Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. For if their AUGUST 16, 2020 rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but TERHAD PP 8460/11/2012(030939) life from the dead? ISSN: 1394-3294 For the gifts and the calling of God are Vol. 27 No. 32 irrevocable. THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY Rom. 11:13-15, 29 Cardinals condemn China’s ‘potential genocide’ of Uyghurs OME: The Chinese govern- “The clear aim of the Chinese authorities ment’s treatment of Uyghurs is to eradicate the Uyghur identity. China’s is “one of the most egregious state media has stated that the goal is to R ‘break their lineage, break their roots, break human tragedies since the Holo- their connections and break their origins,’” caust,” two Asian cardinals and 74 the statement reads. other religious leaders wrote in a “Parliamentarians, governments and ju- statement released August 8. rists have a responsibility to investigate,” Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop it states. “As faith leaders we are neither of Yangon and president of the Federation activists nor policy-makers. But we have of Asian Bishops Conferences, and Car- a duty to call our communities to their re- dinal Ignatius Suharyo, Archbishop of Ja- sponsibilities to look after their fellow hu- karta, Indonesia, were among the 76 sig- man beings and act when they are in dan- natories calling for “prayer, solidarity and ger.” action to end these mass atrocities” against Twenty rabbis and 19 imams signed the the Muslim minority in China. statement, as did the representative of the “After the Holocaust, the world said Dalai Lama in Europe and the Coptic-Or- ‘Never Again.’ Today, we repeat those thodox Archbishop of London, Archbishop words ‘Never Again’, all over again. We Angaelos. Other Catholic signatories in- stand with the Uyghurs. We also stand with clude Bishop Declan Lang of Clifton, UK Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong practition- Uighar prisoners in Xinjiang Re-education Camp Lop County 2018. (ICN photo/Wiki Image) and Fr Nicholas King, a chaplain at the Uni- ers and Christians throughout China who atrocities.” to enforce China’s family planning policies. versity of Oxford. face the worst crackdown on freedom of According to multiple reports, anywhere One expert told the AP that the campaign is Human rights advocate Benedict Rogers religion or belief since the Cultural Revolu- from 900,000 to 1.8 million Uyghurs and “genocide, full stop.” responded to the statement by asking when tion,” the statement said. other ethnic minorities have been impris- In addition, authorities have set up a sys- Pope Francis and Archbishop of Canterbury “We make a simple call for justice, to in- oned in Xinjiang, China’s far northwest tem of mass surveillance in the region to Justin Welby will speak out about the plight vestigate these crimes, hold those responsi- province. The government has set up more track the movements of people, one that of the Uyghurs in China. ble to account and establish a path towards than 1,300 detention camps where survivors includes DNA sampling and facial recogni- “Perhaps they have had their reasons for the restoration of human dignity,” it states. have reported being subjected to political tion technology, as well as predictive polic- biding their time until now. Yet now that The letter’s signatories — which in- and anti-religious indoctrination, torture, ing platforms. so many of their own clergy are speaking clude the former Archbishop of Canterbury beatings and forced labour. The religious leaders’ statement assert- out, the world will be looking to these two Rowan Williams and other Muslim, Jewish, The AP reported on June 29 that many ed that the forced sterilisation of Uyghur spiritual leaders for their response,” Rogers Buddhist, and Christian leaders — cited Uyghurs had also reported being forced by women of childbearing age in four Uyghur- wrote Aug 10. “When it comes to genocide, China’s incarceration of one million Mus- authorities to implant IUDs and other forms populated prefectures could elevate this ac- crimes against humanity and mass atroci- lims and campaign of forced sterilisation of birth control, as well as being forced to tion to the level of genocide according to ties, the world expects faith leaders to take among the “many persecutions and mass undergo abortions and sterilisations in order the 1948 Genocide Convention. a stand.” By Courtney Mares, CNA Argentine government grants space base in Patagonia to the Chinese military BUENOS AIRES: Argentina has officially ments seal the political-economic alliance 35-metre antenna. The Argentine govern- the Chinese government,” said Martín Di- granted China a controversial space station of the two countries. ment can only use 10 per cent of the oper- natale, an Argentine journalist and expert. that went into operation two years ago in Fernandez signed into law a bill adopted ating time of the space observation equip- “The danger of dual use is latent and the Patagonia. in 2015. The latter grants China 200-hec- ment. activity taking place there is unknown.” The decision followed an explicit re- tare base in Neuquén province with a 50- In addition to the “peaceful” exploration Dinatale notes that Xi recently promised quest from Chinese President Xi Jinping year tax exemption. of the darker side of the moon, ostensibly the Argentine president that he would raise to his Argentine counterpart Alberto Fer- The facility is operated by the Satel- China’s reason for the base, European and the status of the diplomatic relations be- nandez. lite Launch and Tracking Control General US experts believe the facility has other tween the two countries. It came in the same week that Argenti- agency, which is controlled by the Chinese purposes as well. The current global strategic partnership na's central bank renewed a currency swap People’s Army, and uses only Chinese per- They warn of possible espionage, sabo- will become full cooperation, which “im- with the Chinese central bank for US$ 18.5 sonnel. tage and other military activities banned plies greater benefits for both parties, but billion. So far, Beijing has invested US$ 50 mil- under international treaties. also greater commitments”. — By Silvina For several observers, the two agree- lion to build the station, which includes a “The concessions are too favourable to Premat, AsiaNews 2 Forum / Reflection HERALD August 16, 2020 Power does strange things to people ower does strange things to people burdensome religious practices, economic — and in turn, can make people do Sunday Observer subjugation, patriarchial power structures Pstrange and diabolical things. and the whole notion of “purity”, ie what The lure of power, which often brings By was religiously clean and unclean. with it the key to immense personal wealth For the Sadducees, concern for the suf- and influence, draws all kinds of - aspir Anil Netto fering of the poor threatened their cosy ants like ants to sugar and bees to honey. [email protected] political and economic arrangement with A few of them may be altruistic – wanting the Roman imperial overlords, especially to serve the people – but many are in it for replaced by a string of Roman prefects in- sort of “emeritus” or “retired” high priest centred around the Temple. themselves. cluding, later, Pontius Pilate. at the time of Jesus’ last days. Annas ex- Not only that, Jesus exposed the rank hy- The history of the Roman emperors is Other groups also exerted some measure ercised great influence behind the scenes, pocrisy of the existing religious order. The littered with backstabbings, and betrayals of secular and religious authority, especial- and the family held the helm through Pharisees grew uncomfortable when Jesus by those closest to the emperors, includ- ly the Sadducees and the Pharisees. his five sons who succeeded him as high lashed out at their fanatical obsession with ing family members, relatives and trusted Sadducees were the aristocratic class of priest: Eleazar, (AD 16–17), Jonathan (AD religious rituals and purity while forgetting members of the inner circle. This invari- the time, comprising wealthy nobles and 37), Theophilus (37–41), Matthias, (43) and neglecting justice, which was what the ably led to jealousy, suspicion, paranoia priests. They tried to conserve and accu- and Ananus (63), as well as Annas’ son-in- Father desired. and shifting alliances, eventually leading mulate their wealth through cooperation law Caiaphas (18-36/37). Jesus’ teaching that even those deemed to numerous assassination attempts and ac- with Rome. Though they believed in Jew- Whatever the roles they all played, those unclean and low in the social pecking order tual assassinations of sitting emperors and ish teachings, they were more concerned in power felt threatened by the likes of John would be invited to the heavenly banquet potential rivals, many of them close family with secular matters than the afterlife (they the Baptist and Jesus – not because they did not go down well with the religious members. did not believe in the resurrection of the were leading violent armed revolutions but leaders. Through his silent observation of While the Roman Empire controlled the dead). because of the moral authority they exerted the widow giving all she had at the temple land where Jesus walked, it was often not The Pharisees were the dry theologians and the grassroots support they had from treasury after the widows’ wealth had been direct control. The Romans set up a two- of the time, sticklers for religious purity, the masses. “devoured” by those in authority, he ex- tiered system of governance which allowed and they did not favour compromising with Anytime a leader, especially a spiritual plained how the people suffered under the them to control affairs behind the scenes, the Romans. one, commands the support of thousands of weight of unjust power structures. except in emergency situations. The Sadducees and the Pharisees met people through the sheer strength of moral Jesus’ kingdom may not have been of The day-to-day affairs were handled by face-to-face in the powerful Sanhendrin authority, those in power shift uneasily in this world – a concept Pilate had difficulty local puppets like Herod the Great and his council, which was presided over by the their seats and keep a sharp eye on them. grasping – but this was a kingdom that was sons. Although the latter were half-Jews, high priest. John, for instance, questioned the fam- attractive to the downtrodden of the world many of the locals detested these puppet Even the role of high priest seemed like ily life of Herod Antipas in Galilee – which who lived in darkness, injustice and op- kings for selling out to the Romans. a family affair. The high priest at the time would eventually cost him his life. pression. What’s more, Herod’s son Archelaus, of Jesus was Joseph Caiaphas, who was the Jesus questioned the status quo and the It was a vision of a different kind of who controlled Judaea and Samaria, was son-in-law of Annas. ways the wealthy and the powerful op- world order based on an entirely different so brutal that he was finally removed and Annas, who served from AD 6-15, was a pressed the people – whether it was through value system. Twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time: One Church

oday’s readings are challenging. What to the people of Asia. Paul first preaches Tis the Church trying to say to us by re- to the Hebrews, but they refuse to submit Reflecting on our Sunday Readings lating the dialogue that Jesus had with the to Jesus Christ. They are disobedient to the Canaanite woman? And what in the world is call of their own prophets as well as to the sal. The Church is made up of people from 20th Sunday of Ordinary Time St Paul saying when he writes that because preaching of the evangelists. Because they various backgrounds, but all part of One Readings: Isaiah 56:1, 6-7; of the disobedience of the Jews the Gentiles are disobedient and closed to evangelisa- Church. The Catholic Church is not just Romans 11:13-15, 29-32; were freed from their disobedience and, as a tion, Paul turns to the Gentiles, the right side European, nor is it just American. The Cath- Gospel: Matthew 15:21-28 result, the Jews turned from their disobedi- of the Church. Now these Gentiles had been olic Church is also Asian, South American, ence? going against their consciences. They had African, Australian etc. All are part of the are European. We are Catholic. And what does all this have to do with us, been performing all sorts of immoral acts one Church called to accept the spiritual, The world needs us to be Catholic. Our the people of the 21st century? that they knew were wrong. Paul alludes to called to eternal life. Think of the Church country needs us to be Catholic. In the First It has everything to do with us. The read- this in the beginning of Romans, Romans as a tapestry, with various colours of threads Eucharistic Prayer for Various Needs, enti- ings are about inclusion, the call to One 1:18-32. This was their disobedience. all forming one picture, or as a mosaic, with tled The Church on the Path of Unity, we Church, to One Kingdom, a kingdom that Paul’s preaching called the Gentiles from various different tiles all forming a great have the petition: In a world torn by strife refuses to exclude those seeking God. disobedience. They were transformed. They work of art. may your people shine forth as a prophetic The Canaanite woman wins healing for had been living, as Henry David Thoreau Just as the Gentiles and the Jews became sign of unity and love. Recent events in our her daughter by showing Jesus her faith in would later write, lives of silent desperation. blessings for each other, all the people of country are calling us more than ever to be Him. She even humbles herself when He But with Christianity, their lives had mean- the Catholic Church are a blessing for each this prophetic sign of unity amid our diver- said that the gifts of the Messiah, the food of ing, purpose and fulfilment. They received other. sity. The world needs to see one body of the Jewish people, should not be shared with eternal life. They lived in joy. I experienced the universality of the people with diverse backgrounds all form- the dogs, the Gentiles. She responds that Now the Jewish people saw the joy of the Church so clearly a long time ago when I ing that tapestry, that mosaic, that is the even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from Gentile converts and said, “Wait, we want was able to assist at the Pentecost Mass People of God. The world and our country the table, a common practice in meals where some of that. We want to be happy. We want said by St John Paul II. Yup, it was just me needs to experience in the Catholic Church there are no utensils, just pieces of bread that to know that there is more to life than liv- and the Pope, and about 60 other priests, 20 the prophetic sign that diverse people can are dipped into the stew pot, then dropped ing for ourselves. We want the spiritual. We bishops and all sorts of cardinals. The Pope become one unified person. We have to be a onto the floor rather than be re-dipped into want God.” Therefore, the disobedience of confirmed people from all over the world, sign for our country that our strength comes the pot. It is clear from the Gospel that the the Gentiles was transformed by the mercy and did so in 22 different languages. After from the bond of love that does not accept faith of the Gentiles, their openness to the of God to eternal happiness. This led to the Mass, I joined my parents in the Piazza San any form of exclusion of any peoples. The wonders of God, has earned them a place at Jews taking a step away from their disobe- Pedro, the square in front of St Peters, where world needs to witness our living out what His table, the Banquet of Life. dience to accepting the new way of life, the thousands of people from all over the world we proclaim with our Creed: We are One, Let’s tackle that second reading from Ro- Christian way of life. gathered for the Pope’s Sunday blessing. Holy Catholic and Apostolic. mans this way: suppose we go back to the It would take time, but the Church came Hearing all these different languages, seeing Who belongs here? Who belongs in the days that St Paul wrote the Letter to the Ro- to a deep understanding that there is no right all these people from every continent, I was Church? All people belong here. All peo- mans. Now, let’s make believe that the left side or left side of the Church, nor are there overwhelmed by the fact that this is who we ple are called to form the Church. May side of the Church represents the Hebrew some people who are more worthy of the are, this is what it means to be part of the our country see in the unity of the Catholic people throughout the world and the right promise of Christ than others. The Church universal Church. This is what it means to Church a prophetic sign that diverse peo- side represents the Gentiles, all the known realised that it was universal, it was Catho- be Catholic. We are Asian. We are Ameri- ple can unite in love. — By Msgr Joseph people of Paul’s day, everyone from Britons lic, the word that you know means univer- can. We are Australian. We are African. We A Pellegrino HERALD August 16, 2020 Home / Pastoral 3

