human Development Osimal Foundation aged between five and 19 years – Committee (SHC/PHDC) that the “It was a one-room shack for had to live in the Kobusak commu- plight of the family of four was a single mother and three young nity hall. finally taken seriously. The- com kids. It did not require another sec- A visibly touched Marthina, who mittee had reached out to “good ond for me to decide. welcomed the guests and trustees samaritan” Colin Lau, a lawyer. “On the spot, I told Kevin that from Osimal Foundation at the According to Malanjum, the for- I would build (Marthina) a house,” handing over ceremony, said she mer Chief Justice, he came to know he said, adding that he wondered if felt blessed but had mixed feelings about the widow’s plight from fel- they believed him as there were no about the events in her life. low lawyer Colin. funds yet at the time. In 2015, she lost her husband to a “Colin mentioned her case to me. “But my faith was with the Lord, tragic accident. He told me to contact Kevin Joibi. I that He would answer my prayer. “There were times I felt like giv- was still in service at the time. Dur- Indeed, He did. My first call to a ing up,” Marthina said about the ing my visit to Kota Kinabalu, I very good friend in Kuala Lum- trauma of losing everything to the called Kevin and fixed an appoint- pur was positive. After that, it was fire in March last year. “But I knew ment to visit Marthina,” he said. quite easy. I got a person to super- I had to be strong for my children. Malanjum said he was speech- vise the construction.” “I’m both happy and sad at the less when he arrived at Marthina’s However, due to the COVID-19 same time because of the outpour- “shack” – the walls and roof were pandemic which led to the nation- ing of welfare aid for us.” made of pieces of old plywood and wide Movement Control Order Marthina expressed her gratitude zinc. (MCO) in March this year, con- struction work had to be halted. The one-room shack where Marthina and her three children lived before. The contractor, Susial Kambisa, would help,” the former La Sallian of helping poor students, single 37, said they had to stop construc- said. parents and assisting medical car- tion work and were only able to re- Malanjum, whose role mod- ergivers for the rural community. sume in June. els were the De La Salle Brothers Also present at the ceremony “Before we could build the kitch- from Ireland and particularly the were Osimal Foundation Deputy en, we had to demolish the shack, late Rev Bro Peter Phelan, is no Head Datuk Nellie Sikodol, its which was quite time-consuming. stranger to welfare work. Secretary Puan Sri Charlene Jin- We managed to complete the house “Life is only worth living if it is toni, trustees Kevin Joibi and Wil- by September,” he added. lived to make another life better,” lie Ng, Osimal Publicity Head On how Malanjum managed to he said on why he continues to help Ellen Sikodol, Osimal members pull in Berjaya Cares Foundation the poor. “Yes, it is faith and obedi- Patrick Sikodol, Nicholas Punai and Yayasan GSR in providing ence to His words. and his wife Christina, supervisor their assistance towards the com- “Many poor rural students are Susial Kambisa @ Punuk as well pletion of the house, he said he re- under Osimal’s organised spon- as guests Colin Lau and Sergius Osimal Foundation Chairman Tan Sri Richard Malanjum (third from lied on Divine Providence. sors,” he said, adding that the foun- Ramday representing SHC/PHDC. left) with the foundation’s trustees and guests “I had no doubt at all that God dation was set up with the purpose — By Audrey Ansibin, CS Clergy urged to be in union with the heart of Jesus KUALA LUMPUR: The Chrism During his homily, Archbishop is the time to hope in spite of the Mass was celebrated by Archbish- Leow reminded his clergy that pandemic, as we are a hopeful op Julian Leow at St Anthony’s despite the many distractions and people and missionary disciples, Church Sept 23. demands, he hoped the recent rec- priests after the heart of Jesus. God The Chrism Mass often celebrat- ollection held in various locations is grateful to each one of you and ed on Holy Thursday, had to be deemed suitable by the respective your response to His call, especially postponed to a much later date this clergies had enabled them to ex- now during this challenging time, in year, due to the recent pandemic amine themselves their shortcom- the churches throughout the world. that reordered the various celebra- ings, imperfections, strengths, and May the Church be a light to the na- tions within the diocese. their relationship with those around tion in this shared destiny.” The Chrism Mass is a public cele- them. The Chrism Mass is an important bration of display of the unity of the He urged, “My dear sons, be in liturgy in the life of the Church. bishop to the priests of his diocese union with the heart of Jesus, that In addition to the priests renewing and to the entire Church community you may encounter his compassion, their promises to the Bishop, the as Members of the Body of Christ. tenderness and empathy. Whenever three oils (oil of catechumens, oil of However, due to the restric- we are faced with challenges and the sick, oil of Chrism) are blessed tions imposed during the Recovery crosses in our ministry, we come to by the Bishop during the Mass. Movement Control Order (RMCO), the Lord and let the Lord minister After the Chrism Mass, the holy the celebration was restricted to to us that we may be transformed, oils are distributed to the parishes the clergy and some laity from the empowered and strengthened by of the diocese where they are used KL Central District. It was live- Him.” to anoint the faithful throughout the streamed. He reminded the clergy, “This year. — By Jaclyn Sharmelee Archbishop Julian Leow mixing the Chrism oil. 6 World HERALD October 4, 2020 Pope Francis addresses 75th Session of the UN General Assembly NEW YORK: On the fifth anniversary of his simultaneous translations into the five other ism and isolation. or worse.” He said that the present pandemic first visit to the United Nations, Pope Francis UN languages, Pope Francis said that the He also spoke in depth about issues of has forced the world to think clearly about addressed the United Nations General As- 75th anniversary of the United Nations of- work and employment, humanitarian crises, how we want to emerge and has shown us sembly for the second time Sept 25 morning. fered “a fitting occasion to express, once fundamental human rights, persecution of that we “cannot live without one another, or Unlike the first visit, in a packed General again, the Holy See’s desire that this Organi- religious believers, the vulnerable situation worse still, pitted against one another.” Assembly Hall with six delegates per coun- sation increasingly serve as a sign of unity of people on the move, care for the poor, try and many others standing, this second between States and an instrument of service ecological sensitivity and action, the needs l See below for the full text of his message address, because of COVID-19 restrictions to the entire human family.” of children, the protection of the family, the at the United Nations, was given via a pre- He focused heavily on the lessons to be advancement of women, threats to peace and Those who would like to view his speech recorded video message played live to only learned from the COVID-19 pandemic security, nuclear disarmament, non-prolifer- may do so on the YouTube Channel of the one-delegate per country within the 1,780 and the choices that States and individuals ation and prohibition, Holy See Mission: www.youtube.com/ person chamber. must make as a consequence; between co- “We never emerge from a crisis just as we watch?v=_JAKoLoY0U4&feature=youtu. In his remarks, delivered in Spanish with responsibility and solidarity and individual- were,” he said. “We come out either better be Urgent need to promote public health and to ensure every person’s right to basic medical care Mr President, leave their homes. Refugees, migrants and the internally dis- Peace be with all of you! placed frequently find themselves abandoned in their coun- I offer cordial greetings to you, Mr President, and to all the tries of origin, transit and destination, deprived of any chance Delegations taking part in this significant Seventy-fifth Ses- to better their situation in life and that of their families. Worse sion of the United Nations’ General Assembly. In particular, I still, thousands are intercepted at sea and forcibly returned greet the Secretary General, Mr António Guterres, the partici- to detention camps, where they meet with torture and abuse. pating Heads of State and Government, and all those who are Many of these become victims of human trafficking, sexual following the General Debate. slavery or forced labour, exploited in degrading jobs and de- The seventy-fifth anniversary of the United Nations offers nied a just wage. This is intolerable, yet intentionally ignored me a fitting occasion to express once again the Holy See’s by many! desire that this Organisation increasingly serve as a sign of The numerous and significant international efforts to- re unity between States and an instrument of service to the entire spond to these crises begin with great promise — here I think human family. of the two Global Compacts on Refugees and on Migration In these days, our world continues to be impacted by the — yet many lack the necessary political support to prove COVID-19 pandemic which has led to the loss of so many successful. Others fail because individual states shirk their lives. This crisis is changing our way of life, calling into ques- responsibilities and commitments. All the same, the current tion our economic, health and social systems, and exposing crisis offers an opportunity for the United Nations to help our human fragility. build a more fraternal and compassionate society. The pandemic, indeed, calls us “to seize this time of trial as This includes reconsidering the role of economic and fi- a time of choosing, a time to choose what matters and what nancial institutions, like that of Bretton-Woods, which must passes away, a time to separate what is necessary from what respond to the rapidly growing inequality between the super- is not”. It can represent a concrete opportunity for conver- In this file photo, Pope Francis addresses the General Assembly rich and the permanently poor. An economic model that en- sion, for transformation, for rethinking our way of life and of the United Nations in New York Sept 25, 2015. (CNS photo// courages subsidiarity, supports economic development at the our economic and social systems which are widening the gap Mike Segar, Reuters) local level and invests in education and infrastructure benefit- between rich and poor based on an unjust distribution of re- to more people should be one of the main objectives of every ing local communities, will lay the foundation not only for sources. On the other hand, the pandemic can be the occasion business, one of the criteria for the success of productive ac- economic success but also for the renewal of the larger com- for a “defensive retreat” into greater individualism and elit- tivity. Technological progress is valuable and necessary, pro- munity and nation. Here I would renew my appeal that “in ism. vided that it serves to make people's work more dignified and light of the present circumstances… all nations be enabled to We are faced, then, with a choice between two possible safe, less burdensome and stressful. meet the greatest needs of the moment through the reduction, paths. One path leads to the consolidation of multilateralism All this calls for a change of direction. To achieve this, we if not the forgiveness, of the debt burdening the balance sheets as the expression of a renewed sense of global co-responsi- already possess the necessary cultural and technological re- of the poorest nations”. bility, a solidarity grounded in justice and the attainment of sources, and social awareness. This change of direction will The international community ought to make every effort to peace and unity within the human family, which is God’s plan require, however, a more robust ethical framework capable of put an end to economic injustices. “When multilateral credit for our world. The other path emphasises self-sufficiency, overcoming “today’s widespread and quietly growing culture organisations provide advice to various nations, it is impor- nationalism, protectionism, individualism and isolation; it of waste”. tant to keep in mind the lofty concepts of fiscal justice, the excludes the poor, the vulnerable and those dwelling on the At the origin of this “throwaway culture” is a gross lack of public budgets responsible for their indebtedness and, above peripheries of life. That path would certainly be detrimental to respect for human dignity, the promotion of ideologies with all, an effective promotion of the poorest, which makes them the whole community, causing self-inflicted wounds on eve- reductive understandings of the human person, a denial of the protagonists in the social network”. We have a responsibility ryone. It must not prevail. universality of fundamental human rights, and a craving for to offer development assistance to poor nations and debt relief The pandemic has highlighted the urgent need to promote absolute power and control that is widespread in today’s soci- to highly indebted nations. public health and to make every person’s right to basic medi- ety. Let us name this for what it is: an attack against humanity “A new ethics presupposes being aware of the need for eve- cal care a reality. For this reason, I renew my appeal to politi- itself. ryone to work together to close tax shelters, avoid evasions cal leaders and the private sector to spare no effort to ensure It is in fact painful to see the number of fundamental human and money laundering that rob society, as well as to speak access to COVID-19 vaccines and to the essential technolo- rights that in our day continue to be violated with impunity. to nations about the importance of defending justice and the gies needed to care for the sick. If anyone should be given The list of such violations is indeed lengthy, and offers us a common good over the interests of the most powerful com- preference, let it be the poorest, the most vulnerable, those frightening picture of a humanity abused, wounded, deprived panies and multinationals”. Now is a fitting time to renew the who so often experience discrimination because they have of dignity, freedom and hope for the future. As part of this architecture of international finance. neither power nor economic resources. picture, religious believers continue to endure every kind of Five years ago, I had the opportunity to address the General The current crisis has demonstrated that solidarity must not persecution, including genocide, because of their beliefs. We Assembly in person on its seventieth anniversary. My visit be an empty word or promise. It has also shown us the impor- Christians too are victims of this: how many of our brothers took place at a time marked by truly dynamic multilateral- tance of avoiding every temptation to exceed our natural lim- and sisters throughout the world are suffering, forced at times ism. It was a moment of great hope and promise for the inter- its. “We have the freedom needed to limit and direct technolo- to flee from their ancestral lands, cut off from their rich his- national community, on the eve of the adoption of the 2030 gy; we can put it at the service of another type of progress, one tory and culture. Agenda for Sustainable Development. Some months later, the which is healthier, more human, more social, more integral”. We should also admit that humanitarian crises have be- Paris Agreement on Climate Change was also adopted. This also needs to be taken into careful consideration in dis- come the status quo, in which people’s right to life, liberty Yet we must honestly admit that, even though some pro- cussions on the complex issue of artificial intelligence (AI). and personal security are not protected. Indeed, as shown by gress has been made, the international community has shown Along these same lines, I think of the effects of the pan- conflicts worldwide, the use of explosive weapons, especially itself largely incapable of honouring the promises made five demic on employment, a sector already destabilised by a la- in populated areas, is having a dramatic long-term humani- years ago. I can only reiterate that “we must avoid every bour market driven by increasing uncertainty and widespread tarian impact. Conventional weapons are becoming less and temptation to fall into a declarationist nominalism which robotisation. There is an urgent need to find new forms of less “conventional” and more and more “weapons of mass would assuage our consciences. We need to ensure that our work truly capable of fulfilling our human potential and af- destruction”, wreaking havoc on cities, schools, hospitals, re- institutions are truly effective in the struggle against all these firming our dignity. In order to ensure dignified employment, ligious sites, infrastructures and basic services needed by the scourges”. there must be a change in the prevailing economic paradigm, population. which seeks only to expand companies' profits. Offering jobs What is more, great numbers of people are being forced to l Continued on Pg 7 HERALD October 4, 2020 World 7 Power play likely to divide Catholic Church in Hong Kong HONG KONG: The Beijing-con- might face a charge of “unlawful came to power, there has been no end teach openly. liaison office of the Central People’s trolled administration in Hong Kong is newsgathering” or even be unable to to restrictions on the Catholic clergy’s Many priests have been repressed, Government in the Hong Kong Spe- now busy extending an accreditation report the truth, and the public might pastoral ministry for failing to register their freedom restricted, and even sub- cial Administrative Region to state system prevalent in mainland China. end up receiving only official informa- with the government. jected to physical assault because they their positions on the legislation. As a result, many fear the administra- tion, seriously affecting the public’s In Jiangxi, authorities recently chose not to apply for government cer- The Education Bureau also put tion will soon ask religious bodies, in- right to know. banned priests from underground tification as a matter of conscience. pressure on the Diocese of Hong Kong cluding the Catholic Church, to obtain Understandably, certain professions church groups that are not recognised However, the authority to decide and its Education Office to send a se- state recognition. need licensing and accreditation, such by the government from engaging in whether a person is a Catholic priest ries of letters to its schools asking them The Hong Kong Police Force re- as healthcare professionals, social religious activities. should be the Roman Catholic Church, to support the security law that aimed cently amended the definition of jour- workers, insurance and financial prac- The Ministry of United Front Work, not the communist government. The to suppress the pro-democracy move- nalists in the Police General Orders. titioners. However, the qualifications the Religious Affairs Bureau and the Chinese government uses patriotism ment. It now recognises as journalists only of these professions are usually ac- Public Security Bureau require under- and love for the party as the criterion to Now that Hong Kong is increasing- those who work with media outlets credited by the professions concerned. ground priests to register and join the identify clergy. It is an insult to pastors ly and quickly converging with main- registered with the government’s In- Such an accreditation system is not Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and a violation of religious freedom, land China, it will not be a miracle if formation Services Department. This new to the religiously minded in au- (CCPA) to have permission to minister and even an obstacle to the spread of the accreditation system is extended is tantamount to a new regulatory defi- thoritarian China. Clergy must obtain people within prescribed limits. truth. to Hong Kong’s religious circles. Like nition of journalists and a new govern- certification from the civil authorities The Chinese government has been For example, before the national civil servants, the Catholic clergy will ment licensing system. to perform