Diocese of Malacca Johore May I take your temperature please? Building up our Measuring the temperature of the body associated the thermometer with eye and is one of the screening methods used brain injury. In response to the misinfor- in the prevention and control of the mation, Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abullah, COVID-19. It is a useful and conveni- the Director-General of Health of Ma- ent tool to identify potentially infected laysia debunked this and advised for bet- resistance with persons who have fever. However, just ter accuracy, “Point thermometer at fore- checking temperature alone will not be head, not wrist, says Dr Noor Hisham” in effective. It is just one element of the the New Straits Times Aug 6, 2020 and overall recommendation issued by the on Aug 3, 2020 in the Malay Mail online, World Health Organisation (WHO) that “Infrared thermometers do not emit ra- the three ‘F’s includes cleaning hands, wearing face diation, safe for use”. 1. A Thought for the Week: masks, social distancing, and contact An initiative in public health risk com- The disciples cried out in fear, seeing the tracing. munication, the medical physics leader- waves, the winds and a ghost. Peter cried out, Our body temperature can be meas- ship and mentoring programme devel- “Lord save me” when he saw the wind. ured in several places such as the fore- oped an easy-to-understand animated We too seek to be saved. We want a vaccine, head, mouth, the ear, the armpit, and the infographic that is available in over thir- we want immunity, we want the pandemic to rectum. The recommendation is to meas- ty languages. end quickly, we want a quick-fix. WE WANT ure on the forehead to ensure accuracy of https://medphysmentoring.wixsite.com/ A CURE. reading. The non-contact infra-red ther- medphys-mentoring/ir-thermometer But what about “BUILDING UP OUR RE- mometer is positioned between 3 to 5 cm The Ministry of Health facebook has SISTANCE”? Building up our resistance be- in front of the forehead. It has a sensor similar information. gins with three ‘F’s. that detects the infra-red energy given https://m.facebook.com/ The first F is FAITH. It’s a positive out- out by the heat generated by our body watch/?v=282376636396783&_rdr look at life inspired by positive beliefs and a c) The Church is noted to be more rural and converts it to a temperature reading. word of God and it awakes in us an attitude of and indigenous, with more migrants, ur- The thermometer does not emit any laser Let us play our role in keeping our planet thanksgiving. ban homeless, poor and jobless. or radiation. a safe place to live. — By Professor Recently, some claims on social media Christopher Ng, PhD The second F is FAMILY, good friends, d) The Church’s “pastoral ministries” supportive families, encouraging and energis- have shifted from conventional to digital, ing communities. from church centres to house churches. Finally, the third F is FITNESS, which is having a healthy physical, mental, emotional e) The Church that is called to explore and spiritual well-being; keeping an exercise NEW MECHANISMS plan to be fit.  to enable fellowship Don’t wait for cures. BUILD UP YOUR  to keep the unity of body RESISTANCE WITH THE three Fs.  to protect the vulnerable (the elderly, 2. This coming August 15 is the Feast of the children, the ill) Assumption of Our Lady. Attending the As-  to re-invent BECs as FRONTLIN- sumption Sunset Mass also fulfils the Sunday ERS. obligation. The August 16 Mass continues as the 19th Ordinary Sunday. f) The Church which was sacramental and ritualistic is called to “worship in 3. The Pandemic is not subsiding. In fact it spirit and in truth.” appears to be on a rampage … with the ap- pearance of the “Super-spreaders” (Iran, Paki- It is nice meeting you again. May the Lord’s stan). Has the Church been affected? blessing be upon you and your family. Pass a) The Church is beyond the convention- this blessing on to the people you encounter al, beyond buildings, beyond sacramental along the way. Let us together continue build- and Masses and beyond particular spaces. ing His Kingdom. The church worships in spirit and in truth. b) The Church community is awakening Bishop Bernard Paul and is desiring an awakening clergy. Aug 7, 2020 For more news and announcements https://www.facebook.com/mjdiocese from Malacca Johore Diocese, go to: http://youtube.com/user/malaccajohorediocese Timely investment for religious harmony KUCHING: With the Unit for Other Re- He believed that once the UNIFOR various religious leaders. ligions’ (UNIFOR) direct contribution Complex was completed, it would serve “Recently, this cooperation has also towards religious harmony including by to further the unit’s cause with the hosting enabled us to respond together to contain providing financial assistance to various of inter-faith events to build harmony and COVID-19. We were able to work out houses of worship, the Roman Catholic unity among the people of Sarawak. common policy and safety standard oper- Archbishop of Kuching, the Most Rev Si- “Together with the Islamic Information ating procedures (SOPs) to be adhered to, mon Poh, believes that it is indeed a timely Centre built by the state, it is indeed appro- as well as a common time frame in pre- decision for the state government to invest priate that along the same road (Ong Tiang paring for the reopening of our respective in a permanent building for UNIFOR. Swee Road), a complementary UNIFOR houses of worship for religious gather- “This UNIFOR Complex is to be a sym- Complex be built by the state to benefit all ings,” he said. bol of the permanent commitment of the other religions in Sarawak,” he said. He pointed out that in the entire coun- state to religious freedom and racial har- Meanwhile, as noted by Association of try, only the Sarawak government had set mony, as well as mutual acceptance and Churches in Sarawak (ACS) chairman, up UNIFOR, where the voices of various respect for all the religions in Sarawak,” Archbishop Poh, after these few years of non-Islamic religions could be channelled he said when contacted by New Sarawak collaborating on common matters through to the Chief Minister’s Office. Tribune. UNIFOR meetings, he had experienced Archbishop Poh said that Sarawak was He recalled that when UNIFOR was that there was now greater friendship, already widely accepted as a model of har- newly formed as a unit in the Chief Min- trust, and relationship among the various mony in Malaysia. ister’s Department in 2017, its meetings religious leaders. “May this UNIFOR Complex truly be were held at an office shared with another He said that at meetings called by UNI- a symbol of our desire and commitment government department at the Baitul Mak- FOR, matters and issues pertaining to all to racial and religious harmony. As anak- mur Building. Currently, he added, UNI- non-Muslim houses of worship, lands for anak Sarawak, may we be blessed now and FOR was located in a rental premise in churches and temples, burial plots and especially for future generations,” he said. Wisma Satok. Archbishop Simon Poh cemeteries were discussed together by the — By Tania Lam, New Sarawak Tribune 4 Home HERALD August 16, 2020 Baptism for 16 Elect of Peel Road parish KUALA LUMPUR: It was a homecoming of sorts for the Elect who had not been to church since the lockdown began. The restless waiting for when they could be accepted by the Catholic Church was a constant prompting in their hearts. And then the day arrived, the rainy morning of Friday, July 31, when all the Elect gathered in the church for their Baptism, a lit- tle apprehensive but remembering the call of Jesus “I have summoned you by name, you are mine”. It was the first day of Phase 3 for the resumption of the sacramental life for the parish of the Sacred Heart. Fr Simon Lau anoints the newly baptised. This was a once-in-a-lifetime The Elect. experience for all 16 Elect. The the guidelines of the Archdiocese too stressful for the RCIA team as which began with a YES to fol- ship with Christ. Just like Jesus in Elect, in their baptismal white were adhered to. Social distancing it focused only on the essentials low Christ in 2019, not knowing the boat during the storm, resting clothing, came early to spend qui- and wearing of masks was manda- and the simplicity of the Rites that that a major change was in store calmly, the neophytes can share in et time before the Lord to prepare tory. involved only the neophytes, their for them. their own journey of uncertainty themselves for the gift of the Holy The priests, Fr Edwin Peter and sponsors and immediate family To receive Jesus Christ in the but always focused on the resur- Eucharist. We also had two adult Fr Simon Lau, did the anoint- members and some friends. Some Holy Eucharist was their con- rected Lord who will never leave confirmands preparing to receive ing using a cotton swab to avoid of the church leaders came to sup- stant desire. To be accepted by the us orphaned. the Sacrament of Confirmation. touching anyone. Holy Commun- port and that was encouraging to Church was all they had wished When the neophytes exited the Mass was celebrated in multilin- ion was only administered in one the Elect. for. The rudiments of exercising church, it was to see the mid- gual format and began at 10.00am. species. It was a new norm but it For the nearly one hour and their new found faith is exciting to morning enveloped with glare of a After the homily, the Rite of Bap- was done prayerfully. It was a new forty minute Mass, the Elect were them. Their deposition in wanting bright sun shining. A reminder that tism with all the protocols, which experience for both the neophytes being transformed at every level. to be witnesses for Christ is strong we are all called to be the “light of was supposed to have been done and the Malaysian Church in ac- Some were emotional; some were in their simplicity of sharing. the world” in our own way. during the Scrutinies, was con- cepting new members into the uni- relieved and almost all felt grateful Though lessons were aborted mid- To be a part of it is truly a bless- ducted. At all times the SOPs versal Church. to the loving Christ who was with way, the real call is building and ing: the Catholic Church in all its initiated by the Kementerian and It was an intimate affair and not them throughout their journey strengthening a personal relation- splendour. CDM organises drive-thru communion service SHAH ALAM: The Church of the Divine Mercy (CDM) organised a Drive-Thru Holy Communion Ser- vice for those who were unable to come for Mass due to age or illness. Despite the drizzle, cars started queuing up outside the church as early as 8.30am. When the gates opened at 9.00am, batches of cars drove to the front porch of the church. Drivers were told to switch off their car engines. The passen- gers were asked to remain in their cars as parish priest Fr Gerard Ther- aviam led them in a short service. Cars line up at the porch of the Church of the Divine Mercy for the Drive-Thru Communion Service. Fr Gerard was assisted by Fr Si- sponse Team. fully carried out. each service. mon Labrooy and seminarian Bro Many were touched and even A total of 119 cars, contain- CDM’s next Drive-Thru Holy Yoseph. All three then administered seen shedding tears as they re- ing roughly 330 people, came by Communion Service will be held the Holy Eucharist to the people in ceived Holy Communion for the that morning. The event reached a on Thursday, August 20 (Awal their cars, following stringent SOP first time in almost four months. peak between 9.30am and 10.30am Muharram public holiday) from A grace-filled moment for seniors guidelines. Also present were altar They were also grateful that such where batches of as many as 18 9.00am to 11.00am. — By Rachael and the ill at the drive-Thru Holy servers and CDM’s Pandemic Re- an initiative was planned and care- cars were grouped at the porch for Philip Communion Service. Homebound parishioners now get to receive the Eucharist KOTA KINABALU: With the derly registered and received Holy to follow the SOPs strictly, which continued easing down of the Communion after following the included wearing masks, and sani- lockdown, Archbishop John live streamed Sunset Mass (Eng- tising hands before and after giv- Wong, beginning Aug 9, gave per- lish) on Aug 8 and Sunday Masses ing Holy Communion. Parishion- mission to the Sacred Heart Ca- (Chinese and BM) on Aug 9. The ers were also encouraged to wear thedral Parish to start an initiative Eucharist was dispensed by Ex- masks. The protocol was set in to serve her parishioners of over traordinary Minister of Commun- place to ensure the safety of the 70 years and young parents with ions (EMCs) who volunteered to EMCs and the parishioners. children under 12 years who have serve the homebound during the For those (70 years plus, and since mid-March been deprived of Holy Communion service. parents with children 12 years and the Eucharist. The registered parishioners who below, but already receiving Holy Guided by parish priest Fr Paul received Holy Communion in this Communion) who have yet to reg- Lo, the Parish Pastoral Council unique service were reminded to ister, you may contact your PFPN mobilized its PFPN (Parish Family observe the usual fast of at least zone/taman coordinators or call Pastoral Network) zone and taman one hour before receiving Holy the SHC office @ 224741 (Johnny coordinators to commence a regis- Communion. Chong) to register. — By Jason The elderly receiving Holy Communion in their home. (CS photo) tration exercise. A total of 220 el- All visiting EMCs were required Joenoi, CS HERALD August 16, 2020 Home 5 Malaysian Catechetical Commission meet online due to COVID-19 KUALA LUMPUR: Next year’s parishes have begun hold liturgical the matter. Catechetical Sunday is on Janu- celebrations for the reception of the During the latter part of the day, ary 31, 2021, with the theme Par- Sacraments of Initiation for adults time was allocated for members to ish Communities: Agents of Faith, who have completed the RCIA pro- share how each diocese is respond- Hope and Love (1 Cor. 13: 13). It cess. ing to the challenges posed by the highlights the role of the parish as Thirdly, the Archbishop voiced COVID-19 pandemic. Most dio- an agent of faith, hope and love in his concern with regards to way our cese are taking a prudent approach the light of the doubt, fear and anxi- children and young people are being with no face-to-face classes being ety created by the COVID-19 pan- catechised. He wondered whether it allowed. Where the facilities and demic. is time to conduct a systematic eval- equipment are available, classes are This was decided at the Ma- uation of the catechetical content conducted online. Other methods laysian Catechetical Commission and methodology now being used, include keeping in touch with learn- (MCC) annual meeting, originally as well as, of the role of catechists ers via WhatsApp or other social to be held in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, and parents. According to the Arch- media apps. but was conducted via the online bishop, “Perhaps we have to find Among the concerns raised by platform Cisco Webex on August new ways of sharing the faith to the dioceses is how to resolve issues 11 and 12. next generation… and therefore, all related to non-completion of sylla- The theme was chosen because avenues, all areas of communica- bus or non-attendance of students. The Malaysian Catechetical Commission members meet online for two days. the MCC has decided that the Stra- tion need to be exhausted and not to In this regard, for example, can tegic Focus for Catechesis in 2021 Nicholas Stephen (Diocese of Kota is laudable that priests, catechists depend on the traditional methods”. the learner receive the Sacrament will be “Parish Communities”. Ar- Kinabalu), said in his welcoming and parents are doing their best to Archbishop Leow, therefore, pro- of Holy Communion or Confirma- rangements will be made for the remarks, that it is necessary for the adapt to new modes of communi- posed that a Study Day be organised tion? Or if the syllabus is not com- Catechetical Sunday 2021 message members to meet via the online plat- cating and sharing the faith. In some for MCC members, as well as invit- pleted, will the whole class be held to be prepared and translated, and form in view of the COVID-19 pan- dioceses, the challenges are greater ed participants, especially from the back for another near? In response, sent to parishes by the end of No- demic. Although this is not always because in certain areas, access to youth, to discuss and “brainstorm” Archbishop Leow stated that the de- vember 2020. the best mode of communication, the internet or even electricity is not the issue at hand. The Study Day is cision on these and related matters The online meeting was set up by as it prevents interpersonal interac- available. planned for September 29. is left to the diocesan bishop, and the MCC Secretary, Frederick Em- tions, given the present situation, it Secondly, for now, face-to-face On the second day, among the upon their directives, to the parish paga (Diocese of Miri). In attend- is important that MCC finds crea- catechism and RCIA sessions have matters discussed was the possibil- priests. Each diocese and parish has ance was Most Rev Julian Leow tive ways to move on with its dis- been suspended. The Church lead- ity of introducing more topics to the its unique challenges, and has to re- Beng Kim, Episcopal President for cussion and endeavours. ership will continue to monitor the current syllabus for the Confirma- spond accordingly to its needs. Catechetics, the clergy and religious In his keynote address, Arch- situation closely, heeding the advice tion class. These topics will not be The next MCC meeting will be who serve as directors or heads of bishop Leow shared three impor- of the health authorities regarding included in the textbook but will be held in Kuching, Sarawak from July their respective Diocesan Catecheti- tant insights. Firstly, the COVID-19 the re-opening of religious classes. provided separately as supplemen- 5 – 8, 2021, if circumstances al- cal Commissions, and invited lay has caused disruption to the way Meanwhile, in certain dioceses, the tary topics for the catechist to select low. Otherwise, the meeting will be representatives. catechesis is normally carried out. Bishops have started administering and use as he or she deems neces- conducted online. — By Dr Steven The Chairperson of MCC, Fr New challenges have arisen, and it the Sacrament of Confirmation, and sary. A team was set up to look into Selvaraju Marriage preparation Called to serve a life-giving Church SYDNEY: The Australian Jesuits priest to work hard and plan intelli- are blessed to have a new priest. gently, but understand that the real r Richards was picks up as lockdown eases Ramesh Richards SJ was ordained work is done through him by God. Fborn in Ma- to the priesthood at St Mary’s, In his thanksgiving speech, Fr laysia and moved North Sydney on August 8, the Richards acknowledged the First to Australia in feastday of St Mary MacKillop, Nations of Australia and around 2005 for univer- Australia’s first saint. the world “who have shared this sity studies. He Bishop Michael McKenna of the land with us”. He expressed hope joined the Jesuits Diocese of Bathurst presided at the to “do justice in caring for this in 2010, spent ceremony. He remarked on how common land we call home”. He time as a Regent “Ramesh has grown beautifully in also thanked his family, friends and at the Cardoner Fr Ramesh his years of formation with the Jes- Jesuit companions for their love, Project and in Jesuit Richards SJ schools, and went Participants of the Pre-Marriage course. (CS photo) uits.” The Bishop first met Fr Rich- friendship and guidance. ards 15 years ago when the latter Traditionally, the cloth used to to the United States to study theology KARAMUNSING: Engaged couples the circumstances of the RMCO was still studying architecture at wipe the excess chrism oil after the at Boston College. heaved a sigh of relief as registration which did not allow the privilege of the University of Melbourne and bishop anoints a new priest’s hand His ministry with young people reopens for the Pre-marital Course longer sessions. On the whole, they discerning to become a Jesuit. “I is presented to the priest’s mother. has shown him a glimpse of what for three languages (English, Manda- were grateful for being able to attend pray that Ramesh will grow in the However, because Fr Richards’ the future of the Church looks like. rin and Bahasa Malaysia) at Sacred the course in the midst of the RMCO, depth of his understanding of what parents could not be present at his In an interview with the Australian Heart Cathedral Parish beginning while the full compliance with the it means to be a priest and to accept ordination, he chose for the mean- Jesuits shortly before his ordination, Aug 8. SOPs being in place has put all fears God’s grace in trying to live that time to lay the cloth at Mary’s feet he shared that young people who Fifteen couples responded to the to rest. out,” said Bishop McKenna. Like in the church’s shrine of Our Lady are disillusioned by the Church are first reopened course in English on Protocol was fully observed in the prophets who trusted in the call of the Way, and to dedicate his in some ways disillusioned by the Aug 8. Although the course was con- compliance with the SOP restrictions and in the power of the one who priesthood to the protection of our language of the Church. “If we show densed to a one-day multiple session which included social distancing, gives the call, he urged the new Blessed Mother. them what Church looks like, what format, in contrast to the normal four- wearing of masks, hand sanitising, community looks like, and how faith day course, the contents of the course temperature scans and registration for life is lived concretely, they want to were not compromised. However, contact tracing. be part of this,” he said. with the new norm of conducting the The Pre-Marriage Course is a series He encourages young men ponder- course, the Natural Family Awareness of sessions to help engaged couples ing a call to Jesuit life to reach out to (Planning) was conducted via Google or those exploring the possibility of them. “If you decide to join me and Meet two days later. marriage to build strong foundations my brothers on this journey of faith Participants shared that the course for their future together. It is based on and service as a Jesuit and possibly a was comprehensive and encouraging. Catholic principles and is designed to priest, I encourage you make contact The contents revealed many new ar- help couples invest in their relation- with one of us,” he said towards the eas which they have not come across ship for a lasting marriage. end of his thanksgiving speech. “It is before. In spite of it being condensed Besides other pertinent topics, they a leap but I can assure you it is life- to one day, they benefited from the learn to communicate well, under- giving, too. It has its challenges but packed sessions. stand and appreciate their differences the Church is here to support you in On the other hand, they felt the lack and prepare for potential challenges. your vocation.” — jcapsj.org of interaction but otherwise accepted — By Monica Kong, CS Bishop Michael McKenna laying hands on Deacon Ramesh Richards SJ. 6 World HERALD August 16, 2020 Vidyajyoti opens new session stressing journey with the poor NEW DELHI: The Delhi-based Jesuit- managed Vidyajyoti College of Theology on August 10 opened its new academic session urging its students to seek answers to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic and the brute majoritarianism of the ruling elite. Archbishop Anil J T Couto of Delhi led the opening Mass at the Sacred Heart Ca- thedral in New Delhi. Some 25 people, mostly staff and students of the college, participated at the 9.30am Mass in person while other students attended it online. “We usually conduct the inaugural Holy Eucharist in the college. However this time, we decided to arranged it in the cathedral due to the pandemic,” college Principal Jesuit Father P R John told Matters India. “Certainly, it was something good for the Vidyajyoti staff and students with Archbishop Anil J T Couto. students to partake online,” he added. (Everything reflects the one who alone should confront all that dehumanises, es- els of ecclesiastical studies by abandoning He also said that in normal circumstanc- shines) taken from the Katha Upanishad, pecially the poor. In India, any theological some models that have become outdated. es, they would have started the sessions in one of the primary Sanskrit texts of reli- enterprise must confront the reassertion of Jesuit Fr Valan C Antony, professor of July second week. gious teaching and ideas revered in Hindu- the rightwing ideologies and the emerging Sacred Scripture, highlighted in his mes- “But this year our life is a new normal. ism. brute majoritarianism of the ruling elite, he sage the need to nurture a perspective and We feel the absence of young and energetic The principal later said that the students adds. vision for oneself while engaged in theo- students of theology belonging to various of all three years will attend classes online Vidyajyoti, he says, will continue to train logical pilgrimage. religious congregations and dioceses and a because of the prevailing coronavirus pan- students to engage in a critical and “con- He also pointed out that the current few lay persons hailing from various parts demic. textual” theological formation along with “corona times” demand a deeper study of of India.” “Vidyajyoti provides a high quality of prayer, serious study and research, and Ethics, Theodicy, Christology, Eucharist, In his introductory talk at the Mass, Fr theological education combined with ac- neighbourhood involvements. Ecclesiology and Eco-Theology re-empha- John urged the students to begin the new tive apostolic (sociocultural-political) in- Such training will remind the students sising God’s mission for humans. academic year with a desire to seek eter- volvement throughout the year, which is that God journeys with the poor, healing Inviting the students to bank on the nal light in their studies and future pastoral an integral part of theological formation and guiding them, Fr John asserts. promises of God, the professor appealed to works. for the promotion of human and kingdom Fr John, head of one the of top theologi- them to “dream hard enough, maybe some Fr John reminded them of the college communities,” he added. cal colleges in India, says the current chal- of them will come true.” — By Victor motto: Tameva bhāntamanubhāti sarvaṃ Theological education, Fr John says, lenge for the Church is to re-vamp the mod- Edwin, Matters India German theology no longer has worldwide impact BERLIN: Theology in Germany, with a Lehner does not share this assessment: bishops’ conference. few exceptions, is in crisis. This is the “German theology is no longer what it was However, the scholarly output remains conclusion reached by a German theology 25 years ago. Unlike then, it no longer has low. As reported by the German statisti- professor who is the William K. Warren a global impact today.” cal office, only eight people received their Professor of Theology at the University of As evidence of this, Lehner cites the second doctorate required for a univer- Notre Dame. Dr Ulrich Lehner earned a dearth of translations of German-language sity professorship in Catholic theology in doctorate in theology at the University of theological works into English, French or 2019. “Considering that many smaller de- Regensburg, and a habilitation doctorate in Spanish. Conversely, global research in partments there – not all – have almost no history at the Central European University. Germany garners “astonishingly little at- students but have good financial resources, The professor and author of numerous tention.” This means that Germany is large- one would expect groundbreaking research books, including God is not Nice, criticised ly cut off from international research, ac- results”, Lehner remarked. not only a “qualitative regression of Ger- cording to the academic. Yet, the number and quality of publica- man theology,” despite some important ex- “While you still have to learn German in tions is also at a low level, so that Lehner ceptions, but also the way some of his col- doctoral programmes in the US, I had no- “seriously” wonders “what my German leagues work. ticed already 20 years ago in Germany that colleagues do all day”, he remarked. “I have followed many appointments in doctoral students could not read lengthy The theology professor therefore called Germany and can only say that academic English texts,” Lehner noted. German theo- for a reconsideration: “The academic me- mediocrity is always hiring mediocrity,” logians would, by and large, only cite each diocrity of German theology – with some said Lehner. He believes a “handful of other. exceptions – and the small number of stu- professors” give their former students ap- According to katholisch.de, there are dents, cannot justify the outrageous number pointments “regardless of the weaknesses roughly 200 seminarians in Germany, few- of theology departments and chairs. Main- they have”. It is noticeable that “especially er than ever before. taining them is akin to holding on to medi- those who are loyal to the Church never get Among all theology students (of whom eval privileges.” a chance, because they are rejected before- Dr Ulrich Lehner. there were 18,251 in 2018-19), those choos- Benedict XVI, too, has lamented devel- hand”. (CNA photo/University of Notre Dame) ing the full course in theology are a small opments in theology. As an example, the researcher cites a Lehner stated: “If the people outside aca- proportion (just 2,549 in 2018), according In his April 2019 essay “The Church and married female theologian with three chil- demia knew how professors in Germany in- to the report. For the rest, theological train- the scandal of sexual abuse”, the emeri- dren whose appointment to a chair was vent criteria or engage in intrigues to make ing is only part of their teaching degree. tus pope, who long worked as a theology prevented because the professors found Catholic hires impossible, then academic Regardless of the relatively small num- professor before his episcopal consecra- out that she went to daily Mass. She took theology would lose even the small remain- ber of “full theologians”, there are still tion, wrote: “Indeed, in theology God is her faith too seriously – “too seriously for der of its reputation.” many places in Germany where theology is often taken for granted, but concretely one a professor”, Lehner said. In another case, In an Aug 3 article at katholisch.de, the taught. There are a total of 19 Catholic the- does not deal with Him. The theme of God the applicant’s five children destroyed his social ethicist Bernhard Emunds, from the ological faculties and colleges, more than seems so unreal, so far removed from the chances for a hire. There are numerous cas- Sankt Georgen Graduate School of Phi- 30 institutes and chairs for Catholic theol- things that concern us. And yet everything es in which colleagues are rejected without losophy and Theology, a Jesuit college in ogy, various research institutions, and three becomes different if one does not presup- taking academic criteria into account, often Frankfurt, was quoted as saying that theol- colleges that offer a degree in “Religious pose but presents God. Not somehow leav- “with the knowledge and cover of the uni- ogy in German-speaking countries has “an education and Church educational work”, ing Him in the background, but recognising versity administration”, commented Leh- exalted academic reputation and impor- as well as an online theology degree, ac- Him as the centre of our thoughts, words ner. tance worldwide”. cording to the secretariat of the German and actions.” — By Rudolf Gehrig, CNA HERALD August 16, 2020 World 7 Lebanese demand reform, Cabinet resigns after Beirut explosions AMMAN, Jordan: Viewing the burned waste- reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency. land of the Beirut port, one’s eye catches a French President Emmanuel Macron has led grey concrete slab in the foreground. It bears the charge mobilising international assistance, this stark message scribbled by the Lebanese in first bringing planes carrying equipment, res- black ink: “My Government Did This.” cue workers and investigators Aug 6, then On Aug 10, Lebanon’s Cabinet resigned hosting an international donors meeting which over the Aug 4 blasts at the Beirut port, the raised $297 million, of which the US pledged health minister said, a decision that was made $15 million, to aid the disaster recovery. under pressure as several ministers quit or ex- Neighbouring Jordan sent medical workers pressed their intention to step down. to set up field hospitals around the blast site But observers believe that the changes many as Lebanon’s healthcare system was already Lebanese demand to reform their political sys- heaving under the pressure of COVID-19 pa- tem could require a new electoral law, changes tients and tending the injured. King Abdullah to the constitution and dismantling the sectar- II sent rescue teams, medical aid and food, ian-based system that has ruled Lebanon for joining dozens of other countries providing decades. assistance. He also offered Jordan as a “logis- After the explosions, grief-stricken and fu- tics hub to facilitate international and regional rious Lebanese took to the streets, battling humanitarian assistance to Lebanon,” since rubber bullets and tear gas to demand their Lebanon’s main port is now destroyed. government’s dismissal over inaction and in- International Catholic aid agencies also be- competence. The explosions killed at least 160 gan helping and collecting money. people and injured 6,000. A security official An anti-government protester waves a Lebanese flag during clashes with security forces in Beirut The 18 or more distinct religious groups Aug 8, 2020. (CNS photo/Goran Tomasevic, Reuters) was killed as protesters stormed various gov- is “something very rich for us,” commented ernment ministries. sweeping up shards of glass from destroyed of the Middle East,” which is now ravaged by Karim Makdisi, who teaches at the American “They’ve taken our money. They’ve taken buildings. They also rescued the belongings corruption, financial mismanagement, soaring University of Beirut about Lebanon’s historic our pride. We’ve had enough and we’re not go- of families whose homes are no longer safe to poverty and hyperinflation. model of coexistence. ing anywhere,” said one demonstrator, named live in, delivered first aid and food, and prayed “The resignation of an MP or a minister is “The diversity is a huge plus for us. It is Aline. Protesters want aid to rebuild the coun- for consolation with those traumatised by tre- not enough … the whole government should something that we need to rebuild as funda- try to reach the people directly, without gov- mendous loss. resign as it is unable to help the country recov- mentally part of Lebanon as we move forward, ernment cronyism. In his Aug 9 sermon, Lebanon’s powerful er,” Cardinal Rai said, pointing out that the an- but taking it away from those politicians inter- Vast areas of the capital have been destroyed, Catholic cleric, Cardinal Bechara Rai, Maron- gry demonstrations exhibited “the impatience nationally and locally who use it for their own leaving 300,000 people homeless, including ite patriarch, lent his voice to the popular rising of those who are oppressed.” benefit, patronage, clientelism and bleeding 80,000 children, according to UNICEF. It’s es- tide against political leaders, many of whom He also called for an international investi- the country as parasites, and transform it into timated that $15 billion will be needed in the were warlords during Lebanon’s 1975-1990 gation into the deadly blast and expressed his something more positive that we can build,” short term to fix damages and aid the homeless civil war. He called for the Cabinet to resign, “deep condolences to the families of the Leba- Makdisi said, commenting on the need to over- in a city now in tatters and turmoil. saying it cannot “change the way it governs” nese martyrs and hope for a speedy recovery haul Lebanon’s political system. — By Dale Other Lebanese formed armies of volunteers, the country, once known as the “Switzerland for the wounded,” according to his remarks Gavlak, CNS Pope Francis sends donation to Hope refuses to die in Beirut BEIRUT: After three days, the search contin- Here too, groups of young people, stran- ues for possible survivors lying under tonnes gers but willing, came from various places to Beirut for explosion recovery of rubble caused by the terrible explosions clean up the building’s 15 floors, removing VATICAN: Pope Francis has sent a donation of that hit Beirut. Relatives are waiting anx- rubble, glass and blood, filling bags of debris. 250,000 euros ($295,488) in aid to the Church iously for someone to pull out their loved “We are 300 metres from the port,” said in Lebanon to help with recovery efforts after one, dead or alive. Sr Clotilde Agemian, her face covered by a the devastating explosion which occurred in the Amid the mourning, the uncertainty and mask. “It felt like the explosions happened capital city of Beirut last week. the sense of total loneliness, hope is the feel- right here. Everything came down: ceiling, “This donation is intended as a sign of His ing that prevails. windows; doors flying in the air. I don’t Holiness’ attention and closeness to the affected After decades of war and destruction, peo- know where we found the strength, I don’t population and of his fatherly closeness to peo- ple know that life includes hard moments; know how we managed to remain calm ple in serious difficulty,” a Vatican press release but they also know that they must hang in whilst taking about 300 patients to hospitals stated Aug 7. there, be strong, face evil with goodness, and outside Beirut.” More than 160 people were killed and thou- despair with a desire to overcome it, in order “Now the hospital is gone,” she bemoans. sands injured in a blast near Beirut’s port Aug. The explosion destroyed “buildings, churches, to get back on their feet. “Everything has been destroyed: gear, beds, 4. The explosion caused extensive damage to monasteries, facilities and basic sanitation,” the In Gemmayzeh, tiles were blown off the equipment. The building itself has serious the city and flattened buildings near the port. statement continued. “An immediate emergency roof on St Anthony of Padua Church, which cracks and it is likely to collapse. One of our Beirut’s governor, Marwan Abboud, said around and first aid response is already taking place with is located a few hundred metres from the nurses died under a wall that fell on her. The 300,000 people were left temporarily homeless. medical care, shelters for the displaced and cen- port. The church courtyard, which was full lifts are out of order, and nurses had to carry Church leaders have warned that the city and tres of basic needs made available by the Church of debris only yesterday morning, has been patients on their shoulders down the stairs. It nation are on the brink of total collapse, and through Caritas Lebanon, Caritas Internationalis cleared, and is somewhat presentable. was like a war zone.” pleaded with the international community for and several Caritas sisters organisations.” The clean-up was done by a small army Some patients were injured from the blasts aid. Lebanese officials say the blast appears to of young people who came from everywhere and suffered bleeding wounds. “The absurd Bishop Gregory Mansour of the Eparchy of St have been caused by the detonation of more than to help. Two veiled Muslim women are still thing is that they were in a hospital and we Maron of Brooklyn, and Bishop Elias Zeidan of 2,700 tons of the chemical ammonium nitrate, standing outside. “This is a place of God,” could do nothing to help them,” explained the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los An- which is commonly used in fertilizer and mining said one of them. “It is everyone's home. For Sister Clotilde. “We sent them to other hos- geles described Beirut as an “apocalyptic city” in explosives, stored in an unsecured warehouse on the Creator, we are all equal, death has af- pitals.” a joint call for assistance. the docks for six years. fected us all without discrimination.” Despite the toil, “God has been close to us “This country is on the verge of a failed state Pope Francis made an appeal for prayer for the Two of the ten nuns who ran the Holy and we did it. But now we are on our knees. and total collapse,” they said. “We pray for Leba- people of Lebanon after his general audience ad- Rosary hospital in Wardīyah stand at its en- Let us pray and hope. At present, we need non, and we ask for your support for our brothers dress Aug. 5. trance, its doors blown out. This and two oth- everything. We have to start from scratch; and sisters at this difficult time and in response to Speaking via livestream, he said, “let us pray er hospitals, the Geitawi Hospital and the St we need help and the government is unable the catastrophe.” for the victims, for their families; and let us pray George Hospital, stand empty because they to help us.” Pope Francis’ donation, made through the Di- for Lebanon, so that, through the dedication of are unsafe. What is left is hope. The people of Leba- castery for Promoting Integral Human Develop- all its social, political and religious elements, it The nuns tell everyone that three nuns non are the heirs to the Phoenicians. Like ment, will go to the apostolic nunciature of Bei- might face this extremely tragic and painful mo- were injured and one nurse killed. The other the Phoenix, which rises from its ashes, they rut “to meet the needs of the Lebanese Church ment and, with the help of the international com- nuns have refused to leave the building. They never give up. Today however, they have in these moments of difficulty and suffering,” munity, overcome the grave crisis they are ex- sleep on mattresses on the floor, hoping to hit rock bottom. — By Pierre Balanian, according to the Vatican. periencing.” — By Hannah Brockhaus, CNA get the hospital up and running soon. AsiaNews 8 World HERALD August 16, 2020 Human dignity has serious political implications VATICAN: Pope Francis said that human rights violations in Yemen, in his or her personal dignity, is a Christian faith demands conversion and the Iranian government’s repres- social being, created in the image of from individualism to a commitment sion of civil society. God, One and Triune,” he said. “We to defending the inherent dignity of The UN High Commissioner for are social beings; we need to live in every person. Human Rights’ spokesperson has this social harmony, but when there “While we work for the cure of a also expressed concern over the ap- is selfishness, our outlook does not virus that