their duties and may even coercing and enticing priests to join security law was enacted in Hong then have to swear an oath of alle- There is a general concern among be convicted if they illegally conduct the CCPA, which runs counter to Kong, the Chinese Communist Party giance to the regime before perform- the press that if the government were religious activities. doctrine, in exchange for recognition “invited” the Hong Kong religious ing their duties. — By Yip Ban-chi, to define the status of journalists, they Since the Chinese Communist Party by the government and permission to community to attend a meeting at the ucanews.com Cardinal Zen flies to Rome to beg for ‘a good bishop’ for Hong Kong HONG KONG: Cardinal Joseph Zen “This year we are waiting in Hong all those things and really gives us a the “one country, two systems” formu- (pic) flew to Rome to deliver a letter Kong to have our bishop. It’s more good bishop and not to pay too much la that has been in place — although to Pope Francis, begging for “a good than one and a half years that we have importance to the political aspect of recently eroded — since 1997 when bishop” to be chosen to lead Hong no bishop. And now the whole at- the problem.” the territory was handed back by Great Kong Diocese. mosphere is very much political, so I Despite staying in the Italian capital Britain after 99 years. His trip came as Vatican diplomats would like to remind the Holy Father for four days, Cardinal Zen was not There are growing fears among continue to work against the clock to that we really need a bishop who is a granted an audience with the pontiff, Hong Kong Catholics and other refresh the September 2018 deal with good shepherd for the flock,” said Car- leaving him to hand his letter to the Christians and Muslims that Beijing Beijing on the appointment of bishops. dinal Zen. Pope’s private secretary. will impose its state-run religious as- Multiple media reports have sug- “And I remember that at the begin- Hong Kong has been roiled by the sociations on believers in the city, rep- gested that one of Hong Kong’s vicars Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, a critic ning of his pontificate, he gave many new national security law imposed licating the situation on the mainland general, Fr Peter Choi, who is seen as of the Chinese and Hong Kong gov- recommendations: ‘A bishop should by Chinese authorities that effectively and placing increasing restrictions on close to Beijing, would be named as ernments and who is close to Cardinal be like this and they should not be like leaves Beijing in charge of the special worshippers and their families. — By the new prelate, sidelining Auxiliary Zen. that …’ And so, I hope he remembers administrative region, stripping away Michael Sainsbury, ucanews.com Fight against heinous practises that debase all humanity l Continued from Pg 6 ed us that “one child, one teacher, one book and one pen can Nuclear deterrence, in particular, creates an ethos of fear change the world”. based on the threat of mutual annihilation; in this way, it ends I think of the alarming situation in the Amazon and its indig- The first teachers of every child are his or her mother and up poisoning relationships between peoples and obstructing enous peoples. Here we see that the environmental crisis is in- father, the family, which the Universal Declaration of Human dialogue. That is why it is so important to support the princi- separably linked to a social crisis, and that caring for the envi- Rights describes as the “natural and fundamental group unit of pal international legal instruments on nuclear disarmament, ronment calls for an integrated approach to combating poverty society”. All too often, the family is the victim of forms of ideo- non-proliferation and prohibition. The Holy See trusts that the and exclusion. logical colonialism that weaken it and end up producing in many forthcoming Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on To be sure, the growth of an integral ecological sensitivity and of its members, especially the most vulnerable, the young and the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) will result the desire for action is a positive step. “We must not place the the elderly, a feeling of being orphaned and lacking roots. The in concrete action in accordance with our joint intention “to burden on the next generations to take on the problems caused breakdown of the family is reflected in the social fragmentation achieve, at the earliest possible date, the cessation of the nuclear by the previous ones… We must seriously ask ourselves if there that hinders our efforts to confront common enemies. It is time arms race and to undertake effective measures in the direction is the political will to allocate with honesty, responsibility and that we reassess and recommit ourselves to achieving our goals. of nuclear disarmament”. courage, more human, financial and technological resources to One such goal is the advancement of women. This year marks In addition, our strife-ridden world needs the United Nations mitigate the negative effects of climate change, as well as to help the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Beijing Conference on Wom- to become an ever more effective international workshop for the poorest and most vulnerable populations who suffer from en. At every level of society, women now play an important role, peace. This means that the members of the Security Council, them the most”. offering their singular contribution and courageously promoting especially the Permanent Members, must act with greater uni- The Holy See will continue to play its part. As a concrete sign the common good. Many women, however, continue to be left ty and determination. In this regard, the recent adoption of a of the Holy See’s commitment to care for our common home, behind: victims of slavery, trafficking, violence, exploitation and global ceasefire during the present crisis is a very noble step, I recently ratified the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Pro- degrading treatment. To them, and to those who are forced to one that demands good will on the part of all for its continued tocol. live apart from their families, I express my fraternal closeness. implementation. Here I would also reiterate the importance of We cannot fail to acknowledge the devastating effects of the At the same time, I appeal once more for greater determination relaxing international sanctions that make it difficult for states COVID-19 crisis on children, including unaccompanied young and commitment in the fight against those heinous practices that to provide adequate support for their citizens. migrants and refugees. Violence against children, including the debase not only women, but all humanity, which by its silence We never emerge from a crisis just as we were. We come horrible scourge of child abuse and pornography, has also dra- and lack of effective action becomes an accomplice in them. out either better or worse. This is why, at this critical juncture, matically increased. We must ask ourselves if the principal threats to peace and it is our duty to rethink the future of our common home and Millions of children are presently unable to return to school. security — poverty, epidemics, terrorism and so many others our common project. A complex task lies before us, one that In many parts of the world, this situation risks leading to an — can be effectively countered when the arms race, including requires a frank and coherent dialogue aimed at strengthening increase in child labour, exploitation, abuse and malnutrition. nuclear weapons, continues to squander precious resources that multilateralism and cooperation between states. The present Sad to say, some countries and international institutions are could better be used to benefit the integral development of peo- crisis has further demonstrated the limits of our self-sufficiency also promoting abortion as one of the so-called “essential ser- ples and protect the natural environment. as well as our common vulnerability. It has forced us to think vices” provided in the humanitarian response to the pandemic. We need to break with the present climate of distrust. At pre- clearly about how we want to emerge from this: either better It is troubling to see how simple and convenient it has become sent, we are witnessing an erosion of multilateralism, which is or worse. for some to deny the existence of a human life as a solution to all the more serious in light of the development of new forms The pandemic has shown us that we cannot live without one problems that can and must be solved for both the mother and of military technology,[16]such as lethal autonomous weapons another, or worse still, pitted against one another. The United her unborn child. systems (LAWS) which irreversibly alter the nature of warfare, Nations was established to bring nations together, to be a bridge I urge civil authorities to be especially attentive to children detaching it further from human agency. between peoples. Let us make good use of this institution in who are denied their fundamental rights and dignity, particularly We need to dismantle the perverse logic that links personal and order to transform the challenge that lies before us into an op- their right to life and to schooling. I cannot help but think of national security to the possession of weaponry. This logic serves portunity to build together, once more, the future we all desire. the appeal of that courageous young woman, Malala Yousafzai, only to increase the profits of the arms industry while fostering a God bless you all! who speaking five years ago in the General Assembly, remind- climate of distrust and fear between persons and peoples. Thank you, Mr President. 8 World HERALD October 4, 2020 UN urges more inclusive societies for older persons GENEVA: As the world marked munity needs to examine how who devote their lives to our care, position of the world population wide is projected to more than the 30th anniversary of the Inter- the pandemic might change how and to the care of older persons, has changed dramatically in re- double, reaching more than 1.5 national Day of Older Persons on we address age and ageing in our mothers and children, and de- cent decades. Between 1950 and billion persons in 2050, with 80 Oct 1, the United Nations chief societies. He called for more op- serve far greater support.” 2010, life expectancy worldwide per cent of them living in low- drew attention to the dispropor- portunities for the elderly, such as Drawing attention to the UN rose from 46 to 68 years. and middle-income countries. tionate and severe impact that increasing their access to health- Decade of Healthy Ageing 2020- Globally, there were 703 mil- The COVID-19 pandemic may the COVID-19 pandemic has care, pensions and social protec- 2030, the UN Secretary-General lion persons aged 65 or over in significantly lower older persons’ wrought on older persons around tion. called for concerted efforts during 2019. The region of Eastern and incomes and living standards. Al- the world, not only on their health Guterres noted that this year’s this period to improve the lives of South-Eastern Asia was home to ready, less than 20 per cent of old- but also on their rights and well- observance took place during the older persons, their families and the largest number of older per- er persons of retirement age are being. International Year of the Nurse communities. sons (261 million), followed by receiving a pension. This number “Older people must be a pri- and Midwife, which highlights “The potential of older persons Europe and Northern America is scheduled to increase to 1.4 ority in our efforts to overcome the vital role of health and so- is a powerful basis for sustainable (over 200 million). billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion COVID-19”, UN Secretary-Gen- cial workers, such as nurses and development”, he stressed, add- The UN estimates that by 2020 by 2050. This increase is occur- eral António Guterres said in his midwives, in responding to the ing, “we must listen to their voic- the number of people aged 60 ring at an unprecedented pace and message for the International Day pandemic. He noted that most es, suggestions and ideas to build years and older will outnumber will accelerate in the coming dec- of Older Persons, celebrated an- of the health and social workers more inclusive and age-friendly children younger than five years. ades, particularly in developing nually on Oct 1. In this regard, are women, including many older societies”. Over the next three decades, the countries. — By Robin Gomes, he said, the international com- persons. “These are the people According to the UN, the com- number of older persons world- Vatican News More and more European companies are investing in Taiwan TAIPEI:: European companies are bine parts assembly project in the increasingly interested in Taiwan central Taiwan city of Taichung. as a reliable and expanding market, About 250 German firms operate despite the negative effects of the in Taiwan, where they have in- pandemic and the trade and geopo- vested 4 billion euros (US$ 4.66 litical war between China and the billion) to date. United States. Due to its size, the island can- Thanks to the skilful handling of not be an alternative to China; the coronavirus emergency, the is- however, the latter is increasingly land’s economy is one of the most viewed with suspicion by Europe- dynamic in the world. The rapid ans for its unfair practices. Taiwan containment of COVID-19 will al- can thus offer a market where EU low Taiwan to return to pre-crisis companies can diversify their in- employment levels much sooner vestments. than many other countries. This trend is enhanced by the ev- Recently, during an investment er-closer ties the Union is building forum held in Taipei, Taiwanese The European Union-Taiwan investment conference on Sept 22, 2020. with Taiwan. Thanks to European President Tsai Ing-wen noted that Overall foreign direct invest- wan cooperation in artificial intel- and semiconductor production. aid, Taipei on Sept 28 celebrated the European Union is the major ment in Taiwan rose 10.56 per cent ligence, 5G mobile technology and Northern European firms also a (rare) diplomatic victory over foreign investor on the island, with from January to June this year from data protection systems. want a share of Taiwan’s offshore Beijing, after a global alliance of investments worth NT$ 1 trillion a year earlier. By contrast, the UN More than 200 French firms al- wind energy market. Taiwan plans mayors decided to stop referring to (US$ 34.2 billion), 25 per cent of Conference on Trade and Develop- ready operate on the island, and are to have 20 per cent of the its energy Taiwanese cities as part of China. Taiwan’s all time total inbound ment estimated that foreign direct ready to strengthen their collabora- to come from renewable sources For mainland China, Taiwan is a investment. This is a five-fold -in investment will fall 40 per cent this tion with local counterparts, espe- by 2025. “rebel province”, and has not ruled crease since 2016’s cumulative to- year worldwide. cially those engaged in information From Germany, the giant Sie- out the use of force to retake it. — tal of NT0 billion (US$ 7.2 billion) Tsai expects more Europe-Tai- and communication technology mens is set to expand a wind tur- AsiaNews Moneyval team begins evaluation visit to Vatican VATICAN: In a statement the Holy vention of money laundering and See Press Office said the visit “is terrorism financing,” the statement held in the context of the Fifth said. Evaluation Round, agreed upon It further explained, “The cur- in 2019, to which all the member rent evaluation for the Holy See is a jurisdictions of Moneyval are sub- regular part of a process that began jected.” with the first on-site visit, in 2012, The 47-member Council of Eu- and the subsequent adoption of the rope, which is distinct from the Mutual Evaluation Report of the 27-member European Union (EU), Holy See, of July 4, 2012, followed was set up in 1949 to promote de- by the First Progress Report, of Dec mocracy and protect human rights 9, 2013, the Second Progress Re- and the rule of law in the continent. port, of Dec 8, 2015, and the Third Cardinal Pietro Parolin addressing the Moneyval evaluation team in the Vatican. (Vatican Media) Moneyval is the official name of Progress Report, of Dec 6, 2017.” fort to build the civilisation of love, their intended purposes and ethical for the Works of Religion (IOR), the Council of Europe's Committee Vatican Secretary of State, Car- founded on the universal values of dimension. commonly referred to as the ‘Vati- of Experts on the Evaluation of An- dinal Pietro Parolin, welcomed the peace, solidarity, justice, and lib- “In the fight against money laun- can Bank’ cannot have as its prima- ti-Money Laundering Measures and Moneyval evaluation team, reiter- erty.” dering and the financing of terror- ry operating principle the greatest the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ ating the commitment and engage- Unlike other states whose econo- ism,” Cardinal Parolin said, the possible profit but rather “princi- CFT). The monitoring body makes ment of the Holy See and Vatican mies are aimed at creating wealth Vatican’s own Financial Informa- ples compatible with the norms of its assessment against the global City State to combating money and prosperity for their respective tion Authority (FIA) is responsible morality, consistent efficiency and standards of the Financial Action laundering and the financing of ter- national communities, the Vatican for oversight and regulation of its praxis that reflect its specific- na Task Force (FATF), of which it is a rorism. Secretary of State said, that the financial sector. It is against this ture”. leading associate member. Speaking to the group, he said funds managed by the Holy See and backdrop that the engagement of Cardinal Parolin expressed ap- “The scope of this phase of eval- that the spiritual nature and mis- the Vatican City State are chiefly the Holy See and Vatican City State preciation for Moneyval’s interven- uations is to assess the effectiveness sion of the Holy See, which, unlike directed to works of religions and must be understood, with regard to tions and recommendations, saying of the legislative and institutional other states, is not based upon its charity. Nevertheless, the funds Moneyval’s evaluation measures. its visits help IOR and every other measures adopted by the jurisdic- “symbolic” territorial sovereignty, managed by the Holy See and the Cardinal Parolin recalled Pope Holy See agency keep focussed on tions in recent years for the pre- seeks to advance “the common ef- Vatican City State must conform to Francis’ statement that the Institute these principles. — ICN HERALD October 4, 2020 World 9 Cardinal Pell returns to Rome ROME: Cardinal George Pell of Australia, who insisted on Cardinal Pell’s right to be presumed contact with him said. returned to the Vatican on Sept 30, is likely to innocent — in dubio pro reo — until the judi- “His health is brilliantly good, he has lost remain there at least until June 8, 2021, when cial process had reached its completion. weight [in prison], and his knees are fine [after he turns 80. His long-term plan, however, is to After his release from prison in April, Car- operations],” the source added. return to Sydney, according to a source close dinal Pell “received encouragement” from Cardinal Pell no longer has any official po- to the cardinal, who asked not to be identified. some high-level Vatican officials “to return to sition or responsibilities in the Roman Curia. “His return to Rome has been planned for Rome,” the source said. His five-year term as prefect of the Secretariat the last three months. It was not a sudden de- Cardinal Pell’s return to Rome can be seen as for the Economy ended in February 2019, and cision,” the source said. He made clear the a vindication for the man who always claimed Pope Francis also terminated his membership cardinal’s return was in no way linked to Car- he was innocent of the charges levelled against of the Council of Cardinal Advisors in October dinal Angelo Becciu’s recent renunciation, as him. 2018. suggested by Italian and other media in reports Many people in Australia have wondered Prior to his judicial odyssey and imprison- that recalled how the two had clashed strongly how Cardinal Pell could leave at this time un- ment in Australia, he was on the board (the over the reform of Vatican finances. Cardinal der a widespread coronavirus travel ban. It is Vatican uses the term “congregation”) of sev- Becciu had blocked some of Cardinal Pell’s believed that he was granted an exemption, eral Roman Curia offices and was considered initiatives. but the Australian Border Force “refused to “a big hitter.” The Vatican’s 2019 Yearbook Some media even suggested that Pope Fran- comment on whether Cardinal Pell had been (Annuario Pontifico), for example, listed him cis had asked Cardinal Pell to return to Rome, granted an exemption to travel,” when asked. Cardinal George Pell as a board member of three important congre- but there is no evidence for this assertion. In In any case, the 79-year-old cardinal depart- was to come back for a short time, pack up his gations: for bishops, for the evangelisation of fact, shortly after his acquittal and release from ed from Sydney on the roughly 24-hour flight belongings, vacate the apartment and then re- peoples, and for the institutes of consecrated prison, Cardinal Pell had said last April that “I to Rome on Sept 29. From there, he was due to turn to Sydney, but some Vatican officials and life and societies of apostolic life. think I might go to Rome for a while.” be driven directly to the Vatican’s health ser- friends in Rome appear to have convinced him In these roles he was involved in the ap- Pope Francis will receive Cardinal Pell in vice unit for a COVID-19 test. Whatever the to stay longer “for his own sake, for the sake pointment of bishops in dioceses across the audience in due course. Although the two dif- result, he will spend at least some days in isola- of his family, and for the sake of the Church.” globe, except for those of the Eastern Catho- fer significantly on some theological questions tion before meeting people. “He could be here until his 80th birthday lic Churches, and in overseeing men and and on the vision of the Church, Francis has Cardinal Pell still has the Vatican apartment next June, and perhaps even longer, but his women religious orders worldwide. He was always stood by him in these years when the that was assigned to him as prefect of the Sec- long-term plan is to return to Sydney, where he also a board member of the Pontifical Coun- pope saw that Cardinal Pell was already being retariat of the Economy, and many of his per- has a house, and where he intends to spend the cil for Promoting New Evangelisation. — By judged guilty by much of the media. Francis sonal belongings are there. His original plan last part of his life,” a source who is in frequent Gerard O’Connell, America Rebuffed by the Vatican, Pompeo Come and see is the theme meets critics of Pope Francis of the 55th World Day of ROME: The Donald Trump administration Social Communications has failed in its bid to try and influence the Vatican’s dealings with China, with one of Pope Francis’ most senior advisers accusing the US of trying to exploit the pontiff. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had hoped to meet Francis on his current visit to Rome but was turned down, with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin explaining that the Pope does not receive political figures ahead of elections — a ref- erence to the upcoming US presidential elec- tion on Nov 3. Instead, Pompeo met with critics of the VATICAN: “Come and see” (Jn 1:46), that munications, which will be held in May Pope at a conference organised by the US is communicating by meeting people how 2021.” government ahead of a meeting with Cardi- and where they are, is the theme Pope Fran- “Communicating, encountering people as nal Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, cis chose for the 55th World Day of Social and where they are” is the subtitle. “This is the Vatican’s No 2 diplomat. Communications, to be held in 2021. the Gospel passage: ‘The next day, after Je- Pompeo has been strident in his criticism The words Come and see by the Apostle sus had decided to leave for Galilee, He met of the Vatican’s willingness to renew its US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Philip, reads the press release from the Vati- Philip and said, ‘Follow me’. Philip came September 2018 deal with Beijing on the is due to be concluded — or the old deal ex- can Press Office, “are central to the Gospel. from the same town, Bethsaida, as Andrew appointment of bishops that has resulted in tended — on the day that Pompeo arrived in The Christian proclamation, before words, and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said studied silence from the Holy See. Rome. is made up of looks, testimonies, experi- to him, ‘We have found Him of whom Mo- In a recent opinion piece for in the con- Still, Pompeo’s critique had some merit ences, encounters and closeness rather than ses in the Law and the prophets wrote, Jesus servative Catholic magazine First Things, he as the Vatican has continued its silence on words. In a word, life. These very words, son of Joseph, from Nazareth’. Nathanael was highly critical of Pope Francis’ papacy China’s human rights abuse amid serial rev- from the Gospel of John (1:43-46) were said to him, ‘From Nazareth? Can anything “Two years on, it’s clear that the Sino- elations in recent weeks about the extent of chosen by Pope Francis as the theme of the good come from that place?’ Philip replied, Vatican agreement has not shielded Catho- concentration camps in Xinjiang, a similar 55th Message for the Day of Social Com- ‘Come and see’. — AsiaNews lics from the [Chinese Communist] Party’s program in Tibet, the hiring out of Uyghur depredations, to say nothing of the party’s workers as effective wage slaves and the horrific treatment of Christians, Tibetan continuing repression of freedom in Hong Buddhists, Falun Gong devotees and other Kong. religious believers,” Pompeo wrote. Some observers see Pompeo’s decision to “Now more than ever, the Chinese people wade into Vatican-China relations and make need the Vatican’s moral witness and author- a quick visit to Rome as an attempt to show ity in support of China’s religious believers.” that “President Trump is on the side of those Cardinal Parolin criticised Pompeo’s conservative American Catholics who worry choice of media outlet, saying: “Where about the Church’s direction under Francis things are published is also significant.” and think he is soft on China,” as The New “We know that interpretation comes not York Times put it. only from the text but also from the con- Archbishop Gallagher, the Vatican's sec- text. Therefore, the context already tells you retary for relations with states, was asked if something regarding the intensions of the Pompeo was trying to manipulate the Vati- person who wrote and published this arti- can for political purposes and replied: “Well, cle,” Cardinal Parolin said. that’s one of the reasons that the Holy Father In what may or may not be a coincidence, is not receiving the secretary of state.” the Vatican made public its pitch to Beijing Whatever the case, the Vatican is not for to extend the still-secret deal for another pe- turning on China for the foreseeable future. riod before Oct. 22 when a new agreement — By Michael Sainsbury, ucanews.com 10 Editorial HERALD October 4, 2020 HERALD Vatican diplomacy has October 4, 2020 Everything is never been concerned connected — Pope’s idea of solidarity ope Francis has made solidarity one of the foundations of his with regime change Ppontificate and his new encyclicalFratelli Tutti is sure to be one of the most important texts on this theme. t is fair to say that there are now Catholics – especially those in the attack. It comes during a presidential “Where is your brother?” more critical voices against the United States – should reject it or at campaign where Trump’s opponent is It is Pope Francis who is citing these words from the Book of IVatican-China deal – both inside least be aware of its long-term costs. a Catholic whom conservative Catho- Genesis. He has only recently been elected to the Chair of Peter and outside the Church – than there The Holy See is a subject of inter- lics accuse of not being a real Catholic and is now standing under a blazing sun, near an altar set up in a were in 2018. national law and an active participant because of his record on abortion. small boat made of blue, green, white and red driftwood. Vatican diplomats are walking a in international relations. In the last This extremely delicate political Less than four months after his election, he has chosen for very fine line. But Holy See diploma- century there have been repeated at- moment in the United States is anoth- his very first trip outside of Rome to travel to Lampedusa. This cy with authoritarian governments in tempts, especially by the United States er reason why the country’s Catholic is where migrants have perished at sea while trying to cross the majority non-Christian countries has and others, to reduce its role to being bishops have been totally silent about Mediterranean. always been about finding a way to let “chaplain” of the western hemisphere. Mike Pompeo’s extraordinary inter- “These brothers and sisters of ours were trying to escape dif- local Catholic communities survive Even during the Cold War, the Holy ference in the affairs of the Holy See. ficult situations to find some serenity and peace,” Francis says, in extremely challenging times. It has See was very aware that an alignment But there is also an evident asymme- standing at an ambo decorated like the helm of a ship. never been about regime change. with the United States would be dan- try at work when it’s about measuring “They were looking for a better place for themselves and Being a Catholic Church in today’s gerous for the future of the Catholic the Catholic bona fides of a Catholic their families, but instead they found death,” history‘s first Latin global world means making difficult Church. This awareness has served x like Biden on one side and the Trump American and Jesuit Pope continues. choices. The Holy See and the papacy Vatican diplomacy well ever since, in- administration on the other. A few minutes later, he says grimly: “We have lost a sense of have limited options in China. cluding under Pope Francis. One can only imagine how the bish- responsibility for our brothers and sisters.” But what the US Secretary of State ops would have challenged the Oba- Since his visit to Lampedusa seven years ago, Francis has Mike Pompeo did not consider – or The Holy See: the world’s oldest ma administration if it had dared to never stopped rolling out this thread of solidarity. what he has chosen to ignore – is that diplomatic service interfere in Vatican affairs in a similar Sometimes he does this even more explicitly, as in his first the Holy See and the pope stand as a This is one way to explain the Vati- way. message for the World Day of Peace on January 1, 2014. The sovereign entity. can’s silence on the “Abraham Ac- On the other hand, this attack of title of the text sounds like a programme - Fraternity, the Foun- US President Donald Trump and cords” between the United Arab Emir- the Trump administration against the dation and Pathway to Peace. And the Pope describes solidarity Pompeo do not really care about the ates and the State of Israel, which was Vatican is yet more evidence that the as an “essential human quality“. ability of the Catholic Church to pres- signed in Washington on September most outspoken anti-papists today are This is only a question of recognising that the common soli- sure governments on human rights. 15 under the auspices of the Trump not American Protestants or secular- darity of humanity finds its source in the same God. Francis is Just look at Pompeo’s pressure on administration. ists but, instead, Roman Catholics convinced that it is also necessary to grasp the very concrete the Vatican from a non-US point of The Holy See has the oldest diplo- aligned to Trump’s Republican Party. consequences — chief among them, peace between peoples. view and one acquires quite a differ- matic service in the world and enjoys In America we constantly hear But the 83-year-old Pope also sees solidarity as a principle to ent perspective. relations with almost all countries loud and cheap cries of “anti-Cathol- be implemented at the political level so that everyone has “ac- For instance, Christians in the Mid- around the globe. icism”, levied, for example, against cess to capital, services, educational resources, healthcare and dle East could reasonably ask what It is also a permanent observer to those who want to ask some questions technology”. sort of impact the forging of diplo- many international organisations. about the religious views of a Catho- Solidarity is thus an essential ingredient for “defeating pov- matic relations between the Vatican It rightly views as unseemly any at- lic judge likely to serve for decades erty”. and Washington in 1984 has had on tempts to reduce its international role on the highest court of a multicultural In Laudato Si’, his 2015 social encyclical, Francis insists US foreign policy in their part of the to that of handmaid of the foreign pol- and multi-religious country. that “genuine care for our own lives and our relationships with world. icy of another country. But this anti-Catholic cry has re- nature is inseparable from fraternity, justice and faithfulness to If the Vatican made human rights And that position is even more mained mute when the top diplomat others”. compliance a precondition of its en- firmly held by Francis, a Jesuit from of the Trump administration threatens And from this stems the principle he repeats often in the text gagement with other States, it would Argentina who has reoriented the geo- the freedom of the Pope and Vatican and has continued to reiterate ever since: that “everything is not only lose all influence in the politics of the Catholic Church from diplomacy in an unprecedented way. connected”. world: it couldn’t have relations with a firm anchoring in Europe and North Conservative Catholics in the Unit- The Pope made this link again in September 2015 while tak- the United States. America towards the global south and ed States coined the expression “caf- ing part in an interreligious meeting at the 9/11 Memorial in Integral to the context of Secre- Asia. eteria Catholicism” to accuse liberals New York City. tary Pompeo’s attack on Holy See It is extraordinary that during of picking and choosing what they He evoked the hours following the September 11 attack. “No diplomacy is the fact that a majority the last few weeks of a presidential like from the menu of Catholic teach- one thought about race, nationality, neighbourhoods, religion or of those critical of the Vatican-China campaign, the US Secretary of State ing. politics,” he said. “It was all about solidarity, meeting immedi- deal come from the United States. would try to put pressure on the diplo- Now it has become clear that there ate needs, brotherhood. It was about being brothers and sisters”. And many of these are US Catholics macy of the Holy See, particularly in also exists a cafeteria anti-Catholi- Fraternity was summoned again in the historic joint docu- that have been critical of Pope Fran- the manner in which he did so – in the cism, where conservative Catholics ment that Francis and Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of cis’ pontificate on a range of theologi- pages of a magazine like First Things choose from the menu of anti-Cathol- Al-Azhar University, issued on February 4, 2019, in Abu Dhabi. cal and moral issues since the very that has been the most influential and icism what they find ideologically ex- “Faith leads a believer to see in the other a brother or sister to first months of his tenure in 2013. best connected voice of the high-brow pedient. be supported and loved,” the document says. and intellectual – yet virulent – anti- This criticism of papal diplomacy It is therefore natural that Pope Francis adapted this concept A dangerous and cynical game Francis sentiment in the Anglosphere. must be read in the context of the his- throughout the health crisis of COVID-19, making it the foun- But, let’s be clear, the Trump admin- But the Holy See has never shown tory of anti-papal rhetoric in Ameri- dation of human dignity, the common good, the preferential op- istration has no moral or theological much interest in looking like it was can history and of the contempt that tion for the poor and the universal destination of goods. concerns about the Vatican-China following the orders of Washington or the peculiar ecumenism of the alli- It is expected that the Pope will continue to unfold these con- agreement. Its interest is purely politi- of any foreign government, especially ance between white Evangelicals and cepts in his upcoming encyclical Fratelli Tutti, which he signed cal. when these orders are formulated in conservative Catholics has shown to- on Saturday October 3 in Assisi at the tomb of papal namesake, This is another example of the ad- public and at a sensitive time. wards Pope Francis since 2013. St Francis. ministration’s cynical use of religion It is a lesson in independence that Communion with the Pope and the — By Loup Besmond de Senneville, for political purposes. the papacy learned the hard way ex- global Catholic community are condi- LCI (https://international.la-croix.com/) Beginning at the domestic level actly 150 years ago – on Sept 20, 1870 tional, because the domestic political and now moving to the international – with the fall of the Papal States after agenda of one political party always HERALD — The Catholic Weekly arena, tensions between Washington ten centuries of existence. trumps ecclesiology. — By Massimo Jointly published by the and the Vatican have now risen to an Faggioli, LCI (https://international. Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, unprecedented level since the election The US Catholic bishops: silent la-croix.com/) Diocese of Malacca Johore, Diocese of of Donald Trump. and afraid Penang and Diocese of Keningau This attempt to undermine Vatican Will Mike Pompeo succeed where l Massimo Faggioli is professor of Editor: Fr Lawrence Andrew, SJ HERALD, 5, Jalan Robertson, 50150, KL diplomacy is another attempt to signal Steve Bannon failed? That is, will his theology and religious studies at Vil- Tel: 03-20268290/20268291; the gap between the diplomacy of the attacks on Pope Francis and the Vati- lanova University. His most recent Fax: 03-20268293 Holy See and the Trump administra- can rally a new sacred alliance against book is The Liminal Papacy of Pope Online: www.heraldmalaysia.com. tion's dream of a new Cold War. the international order? Francis. Moving toward Global E-mail: [email protected] This is a very dangerous game. And For sure, this is an unprecedented Catholicity (Orbis). HERALD October 4, 2020 Focus 11 World Mental Health Day — October 10, 2020 WHO to host a global advocacy event orld Mental Health Day is ob- Mental Health — world leaders, mental al leaders about why they are making served on October 10 every health experts and celebrity guests will mental health a priority; Wyear, with the overall objective join WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros l hear first-hand why internation- of raising awareness of mental health is- Adhanom Ghebreyesus, to tell the world ally-renowned artists have become sues around the world and mobilising ef- what we can all do to improve our men- mental health advocates and listen to forts in support of mental health. tal health and how we can help make their advice for those who are strug- The Day provides an opportunity sure that quality mental health care is gling; and for all stakeholders working on mental available to everyone who needs it. l listen to critically-acclaimed mu- health issues to talk about their work, During the event, which will be sicians perform some of their most and what more needs to be done to make streamed live on major social media popular music. mental health care a reality for people channels, you will: worldwide. l learn how WHO, together with its How to watch the Big Event This year, the World Health Organisa- partners, is helping improve the mental Tune in on one of WHO’s social media tion will, for the first time ever, host a health of people in countries through- channels: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, global online advocacy event on mental out the world; YouTube and TikTok channels from health. At this event — the Big Event for l hear from national and internation- 10.00pm to 1.00am Malaysian time. Mental Health Myths and Facts