affects everyone without plication of China’s National Securi- reach others, the community, but fo- distinction, faith urges us to work ty Law in Hong Kong and Lebanon’s cuses on ourselves, and this makes seriously and actively to fight indif- socio-economic crisis. The Vatican us ugly, nasty and selfish, destroying ference in the face of violations of has not released further details of the harmony.” human dignity,” Pope Francis said content of the Pope’s meeting with The Pope’s reflection on human Aug 12. Bachelet. dignity is part of a weekly series of “We want to recognise the human Pope Francis had said at his gen- catechesis on Catholic social teach- dignity in every person, whatever his eral audience that humans have “in- ing, which he began last week. Pope or her race, language or condition alienable dignity” because human- Francis said that he wants to “tackle might be,” the Pope said at his gen- ity was created in the image of God, together the pressing issues that the eral audience. quoting the Second Vatican Coun- pandemic has highlighted, especially Speaking via livestream from the cil’s pastoral constitution, Gaudium social diseases.” library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Pope Francis delivers his blessing during his general audience in the Apostolic et Spes. He said that this lies at “the “Let us ask the Lord to give us Palace, Pope Francis emphasised Palace at the Vatican Aug 12, 2020. (CNS photo/Vatican Media) foundation of all social life and deter- eyes attentive to our brothers and that this “renewed awareness of the stead, that God looks at a man and a we all are. If we do not take care of mines its operative principles.” sisters, especially those who are suf- dignity of every human being has se- woman in another manner. He cre- each other, starting with the least, “In modern culture, the closest ref- fering. As Jesus’ disciples we do not rious social, economic and political ated us not as objects but as people with those who are most affected, in- erence to the principle of the inalien- want to be indifferent or individualis- implications.” loved and capable of loving; He has cluding creation, we cannot heal the able dignity of the person is the Uni- tic,” he said. He said that the pandemic has created us in His image and likeness. world,” he said. versal Declaration of Human Rights, “May the Lord ‘restore our sight’ “shed light on broader social ills,” in- In this way He has given us a unique Following the general audience, which St John Paul II defined as a so as to rediscover what it means to cluding “a distorted view of the per- dignity, calling us to live in commun- Pope Francis met with United Na- ‘milestone on the long and difficult be members of the human family. son” that ignores human dignity and ion with Him, in communion with tions High Commissioner for Hu- path of the human race’ and as ‘one And may this sight be translated into “fosters an individualistic and ag- our sisters and our brothers, with re- man Rights, Michelle Bachelet, at of the highest expressions of the hu- concrete actions of compassion and gressive throw-away culture, which spect for all creation,” Pope Francis the Vatican. man conscience,’” Pope Francis said. respect for every person and of care transforms the human being into a said. In recent months, Bachelet, the “Rights are not only individual, and safeguarding of our common consumer good”. “The pandemic has highlighted former president of Chile, has spoken but also social; they are of peoples, home.” — By Courtney Mares, “In the light of faith, we know in- how vulnerable and interconnected out about child marriage in Somalia, nations. The human being, indeed, CNA Catholic philanthropist Jimmy US Catholics react to Lai arrested in Hong Kong Harris VP selection HONG KONG: One of Hong sponsored thugs. In February, Lai WASHINGTON: Catholics and Kong’s leading Catholic philanthro- was arrested along with other pro- pro-life organisations offered a pists, media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee- democracy advocates for a largely range of reactions to the selection ying, has been arrested along with peaceful protest in August 2019 but of Senator Kamala Harris as for- members of his family and company the charges were later dropped. mer vice president Joe Biden’s run- management as Beijing continues its Observers said the arrest of Lai is ning mate for the 2020 election. swift implementation of the brutal a clear message from Beijing that no Biden announced his selection new national security law (NSL). one is safe from the long and brutal on Aug 11, triggering a wave of re- Lai, 72, has donated millions of reach of Chinese authorities. actions among political and Catho- dollars to Catholic causes and has The NSL has criminalised com- lic commentators been retired Cardinal Joseph Zen’s ments deemed to be seditious, sepa- Fordham University profes- biggest financial backer. ratist or broadly critical of the gov- sor Charles Camosy, who left the This has raised fears in some quar- ernment. Democratic Party earlier this year ters that the prelate, who like Lai is Millionaire media tycoon Jimmy Lai Cardinal Zen, Bishop Joseph Ha over the party’s stance on abortion, a trenchant critic of Beijing, could dia companies Next Media and the and senior representatives of the called Harris a “deeply flawed” Senator Kamala Harris be in the sights of the ruling Chinese city’s leading anti-Beijing newspa- Diocese of Hong’s Kong Peace and choice for VP. Communist Party (CCP) along with per Apple Daily, has long been one Justice Commission have made nu- “It is very good that a black “far out of line with the majority other Church leaders. of Being’s key targets in the city. merous statements supporting the woman has been nominated for of Democrats and Americans on Cardinal Zen has previously re- About 200 police raided the office pro-democracy movement in Hong VP. And I can understand a desire this sensitive issue,” the organisa- vealed that what began as a HK$3 of Apple Daily and handcuffed Lai Kong and have been prominent in to choose the lesser of two evils,” tion said, and encouraged Biden million (US$387,000) birthday pre- under the NSL provision of “foreign attending street protests against the said Camosy on Twitter. and Harris to reach out to pro-life sent turned into donations of about collusion” along with two of his sons Hong Kong government and Bei- “But for Catholics in favour of Democrats and adjust the party’s USS$20 million — one third of all and two executives of Next Media. jing. prenatal justice, and of government platform stances on abortion. donations that Lai made to various He was also charged with fraud. The Lai, who also holds United King- defending these children from ter- Michael Sean Winters, a writer causes, many of them associated NSL means Lai could be sent to the dom citizenship, is the second target rible violence, we must say that for the National Catholic Reporter with the pro-democracy movement, mainland for incarceration and trial. picked up by the newly created Of- Harris is a deeply flawed candi- and the author of Left At the Altar: according to the South China Morn- “The police operation is still ongo- fice For Safeguarding National- Se date. Unreserved praise of her VP How Democrats Lost The Catho- ing Post. ing and does not rule out more ar- curity in Hong Kong, set up to im- candidacy is, in effect, yet another lics And How Catholics Can Save The cardinal has explained that rests,” Hong Kong police said. plement the NSL and answerable to example of erasure of the prenatal The Democrats, also expressed his the money has been spent on a wide In interviews after the NSL was Beijing. Four young student activists child,” Camosy said. reservations about Harris. range of things, including the so- imposed, Lai described the new were arrested last month. Democrats for Life of America “[Massachusetts Sen Elizabeth] called underground Church loyal to legislation as “the death knell for Beijing has also “postponed’ elec- also criticised Harris’s selection, Warren was the person I wanted Rome but not part of the state-run Hong Kong.” tions for the city’s quasi-democratic saying in a statement that she Biden to choose,” said Winters. Chinese Catholic Patriotic Asso- “I’m prepared for prison. If it Legislative Council, due in Sep- “does not provide pro-life Demo- “After the racial tensions the na- ciation, sending Chinese priests to comes, I will have the opportunity to tember, by a year, citing concerns crats with any assurances and will, tion experienced this summer, put- Rome and even funding Zen’s own read books I haven’t read. The only over the spread of coronavirus even in fact, further alienate 21 million ting a black woman on the ticket is trips to Rome. thing I can do is to be positive,” he though South Korea and Singapore Democratic voters who have been to be commended,” Winters said, Lai, who made his fortune through said. have successfully held safe polls this left out of the party for quite some but called the selection of Harris mid-market fashion chain Giordano He has been the victim of violent year. — By Michael Sainsbury, time.” a “setback for progressives.” — before parlaying his wealth into me- attacks in recent years by Beijing- ucanews.com Harris’ position on abortion is CNA HERALD August 16, 2020 World 9 Laity to participate in pastoral care of Sicilian parish VATICAN: Bishop Giuseppe Mar- community “a place of spirituality The new Instruction notes that, tor.” Because this is “an extraordi- ciante of Cefalù, on the Italian is- for families and priests.” in some “pastorally problematic nary remedy,” the Instruction says, land of Sicily, has entrusted a “par- The decision was taken in light of circumstances, in order to sustain “the People of God should be ad- ticipation in the pastoral care of the the recent Instruction on “The pas- Christian life and continue the equately prepared in this regard, parish of St Paul the Apostle” in the toral conversion of the Parish com- evangelising mission of the com- cognizant that it is a temporary and town of Isnello to a “Family Pasto- munity in the service of the evan- munity, the diocesan Bishop may not a permanent measure.” ral Service Team” that includes lay gelising mission of the Church,” entrust the pastoral care of a Par- For the same reason, the Instruc- people. prepared by the Congregation for ish to a deacon, to a consecrated tion notes that “the only canoni- A statement from the Diocesan the Clergy. religious or layperson, or even to a cal cause that makes recourse to Curia explains that “the decision of The Instruction deals with the on- group of persons.” it legitimate is a lack of priests to Bishop Marciante represents one of going missionary conversion in the At the same time, it cautions, “It provide pastoral care for the Parish the first cases in Sicily of a parish Church, focusing especially on the should be remembered that we are community.” being entrusted to a group of lay role of the Parish. It does not prom- dealing here with an extraordinary The new Pastoral Team of the Si- Bishop Giuseppe Marciante of Cefalù people led by a priest.” ulgate new legislation, but instead form of entrusting pastoral care, due cilian parish will be directed by Fa- Care,” in line with the provisions of In the statement, Bishop Mar- “proposes methods to better apply to the impossibility of appointing a ther Paolo Cassaniti, who was ap- the Code of Canon Law. — Vatican ciante says he hopes to make the rules and canonical norms.” Parish Priest or Parish administra- pointed as “Moderator of Pastoral News Back to Mass: Diocese lifts Sunday dispensation SOUTH DAKOTA, USA: Some is made out of pastoral concern for able is helpful. For example, as and that the decisions are made Catholics in South Dakota will the souls entrusted to my spiritual of August 10, of the 44 counties in good faith, based upon objec- once again be obligated to go to care,” he added. in our diocese, seven have no ac- tive data,” said DeGrood. He listed Sunday Mass, after the Diocese of DeGrood defined “those at- in tive cases, 22 have one to 10 active the examples of “morally justi- Sioux Falls announced it will lift creased risk for severe illness” as cases, and 15 have 11 or more ac- fied” fear that would merit- skip the dispensation on Sunday Mass people who are over the age of tive cases. Thanks be to God, the ping Mass to be “regular contact attendance this week. 65, or anyone with cancer, chronic hospitals within our state have not with a person with increased risk,” Catholics in the diocese who kidney disease, chronic obstructive suffered an overwhelming surge as “recent, prolonged contact with a are not in high-risk categories for pulmonary disease, a compromised was initially feared,” he added. symptomatic person,” or someone contracting coronavirus will once immune system due to an organ As of August 10, there were 63 who has “a significant emotional more be bound by the Sunday obli- transplant, obesity, “serious heart people hospitalised statewide with response from fear of contracting gation, making Sioux Falls the first conditions,” sickle cell disease, or COVID-19, a number that De- COVID-19.” diocese to lift the general dispensa- type two diabetes mellitus. Grood said represented “three per DeGrood also reminded his tion brought in across US dioceses The decision by the Sioux Falls cent of the total hospital bed capac- flock in the statement about the im- Bishop Donald DeGrood of Sioux Falls in the wake of the pandemic. bishop, whose territory includes ity, three per cent of intensive care portance of social distancing and “After receiving clarity through the eastern half of the state, is be- of South Dakota, especially as the unit bed capacity, and five per cent “good hygienic practices” to fur- prayer, consultation with clergy lieved to be the first of its kind. predictions of overrun hospitals of ventilator capacity for the state.” ther stop the spread of COVID-19. and others, and in light of this data, Even in dioceses where public and deaths in the thousands failed In the statement, DeGrood said Public Masses resumed in the effective on August 17, 2020, I am Masses have resumed, there is still to materialise. that a Catholic who is hesitant to Diocese of Sioux Falls on May 15, changing the dispensation to apply no obligation in place for everyone “As I have been praying these return to Mass, despite not being at approximately two months after only to those at increased risk for to attend Mass if they do not think last months, I have been monitor- an increased risk of COVID-19 or they were suspended due to the on- severe illness and those responsi- it is safe to do so. ing COVID-19 infection rates and caring for someone who is severely going COVID-19 pandemic. ble for their care,” said a statement DeGrood said in the statement am grateful the projected severe ill — must discern whether or not A total of 146 South Dakotans from Bishop Donald DeGrood of that he made the decision to rein- harm to a large number of people their fear is “morally justifiable” or have died from COVID-19. There Sioux Falls published on Aug 10. state the obligation in light of the in East River South Dakota has not “inordinate.” are approximately 1,100 active “It is important for all in the dio- relatively low impact the novel occurred,” said DeGrood. “It is essential that these serious cases of coronavirus statewide. — cese to know that this modification coronavirus has had on the state “The local data presently avail- questions are discerned in prayer CNA Financial war: Washington could Security law ending freedom of the press in Hong Kong seize Chinese banks’ assets HONG KONG: The security law ble to watch the segment. BEIJING: The United States could imposed by Beijing on Hong Kong The security law per se does confiscate the assets of Chinese banks is crushing freedom of the press, not ban media from interviewing if the financial war with China reaches once considered a symbol of the people on the police wanted list. a point of no return. former British colony. However, since acts and activities In the past, Washington has im- The Hong Kong Free Press today contrary to the law are so vaguely posed sanctions on Chinese financial reported that Hong Kong’s public defined, many fear they might be institutions, but has not gone so far as broadcaster RTHK removed from accused of condoning criminal ac- to seize their assets. its website an interview with pro- tions. In 2012, for example, the US gov- democracy activist Nathan Law. For Chris Yeung, head of the ernment sanctioned the Kunlun Bank The latter, who is wanted by police, Hong Kong Journalists Associa- for oil financing dealings with Iran. has fled to Britain. tion, the RTHK affair is a sign that The bank was cut off from the global Law, one of the founders of the local media are at risk of slipping payments system, which is based on now-dissolved Demosisto, a politi- more and more into self-censorship. the use of the US dollar. cal organisation that backed Hong This comes at a time when jour- For economists, financial, as well Chinese banks risk being excluded from the global dollar-based payment system. Kong’s autonomy, from his place of nalists are becoming the victims as trade and technological, decoupling and a former adviser to China’s cen- Yu notes that Washington could exile, called on foreign countries to of violence, just as Jimmy Lai and between the two powers is no longer tral bank, Washington could freeze the also impose hefty fees on Chinese guarantee Hong Kong’s freedom. several staff members of his Apple an unlikely scenario. assets of Chinese banks that do busi- banks wishing to have access to the Such a demand is against the law Daily newspaper were arrested. The Trump administration contin- ness with Chinese leaders or officials dollar system. under the new security legislation, In Hong Kong, people reacted to ues to accuse Beijing of expansionist targeted by the US government. For analysts, Beijing has few op- which bans subversion, secession, the arrests by buying hundreds of aims in East and Southeast Asia, of This could happen to financial insti- tions against such a threat. Some Chi- terrorism and collaboration with thousands of copies of the newspa- unfair trade practices, of stealing in- tutions that have dealings with Hong nese observers suggest boosting the foreign forces. per, which usually has a circulation dustrial and technological secrets, and Kong officials, like Hong Kong Chief internationalisation of the yuan, to re- The interview with Nathan Law of 70,000. of violating human rights at home and Executive Carrie Lam. Last week, duce dependence on payment systems was broadcast on 31 July as part Jimmy Lai, who was released in Hong Kong. the Trump administration sanctioned dominated by the dollar. However, the of a programme on Hong Kong’s on bail yesterday, went back to the According to Yu Yongding, a sen- them for their role in suppressing the Chinese currency’s share of interna- postponed parliamentary elections. Apple Daily offices. He was met ior fellow at government think tank pro-democracy movement in the for- tional payments is only 1.76 per cent. Law was one of many people inter- with an ovation. — By Paul Wang, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences mer British colony. — Asianews viewed. Now it is no longer possi- Asianews 10 Editorial HERALD August 16, 2020 HERALD North Korea’s Pyongyang August 16, 2020 Many hypotheses Diocese dedicated to but no answers t is two weeks since the explosions that devastated Ithe port and a large part of Beirut, yet there is still no news on the results of the official investigation that was Our Lady of Fatima launched on August 5. Authorities promised that the re- sults would be published after five days. he Diocese of Pyongyang, North and monasteries were closed during the Call to peace The deflagration caused more than 220 deaths, 110 Korea, was dedicated to Our Lady war, and priests, religious and the faith- Cardinal Yeom said the Korean Catholic missing and over 6,000 injured. Besides these, hundreds Tof Fatima August 15, the Solem- ful were taken into custody and sub- Church has been actively engaged in vari- of thousands have been left homeless, now housed in pri- nity of the Assumption of the Blessed jected to hardship or death. He also gave ous humanitarian activities to promote true vate homes, convents or mosques. The victims include Virgin Mary. the example of “Servant of God” Bishop peace in the Korean Peninsula. However, many foreign workers and truck drivers operating at the The Archbishop of Seoul and Apos- Francis Borgia Hong Yong-ho and his 80 relations between the two Koreas remain port. tolic Administrator of Pyongyang, Car- companions “who kept their faith to the strained. Many suspect that the explosion which involved 2,750 dinal Andrew Soo-jung Yeom, made this end,” becoming “martyrs of the persecu- The COVID-19 pandemic, he added, tons of ammonium nitrate stored in a depot in the port announcement in his message for the tion carried out by the Stalinist regime of has further exacerbated the “ideological near an area with a high population density, was the result liturgical Solemnity. He said that the As- Kim Il-Sung.” division, prevalence of life-threatening of negligence. So far, the government has placed those sumption into heaven of Our Lady “is a In 1949, Bishop Yong-ho and a group trends and polarisation of wealth” which responsible for the port and customs under house arrest sign of hope for us, the faithful, because of priests and laypeople were taken into only serve to deepen the conflicts between and has transferred responsibility for the trial to the Court it has given us hope that if we are faithful custody and disappeared. The Korean generations and between classes. of Justice of the Republic, a court from which there is no in our believing like the Holy Mother, we Church has opened the process of the “We have been called by the Lord to appeal. will be saved and rewarded with eternal beatification of Bishop Yong-ho. serve as “apostles of peace” through prayer, It is known that the massive amount of ammonium ni- life in the kingdom of God (Luke 1:38).” Even now, Cardinal Yeom lamented, repentance, sacrifice and service,” he said. trate — which is used both as fertiliser and as an explo- And, “since this year marks the 75th “there is not a single clergyman in North “Let us establish true peace on this land by sive — entered Beirut in 2014. On July 20, 2020, the state anniversary of the liberation of Korea Korea who can perform his ministry,” overcoming the anxiety and distrust that security services warned about the danger of the storage from the Japanese colonial rule and the adding that “we need the special grace of have permeated every aspect of our soci- and instructions were given to find a safer accommoda- 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the God to correct this sad reality.” ety through the practice of love that Jesus tion. Less than three weeks later, the tragedy occurred. Korean War,” he decided to “dedicate The dedication, therefore, comes as Christ our Lord taught us.” The day after the explosions, President Michel Aoun the Pyongyang Diocese to Our Lady of this year marks the double events of the “I believe the urgent task of our time is did not rule out that the explosions were triggered by a Fatima after sincere prayer and discern- 75th anniversary of Korea’s liberation to restore the spirit of community through missile or a bomb. But he made it clear that this is a hy- ment.” from colonial rule and the 70th anniver- which everyone can peacefully join in un- pothesis and is yet to be verified. He also expressed his wish that “the sary of the outbreak of the Korean War, ion and coexist,” he continued, adding that The thesis of state neglect is reinforced by a report in day will come soon when we will be able said Cardinal Yeom. He also expressed this can only be achieved when all are con- the New York Times that revealed that four years ago, a to share with our North Korean brothers his hope that one day the Church in the vinced that all humans are created in God’s consultant who worked for the US military had expressed and sisters the joy of the Assumption of two Koreas would be able to share the image. concerns about the deposit. A US security expert then is- the Blessed Virgin Mary.” joy of the liturgical solemnity together. The Cardinal called for “dialogue based sued a warning to the Lebanese authorities during an in- The dedication ceremony was during on mutual trust, not force” and expressed spection of the port of Beirut. the Mass on Aug 15 at Myeongdong Dedication ceremony his desire that “the two Koreas will open The US embassy in Lebanon published an archival doc- Cathedral in the South Korean city of Cardinal Yeom pointed out that this is their hearts and start to talk for real peace.” ument on August 7 proving these communications to the Seoul. the first time the Pyongyang Diocese He also invited everyone to pray for the in- Lebanese government. would be dedicated since its establish- tercession of our Mother Mary, Mother of Now the US embassy is receiving criticism from many Celebration amid history of chal- ment in 1927. peace “to bring true peace in our society.” diplomatic representations in Beirut for keeping silent lenges Even though the dedication ceremo- “I hope the day will come soon when the about this danger. There were also foreign employees and Cardinal Yeom said that the liturgical ny is in the Myeongdong Cathedral in North Korean Church will be able to praise diplomatic personnel among the victims of the explosion. Solemnity is special and meaningful for Seoul, “it is significant, given the spiritu- the Lord again in joy and peace through On the other hand, the hypothesis launched by the US the Korean Church because, on Aug 15, al unity between the Pyongyang Diocese the protection and intercession of the Holy embassy to the effect that an arms depot caused the explo- 1945, Korea was liberated from Japa- and the Seoul Archdiocese.” Mother,” he added. sions that Hezbollah kept close to the ammonium nitrate nese colonial rule. The Cardinal also mentioned that he In conclusion, Cardinal Yeom prayed warehouse does not seem to have taken hold. Hezbollah However, “amid the whirlwinds of the asked Pope Francis for a special bless- that, in celebrating the feast of the Assump- Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah vehemently denied nation’s division following the liberation ing for the Pyongyang Diocese, adding tion of Our Lady, her love will be given that his group had “arms or ammunition depots in the and the subsequent Korean War, all Ko- that the Pope “promised to offer a special as a gift. He also prayed for a “new world port”. reans suffered unspeakable pain.” prayer for the protection of the Blessed overflowing with love and peace” and that Regardless, for the inhabitants of Beirut, who see Leb- He went on to explain that religious Virgin Mary” on the day of the dedica- God’s grace will be with all those suffering anon falling apart, everyone is guilty. On Aug 11, in a people suffered even more. Churches tion. due to COVID-19. — Vatican News gathering of hundreds of people in Martyrs Square, a me- morial was held for the victims of the explosion, and once again, the rite of hanging mannequins representing all the New guide explains hidden ministry Lebanese political leaders was held. In a televised message on August 11, the government of Prime Minister Hassan Diab stepped down en masse. The of exorcism VATICAN: One kind of ministry, by Now, a new guide compiled by the in- published as a private reference book, decision was made after days of violent demonstrations its nature but also by Church mandate, ternational association and approved by reserved for “internal use only” by the following the explosions in Beirut port. shuns the limelight and remains discreet: the Vatican aims to provide an authorita- group’s members. Demonstrators blamed the country’s leaders, their neg- exorcism. tive, up-to-date and accurate look at the However, Fr Bamonte said many ligence and corruption, as the factors responsible for the Unfortunately, commercial interests quiet backstage ministry of exorcism. priests and some bishops had asked that explosions. and media have exploited that vacuum, Fr Bamonte, a member of the Serv- the text be made commercially available In his speech, he defended the good work of his govern- offering sensationalised, spine-chilling ants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, to the general public, too. They thought it ment, but also said that corruption in the country was “a and often inaccurate depictions. said that the association first created the would be a “good catechetical and pas- wall fortified by a class that is resorting to all dirty meth- “If an untrue image of the exorcist’s guide as a response to the many ques- toral tool that would counterbalance the ods in order to resist and preserve its gains”. ministry has spread among the general tions, concerns and difficulties expressed many publications that emphasise the — AsiaNews public, this is due not to the discretion over the years among its 800 members sensationalistic aspects of demonic activ- HERALD — The Catholic Weekly with which good exorcists proceed, but worldwide. ity,” he said. Jointly published by the to the lack of professional honesty in The aim of the Vatican-approved asso- The association got the green light to Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, the media,” said Fr Francesco Bamonte, ciation is to help exorcists and their assis- make it public from the Vatican dicaster- Diocese of Malacca Johore, Diocese of president of the Rome-based Internation- tants share experiences and best practices ies that approved the text and from Car- Penang and Diocese of Keningau al Association of Exorcists. among themselves. And while exorcists dinal Angelo de Donatis, papal vicar of Editor: Fr Lawrence Andrew, SJ Media outlets that “have not sought the already have official texts to refer to in Rome, who granted the text’s imprimatur. HERALD, 5, Jalan Robertson, 50150, KL truth in regard to exorcism, but, speaking their ministry, the guidelines are meant The guidelines, currently only available Tel: 03-20268290/20268291; about something they do not understand, to “clarify many obscure and mistaken in Italian, went on sale in mid-July; it will Fax: 03-20268293 have sensationalised it for ideological or aspects” about exorcism, he said. be “at least a year” before the Vatican- Online: www.heraldmalaysia.com. economic reasons,” he said in an email Guidelines for the Ministry of Exor- approved English version is published, Fr E-mail: [email protected] response to questions. cism, a 300-page text, was originally Bamonte said. — By Carol Glatz, CNS HERALD August 16, 2020 Focus 11 Long journey ahead for inculturation in Myanmar MANDALAY: There was some- teries,” he said. second largest city, the archbishop thing unusual about the crib on Archbishop Tin Win had intended elaborated on his efforts of incultura- display in the compound of Sacred to write a book about inculturation tion one step at a time such as lan- Heart Cathedral in Mandalay on after his return from further studies guage, a Burmese-style crib and im- Christmas Eve. Instead of the famil- in Rome in 1997 but most of his time ages of Mary in traditional Burmese iar Western faces and Middle East- was spent on interfaith activities and clothing. ern garments, Joseph and Mary had writing books about interreligious His 18-year journey has not been Asian features and wore traditional dialogue. The book on inculturation smooth and he has faced many chal- Burmese clothes, as did the shep- was finally published in 2015. lenges, including resistance from fel- herds and kings who came to wor- He recalled that no one had heard low priests. ship baby Jesus. the term “interreligious” back in “Laypeople and clergy from Man- It was an initial step to introduce 1998. It’s a strange word among the dalay were uneasy when I started to inculturation to Catholics and fol- Catholic community, so he started display the crib with Burmese fea- lowers of other faiths in the Bud- to write a book about interreligious tures as they presumed it is the way dhist-majority country in 2002 led dialogue. of Buddhism,” the 60-year-old prel- by Archbishop Marco Tin Win of While introducing inculturation in ate said. Mandalay, then a priest in Mandalay the Myanmar Church, the Archbish- “People thought I might have con- Archbishop Marco Tin Win with Burmese-style wooden statues of Mary and Archdiocese. op had his head shaved as Buddhist verted to Buddhism. I had a shaved Infant Jesus at the chapel in the priests’ center in Mandalay. (UCA News photo) With the help of a Buddhist artist, monks and nuns do as a symbol of head and frequently visited monas- “Once we embrace our own cul- patience and perseverance, the effort the Archbishop had Burmese-style giving up worldly attachments. teries. However, we are not imitating ture after understanding its essence has been welcomed by most people. wooden statues made. The prel- As an initial step, he tried to focus Buddhism. Rather, we are trying to and values, we may have success in “As a bishop, I get a chance to con- ate realised he needed to carry out on language and body language in li- embrace our own culture and an- the mission of evangelisation and in- tinue my mission, but I’ll go slowly inculturation when he was seeking turgical services. “If the way we use nouncing Gospel values. terfaith dialogue. as it takes time,” he said. interreligious dialogue, especially in words and the way we worship are “In Myanmar, Buddhism has to- “My goal is to show that we are At the highest level of incultura- meetings with Buddhists. not in line with local cultures and tra- tally embraced the culture and tra- Burmese Catholics, Kachin Catho- tion, the Archbishop has also taken “The way we speak and the way ditions, people from other faiths will ditions of the Burmese, so we can’t lics, and Karen Catholics. We are a move on silence, solitude, medita- we worship are different from Bur- always see us as foreigners,” he said. easily separate religion and culture. living in Myanmar. We are not for- tion and contemplation. “As it is an mese culture, so we are like stran- If we don’t embrace our own cul- eigners.” embedded tradition among people in gers to other people. I got the idea We are not foreigners ture according to the teaching of the Myanmar, most people can easily ac- from carrying out interreligious dia- During an interview in the Archbish- Church, we Catholics will remain Patience and perseverance cept them despite the deeper level.” logue and visiting Buddhist monas- op’s house in Mandalay, Myanmar’s strangers to others. Besides writing books, Archbishop He said dialogue with religions, Tin Win has been giving awareness cultures and the needy is the vision training about interreligious dialogue of Mandalay Archdiocese. and inculturation in dioceses across Archbishop Tin Win has a strong the country. commitment to interfaith harmony When he gave seminars in some and has carried out projects with dioceses, people from ethnic com- Buddhists, Muslims and Hindus. munities thought he was promoting He is head of the Episcopal Com- Burmese culture. mission for Interreligious Dialogue “I try to explain to them that as I’m at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference a Bamar, I use Burmese culture as an of Myanmar. He also served as sec- example. Each ethnic group needs retary of the commission for several to do it with their own culture,” the years. Archbishop said. He is one of the Asian prelates He acknowledged it is a long Pope Francis appointed as new journey, but Catholics need to make members of the Pontifical Council preparations for the people, educate for Interreligious Dialogue in July. A Burmese-style crib on display at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Mandalay in December 2014. (UCA News photo) the people and move slowly. With — By John Zaw, ucanews.com Holy See among 30 states wanting to ban killer robots VATICAN: The Holy See is among a growing urgent multilateral action,” said Mary Ware- systems, while Australia, Turkey, and other number of states seeking to ban fully autono- ham, HRW’s arms division advocacy and coor- countries are also making investments. mous weapons, Human Rights Watch (HRW) dinator of the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots. said in a new report. “An international ban treaty is the only effective Holy See’s actions Joining the Holy See are 29 other states in- way to deal with the serious challenges raised In their report, HRW outlined the Holy See’s cluding Argentina, Austria, Mexico, and Paki- by fully autonomous weapons.” actions concerning fully autonomous weapons stan in a list compiled by HRW in their new HRW said that nations have participated in over the past decade. report “Stopping Killer Robots: Country Posi- the eight Convention on Conventional Weap- “In November 2013, the Holy See expressed tions on Banning Fully Autonomous Weapons ons (CCW) meetings on lethal autonomous grave ethical concerns over the inability of pre- and Retaining Human Control.” weapons systems from 2014 to 2019. Austria, programmed, automated technical systems to HRW said that weapons systems that select Brazil, and Chile have proposed negotiations make moral judgments over life and death, re- and engage targets without meaningful human on a legally binding instrument to ensure mean- spect human rights, and comply with the prin- control, known as killer robots, are unaccepta- ingful human control over the critical functions ciples of humanity. It regards a killer robot as ‘a ble and need to be prevented. of weapons systems. weapon system capable of identifying, select- The group’s 55-page report reviews the poli- However, HRW pointed out that a small num- ing and triggering action on a target without hu- cies of the 97 countries that have publicly elab- ber of military powers — most notably Russia man supervision’,” the report said. orated their views on killer robots since 2013. and the United States — have blocked progress “The Holy See called for lethal autonomous HRW said that the vast majority regard hu- towards regulation, while they also invest heav- weapons systems to be prohibited in May 2014, man control and decision-making as critical to ily in the military applications of artificial intel- citing the precedent provided by the preemptive the acceptability and legality of weapons sys- ligence and developing air, land, and sea-based ban on blinding lasers, and warning of their po- tems. Most of these countries have expressed autonomous weapons systems. Decisions at the tential to ‘increase the dehumanisation of war- their desire for a new treaty to retain human CCW are by consensus, which allows just a few fare’,” the report said. A mock “killer robot” is pictured on April 23, control over the use of force, including 30 that or even a single country to block an agreement “The Holy See provided the CCW with a 2013 during the launching of the Campaign explicitly seek to ban fully autonomous weap- sought by a majority. ten-page statement in April 2015 outlining its to Stop “Killer Robots,” which calls for the ons. The report said that China, Israel, Russia, ethical objections to lethal autonomous weap- ban of lethal robot weapons that would be “Removing human control from the use of South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the ons systems. The Holy See participated in every able to select and attack targets without any force is now widely regarded as a grave threat United States are investing heavily in the de- CCW meeting on killer robots in 2014-2019.” human intervention. (LiCas News photo via to humanity that, like climate change, deserves velopment of various autonomous weapons — LiCAS.news AFP) 12 Varia HERALD August 16, 2020 Suicide and Melancholy