Myth: Mental health problems Myth: Children don’t experience mental Myth: People with mental health don’t affect me. health problems. problems are violent and unpredict- Fact: Even very young able. Myth: People with mental health Fact: Mental health problems are actually children may show early Fact: The vast majority of people with needs, even those who are man- very common. In 2014, about: warning signs of mental aging their mental illness, can- l One in five American adults experi- mental health problems are no more likely health concerns. These to be violent than anyone else. Most people not tolerate the stress of holding enced a mental health issue mental health problems down a job. l One in 10 young people experienced with mental illness are not violent and only are often clinically di- Fact: People with men- a period of major depression three to five per cent of violent acts can be agnosable, and can be a tal health problems are l One in 25 Americans lived with a attributed to individuals living with a se- product of the interaction just as productive as serious mental illness such as schizophre- rious mental illness. In fact, people with of biological, psychologi- other employees. nia bipolar disorder, or major depression severe mental illnesses are over 10 times cal and social factors. Employers who hire Suicide is the 10th lead- more likely to be victims of violent crime Half of all mental health disorders show first people with men- ing cause of death in than the general population. You probably signs before a person turns 14 years old, and tal health problems the United States. It know someone with a mental health prob- three quarters of mental health disorders begin report good attend- accounts for the loss lem and don’t even real- before age 24. ance and punctual- of more than 41,000 ise it, because many Unfortunately, less than 20 per cent of chil- ity as well as moti- American lives each people with mental dren and adolescents with diagnosable mental vation, good work and job tenure year, more than dou- health problems health problems receive the treatment they on par with or greater than other em- ble the number of are highly active need. Early mental health support can help a ployees. lives lost to homicide. and productive child before problems interfere with other de- members of our When employees with mental health velopmental needs. communities. problems receive effective treatment, it can result in: Myth: Personality weakness or charac- l Lower total medical costs ter flaws cause mental health problems. l Increased productivity People with mental health problems can l Lower absenteeism snap out of it if they try hard enough. l Decreased disability costs Fact: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being lazy or weak and many people need help to get better. Many factors contribute Myth: I can’t do anything for a per- to mental health problems, including: son with a mental health problem. l Biological factors such Fact: Friends and loved ones can make a as genes, physical illness, big difference. Only 44 per cent of adults injury or brain chemistry with diagnosable mental health problems l Life experiences and less than 20 per cent of children and such as trauma or a adolescents receive needed treatment. history of abuse Friends and family can be important in- l Family history of fluences to help someone get the -treat mental health problems ment and services they need by: People with mental health l Reaching out and letting them problems can get better and know you are available to help many recover completely. l Helping them access mental health services l Learning and sharing the facts Myth: Prevention doesn’t work. It is im- about mental health, especially if you possible to prevent mental illnesses. hear something that isn’t true Fact: Prevention of mental, emotional and be- l Treating them with respect, just as havioural disorders focuses on addressing known you would anyone else risk factors such as exposure to trauma that can Myth: There is no hope for people Myth: Therapy and self-help l Refusing to define them by their di- affect the chances that children, youth and young with mental health problems. Once are a waste of time. Why agnosis or using labels such as “crazy” adults will develop mental health problems. Pro- a friend or family member devel- bother when you can just moting the social-emotional well-being of chil- ops mental health problems, he or take a pill? dren and youth leads to: she will never recover. Fact: Treatment for mental l Higher overall productivity Fact: Studies show that people with men- health problems varies de- l Better educational outcomes tal health problems get better and many pending on the individual l Lower crime rates recover completely. Recovery refers to and could include medica- l Stronger economies the process in which people are able to tion, therapy, or both. Many l Lower health care costs live, work, learn and participate fully in individuals work with a l Improved quality of life their communities. There are more treat- support system during l Increased lifespan ments, services and community support the healing and recovery l Improved family life systems than ever before, and they work. process.