e no longer understand pathologised, and medicalised” victim: If your soul is sick, it’s However, we only feel pity for melancholy. Today so that what poets, philosophers, your fault. For the most part that those whom we haven’t ostra- Wwe lump all forms of blues-singers, artists, and mystics is how people who die by suicide cized, psychologically and mor- melancholy together into one have forever drawn on for depth are judged. Even though pub- ally. That’s why we judge rather indiscriminate bundle and call it is now seen as a “treatable illness” licly we have come a long way than pity someone who dies by “depression”. While a lot of good rather than as a painful part of the in recent times in understand- suicide. For us, death by suicide is being done by psychiatrists, soul that doesn’t want treatment ing suicide and now claim to be still renders persons “unclean” in psychologists, and the medical but wants instead to be listened more open and less judgmental that it puts them outside of what profession in terms of treating to because it intuits the unbear- morally, the stigma remains. We we deem as morally and psy- depression, something important able heaviness of things, namely, still have not made the same chologically acceptable. Their is being lost at the same time. the torment of human finitude, peace with breakdowns in men- deaths are not spoken of in the Melancholy is much more than inadequacy and mortality. For tal health as we have made with same way as other deaths. They what we call “depression”. For Cowan, modern psychology’s breakdowns in physical health. are doubly judged, first psycho- better or for worse, the ancients preoccupation with symptoms We don’t have the same psycho- logically (If your soul is sick, it’s saw melancholy as a gift from of depression and its reliance on Fr Ron Rolheiser logical and moral anxieties when your own fault) and then morally God. drugs in treating depression show someone dies of cancer, stroke, (Your death is a betrayal). To die Prior to modern psychology an “appalling superficiality in the sure. Leo Tolstoy, the Russian or heart attack as we do when by suicide is worse than dying of and psychiatry, melancholy was face of real human suffering.” novelist, who eventually did die someone dies by suicide. Those leprosy. seen precisely as a gift from the For her, apart from whatever by suicide, had written earlier who die by suicide are, in effect, I’m not sure how we can move divine. In Greek mythology it else this might mean, refusing to about the melancholic forces that our new “lepers”. past this. As Pascal says, the even had its own god, Saturn, recognize the depth and mean- sometimes threatened to over- In former times when there was heart has its reasons. So too does and it was seen as a rich but ing of melancholy is demeaning whelm him. Here’s one of his no solution for leprosy other than the powerful taboo inside us that mixed gift. On the one hand, it to the sufferer and perpetrates a diary entries: “the force which isolating the person from eve- militates against suicide. There could bring soul-crushing emo- violence against a soul that is al- drew me away from life was ryone else, the victim suffered are good reasons why we sponta- tions such as unbearable loneli- ready in torment. fuller, more powerful, and more doubly, once from the disease neously feel the way we do about ness, paralysing obsessions, in- And that is the issue when general than any mere desire. It and then (perhaps even more suicide. But, perhaps a deeper consolable grief, cosmic sadness, dealing with suicide. Suicide is was a force like my old aspiration painfully) from the social isola- understanding of the complexity and suicidal despair; on the other normally the result of a soul in to live, only it impelled me in the tion and debilitating stigma. He of forces that lie inside of what hand, it could also bring depth, torment and in most cases that opposite direction. It was an aspi- or she was declared “unclean” we naively label “depression” genius, creativity, poetic inspira- torment is not the result of a ration of my whole being to get and had to own that stigma. But might help us understand that, in tion, compassion, mystical in- moral failure but of a melancholy out of life.’” the person suffering from leprosy most cases, suicide may not be sight, and wisdom. which overwhelms a person at a There’s still a lot we don’t still had the consolation of not judged as a moral or psychologi- No more. Today melancholy time when he or she is too ten- understand about suicide and being judged psychologically or cal failure, but as a melancholy has even lost its name and has be- der, too weak, too wounded, too that misunderstanding isn’t just morally. They were not judged to that has overpowered a suffering come, in the words of Lyn Cowan stressed, or too biochemically psychological, it’s also moral. be “unclean” in those areas. They soul. — By Fr Ron Rolheiser, all a Jungian analyst, “clinicalised, impaired to withstand its pres- In short, we generally blame the were pitied. rights reserved COVID-19 will create a global hunger crisis by the end of 2020 s COVID-19 continues to stalk the globe, mobilization in the organisation’s history. Afood insecurity in vulnerable societies has According to other UN estimates, up to begun to rise. Guatemalans have been advised 6,000 children could die every day from pre- by the government to signal that they need food ventable causes before the end of the year as by walking to the nearest main road and wav- a result of pandemic-related disruptions to es- ing a white flag. According to Bill O’Keefe, sential health and nutrition services. the executive vice president for mission and Dr Charles Owubah, the chief executive of- mobilisation at Catholic Relief Services, CRS ficer of Action Against Hunger, urged -a dra teams frequently encountered those makeshift matic response to the looming crisis. “The distress signals along Guatemala’s roadways world must act now to help protect the most this summer. vulnerable both from COVID-19 itself but also A hunger crisis, predicted to get much worse from the secondary impacts of COVID-19,” by the fall, is already beginning in Guatemala he said, commenting in an email. “Communi- because of the loss of income caused by lock- ties could be pushed beyond the brink; we’re downs and the related disruption of food pro- concerned not only about COVID-19 itself, but duction and distribution systems. Even before also about the pandemic’s secondary effects COVID-19 struck, Somalia was contending that could increase poverty and hunger to lev- with drought and a locust infestation that deci- els we have not seen for decades.” mated crop yields. The pandemic has also dis- “Acutely food insecure” may sound like rupted global shipping, an acute threat to a na- bloodless bureaucratic jargon, but behind the tion that is largely dependent on food imports. expression lurks profound human suffering. Hunger in Somalia, O’Keefe fears, is likely O’Keefe explained that WFP officials are try- to get much worse. “COVID comes on top of ing to sound an alarm as accurately and com- other things that are going on, and in the most prehensively as possible. The expression is fragile places, where this breakdown in food Mariatu Sankoh joins a socially distanced Catholic Relief Services food distribution in Sierra meant to describe broad hunger conditions Leone (America photo/Ronnie Larry Tucker via Catholic Relief Services). systems is happening, there are already serious that could mean anything from outright starva- problems,” he said. ture Organisation, countries in Latin America, imminent danger from starvation. tion in some nations to chronic, gnawing hun- Food insecurity had been on the rise for the Caribbean, the Middle East and Asia also “Make no mistake,” he warned. “If we do ger that can contribute to social and personal years even before the pandemic, according to face dangerous levels of food insecurity. not act now to end this pandemic of human breakdowns. researchers at the United Nations World Food “Three months ago, at the UN Security suffering, many people will die.” In practical terms, he said, acute food insecu- Program, because of conflict, climate change Council, I told world leaders that we ran the risk The number of acutely food-insecure peo- rity means the inability to produce or purchase and economic downturns. Now they report of a famine of biblical proportions,” said David ple could increase from an estimated 149 mil- enough food to meet daily dietary needs. “That that at least 25 countries around the world face Beasley, WFP’s executive director, speaking to lion pre-COVID-19 to 270 million before the means having to skip meals. It means going to acute food insecurity because of COVID-19. the press on July 17. “Our latest data tell us that end of the year if life-saving assistance is not bed hungry; it means relying on a less diverse While the greatest concentration of need is in since then, millions of the world’s very poor- provided quickly, WFP officials said. UN of- diet, on less expensive staples. It means hav- Africa, according to the Early Warning Analy- est families have been forced even closer to the ficials are seeking $5 billion from donor states ing to sell your livestock and other productive sis of Acute Food Security Hotspots, compiled abyss. Livelihoods are being destroyed at an to reach up to 138 million people with food assets; it means selling your future to survive by the WFP and the UN’s Food and Agricul- unprecedented rate, and now their lives are in assistance, an effort that represents the biggest now.” — By Kevin Clarke, America HERALD August 16, 2020 13 Seminary formation always draws criticism Malankara. Second, it has repre- Matters India: Congratula- NEW DELHI: Jesuit Fr Francis Gonsalves (pic right) takes tions on the new appoint- sentatives from 101 religious con- ment. What are your plans over as the new president of Jnana-Deepa Vidyapeeth (JDV), a gregations — 53 of women and 48 for JDV? What challenges do pontifical institute in Pune, western India. of men — plus from 97 dioceses you foresee in the new as- Appointed by Rome-based Jesuit superior general Fr Arturo and archdioceses. Third, its present signment? Sosa, Fr Gonsalves says God’s Spirit will provide the staff and 27 resident staff come from three Fr Francis Gonsalves: I plan to students of the institute the ‘Jnana’ (wisdom) to spread the dioceses and seven congregations: strengthen JDV’s triple focus: (a) SJ, OIC, SVD, CSC, UMI, RJM to enlighten men and women to Good News of the ‘Deepa’ (light) of the World: Jesus Christ. and OMI, with 55 visiting profes- think creatively, constructively On the eve of taking over the new post, Matters India sors from elsewhere. and even critically within the lo- interviewed Fr Gonsalves on his life and plans for one of the Fourth, Papal Seminary and cal, national and global Church; oldest seminaries in Asia. JDV can take legitimate pride in (b) to empower staff and students having given the Church in India, to raise a prophetic voice for the will give us the ‘Jnana’ (knowl- ministers, are humans with feet for Asian ‘sons of the soil’ to run Sri Lanka and Pakistan more than voiceless poor against evil and in- edge) to spread the Good News of of clay and urges just like every- the ‘Papal Seminary’ at Kandy, 70 archbishops and bishops, in- justice in civil society; and (c) to the ‘Deepa’ (light) of the World: one else. We are no different from Sri Lanka. The 20th century off- cluding four cardinals — Valerian equip ‘ours’ to promote dialogue Jesus Christ. denier Peter, doubting Thomas, or spring of this farsighted ‘Father’ Gracias, Joseph Parekattil, Joseph and fruitful interrelationships with persecutor Paul. It is only when — namely, the elder Papal Semi- Cordeiro and Baselios Cleemis — all peoples, religious traditions, There has been so much crit- we, ordained priests, can sincerely nary, shifted from Kandy to be and some 7,000 priests. Cardinal disciplines and ideologies to create icism about current seminary say: “Yes, I love you, Lord!” (Jn near to its Jesuit brother, De Nobili Oswald Gracias, the current patron a better Church and world. formation especially in the 21:15,16,17) and are convinced College, in 1955, and its avatar in of JDV and its vice-patron, Bishop The first and obvious challenge is wake of scandals involving about Him saying: “Apart from me 1972 renamed ‘Jnana-Deepa Vid- Thomas Dabre of Pune, lectured that, on the one hand, I see myself Catholic priests. What has you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5), that yapeeth’ (JDV) to indigenize more here formerly. as a ‘pandemic president,’ sitting in gone wrong with the forma- we become instruments in God’s fully — are certainly the oldest, Fifth, among JDV’s women a coronavirus hotspot with our past tion? What are your views on hand. Pope Francis is absolutely extremely experienced institutions staff, Prof. Rekha Chennattu is securities and sureties destroyed this? right in saying that the biggest sins of philosophy and theology which currently General Superior of the and our future plans and dreams There has always been criticism of all priests are clericalism and have catered to thousands of stu- Assumption Sisters while Prof. hazy; but, on the other hand, as a about seminary formation in the careerism; it’s difficult to make dents over 125 years. Evelyn Monteiro, was a General Christian Jesuit theologian, amidst past, present, and, I guess, there seminarians and priests aware of Councillor in the Holy Cross con- the masks, sanitisers, handwashes, will be in the future, too. I’m cau- the dangers of power-plays and How many dioceses and re- gregation. Thus, JDV has played a lockdowns and crucifixion of my tious about two extremes: first, money-making. ligious congregations are significant role in terms of its con- people upon ventilators, I see signs looking backward with nostalgia, represented? How many stu- tribution to the Church at large. of hope in the resurrection in JDV saying, “Those were good days, Is JDV the oldest seminary in dents are there in this aca- At present, there are 732 stu- and all around us, worldwide. I’d but today …?” second, daydream- modern India (including its demic year? dents — 498 in Theology and 234 like to tap JDV’s potential to be a ing of an illusory future, saying, Kandy past)? In terms of diversity, past and in Philosophy. Of these, 127 are hotspot of the Holy Spirit helping “Priests should ideally be like A, JDV is the grandchild and brain- present, JDV is a kaleidoscopic postgraduate students. Addition- us to rise — citius, altius, fortius B, C” … Both these stances are child, so to say, of the Father of delight. First, it has staff and stu- ally, JDV has ‘Affiliated Institutes’ — faster, higher, stronger. More illusory and impractical. There ‘Catholic Social Teaching’ of dents from all three sui iuris (self- in Kolkata, Goa, Karnataka, Guja- than any claims to competence or were, are, and will be good and the Church, Pope Leo XIII who, governing) Churches of India rat and Mumbai. — By Jose Kavi, charism, I believe that God’s Spirit bad priests since we, ordained way back in 1893, saw the need — Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro- Matters India Promoting one nation under many faiths JAKARTA: For more than two isations in Indonesia, to dialogue radical groups, but we face chal- dialogue. decades, Jesuit Fr Johannes Hari- with Catholic bishops and other lenges because they are very ex- “I was entrusted by other reli- yanto has been at the forefront of religious leaders. clusive,” the priest says. “They gions to lead the ICRP and to rep- interreligious dialogue in Indone- For 20 years now, the ICRP has don’t want to leave their own resent the group at regional and sia. been working for interreligious nest.” national level,” he says. The fall of Suharto, through a harmony in Indonesia and has Many religion-based conflicts in He says Jesus has called every series of student protests in 1998, been encouraging many youths Indonesia are orchestrated by radi- Christian to reach out to people provided the opportunity for him in different parts of the country to cal groups, such as attacks on mi- of different religions and cultures. and other religious leaders to en- achieve that end. nority and pluralist groups. They For him, his involvement in inter- gage in interfaith dialogue more This includes helping them set also call for the closure of places religious dialogue is answering seriously. up websites that promote toler- of worship, particularly those be- Jesus’ call. Born in Semarang, Central Java, ance, peace and diversity to coun- longing to Christians, Shias and According to Ahmad Suaedy, a the 66-year-old priest joined other ter the many websites set up by Ahmadis. Muslim intellectual, Fr Hariyanto religious leaders in building mu- radical groups. “People aren’t brave enough to has played an important role in tual trust among religions in Indo- “With increasing challenges fight back,” Fr Hariyanto says. fostering interfaith relations in In- nesia. coming from radical groups, the “Therefore, the government has to donesia. “I want religious life to be regu- actions of youth have been vital intervene.” “He maintains good ties with lated together by believers, unlike Jesuit Fr Johannes Hariyanto, in anti-radicalism awareness cam- President Joko Widodo has many people from other faiths. We the Suharto era where tolerance general secretary of the Indonesian paigns,” the priest said. taken firm action against radical need him in this group,” Suaedy and dialogue were put in the mili- Conference on Religion and Peace, The ICRP is present whenever groups — for instance, the 2017 says. tary's hands,” says the priest, who wants all religions and indigenous there is a religion-based dispute in disbandment of Hizb ut-Tahrir His active involvement in inter- joined the Jesuits in 1973. faiths recognised by the government. society, and Fr Hariyanto directly Indonesia, which had sought to faith dialogue deserves respect, (UCA News photo/Konradus Epa/) For Fr Hariyanto, who was or- involves himself in any conflict by establish an Islamic caliphate in and for his contribution he has dained a priest in 1984, all reli- Father Hariyanto co-founded the communicating with people from Indonesia. been repeatedly chosen as the gen- gions and indigenous faiths across Indonesian Conference on Reli- other religions. However, Fr Hariyanto says eral secretary of the ICRP. the country must be respected and gion and Peace (ICRP) in 2000, Fr Hariyanto, who earned a mas- many Christian churches have Theophilus Bela, a Catholic accommodated. two years after Suharto’s fall. ter’s degree in theology from Inns- been closed due to a conspiracy layman who has worked with the He says he disagrees with the The name of the organisation, bruck University in Austria, says between local authorities and con- priest on forums, says Fr Hariyan- government only recognising six which he has served as general he enjoys working with other re- servative groups, which grew sig- to’s commitment to interreligious religions — Buddhism, Catholi- secretary since 2008, was adopted ligious leaders as it has been fruit- nificantly during Susilo Bambang dialogue is second to none. cism, Confucianism, Hinduism, from an international movement, ful, although the challenges posed Yudhoyono’s presidency. “Although as a priest he is in- Islam and Protestantism. World Conference on Religion and by radicalism remains strong. He says the GKI Yasmin Church volved in various activities, his He says Indonesia should also Peace (WCRP), and aims to unite in Bogor, West Java, was one such commitment in this field is never recognize and accommodate in- all religions and promote peace. Reaching out to radical groups example, even though they won in question,” says Bela, former digenous faiths. There are 187 He said the initial aim of the The priest acknowledges that radi- their case at court. general secretary of the Indonesian such faith groups with 12 million group was to unite religious lead- cal Islamic groups remain the big- “Radical groups usually speak Committee on Religion for Peace. followers across the country. ers who during Suharto’s time gest threat to interreligious rela- loudly to justify their existence. “Interreligious dialogue is Together with two moderate never contacted each other to talk tions in the country and the ICRP But we must be alert and continue needed because it is important in Muslim leaders, Abdurrahman about interreligious cooperation. are always looking to embrace to resist them,” the priest says. fighting against the extremism that Wahid (Indonesia's fourth presi- It opened the door for leaders them. The Jesuit says he wants to open continues to threaten our nation.” dent) and Johan Effendi, as well as of Nahdlatul Ulama and Muham- “We always want to build trust- the door for the Catholic Church — By Konradus Epa, ucanews. several leaders of other religions, madiyah, respected Islamic organ- ing, relationships and reach out to to be more involved in interfaith com 14 HERALD August 16, 2020 Valuing our Youth LONDON: On Wednesday August 12 the hortation, Christus Vivit (Christ is alive), ad- world will observe the UN’s International dressed to young people and to the entire Youth Day (IYD) on the theme: Youth Engage- people of God. This document was issued in ment for Global Action. The theme seeks "to response to a global Synod of Bishops in Oc- highlight the ways in which the engagement of tober 2018 that focused on the needs of young young people at the local, national and global people today. levels is enriching national and multilateral in- Inter alia, the Holy Father said that the stitutions and processes, as well as draw les- Church must humbly acknowledge “that some sons on how their representation and engage- things concretely need to change, and if that is ment in formal institutional politics can be to happen, she needs to appreciate the vision significantly enhanced. but also the criticisms of young people.” He “Enabling the engagement of youth in for- said some young people want a Church that mal political mechanisms increases the fair- “listens more, that does more than simply con- ness of political processes by reducing demo- demn the world...To be credible to young peo- cratic deficits, contributes to better and more ple, there are times when [the Church] needs sustainable policies, and also has symbolic to regain her humility and simply listen, rec- importance that can further contribute to re- ognizing that what others have to say can pro- store trust in public institutions, especially vide some light to help her better understand among youth. Moreover, the vast majority of High school girls from Long Island, New York, join other youth climate activists in a demonstration the Gospel.” http://w2.vatican.va/content/ challenges humanity currently faces, such as calling for global action to combat climate change, September 20, 2019. (UNICEF David Berkwitz) francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/ the COVID-19 outbreak and climate change, educators, should be raising their awareness as ble for the development of society and social papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20190325_ require concerted global action and the mean- part of the parenting process; and parish minis- transformation. Participation is a call to engage christus-vivit.html ingful engagement and participation of young tries have a role to play in this process also if fully and consciously in the life of a wider so- COVID-19 has increased the challenges that people to be addressed effectively. we are to nurture our youth to participate effec- ciety. Caritas Europa advocates participation youth face, including youth unemployment “The aim of IYD 2020 is to shed light on tively and efficiently in society. Policy-makers foremost as a clear option for solidarity, co- in many parts of the world. This World Youth the need to enable the engagement of youth by must ensure that the voices of youth inform responsibility, the decision to be a constructive Day, let us all commit, one way or the other — making local, national and global institutions legislation, policies, and procedures. member of the family of God, to work for the within our own spheres of influence, to invest more inclusive for the purpose of strengthen- Where is our platform to facilitate ongoing common good.” in our youth. Let us think about ways in which ing their capacity (and relevance) to achieve dialogue with our youth? What are we doing to He said: “Participation is also about support- each of us can contribute to their development/ global action.” empower our youth to participate in building ing others in their decision-making and their build their capacity to be productive, innova- Our youth can only engage effectively in lo- the common good; to raise their awareness not activities. We all have different gifts and tal- tive citizens e.g. as role models, mentors, advi- cal, regional and global action if we create con- only of their rights, but also of their responsi- ents. Empowering others to unveil their talents sors, and advocates. — By Leela Ramdeen, ditions/provide opportunities that will allow bilities? Are they “engaged” or are they disaf- and do their best is both a gift and a call, which ICN them to share their gifts and talents. We should fected? can make a real change for a better world.” not leave it up to educational institutions to As Pope Francis reminded us in 2015, we Pope Francis has said that young people l Leela Ramdeen is Chair of the Catholic educate our youth e.g. through a social stud- are “destined to live in community with one should be given important responsibilities Commission for Social Justice in the ies curriculum, about their roles and responsi- another and God to create and organise our within our Church. I urge you to read Pope Archdiocese of Port of Spain, Trinidad & bilities in society/the world. Parents, as the first communities together... we are all responsi- Francis’ 2019 Post-Synodal Apostolic Ex- Tobago, (CCSJ) and Director of CREDI Celebrating young people on International Youth Day SALFORD: On August 12, we celebrate International Youth Day. Pope Francis once spoke Sadie Scoops National Award for Kindness directly to young people: “Dear young people, do not bury your talents, the gifts that God A young person attending Saint John Vian- has given you. Do not be afraid to dream of great things.” ney SEND school was recently commend- In Catholic schools and youth groups around the diocese of Salford, young people have ed for her efforts by a national charity for been doing just this: dreaming of great things and showing the power that young people their work in promoting the common good can have to our wider communities. in our local community. Twelve-year-old Below are just three examples of young people whose big ideas are making waves and Sadie Gandy from St John Vianney SEND changing lives as we move through the coronavirus pandemic. school has been assisting her local COV- ID-19 group, while her school has been in Committed Students’ 8,000 Hours Make the World a Brighter Place partial closure. Sadie has played a key role in the group by delivering kindness packs to those in her community (specifically adults and young families) who are strug- gling at this time. The packs include quiz- zes, baking recipes and relaxation items. The hope is that these items will help peo- ple take their mind off things even for a short while. Mrs Garfin, who nominated Sadie and is leader of the schools chaplaincy / CARI- TAS team, said: “I am so proud of Sadie, Sadie with the kindness packs to be distributed in such a difficult time she has found a way to the people who are struggling in her community during COVID-19. to help and support others. “Sadie is a kind and helpful individual. has meant the world of difference to her.” She joined our chaplaincy team to help Sadie received the Blessed Pier Giorgio Young people takes part in the the Caritas “Sleep-in” on the July 10, 2020. others. Sadie has at times had many chal- Frassati award for her efforts from nation- lenges and this recognition for her work al Catholic youth charity, Million Minutes. The Coronavirus lockdown has been an in- and remember those who are homeless dur- teresting time for us all and an especially ex- ing this time. Ramsbottom YCW Group provide Cheer and Friendship through Lockdown hausting time for schools and their students. St Joseph’s Headteacher Tony McCabe St Joseph’s RC High School in Horwich, commented: “In a world where young peo- Lockdown hasn’t stopped the YCW Im- smile as they faced the isolation which im- Bolton, has shown a great spirit of resilience ple often get bad press, it is so encourag- pact Group at St Joseph’s in Ramsbottom pacted us all. and ability to push forward despite these dif- ing to hear them talk about their passion to from reaching out and connecting with As well as this, over 100 ‘Keeping in ficult times and were delighted to receive the promote human rights and gender and race those in need of a friendly hello. As the Touch’ cards were sent to older members “Teach Well School Gold Award: Corona Vi- equality, and to recognise our responsibility country became locked down, the Impact of the parish community and some older rus Pandemic” award. as global citizens. The coronavirus pandemic group received a donation from TK Maxx members of the parish have been receiving It was encouraging to celebrate St Jo- shows how quickly a destructive force can of boxes of chocolates, tea, pasta and bis- weekly phone calls from members of the seph’s young people along with other Bolton rip through global communities. cuits. Impact group which have been described schools as young people across Bolton had “Our work as part of the UNESCO schools Members of the group — nine young by recipients as a ‘lifeline’. volunteered a total of 7917 hours in com- network now allows us to join forces with people aged between 12 and 17 — decid- Parish priest Fr Frank has been receiving munity service as part of their Duke of Ed- other positive agents across the world so that ed to make up care packages which were calls from the parishioners who received inburgh’s award. The young people also took our work at a local level, living out our mis- affectionately known as ‘Little Bags of the kind gifts and note cards saying how part in the Caritas “Sleep-in” on July 10. This sion to ‘value, nurture and respect’ everyone, Cheer’. These were delivered to the par- pleased they are and that the contact has was a great opportunity to raise money for can have a positive global impact.” ish's elderly community to bring them a repeatedly made their day. — ICN HERALD August 16, 2020 Children 15 LittleLittle CCatholicsatholics’ CCornerorner

In Matthew 15, a mother brings her daughter to Jesus for healing. Her daughter is said to be "vexed with the devil" (Matt 15: 22). Admiring the mother's good qualities, Jesus heals her daughter right on the spot. Circle the words below that represent the mother's good qualities.

In today’s Gospel reading, a foreign woman was asking Jesus to cure her daughter. But Jesus said that He was sent to care for the children of Israel, not foreigners. The woman replied to Jesus, “But even the ______eat the scraps that fall from their master’s table!” What did she say she was like?

Connect the dots to find out! answer: persistent, faithful, inteligent, brave inteligent, faithful, persistent, answer:

Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great Dear children, “Please help me, Lord!” Let's color Jesus replied, “It isn’t faith! Your request is granted.” (Mat 15:28) When Jesus came to right to take food away earth, he came to preach from children and feed it and teach, first to the to dogs.” Jews. That does not The woman answered mean that He didn’t love Jesus and said, “Lord, the other people of the that’s true, but even world, but the first pri- dogs get the crumbs that ority in His ministry on fall from their owner's earth was to bring God's table.” chosen ones to repent- Jesus was so touched ance. by the faith of that When other people saw woman that he told her Jesus healing the sick that because of her and lame, they followed faith, her daughter him wherever he went. would be healed. One day there was a Jesus wasn’t trying to woman from Canaan who make the woman give came to Jesus and asked up He was giving her a him to heal her daugh- chance to show how much ter. humility and faith she Jesus explained to the had. Jesus used this to woman that his first show the people that God mission on earth was to will let anyone who be- preach to the people of lieves, like this woman, Israel. become part of His cho- The woman refused to sen people. give up. She came closer, knelt down, and begged, Aunty Eliz HERALD

Social BEC Communication (1976) (1996)

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

Family (1996) Youth (1986) YOUTH YOUTHAugust 16, 2020 Beirut, young Christians and Muslims: the thread of hope EIRUT, Lebanon: sador, explaining the conditions un- The city razed by a der which Lebanon can access new loans, lifting the sanctions imposed near-atomic bomb on the country. B Meanwhile, the city is covered — the August 4 explosions were equal to one tenth the with debris, glass and trees thrown about by explosions, houses with- strength of the Hiroshima out walls look like a gloomy stage bomb — is paralysed and display of what remains visible of devastated; the effort un- a life suddenly interrupted. Balus- trades, balconies, walls, buildings derway to restore some and bridges are in danger of falling quasi-normality to its ap- at any moment. pearance is mammoth. Elderly and lonely people wish to clear their homes but lack the The army is everywhere, but it strength or the courage and do not has to give priority to maintaining “Why are we here?”, “Because it is our duty. If we wait for the state alone to think of know where to start. They cry, pray, everything we just delay the bleeding” — Leila Mkerzi security, preventing looting, pro- and hope, hiding their faces in their tecting sensitive sites, and control- hands out of shame, pain and help- out a leader, without a coordinator, “We don’t think anymore, our heads born after 2005-2006. They have ling traffic and the passage of emer- lessness. disorganized but the effects they are completely empty, we don’t not known the horrors of the civil gency vehicles. In this scenario of desperation, the produce are astounding. count on anyone anymore; no one war, but they have seen deprivation The Civil Defence is committed true strength of a people has risen, They clean, fill bags, sweep from abroad has ever done anything and failed governments; they have to extracting bodies from under the its future, new, clean, dynamic en- streets and sidewalks and clean concrete for us. What is the world lived without electricity, drinking rubble, welcoming colleagues from ergy, not a slave to political or eco- public buildings, clinics, hospitals, doing? They send us two or three water, work. all over the world, and coordinating nomic interests: its young people. places of worship. Like bees or aid planes, they assuage their con- Orderly and willing, they want the work. They rushed from everywhere, ants they work tirelessly, without science and then leave. What did to create a better country with their The politicians are engaged in from the north, from the south, criticising, ready to comfort anyone Macron come to do? Another farce. own hands, a better future without meetings to find a modus vivendi, from the mountains, organised in who suffers, hugging, offering wa- I have no more hope”. And as she expecting anything from abroad. first of all among themselves, to small groups of friends, armed with ter, sandwiches, fruit, hot meals. is about to clean up she specifies: “I Sure, they hope to get some sup- then respond to the conditions set sweeping brushes, shovels, gloves Stalls have sprung up every 10 have no hope, but they - the young, port or help, but if it doesn’t come, by the international community: the and bags. They sleep in the open, meters, offering bottles of water, yes. And I help them because they they’ll do what they can with their French president Emmanuel Ma- work without speaking, without food, fruit: all collected with their are still alive”. own strength. cron was its spokesman and ambas- boasting, they act in silence, with- own initiative, donations from fami- They also include young Syrian lies, friends, relatives. “ It is not their refugees in Lebanon. It is not their “Why are we here?”, explains country, but pain and country, but pain and the will to Leila Mkerzi, a twenty-year-old change unites them with the Leba- wearing a T-shirt from the Order of the will to change nese. Malta, “Because it is our duty. If we unites them with the I saw only one religious, in a cler- wait for the state alone to think of Lebanese.” gyman who distributed sandwiches everything we just delay the bleed- and bottles of water to the displaced: ing”. And she takes her brush back In the streets of devastated Beirut, he is a Syrian Protestant pastor from to sweep the staircase leading from there are tens of thousands of young Afrin (northern Syria, occupied by Jemmeizeh to Ashrafieh. people: school friends, university the Turks). Another group, three young peo- students, scouts, parishioners, Mus- His name is Hassan: he was a ple with a lady, are in front of a lims, Christians. A group of young Muslim, but converted to Christi- shop: they buy brushes, bags and people from Chouf refuses to say anity. “I see Christ in each of these gloves with their own money. The which of them is Druze; a group of people who today suffer, have no merchant does not give them any Armenians from Bourj Hammoud, roof and are hungry,” he says before discounts. “We don’t want anything, another destroyed neighbourhood, disappearing into the crowd of des- we just want to live,” says one of the claim: “We are Lebanese and that’s perate people who crowd the centre young boys. Then his mother, Mrs it”. of Beirut. — By Pierre Balanian, A group of youths cleaning the streets of Beirut. Rita Freim, intervenes immediately: Most of these young people were AsiaNews HERALD August 16, 2020 Youth 17 E-fellowship - The new norm for youth KUALA LUMPUR: The Kris- themselves. This was then fol- tus Aman Youth Ministry has lowed by a brief introduction to not given up on fellowship and atheism, where the youths shared spreading the love of God — what they already knew about the even through the uncertainty of concept. the worldwide quarantine. Ian then shared a few videos The youths of the Chapel of with the youths on the topic. Kristus Aman have continued These videos discussed different their gatherings online through- atheistic views and encouraged out the Recovery Movement youths to delve deeper into the Control Order. Their sessions topic. have been conducted mainly A few questions based on each through Zoom and Google Meet. of the videos were then brought Their most recent gathering on up to help facilitate discussions July 25 via Zoom was proof of among the youths. A few of the this initiative. The gathering, led topics covered included respond- by Ian Ho, focused on the topic ing to questions of God’s love, of Answering Atheism. suffering in the world, and the This topic is relevant and nec- war of science and religion. essary as it is an issue youth often The youths were split up into encounter in the world today. groups of four using the Breakout Kristus Aman youths gather online to discuss on various topics. The aim of the session was to Rooms function on Zoom, which own group’s discussion. This al- — allowing youths to experi- the Kristus Aman Youth Ministry introduce and discuss the topic enabled them to further discuss lowed the youths to get input and ence human connection although have not been the easiest to kick- of atheism to youth, and then to indepth the questions on a more sharing from the other groups. apart. start, but they have proven to be share how one can respond to personal level. The online gathering was a It showed that we can all still a good experience and a learning atheism from a Catholic perspec- After each Breakout session, success, leaving the youths want- experience God’s love and com- curve on the way to adjusting to tive. all youths would then return to ing more. Although online, the munity although distant. God’s the new normal. — By Jynn Kok The session began with a sim- the main Zoom room where a rep- fellowship the youths shared was love knows no bounds, and He is E-Lynn ple ice-breaking session led by resentative of each group would as lively as ever. The discussions with us wherever we are. Ian, where each youth introduced share a brief summary of their were engaging and interactive The online gatherings held by kristusamanyouthministry busking to praise god Tribal youths told to become SOOK, Sabah: Busking has al- ways been associated with street music performances. Many art- job creators ists in Malaysia are born from PATNA, India: A webinar organ- Surekha Marandi, former exec- busking, where their talents ised by a Jesuit college and tribal utive director of RBI who initiated stand out and are appreciated. organisation in Patna, Bihar, has the discussion, said the pandemic The youth of Holy Spirit Par- urged young people of India’s in- has brought stress on maintaining ish conducted an online pro- digenous communities to seek an social distancing and sanitising gramme, Busking Prayer, which entrepreneurial career. hands as prevention. “The tribal was broadcast live via Youtube “It is better to be a job creator society has been following social and Facebook. than being an employment seek- distancing and hygiene for a long The broadcast also featured er,” Patrick Barla, a former officer time. We need to carry forward tambourine dancers and several of the Reserve Bank of India, told these customs,” added the Santal filming segments performed out the August 8 webinar on COVID tribal woman. of Holy Spirit Parish. 