(Source: Freepik & Shutterstock/Benjavisa Ruangvaree Art) 12 Varia HERALD October 4, 2020 The hidden face of evil …

e tend to be naïve about same force (or person) but the nessing a dangerous breakdown The renowned Czech novelist evil, at least as to what different names refer to the dif- of trust and civility, coupled with Milan Kundera highlights this Wit looks like in every- ferent ways in which evil works. a massive erosion of simple hon- when he shares his strong fear of day life. Our picture of evil has Devil, in Greek, means to slander esty. The devil must be smiling. “the great march”, the sick fever been falsely shaped by images and to tear things apart. Ironical- Where do we see the satanic at that so generally infects a crowd taken from mythology, religious ly, Satan means almost the exact work? Everywhere as well. More and, soon enough, has them cults, and from books and mov- opposite. It means to unite things, and more we are retreating into chanting “Release to us Barab- ies that portray evil as personi- but in a sick and malevolent way. tribes, gangs, with those others bas! And as for Jesus, crucify fied in sinister spiritual forces. So evil works in two ways: the who think like us and have the him!” This is the face of satan Demons haunt houses, appear devilish works by dividing us same self-interests to protect. in ordinary life, the actual face at séances, are summoned up by from each other, tearing us apart, While this can be a good thing, of evil. Ouija boards, contort bodies, and and having us habitually slander it’s not good when we unite in We need to name this today are exorcised by the sprinkling each other so that community is ways that are rooted in self- as we see the ever-intensifying of holy water. Whatever evil forever being torn apart through serving ideologies, economic and bitter polarisation inside our does reside inside this concept of jealousy and accusation. The sa- Fr Ron Rolheiser privilege, racism, sexism, false families, communities, neigh- demonic forces (and you can be- tanic, on the other hand, does the nationalism, envy, and hatred. bourhoods, cities and countries. lieve in them or not) is infinitely opposite, with the same result. these). When this happens, our group Factionalism, anger, bitterness, eclipsed by the ordinary face of The satanic unites us in a sick Where do we see the devilish ceases being a community and distrust, accusation and hatred evil which looks out at us from way, that is, through the grip of at work? Basically everywhere. becomes instead a mob, a sick are intensifying most every- newscasts, is daily manifest in mob hysteria, social hype, self- Today, most everywhere, you see one, which at the end of the day, where, even inside our own ordinary life, and is manifest too serving ideologies, racism, sex- persons sowing division, attribut- whatever its particular idiosyn- families where we are finding it in our own face on a given day. ism, envy, hatred and in a myriad ing false motives to others, call- cratic slogan, ends up chanting, harder and harder to sit down to- Mostly we are blind to the hid- of other malevolent ways so as to ing for them to be distrusted and as did the crowds on Good Fri- gether, to be civil with each oth- den evil that foments inside us, draw us into mob hatred, gang- ostracised. Indeed, this is almost day, “Crucify him! Crucify er, and talk through our political, tears communities apart, and eats rapes, lynchings, and crucifix- the dominant element we see in him!” It’s significant that in the social, and moral differences. away at God and goodness. The ions. It was satanic forces that our politics and in our social me- Gospels, almost every time the Sadly, even the deadly presence Gospels can help us understand engineered Jesus’ crucifixion. dia. The result is the breakdown word “crowd” is used, it’s used of a pandemic which threatens this. When we look at our world of community, the stalemate in pejoratively. Commentators tell all of us has worked to divide In the Gospels, the evil one has today, from politics to social me- our politics, the breakdown of us that almost without exception rather than unite us. two names because evil works in dia to what’s happening inside civility, the loss of respect for every time the word “crowd” ap- Evil doesn’t ordinarily have two ways. Sometimes the Gos- many of our religious circles, the meaning of truth, the smug pears in the Gospels it could be the face and feel of the devil in pels call the evil force “the Dev- we would have to be blind not belief that our own idiosyncratic preceded by the adjective “mind- Rosemary’s Baby; it has the face il” and other times they call it to see the powers of the “devil” narrative functions as truth, and less”. Crowds are mindless; and feel of this evening’s news- “Satan”. What’s the difference? and of “satan” at work (however the near universal neglect of ele- worse still, they generally have cast. — By Fr Ron Rolheiser, all In the end they both refer to the you personally define and picture mental charity. Today we are wit- a sick bent towards crucifixion. rights reserved Teenager Carlo Acutis’s incorrupt body is over for veneration in a glass tomb ROME: The tomb of Venerable for veneration in a glass tomb un- Carlo Acutis was opened for pub- til Oct 17, during a celebration of lic veneration Thursday ahead of Acutis’ life in Assisi. the computer-programming teen’s Acutis, who died of leukaemia in beatification. 2006 at the age of 15, was known A spokeswoman for Acutis’ be- for his computer-programming atification said that the entire body skills and his love of the Eucharist was present, but “not incorrupt.” and the Virgin Mary. “Today we … see him again in The heart of Acutis, which can his mortal body. A body that has now be considered a relic, will be passed, in the years of burial in As- displayed in a reliquary in the Ba- sisi, through the normal process of silica of St Francis in Assisi. His decay, which is the legacy of the mother said that his family had human condition after sin has re- wanted to donate his organs when moved it from God, the source of he died, but were unable to do so life. But this mortal body is des- because of the leukaemia. tined for resurrection,” Archbish- “Carlo is a boy of our time. A boy op Domenico Sorrentino of Assisi of the internet age, and a model of Carlo Acutis’ tomb is opened for public veneration in Assisi, Italy, Oct 1, 2020. (CNA photo courtesy of Assisi diocese) said at a Mass at the opening of the holiness of the digital age, as Pope Jesus, to bring to hearts and homes not point to itself, but to God,” we can feel holiness not as a distant tomb Oct 1. Francis presented him in his letter the announcement of true peace, Archbishop Sorrentino said. thing but as something very much The bishop explained that Acu- to young people around the world. that which quenches the thirst for Acutis’ tomb is open for public within every-one’s reach because tis’ body was “reassembled with The computer … has become a the infinite that inhabits the human veneration Oct 1-17 in Assisi to al- the Lord is the Lord of everyone.” art and love.” way of going through the streets of heart,” Sorrentino said. low as many people as possible to In the year before he died, the The teen's body will be available the world, like the first disciples of The rector for the Sanctuary of make a prayerful visit in the weeks Italian teen researched Eucharistic Spoliation in Assisi, where Acutis’ before and after his beatification miracles to create a website cata- tomb is located, said that recon- Oct 10, despite coronavirus meas- loguing and sharing this informa- struction work on Acutis’ face was ures limiting attendance. tion with others. necessary before the public view- In his interview, Ferreira lauded As part of the 17-day celebration ing of the tomb. Acutis as a witness that holiness is of Acutis’ beatification in Assisi, Acutis had brain haemorrhaging attainable for teenagers. two churches are hosting exhibi- at the time of his death, and he of- In the tomb, Acutis is dressed in tions of the Eucharistic miracles fered his suffering for the pope and the casual clothes he wore in daily and Marian apparitions catalogued the Church. life. While he was not buried in by Acutis. “His body was discovered to be this clothes, it is hoped that they Acutis’ tomb is in Assisi’s Sanc- fully integral, not intact, but inte- will give evidence of the teen’s tuary of the Spoliation, where a gral, having all its organs. Work life. young St Francis of Assisi is said was done on his face,” Fr Carlos “For the first time in history we to have cast off his rich clothes Acácio Gonçalves Ferreira said. will see a saint dressed in jeans, in favour of a poor habit. — By “In some way, his earthly face sneakers, and a sweater,” the rec- Courtney Mares, CNA will be seen again. But that face — tor said. Carlo’s mother, Antonia Salzano let us not forget — by now does “This is a great message for us, l Please turn to Pg 16 for more HERALD October 4, 2020 13 Preparations underway for World Mission Day orld Mission Day is traditionally constitute the Universal Solidarity Fund that “touched by the virus” and have shown “resil- celebrated on Oct 18, and both the the Pontifical Mission Societies collect every ience rooted in faith”. WCongregation for the Evangelisa- year to carry out their work in support of the “In this pandemic, we experience the loving tion of Peoples and the Pontifical Mission So- local Churches.” presence of Christ and we raise praise to Him cieties (PMS) are gearing up for this impor- In 2020, a special Emergency Fund was set so that He does not abandon us,” says Fr Pe- tant day in the life of the Church with a series up by Pope Francis in order for the Pontifi- ter Susaimanickam, a priest of the diocese of of initiatives on five continents. cal Mission Societies to help communities af- Thanjavur, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. They note that as the COVID-19 pandemic fected by COVID-19. Special missionary initiatives in Oceania continues around the world, “generosity does On the continent of Africa, in preparation are seeing young people as protagonists. not stop.” for World Mission Day, “meetings and mo- On the continent of Europe, the National Archbishop Protase Rugambwa, Secretary ments of prayer and formation are being held, Directions of the PMS have prepared print of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of without forgetting the proclamation of the and digital material to help Christian com- Peoples, says in a statement, “The missionar- Word through the visit that so many mission- munities also live the personal dimension of ies are there, alongside those who suffer, all aries and religious make to isolated villages.” mission. the more with the impact of the global crisis. In the Americas, PMS is involved in the Both the Congregation for the Evangeli- This is a favourable moment for the mission: production of material for animation, both sation of Peoples and the Pontifical Mission A missionary priest anointing the sick. we are called today to announce and give the printed and shared on the web. Social media Societies highlight that the Marian prayer of say “The celebration of World Mission Day is love of God above all where there is suffering, campaigns have also helped “to remember the the Rosary, throughout the month of mission- also an occasion for reaffirming how prayer, misery, and despair.” importance of personal offering as much as of ary October, broadcast via radio and on social reflection and the material help of -your of The organisations say, “In every continent, prayer.” media, will be prayed in thousands of com- ferings are so many opportunities to partici- the commitment to raise awareness continues Both the Congregation and PMS highlight munities, “at a distance” or “in person”. pate actively in the mission of Jesus in his for the special collection of Oct 18 which will the local communities in Asia that have been Quoting the words of Pope Francis, they Church.” — Vatican News Recite rosary to contain COVID-19 Rosary a shield of MANDALAY: Arch- human life. Mandalay Archdiocese to closely accom- bishop Marco Tin Win “It is time to love one another as Jesus pany the elderly and the sick through giving protection against of Mandalay (pic) has loves us and not to waste time with hatred, communion and confession as moral sup- urged Catholics to say ego and criticism of one another. It is time to port to the faithful. pandemic the rosary and prayers nurture the spirit of solidarity, sympathy and He called on Catholics to do one hour of IRELAND: A “Family Rosary Crusade” began in October to contain sharing,” he said. adoration on a daily basis, read books and on Oct 1 in Ireland and run during the month of the COVID-19 outbreak The 60-year-old prelate said every Catho- do one hour’s work such as planting trees, October, which is dedicated as the month of the which has affected mil- lic needs to have a sharing spirit and help gardening, collecting rubbish or cleaning Holy Rosary. lions globally. those who are most in need instead of nur- the church compound. The Archbishop of Ar- He urged all Catholics to recite the rosary turing jealousy and attacking people when Archbishop Tin Win asked the faithful to magh and Primate of All Ire- every night as a family or individually start- receiving aid from the government, the strictly obey COVID-19 guidelines from the land, Eamon Martin (pic) is ing from Oct 1 along with prayers to Our Church or private donors. health ministry in order to stem the spread inviting families to recite the Lady of Mary and St Joseph. He cited the example of the unity of peo- of the disease as Myanmar grapples with a Marian prayer against the “It is time to pray for one another, to show ple from all religions in responding to the second COVID-19 wave. Coronavirus. compassion to God’s love and mercy. It’s effects of Cyclone Nargis in May 2008. Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon has called Ireland has seen a surge in time to share what we have with those who “We overcame the challenges from the cy- on people to move to “compassion as our new cases of COVID-19 in face hardships due to COVID-19 and to of- clone through the solidarity and unity of all common religion” when the virus has de- recent weeks. The latest figures from the Irish fer a hand to one another,” Archbishop Tin believers,” the archbishop said. clared a war against humanity. Department of Health show there have been a Win said in a recorded video message on He said we all need to join hands to fight “We shall overcome as one people, one further 363 cases of COVID-19 in the country. Sept 30. the deadly virus through compassion. “Let nation. It is time to stop all conflicts. Let There was also one new death reported on He said the pandemic that people from all us nurture a spirit of helping each other by the brotherhood of humanity assert itself,” Sept 27 bringing the total number to 1,803. walks of life have been battling has taught a putting aside hatred and ego.” he said in a homily on Sept 27. — By John Total cases of the coronavirus in Ireland now valuable lesson about the precious value of The archbishop also urged priests from Zaw, ucanews.com stand at 35,740. In Northern Ireland, 424 new cases of COV- ID-19 were confirmed on Sept 28. The death Praying the mysteries of the rosary during the pandemic toll stands at 579. MANILA: Barely a month after the birthday ing that, as a human being, he appealed to his Speaking to Vatican Radio, Archbishop Ea- of the Blessed Virgin Mary comes the month Father to be spared from it. Yet his obedience mon Martin said the idea for the Crusade is of the rosary. The memorial of Our Lady of to God’s will overcame his pain. So does hu- to involve as many people as possible in this Rosary is celebrated every Oct 7. manity appeal for the long-awaited end to the “shield of protection” against COVID-19. More than 400 years later, the power of the scourge of the coronavirus. “I am very conscious of the fact that we’re in rosary is all the more emphasised by Pope Transcending the sorrowful mystery seems such an uncertain time,” he added. Francis who has emphasised the power of the to be an impossible dream in the Philippines, The Archbishop noted that many families rosary during this coronavirus pandemic. In which remains the country with the high- are concerned about their own wellbeing and a letter dated April 25, he said: “Contemplat- est number of COVID-19 cases in Southeast that of their loved ones. He also highlighted ing the face of Christ with the heart of Mary, Asia, where a huge number suffer the pangs of the impact the coronavirus has had on people’s our Mother will make us even more united as economic dislocation, where the government livelihoods. a spiritual family and will help us overcome response is poor and without direction, and Quoting Pope Francis’ Urbi et Orbi message this time of trial.” He has encouraged Catho- where human rights are trampled upon during from March of this year, he said, “We’re all in lics to pray the rosary during the whole month this supposedly crucial period of saving lives. the same boat and the storm is out there and of rosary. The luminous mystery finds its relevance we’re battling through, and we do not want to Especially now, when humanity is con- during this pandemic when everything seems feel alone, so the Rosary Crusade is an attempt fronted with the coronavirus pandemic, many obscure; when the long-awaited light at the to spread this blanket of prayer over all of us to Filipino families are praying the rosary not just end of the tunnel seems impossible; and when protect us … to keep us safe under the protec- during the months of May and October but on A woman praying the rosary as a response to the future seems nowhere to be found. tion of Mary during the month of October and a daily basis. The horrors of pandemic-related the COVID-19 pandemic. We need to work and pray harder for the on into the winter.” deaths, the daily cases of infections, the pan- nesses and deaths, exacerbated by violations much-needed light — clear governance, good The primate described the Rosary as a demic’s devastating multiple effects, especial- of human rights, are a daily occurrence and leadership, a viable plan on how to surpass this “pocket prayer book” which people can cling ly on the poor, and the uncertainty of what the where the long-awaited defeat of the virus is seemingly insurmountable crisis that the poor to every day of their lives. “It can be said at future may bring — all these have united the far from sight. bear the brunt of. As scientists burn their can- any moment of the day, and it’s also a beautiful faithful in supplication for the Blessed Moth- “Father, if you are willing, take this cup dles to find the elusive cure and vaccine acces- prayer for the home and for the family.” In the er’s intervention. away from me; yet not my will, but yours be sible to the poor of the world, so our collective Rosary, he said, “we are telling the story of the The sorrowful mystery is most pronounced done.” This prayer of Jesus in the Garden of prayer is imperative. — By Mary Aileen D. deepest mysteries of our faith.” — By Lydia in this dark night of the pandemic, where ill- Gethsemane manifested a pain so excruciat- Bacalso, ucanews.com O’Kane, Vatican News 14 HERALD October 4, 2020 Celebrating Mission Sunday very year, something spe- support missionaries everywhere cial happens on the next- in spreading the Good News. Eto-last Sunday of October. And by donating, we respond to World Mission Sunday joins all Christ’s call to feed the hungry Catholics of the world into one and clothe the naked. community of faith. As we pray and respond on At Mass that Sunday, we re- World Mission Sunday here at commit ourselves to our common home, we share in those celebra- vocation, through Baptism, to be tions taking place in every parish missionaries, through prayer, par- seminary, school and convent all ticipation in the Eucharist, and by over the world. Together with the giving generously to the collection Church of Christ on mission in the for the Society for the Propagation world, we are baptized and sent, of the Faith. providing the prayerful and finan- And every single donation from cial support necessary to bring the these worldwide Masses goes Lord’s mercy and concrete help to to support churches, hospitals, the most vulnerable communities schools and vocations in countries in the Pope’s missions. where the Church is new, young or In a world where so much di- poor. vides us, World Mission Sunday Every Catholic community, in rejoices in our unity as mission- every country, sends a powerful aries by our Baptism. And it pro- message of faith, hope and love vides an opportunity to support on this special day. the life-giving presence of the This is our chance to show love Church among the poor and mar- and solidarity to our global Church ginalised in more than 1,111 mis- family. Through our prayers, we sion dioceses. Laudato Si’: Missionaries in Malaysia lead the way issio held an online mission animation Fr Oniz Kihokolho MHM is Parish Priest Mwith their volunteers and supporters. for St Alphonsus’ Parish, Julau. Originally Held in two sessions, the event saw a great from Uganda, the missionary has created turnout. It was wonderful to see everyone a demonstration garden, where he grows even though we still can’t gather in person! pineapples, sweet potatoes, pawpaws, to- The theme of the event was Laudato Si’ matoes and passion fruit. He also rears – Pope Francis’ encyclical on care of our rabbits and chickens and uses their natural common home – which sees its fifth anni- waste for organic pesticide and fertilizer. versary this year. With His Holiness’ Sep- Fr Oniz shared: “A healthy environment tember prayer intention focusing squarely makes a healthy mission. As missionaries on the earth’s precious resources, and while we need to be in touch with nature … we the Christian world observes the Season of read the signs of the times.” Creation, now is the time to explore these The whole parish is involved in mini- vital issues. mising waste and becoming self sufficient. Parish volunteer Josephine explained that Lessons from our Missionary family the parish kitchen is becoming greener by We heard some truly inspiring stories from replacing plastic plates and cups with reus- our sisters and brothers in missionary dio- able ones made of stainless steel. Mem- ceses overseas. While many poor communi- bers of the Legion of Mary and some of the ties are hit hardest by the effects of climate young people in the parish grow flowers in change and environmental destruction, they recycled tyres for Parish functions, rather are rarely the cause of the problem. None- than buying cut ones. The youth of the par- theless, we were humbled and inspired to ish also run a recycling centre for plastic hear the innovations parishes overseas are and tins. creating and the hard work they’re putting Fr. Oniz is proud of the young people in in. There were plenty of lessons for parishes his Parish. He says: “The youth have seen Sr Anna tends the organic plants in Kanowit. here in England and Wales. the need to care for the environment, not trees, vegetables and flowers. Sister Anna just to preach the word of God but to be shares that they make their own organic Stewards of creation in Malaysia stewards of creation.” pesticides using fermented rice. She says: “The organic farm has fruit trees, vegeta- Caring for our Common Home bles and flowers. We make organic pesti- The Parish of St Francis Xavier in Kanowit cides and manure in this initiative.” is also making great headway in becoming greener. They’re leading the way on caring for our common home with organic farming methods, recycling, and upcycling rubbish. Parish priest Fr Mathews Olili MHM tells us: “As a missionary, I feel that the care of James Angkin, PPC Chairman our common home is not only an insepara- The Church is also investing in green ble part of the Missio Dei in which all the energy. James Angkin, the Parish Pastoral baptised share, but also a responsibility giv- Committee Chairman, tells us: en to each of us.” “We have started changing the bulbs in Kanowit town sits where the Kanowit the church premises to L.E.D. bulbs and are River and Rajang river meet. Just this year, in the process of installing solar power. This Kanowit has been subject to flooding and will also be used in the green technology landslides which cut the town off and forced toilet that we are in the process of building. I’m proud of the young people hundreds of people to flee their homes. But As a missionary, I feel that the It will use water harvested from rain, and in my Parish. The youth have Fr Mathews’ parish has been working to care of our common home is solar light and will have enough ventilation seen the need to care for the become safer, greener and more self suf- not only an inseparable part for fresh air.” environment, not just to preach ficient. They are planting trees around the of the Missio Dei in which all Malaysia is just one of the countries we the word of God but to be parish compound to prevent landslides and the baptised share, but also a heard from during the mission animation. stewards of creation. provide fruit for the parish. Meanwhile the responsibility given to each of us. We’ll be sharing more stories from our Mis- Fr Oniz Kihokolho MHM parish runs an organic farm producing fruit Fr Mathews Olili MHM sio Heroes soon. — missio.org.uk HERALD October 4, 2020 Children 15 LittleLittle CCatholicsatholics’ CCornerorner

Our Gospel reading this Sunday servants to collect his share of landowner will do to those men?” His own Son, Jesus. You know what is a story about a man who owned the harvest. The farmers who had “He will destroy those wicked men, they did to him, don’t you? That’s some land. He planted some grapes leased the land beat the servants and lease his land to someone else, right, they crucified him. God gave on the land and then rented it to and even killed one of them. They who will give him his share of the them a chance. He even gave them some other farmers who were to refused to give the landowner what fruit at harvest time” answered his a second chance — and a third. But work in the vineyard and take care was owed to him. listeners. when they rejected His Son, that of it for him. Part of the agree- Finally, he sent his own son, In this story that Jesus told, the was their last chance. He is our ment he had with these farmers thinking they would respect his landowner represents God. God last chance too — our only chance was that they would give him a son. But the son was murdered and first sent many prophets such as to have eternal life in Heaven with share of the crops. his inheritance was robbed. Noah, Moses and Isaiah to tell him. When it came time to harvest Jesus asked the men listening to people about His Love. But many the grapes, the landowner sent his His story, “What do you think the would not listen. Finally, he sent Aunty Eliz

Let's Colour

What did the bad tenants do when the owner’s son came to get the produce? Use the code below to find out.

Last of all, he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said (Matthew 21:37)

Philip and the Ethiopian (Ats 8)

Can you lead Philip to the Ethiopia They killed him. him. killed They

God’s Promise (Joshua 1:5) God made a promise to Joshua when it was his turn to become a leader. Trace the sentence below. How do you think Joshua felt after he heard God’s promise to him? HERALD

Social BEC Communication (1976) (1996)

Dialogue Formation (1976) (1976) INTEGRAL EVANGELISATION Poor Unity (1976) (1976)

Family (1996) Youth (1986) YOUTH YOUTHOctober 4, 2020 Youth scrutinising the Word of God OTA KINABA- nal communities gathered to scru- SOPs, like social distancing and LU: A group of tinise the Scriptures at the Sacred the wearing of face masks, we Heart Cathedral in Kota Kinabalu keep the gathering on a smaller K27 youth from the in November 2019. scale, having only youth from two Neocatechumenal com- Archbishop John Wong (pic) parishes,” said Fr Paul. munities of the parishes of was present at He said he fully agreed with the Sacred Heart Cathedral the monthly statement made by Pope Francis gathering of that reading the Bible, and pray- (SHC) and Stella Maris the youth in ing with it, is “the best vaccine” Church spent an hour November for the communities. studying the Scriptures on 2019, at the The Holy Father made that hall of the SHC statement at the Vatican during Sunday, Sep 20. parish centre. a meeting with members of the Young people from these com- The three priests who accom- Catholic Biblical Federation in munities in Sabah have been do- panied them at last Sunday’s April 2019. ing this on a monthly basis since meeting were SHC parish priest In order to avoid large gather- April 2019 following Pope Fran- Fr Paul Lo, Fr Saimon William A youth sharing his experience of scrutinising the Bible at the Sacred ings, youth from Neocatechume- cis’ declaration of dedicating the and Fr Joshua Liew who sang the Heart Parish Centre. nal communities in parishes at third Sunday in Ordinary Time to Gospel. ment. ing marked the resumption since Kepayan, Dontozidon and Tuaran the Word of God. Fr Lo gave the homily and later He said that such meetings had church gatherings are now al- would have Scrutatio of the Scrip- Archbishop John Wong spoke led the youth in the Vespers and stopped since the MCO was im- lowed. tures on other Sundays. — By Joe to the youth from Neocatechume- adoration of the Blessed Sacra- posed and that Sunday’s gather- “Since we have to observe the Leong, CS

ROME: Venerable Carlo Acutis, who will be to transform it into the extraordinary.” She noted that social media today has turned Instead of buying himself games, Carlo used beatified in Assisi Oct 10, is an example of a Like many teens, Carlo liked to play video into a “yardstick” by which people measure his little bit of spending money to purchase teen who used the internet to “influence” people games. His mom said he could teach young their happiness. things for the homeless in his area, like a sleep- to draw closer to God, his mother said. people today about how to properly enjoy them “Then you are happy if there is a ‘like,’ if ing bag. “Carlo was able to and other technology, without falling prey to the there is no ‘like’ you are unhappy,” she said. Her son did not like money to be wasted on use social media and pitfalls of internet and social media use. “Here, Carlo is saying: ‘Not me, but God.’” useless things, she said, and he did not care especially the internet “Because he understood that they were po- “Certainly today, in a society based about fashion or clothing brands. as an ‘influencer’ for tentially very harmful, very dangerous, he a little on the ephemeral, on the ex- Salzano said: “If I said to him: ‘Carlo, let’s God,” said Antonia wanted to be the master of these means, altation of the self, of the ego, and buy an extra pair of shoes,’ he would get angry Salzano. not a slave,” she said. Her son practised the where one forgets the existence [and reply] ‘Mom, one is enough. Let’s help the Carlo was 15 when virtue of temperance, she explained, so he of God, Carlo is certainly very poor.’” he died from leukemia “imposed on himself a maximum of one prophetic,” Salzano added. “He was a very, very simple guy. For him, in 2006. He was a com- hour per week to use these means of com- “Carlo reminds us of what is one pair of trousers was as good as another, a puter whiz who taught munication.” most important. The most impor- pair of shoes was as good as another,” Salzano himself how to pro- Antonia Salzano, “So for Carlo, for sure the first tant thing is to put God in the first place noted. gramme and created a mother of Carlo Acutis. point is to teach young peo- in our life.” In an interview in May 2019, Carlo’s mom website cataloguing the ple to have temperance,” Salzano explained that her said “since he was three or four years old, he world’s Eucharistic miracles. Salzano continued, “that son lived a very modern showed a strong interest in Christ, in the Holy Growing up in the centre of Milan, Carlo had is, to understand the life, but for him, “the faith Virgin. When we used to take a walk outside, he a deep love for the Eucharist. He never missed need to maintain the has always been the same used to always want to enter inside the church, daily Mass and adoration. He also prayed the proper autonomy for more than 2,000 years; to say hello to Jesus, and to send kisses to the rosary frequently and went to confession every and the need to be that is, that God exists, he cross.” week. always able to say became incarnate, died and Salzano said that she herself “was not the From age 11, he started helping out teach- ‘no, enough,’ to not rose again for us.” ideal model of a Catholic mother” when her ing catechism to kids at his parish, and he was become a slave.” “So Carlo is also a mes- son was born, and “was quite ignorant in faith always helping the poor and homeless in his Salzano said that senger of this ... But bringing things.” But through Carlo’s influence, she neighbourhood. Carlo would say it it into what is the modern came back to the faith. According to Salzano, Carlo lived ordinary was about balance. If world of young people, so he “So little by little I started to get closer to the things in an extraordinary way. someone spends his or her definitely has a lot to teach,” Church. I started to go back to Mass. And this “Obviously, being a boy of our times, he ex- life only following “influenc- she said. was actually because of Carlo. Carlo was for me perienced what all the young people of his gen- ers,” they might only learn Another lesson he can show a kind of little ‘Saviour,’” she said.. — By Han- eration have — so, computers, video games, about what outfit to wear others is the good which can be nah Brockhaus, CNA football, school, friends...” These things might and “they completely forget done right in one’s own neigh- feel common to us, she said, but “he managed about God,” she said. bourhood. l Turn to Pg 12 for more HERALD October 4, 2020 Youth 17 Compassion in the time of COVID-19 KUALA LUMPUR: An online Games Night was organised by the Youth Ministry of St Joseph’s Church on Sept 19. It was a small and intimate get-together where we were able to catch up with one another, pray, share and have a bit of fun! We kicked it off with a simple opening prayer, followed by scripture reading from Luke 8:4-15: The Parable of the Sow- er. We had a fruitful re- flection time, and as we each took turns A file photo of a SJC youth gathering. to share, this par- young people have experi- often as they want because they have to save Our little Games Night reminded us that ticular parable struck enced many struggles. most of their data for online classes. Screen being able to spend time with each other is a question — how do The COVID-19 out- fatigue is also another issue some of us strug- a gift and encouraged us to continue reach- we, as youth leaders, break has been a difficult gle with because of our back-to-back online ing out to the other youths from our parish persevere in showing time for us. Due to the classes. as well as those beyond the parish. The Par- love and compassion to current circumstances, It has definitely been a challenging time for able of the Sower also reminded us that we the young people in our some of us face financial our youth team and community. Neverthe- just need to continue sowing seeds, nurturing community in the middle difficulties and struggle less, we never stopped reaching out to each them with love despite the obstacles and dif- of a pandemic? Especial- with having to work other. We set constant reminders that we have ficulties we face, trusting that in God’s time, ly when it seems like there long hours. We even to continue being there for each other. We there will be good fruit. And so, we look for- is little good fruit despite have teammates working texted each other, asked about each other’s ward to continuing our ministry and mission, all our hard work. two jobs, seven days a week just to keep day, had frequent chats, prayed and played to be compassionate and present in whatever Here’s a little introduc- their families afloat with a roof above their games together online. More importantly, we little way we can! tion about our youth team: we are a collection heads and food on the table. Some have par- tried our best to be present for each other in “What gain have the workers from their of young people from diverse backgrounds. ents who have lost their jobs and so they have these trying times. Through love and com- toil? I have seen the business that God has We are of different ethnicities and nation- to work to help their families stay financially passion, we can stay connected to each other given to everyone to be busy with. He has alities. Our most recent teammates are from stable. Others do not have sufficient Internet and live up to the Word of God where we are made everything suitable for its time…” Ec- Myanmar! However, since the MCO, our data to join our virtual youth gatherings as called to love one another. clesiastes 3: 9-11. —By Clarissa Hoong Online campus: adapting to the new norm Campus students share how their hroughout the pandemic, his situation has studies have been interrupted by “Tthe transition from learning “Thad an impact on the COVID-19 pandemic. face-to-face to online learning has my learning. These are been a shock. Consequently, the the last two semesters initial phase of adapting to the of my studies, and was so blessed to be able only just discuss in the circumstance was difficult I have lost a bit of “Ito return to my hometown Whatsapp group chat. If but later on I managed focus. Lessons are upon the advice of the univer- some of the group mem- to be accustomed to it. only online. For Ergo, I am not appalled me honestly, face sity. When the MCO first start- bers did not reply, this Lydiana Kantiu, ed, there were no classes or caused some difficul- by the changes. Instead, to face interac- University College Sabah lectures, even the online ties for us to com- I look forward to the im- Quinlan Jim Santos, tion between Foundation, Kota Kinabalu lectures could not be held plete the work. pact it has in the future.” IPG Kent, Tuaran students and lec- as many had difficulties As I am a third turers is more ef- accessing the internet. Harriet Paw Lih Mei, year student, I was fective because if there is anything difficult for So, it was a ‘holiday’ for University: University in the midst of doing me to understand, I or other friends can continue all the students. Kebangsaan Malaysia my final year project he events of 2020 be to ask and be monitored directly by the lecturer. Online lectures finally or so called thesis. “Tit locally or globally “For the Online Class, some students have began on April 27. At first, I was As a biology student, the research was not what I had antici- network coverage problems and this makes it so happy as I did not have to wake for my theses required laboratory pated. I guess no one was difficult for them to follow the class. up so early. I could just sleep un- work. Although I finished all the prepared for this. “I used to turn off the camera and mic so that I til 8.45am if the lectures began at laboratory work before the MCO, “I was able to spend could play with my mobile phone, watch televi- 9.00am. However, as time flew if there was more time, I could quality time to rest sion or even fall asleep while the lecturer is giv- I started to miss the time when have improved on my research. during the first few ing information on assignments that need to be all the lectures were conducted I also could not meet my super- months of the MCO done. Our faculty did not have any online exam face-to-face and we could just visor regularly. My thesis was Hilda Marie Ralphie, in my hometown and chose to give us work to replace the online ask questions freely and give re- supposed to be handed in in June Universiti Teknologi with my family. I felt exam. sponses to our professors without 2020, however, it has been post- PETRONAS (UTP) PENANG truly and genuinely “Apart from that, the challenge was when our any restrictions. poned to October. So, I have to blessed and was grate- research was interrupted because of COVID-19. Moreover, in terms of assign- struggle with my thesis for four ful enough that I still had a roof over my head This made it difficult for my friends and I to ments, some of the lecturers gave more months. and food was put on the table every day, without complete our theses. This demotivated me and loads of assignments and some In a nutshell, although I was so having to worry too much about making ends sometimes I felt hopeless about the study. But lecturers replaced the final exami- blessed to attend lectures online meet. I always thought of the verse Jesus once said nations with assignments. I would at home with family by my side, “When universities were allowed to reopen, I when His disciples were frightened during the rather attend the final examination some difficulties arose. We also was able to return to campus in July. Thus far, storm: “Be still!” (Mark 4:39) and at that mo- in the examination hall instead of could not experience fully our life has been quite manageable and I am still ment the storm subsided. Through this verse, doing all those assignments be- university life. I sincerely hope learning day by day how to responsibly adapt to I am able to conclude that all the challenges I cause even with Google I found and pray that this pandemic can the new norm, which includes: attending online face are an illustration of the storm and can be it difficult to complete my assign- be overcome by the introduction Masses and classes, playing my role to better calmed or eased through His presence in my ments. For the group assignment of vaccines in the future. Lord, society in this period of the COVID-19 pan- life. In fact, all the burdens that I feel at the mo- for some of the subjects, all the have mercy on us and on the demic, and, just as importantly — having more ment are a sweet burden that can teach me many group members could not meet up whole world. In Jesus name, I faith than fear in enduring trials big or small.” things to stay on track in my life as a student and to have the discussion and could pray. Amen. as a youth. God bless!!” 18 HERALD October 4, 2020 For more enquiries, please contact: Email: [email protected] m e m o r i a m Tel: 03-2026 8290 / 03-2026 8291 3rd Anniversary Dear Sister In Heaven In Ever Loving Memory of How lovely is your In Loving Memory of dwelling place, O Lord I sit here and ponder how very much I'd like to talk with you today of hosts! My soul longs, There are so many things indeed it faints for the That we didn’t get to say. courts of the Lord my I know how much you care for me And how much I care for you, heart and my flesh sing for And each time that I think of you joy to the living God. I know you'll miss me too. An angel came and took you by the hand, and said Even a sparrow finds a Your place was ready in Heaven, far above . . . home, and the swallow a And you had to leave behind, all those you dearly loved You had so much to live for, you had so much to do . . . nest for herself, where she It still seems impossible that God was taking you. may lay a young, at your And though your life on earth is past, in Heaven it starts anew altars, O Lord of hosts, my You'll live for all eternity, just as God has promised you. And though you’ve walked through Heaven’s gate king and my God. Happy Jermina De’ Cruz are those who live in your We are never far apart (Daughter of the most High King) For every time I think of you, house, ever singing your Arrived from the Lord: You’re right here, deep with-in my heart. praise. 3rd May 1968 Forever loved and cherished by: Returned to the Lord: Psalm 84: 1-4 Mum, brother, sisters, brothers-in-law, nieces, 6th October 2017 relatives and friends. 8th Anniversary In Loving Memory of Casket Paradise God saw he was getting tired & Funeral Care Sdn. Bhd.(311899-W) And a cure was not to be. SEBASTIAN VINCENT CULAS So he put his arms 15.03.1933 – 27.11.2015 around him PERSONAL ATTENTION AT ALL TIMES And whispered ALICE CULAS “Come with me.” 22.06.1936 – 18.01.2004 * Specialised In Christian Funerals With tearful eyes * Exclusive Handmade And Polished Wooden Casket we watched him suffer Two hearts met and bloomed * Restoration And Cosmetology And saw him fade away. uniquely into one. * British Trained & Qualified MBIE Embalming Service (Only One Although we loved him dearly, Leaving behind a fragrance of In Malaysia) We could not make him stay. * Member Of The European Association Of Embalmers Everlasting Love, Faith and Hope. A golden heart The beauty of which fills our lives * Private Chapel Of Rest And Coldroom Facilities stopped beating, * Economical, Budget Planned & 24 hrs Service Hardworking hands to rest; constantly with the sweetest of memories. God broke our hearts to prove to us May God’s Grace and perpetual light 19B, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Lama, shine upon them forever. Amen. TEL: 03-2148 5776, 2148 4855 He only takes the best. 50460 Kuala Lumpur. Melvin Dass FAX: 03-2143 1442 Lovingly remembered by Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by: H/P: 012-333 4899 / 012-333 4646 / 019-777 5537 Departed: Wife, children, family Children and families, relatives and loved ones. 10 October 2012 and friends. HERALD October 4, 2020 Saints of the Week & Short Readings 19 St Maria Faustina Kowalska Daily Short t Faustina’s name is forever linked to the annu- graces, nor revelations, nor raptures, Reading al feast of the Divine Mercy, the Divine Mercy nor gifts granted to a soul make it S Sunday, October 4 chaplet, and the Divine Mercy prayer recited each perfect, but rather the intimate union (Ezekiel 37:12-14) day at 3.00pm by many people. of the soul with God. These gifts are Born in what is now west-central Poland, He- merely ornaments of the soul, but The Lord says this: I am now go- lena Kowalska was the third of 10 children. She constitute neither its essence nor its ing to open your graves; I mean worked as a housekeeper in three cities before perfection. My sanctity and perfec- to raise you from your graves, joining the Congregation of the Sisters of Our tion consist in the close union of my my people, and lead you back Lady of Mercy in 1925. She worked as a cook, will with the will of God.” to the soil of Israel. And you will gardener and porter in three of their houses. Sr Maria Faustina died of tuber- know that I am the Lord, when I In addition to carrying out her work faithfully, culosis in Krakow, Poland, on Oct open your graves and raise you generously serving the needs of the sisters and the 5, 1938. Pope John Paul II beatified from your graves, my people. local people, Sr Faustina also had a deep interior her in 1993, and canonised her seven And I shall put my spirit in you, life. This included receiving revelations from the years later. and you will live, and I shall re- Lord Jesus, messages that she recorded in her di- settle you on your own soil; and ary at the request of Christ and of her confessors. Reflection you will know that I, the Lord, At a time when some Catholics had an image Devotion to God’s Divine Mercy have said and done this – it is of God as such a strict judge that they might be bears some resemblance to devotion the Lord who speaks. tempted to despair about the possibility of being to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In both Monday, October 5 forgiven, Jesus chose to emphasize his mercy and cases, sinners are encouraged not to Feastday: October 5 (James 2:12-13) forgiveness for sins acknowledged and confessed. despair, not to doubt God’s willing- Talk and behave like people “I do not want to punish aching mankind,” he once and water poured out after Jesus’ death. ness to forgive them if they repent. who are going to be judged by told St Faustina, “but I desire to heal it, pressing Because Sr Maria Faustina knew that the revela- As Psalm 136 says in each of its 26 the law of freedom, because it to my merciful heart.” The two rays emanating tions she had already received did not constitute verses, “God’s love [mercy] endures there will be judgement without from Christ’s heart, she said, represent the blood holiness itself, she wrote in her diary: “Neither forever.” — franciscanmedia.org mercy for those who have not been merciful themselves; but the merciful need have no fear St Bruno — of judgement. Tuesday, October 6 October 6 (1 John 4:14-15) his saint has the honour of having found- We ourselves saw and we tes- Ted a religious order which, as the saying tify that the Father sent his Son goes, has never had to be reformed because as saviour of the world. If any- it was never deformed. No doubt both the one acknowledges that Jesus founder and the members would reject such is the Son of God, God lives in high praise, but it is an indication of the him, and he in God. saint’s intense love of a penitential life in Wednesday, October 7 solitude. (Isaiah 61:10) Bruno was born in Cologne, Germany. He I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, became a famous teacher at Rheims, and was my soul shall exult in my God; appointed chancellor of the archdiocese at the for he has clothed me with age of 45. He supported Pope Gregory VII in the garments of salvation, he his fight against the decadence of the clergy, has covered me with the robe and took part in the removal of his own scan- of righteousness, as a bride dalous archbishop, Manasses. Bruno suffered adorns herself with her jewels. the plundering of his house for his pains. He had a dream of living in solitude and other. They met for Matins and Vespers each casions of publicity. However, Pope Clement Thursday, October 8 prayer, and persuaded a few friends to join day and spent the rest of the time in solitude, X extended his feast to the whole Church in (1 Peter 4:10-11) him in a hermitage. After a while he felt the eating together only on great feasts. Their 1674. Each of you has received a spe- place unsuitable, and through a friend, was chief work was copying manuscripts. cial grace, so, like good stew- given some land which was to become fa- Hearing of Bruno’s holiness, the pope Reflection ards responsible for all these mous for his foundation “in the Chartreuse” called for his assistance in Rome. When If there is always a certain uneasy question- different graces of God, put — from which comes the word Carthusians. the Pope had to flee Rome, Bruno pulled ing of the contemplative life, there is an even yourselves in the service of oth- The climate, desert, mountainous terrain, and up stakes again, and after refusing a bishop- greater puzzlement about the extremely peni- ers. If you are a speaker, speak inaccessibility guaranteed silence, poverty ric, spent his last years in the wilderness of tential combination of community and hermit in words which seem to come and small numbers. Calabria. life lived by the Carthusians. May we mir- from God; if you are a helper, Bruno and his friends built an oratory with Bruno was never formally canonised, be- ror Bruno’s quest for holiness and unity with help as though every action was small individual cells at a distance from each cause the Carthusians were averse to all oc- God. — franciscanmedia.org done at God’s orders; so that in everything God may receive the glory through Jesus Christ. St Denis and companions Friday, October 9 his martyr and patron of France is regarded as was, for a time, confused with the writer now called (2 Corinthians 1:3-5) Feastday: October 9 the first bishop of Paris. His popularity is due to Pseudo-Dionysius. T Let us give thanks to the God Patron Saint of: France a series of legends, especially those connecting him The best hypothesis contends that Denis was sent with the great abbey church of St Denis in Paris. He to Gaul from Rome in the third century and be- and Father of our Lord Jesus headed in the persecution under Emperor Valerius Christ, the merciful Father, the in 258. God from whom all help comes; According to one of the legends, after he was he helps us in all our troubles, martyred on Montmartre — literally, “mountain of using the same help that we martyrs” — in Paris, he carried his head to a village ourselves have received from northeast of the city. St Genevieve built a basilica God. Just as we have a share over his tomb at the beginning of the sixth century. in Christ’s many sufferings, so also through Christ we share in Reflection his great help. Again, we have the case of a saint about whom al- Saturday, October 10 most nothing is known, yet one whose cult has been (Philippians 2:14-15) a vigorous part of the Church’s history for centu- Do everything without complain- ries. We can only conclude that the deep impression ing or arguing, so that you may the saint made on the people of his day reflected a be innocent and pure, as God’s life of unusual holiness. In all such cases, there are perfect children who live in a two fundamental facts: A great man gave his life for world of corrupt and sinful peo- Christ, and the Church has never forgotten him— ple. You must shine among them a human symbol of God’s eternal mindfulness. — like stars lighting up the sky. franciscanmedia.org Evangelisation: The Laity’s Mission in the Church We pray that by the virtue of baptism, the laity, especially women, may participate more in areas of responsibility in the Church.

Download the Click To Pray updates now. THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY October 4, 2020 Pope appoints Apostolic Nuncio to Malaysia KUALA LUMPUR: Pope Francis ap- the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in Messages from our bishops pointed Archbishop Załuski as the Apos- Rome graduating with a Diploma in Dip- ith heartfelt gratitude, we thank our Holy tolic Nuncio for Malaysia and East Timor lomatic Science and a Doctorate in Canon “WFather for the new appointment of the and Apostolic Delegate to Brunei Darus- Law Apostolic Nuncio, as we pray for the safe arrival salam on Sept 28. He has served successfully in the Apo- of His Excellency Archbishop Wojciech Zaluski. Archbishop Wojciech Załuski (pic), who sotlic Nunciatures of Burundi, Malta, Wishing him blessings for his new mission.” — is currently Apostolic Nuncio to Burundi, Albania, Zambia, Sri Lanka, Georgia, Rt Rev Sebastian Francis, Bishop of Penang is set to be the second person to head the Ukraine, the Philippines, and Guatemala. Diocese Apostolic Nunciature in Malaysia. The 60-year old Archbishop is fluent in The first Apostolic Nuncio to Malay- Polish, English, French, Spanish, Italian is Grace, Most Rev Julian Leow, Archbishop sia, Archbishop Joseph Marino, arrived in and Russian. Hof Kuala Lumpur and President of the Ma- Malaysia in 2013 and ended his tenure last In July 2014, Pope Francis named him laysian Bishops’ Conference extends his heart- year when he was appointed president of Apostolic Nuncio to Burundi and titular felt congratulations to Msgr Zaluski on his new the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in archbishop of Diocletiana in Croatia. appointment and welcomes him to our beautiful Rome, which is where the Holy See’s dip- The date of his arrival in Malaysia has country of Malaysia on behalf of the Conference lomats are trained. yet to be announced. of Bishops. The Apostolic Nunciature is the diplo- Archbishop Zaluski would present his e thank our Holy Father for the appoint- matic mission of the Holy See to Malay- credentials as the Apostolic Nuncio of “Wment of the new Apostolic Nuncio, sia, and is equivalent to an embassy. On June 1, 1985, he was ordained a the Holy See to the Yang di-Pertuan Ag- Archbishop Wojciech Zaluski, and We wish him Wojciech Zaluski was born on April 5, priest for the Diocese of Lomza. ong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al- blessings for his new appointment. You are wel- 1960, in Zaluski-Lipniewo, in the centre- On July 1 he joined the diplomatic Mustafa Billah Shah. — Vatican News/ come to visit us in Keningau Diocese.” — Rt Rev east of Poland. service of the Holy See after attending wikipedia Cornelius Piong, Bishop of Keningau Diocese Pope calls on Christians to rediscover Jesus by Jennifer Lopez’s reading biblical texts amid today’s cultural illiteracy daughter writes VATICAN: Pope Francis on Sept 30 completely dedicated to the study of issued an Apostolic Letter, Scripturae Scripture and to the monumental work Christian children’s book Sacrae Affectus, to mark the 1,600th of translating the entire Old Testament NEW YORK: Emme Muniz, anniversary of the death of St Jerome, on the basis of the original Hebrew. At the 12-year-old daughter of author of the Vulgate. the same time, he commented on the Hollywood superstar Jennifer In it, the Pope calls on the faithful prophetic books, the Psalms and the Lopez, released Sept 29, a to carry a pocket-size Bible, on public letters of Paul, and wrote guides to the Christian children’s book is transit for example, so that they can study of the Bible.” entitled Lord Help Me (pic). “Read the divine Scriptures constant- “Jerome’s scholarly activity can Lopez, also known by her ly” and “never let the sacred volume serve as an example of synodality for nickname J. Lo, is an Ameri- fall from your hand”. us and for our own time. It can also can actress, singer, dancer, For the pontiff, the translator of the serve as a model for the Church’s vari- fashion designer, producer, Old Testament from ancient Hebrew ous cultural institutions, called to be and businesswoman. into Latin remains a “figure of endur- ‘places where knowledge becomes Emme said she wrote the tle help. Some are small, ing relevance for us, the Christians of service, for no genuine and integral book with her nanny with like waking up for school or the twenty-first century” because “he human development can occur with- whom she usually prays be- getting along with a sibling. leads every reader to the mystery of out a body of knowledge that is the fore bed. Others are big, like helping Jesus” in an age of illiteracy, not only fruit of cooperation and leads to great- The young writer said that to save the planet and all its about religion but also because of a St Jerome can truly be called the ‘library er cooperation’.” she’s been passionate about creatures – especially sloths! lack of “hermeneutic skills that make of Christ’ “Jerome can truly be called the ‘li- prayer since she was five But asking God for help al- us credible interpreters and translators the Christian mystery.” brary of Christ’, a perennial library years old and believes that ways brings us the strength to of our own cultural tradition”. Ordained a priest in Antioch around that, sixteen centuries later, continues prayer has helped her get get through anything. Emme Jerome was a fine interpreter of Bib- 379 AD, Jerome went first to Constan- to teach us the meaning of Christ’s though big and small chal- Muñiz shares her own daily lical texts, and during his lifetime, he tinople and then Rome, where in 382 love, a love that is inseparable from an lenges. prayers to offer families a “consciously chose the desert and the AD he became a close aide to Pope encounter with his word. This is why “I really hope children are way to embrace the peace and eremitic life for their deeper meaning Damasus. Upon the latter’s death, Je- the present anniversary can be seen able to learn to pray, share the power of everyday faith.” as a locus of fundamental existential rome left the city for Bethlehem, the as a summons to love what Jerome book and spread the power of In a statement announcing decisions, of closeness and encounter city where Jesus was born. There he loved, to rediscover his writings and to prayer after reading it,” she the book, Emme revealed, with God.” established two monasteries, one for let ourselves be touched by his robust said. “In school I learned about “To understand Saint Jerome’s per- men and one for women, with homes spirituality, which can be described in Emme’s love for animals sloths and how they’re fac- sonality fully, we need to unite two to welcome pilgrims. “This was yet essence as a restless and impassioned also shines through in the 40- ing extinction, so I began to dimensions that characterized his life another sign of his generosity, for he desire for a greater knowledge of the page book. She said sloths are pray for them in my nightly as a believer: on the one hand, an abso- made it possible for many others to God who chose to reveal himself.” her favourite animals and she prayers… I wrote this book lute and austere consecration to God, see and touch the places of salvation Through the Vulgate, Jerome suc- wants to prevent them from to help raise money to save renouncing all human satisfaction for history, and to find both cultural and ceeded in “inculturating” the Bible in becoming extinct by donating sloths while also teaching love of Christ crucified (cf. 1 Cor 2:2; spiritual enrichment.” the Latin language and culture. His money to sloth sanctuaries. other children how we can Phil 3:8.10), and on the other, a com- “Jerome’s years in Bethlehem, to the work became a permanent paradigm The book synopsis states: pray and ask for help — two mitment to diligent study, aimed pure- time of his death in 420, were the most for the missionary activity of the “We all have moments every things that bring me a lot of ly at an ever deeper understanding of fruitful and intense period of his life, Church.” — AsiaNews day where we can use a lit- comfort.” — Matters India