19 and Resilience of Indigenous In his opening remarks, St Xavi- The programme was filled People held on the occasion of er’s principal, Jesuit Father Tomy with prayers, hymns and inter- International Day of the World’s Nishaant, recalled the contribu- views with two youths on how Indigenous Peoples. tions of Adivasi people to society. they lived out their faith during The webinar was organised by The world, he said, should learn this pandemic. Youths of Holy Spirit Parish. Adivasi Sanskriti Ewam Samajik the principle of community living Williani Rynn shared three Kalyan Sangh and St Xavier’s from tribal people, he added. really missed her friends and drastically since the MCO. But things that livened up her faith College of Management and Tech- The tribals had the genes to fight hopes that during this time, the he is optimistic and stays con- and family: praying the Rosary nology. all epidemics, the Jesuit said and faith of the youth will not fall nected with the youth through with the family, worshipping to- According to Barla, the current added, “We now need to think asleep but be closer with Jesus. social media. gether with BEC and participat- pandemic offers several opportu- about combating other diseases As for Arnoldy Albert, he ad- Arnoldy is also one of the ing in the online Mass. nities that Adivasi people should that have gripped society.” — mitted that his life has changed SYD-5 participants which was Williani also shared that she utilise to become self-reliant. Matters India supposed to be held last July but was postponed due to COV- ID-19. He called on the youth of Holy Spirit Parish to take this time to pray to God so that this COV- ID-19 disease will end soon. He said COVID-19 should not be a barrier for youths to continue to testify. In another segment, during the prayer intentions, the youths asked for the intervention of the Holy Spirit to heal the world from the COVID-19 pandemic and to strengthen the faith of the Tambourine dancers perform for the live cast. youths. Tribal Day Webinar in Patna. (Matters India photo) 18 HERALD August 16, 2020 For more enquiries, please contact: Email: [email protected] m e m o r i a m Tel: 03-2026 8290 / 03-2026 8291

7th Anniversary 21st Anniversary 1st Year Anniversary 28th Anniversary In Loving Memory of In Loving Memory of In Ever Loving Memory of In Loving Memory of

FRANCIS XAVIER S/O ANTHONY Rev Steve (SUB-INSPECTOR Subramaniam PDRM, PENANG) Ordained: 31-7-1977 Stella Fernandez Returned to the Lord: Departed: Departed: 19-08-1999 22-08-1992 Eternal rest grant unto her 31st July 2019 O Lord, and let your perpetual Age: 46 light shine upon her. Rev. Fr. Clement Bala May her soul rest in peace. “I am the resurrection and the life. He who God has created me to do Him some definite service. 13th Feb 1942 ~ 18th Aug 2013 Dearly missed and forever believes in Me, even if he dies, shall live; lovingly remembered by: He has committed some work to me which ‘Surely your goodness and love will follow me and whoever lives and believes in Me, He has not committed to another: Husband: Ferry Fernandez shall never die.” all the days of my life, and I will dwell Son: Fabian I have my mission – I may never know it in this life, in the house of the Lord forever.’ Daughters: Sharren & but I shall be told of it in the next.” (Psalm 23:6) Shirley Anne Forever loved, cherished and dearly missed by wife, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, Blessed John Henry Newman (1801-1890) Fondly remembered and missed by loved ones. Sons-in-law, Daughter-in-law, 7 Grandchildren & loved ones. family members, relatives and friends. 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NEVIS RAJ * Member Of The European Association Of Embalmers a time to mourn, and a time to dance; * Private Chapel Of Rest And Coldroom Facilities a time to throw away stones, and a Gift from God: * Economical, Budget Planned & 24 hrs Service 25-03-1928 time to gather stones together; a time Returned to the Lord: to embrace, and a time to refrain 16-08-2013 19B, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Lama, from embracing. Forever cherished and loved by TEL: 03-2148 5776, 2148 4855 50460 Kuala Lumpur. Children, FAX: 03-2143 1442 daughter-in-law, H/P: 012-333 4899 / 012-333 4646 / 019-777 5537 Ecclesiastes 3:1-5 grand-daughter and loved ones. HERALD August 16, 2020 Saints of the Week & Short Readings 19 St John Eudes (Aug 19) Daily Short ow little we know where God’s grace will were found, but arrangements were not satisfac- Hlead. Born on a farm in northern France, tory. A certain Madeleine Lamy, who had cared Reading John died at 79 in the next “county” or depart- for several of the women, one day said to him, Sunday, August 16 ment. In that time, he was a religious, a parish “Where are you off to now? To some church, (2 Timothy 2:8,11-13) missionary, founder of two religious communi- I suppose, where you’ll gaze at the images and ties, and a great promoter of the devotion to the think yourself pious. And all the time what is re- Remember the Good News Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart ally wanted of you is a decent house for these that I carry, ‘Jesus Christ risen of Mary. poor creatures.” The words, and the laughter from the dead, sprung from the John joined the religious community of the of those present, struck deeply within him. The race of David’. Here is a saying Oratorians and was ordained a priest at 24. Dur- result was another new religious community, that you can rely on: ‘If we have ing severe plagues in 1627 and 1631, he volun- called the Sisters of Charity of the Refuge. died with him, then we shall live teered to care for the stricken in his own diocese. John Eudes is probably best known for the with him. If we hold firm, then Lest he infect his fellow religious, during the central theme of his writings: Jesus as the source we shall reign with him. If we plague he lived in a huge cask in the middle of of holiness and Mary as the model of the Chris- disown him, then he will disown a field. tian life. His devotion to the Sacred Heart and to us. We may be unfaithful, but At age 32, John became a parish missionary. the Immaculate Heart led Pope Pius XI to de- he is always faithful, for he can- His gifts as a preacher and confessor won him munity, ultimately called the Eudists — the clare him the father of the liturgical cult of the not disown his own self.’ great popularity. He preached over 100 parish Congregation of Jesus and Mary–devoted to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Monday,August 17 missions, some lasting from several weeks to formation of the clergy by conducting diocesan (Judith 8:25-26,27) several months. seminaries. The new venture, while approved by Reflection Let us give thanks to the Lord In his concern with the spiritual improvement individual bishops, met with immediate opposi- Holiness is the wholehearted openness to the our God who, as he tested our of the clergy, John realized that the greatest need tion, especially from Jansenists and some of his love of God. It is visibly expressed in many ancestors, is now testing us. was for seminaries. He had permission from his former associates. John founded several semi- ways, but the variety of expression has one Remember how he treated general superior, the bishop, and even Cardinal naries in Normandy, but was unable to get ap- common quality: concern for the needs of oth- Abraham, all the ordeals of Richelieu to begin this work, but the succeeding proval from Rome—partly, it was said, because ers. In John’s case, those who were in need were Isaac and all that happened general superior disapproved. After prayer and he did not use the most tactful approach. plague-stricken people, ordinary parishioners, to Jacob. For as these ordeals counsel, John decided it was best to leave the re- In his parish mission work, John was disturbed those preparing for the priesthood, prostitutes, were intended by him to search ligious community. by the sad condition of prostitutes who sought to and all Christians called to imitate the love of their hearts, so now this is not That same year John founded a new com- escape their miserable life. Temporary shelters Jesus and his mother. — franciscanmedia.org vengeance that God exacts against us, but a warning in- flicted by the Lord on those St Bernard of Clairvaux (Aug 20) who are near his heart. an of the century! Woman of the century! His ability as arbitrator and counselor became Tuesday, August 18 You see such terms applied to so many today widely known. More and more he was lured away M (Isaiah 55:1) — “golfer of the century,” “composer of the centu- from the monastery to settle long-standing dis- ry,” “right tackle of the century” — that the line no putes. On several of these occasions, he apparently Oh, come to the water all you longer has any punch. But Western Europe’s “man stepped on some sensitive toes in Rome. Bernard who are thirsty; of the twelfth century,” without doubt or contro- was completely dedicated to the primacy of the Ro- though you have no money, versy, had to be Bernard of Clairvaux. Adviser of man See. But to a letter of warning from Rome, he come! popes, preacher of the Second Crusade, defender of replied that the good fathers in Rome had enough Buy corn without money, and the faith, healer of a schism, reformer of a monastic to do to keep the Church in one piece. If any mat- eat, Order, Scripture scholar, theologian, and eloquent ters arose that warranted their interest, he would be and, at no cost, wine and milk. preacher: any one of these titles would distinguish the first to let them know. Wednesday, August 19 an ordinary man. Yet Bernard was all of these— Shortly thereafter it was Bernard who intervened (Romans 12:1-2) and he still retained a burning desire to return to the in a full-blown schism and settled it in favor of the hidden monastic life of his younger days. Roman pontiff against the antipope. Understand this today, there- In the year 1111, at the age of 20, Bernard left The Holy See prevailed on Bernard to preach Reflection fore, and take it to heart: the his home to join the monastic community of Cit- the Second Crusade throughout Europe. His elo- Bernard’s life in the Church was more ac- Lord is God indeed, in heaven eaux. His five brothers, two uncles, and some 30 quence was so overwhelming that a great army was tive than we can imagine possible today. above as on earth beneath, he young friends followed him into the monastery. assembled and the success of the crusade seemed His efforts produced far-reaching results. and no other. Keep his laws Within four years, a dying community had recov- assured. The ideals of the men and their leaders, But he knew that they would have availed and commandments as I give ered enough vitality to establish a new house in however, were not those of Abbot Bernard, and little without the many hours of prayer and them to you today. the nearby valley of Wormwoods, with Bernard as the project ended as a complete military and moral contemplation that brought him strength Thursday, August 20 abbot. The zealous young man was quite demand- disaster. and heavenly direction. His life was char- (Wisdom 7:13-14) ing, though more on himself than others. A slight Bernard felt responsible in some way for the acterized by a deep devotion to the Blessed What I learned without self- breakdown of health taught him to be more patient degenerative effects of the crusade. This heavy Mother. His sermons and books about Mary interest, I pass on without re- and understanding. The valley was soon renamed burden possibly hastened his death, which came are still the standard of Marian theology. — serve; I do not intend to hide Clairvaux, the valley of light. August 20, 1153. franciscanmedia.org her riches. For she is an in- exhaustible treasure to men, and those who acquire her win St Pius X (Aug 21) God’s friendship, commended ope Pius X is perhaps best remembered for tered refugees at his own expense. as they are to him by the ben- Phis encouragement of the frequent reception On the 11th anniversary of his election as efits of her teaching. of Holy Communion, especially by children. pope, Europe was plunged into World War I. The second of 10 children in a poor Italian Pius had foreseen it, but it killed him. “This is Friday, August 21 family, Joseph Sarto became Pius X at age 68. the last affliction the Lord will visit on me.I (Galatians 2:19b-20) He was one of the 20th century’s greatest popes. would gladly give my life to save my poor chil- With Christ I hang upon the Ever mindful of his humble origin, Pope Pius dren from this ghastly scourge.” He died a few cross, and yet I am alive; or stated, “I was born poor, I lived poor, I will die weeks after the war began, and was canonized rather, not I; it is Christ that poor.” He was embarrassed by some of the in 1954. lives in me. True, I am living, pomp of the papal court. “Look how they have here and now, this mortal life; dressed me up,” he said in tears to an old friend. Reflection but my real life is the faith I To another, “It is a penance to be forced to ac- His humble background was no obstacle in re- have in the Son of God, who cept all these practices. They lead me around lating to a personal God and to people whom loved me, and gave himself for surrounded by soldiers like Jesus when he was he loved genuinely. Pius X gained his strength, me. seized in Gethsemani.” his gentleness and warmth for people from the Saturday, August 22 Interested in politics, Pope Pius encouraged source of all gifts, the Spirit of Jesus. In contrast, (Isaiah 61:10) Italian Catholics to become more politically in- we often feel embarrassed by our backgrounds. cation of Church property if governmental con- I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, volved. One of his first papal acts was to end Shame makes us prefer to remain aloof from trol of Church affairs were not granted, Pius X my soul shall exult in my God; the supposed right of governments to interfere people whom we perceive as superior. If we are courageously rejected the demand. for he has clothed me with by veto in papal elections—a practice that re- in a superior position, on the other hand, we of- While he did not author a famous social en- the garments of salvation, he duced the freedom of the 1903 conclave which ten ignore simpler people. Yet we, too, have to cyclical as his predecessor had done, he de- has covered me with the robe had elected him. help “restore all things in Christ,” especially the nounced the ill treatment of indigenous peoples of righteousness, as a bride In 1905, when France renounced its agree- wounded people of God. — franciscanmedia. on the plantations of Peru, sent a relief commis- adorns herself with her jewels. ment with the Holy See and threatened confis- sion to Messina after an earthquake, and shel- org Evangelisation: The Maritime World We pray for all those who work and live from the sea, among them sailors, fishermen and their families.

Download the Click To Pray updates now. THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY August 16, 2020 Pope baptises twins after successful surgery to separate them VATICAN: Their heads encased ference a month later to announce to Bangui in July 2018 as part of in white bandages covering the the successful separation of the the project to establish a pediatric wounds where they had been con- conjoined twins and their continu- medical center there, the hospital joined, two-year-old twins named ing recovery. said. The twins and their mother Ervina and Prefina were baptized Dr Marras attended the bap- arrived in Rome two months later. by Pope Francis Aug. 6 in the tism, according to a photograph After more than a year of tests chapel of his residence. tweeted by Antoinette Montaigne, and studies, particularly given The babies from the Central Af- a former government official of how many veins the babies shared, rica Republic are still hospitalised the Central African Republic and they underwent their first surgery at the Vatican-owned Bambino a lawyer specialising in children’s in May 2019; a second operation Gesu pediatric hospital in Rome, a rights. followed a month later. New veins spokesman said Aug. 10. But their Pope Francis visited a hospital and grafts were allowed to grow mother, identified only as Ermine, when he went to the Central Af- for a year before the final surgery “really wanted the Pope to baptise rican Republic in 2015; returning to separate the girls, who had been them.” to Rome, he asked the Bambino joined at the back of the head. A team of doctors, led by Dr Gesu Hospital in Rome to begin a A news release from the hos- Carlo Marras, chief of neurosur- project there. pital July 7 said, “June 29 they gery at the hospital, performed Mariella Enoc, president of the celebrated their second birthday the final separation surgery June Rome hospital, met Ermine and looking in each other’s eyes.” — Twins previously conjoined are pictured in a screenshot after the baptism by Pope 5. The hospital held a news con- her newborn twins during a visit By Cindy Wooden, CNS Francis in the chapel at his residence at the Vatican Aug 6, 2020. (CNS photo) Meteor showers in August named Pope asks for Our Lady’s after a saint intercession to overcome DENVER: Star-gazing might not pandemic be the first thing that comes to VATICAN: In his greetings during mind when Catholics think of St the General Audience, streamed Lawrence, the early Christian mar- from the Apostolic Library, Pope tyr who was cooked to death by the Francis looked ahead to the Solem- Romans on an outdoor grill. nity of the Assumption of Mary, But every August, Catholics celebrated on Aug 15. Greeting have the chance to see a meteor the Polish-speaking faithful, the shower named in his honour. Pope recalled the Blessed Virgin The Perseids meteor shower, also Mary’s role in the ‘Miracle of the called the “tears of St Lawrence,” Vistula,’ which took place 100 is a meteor shower associated with years ago. the comet Swift-Tuttle, which On Aug 15, 1920, the Polish drops dust and debris in Earth’s or- Army won a decisive victory over bit on its 133-year trip around the Soviet forces at the Battle of War- Sun. The comet poses no immedi- saw. The victory was attributed ate threat to Earth, at least not for to Mary’s intercession. The day several thousand years. is also marked as Polish Armed As Earth orbits the Sun, it hits Forces Day. Our Lady of Czestochowa pieces of left-behind debris from “May the Mother of God today the comet, causing them to burn up Aug 10, 258 during the persecution method of execution, as he quipped help humanity to defeat the coro- age toward the fullness of Christ’s in the Earth’s atmosphere. by the emperor Valerian along with to his killers: “Turn me over, I’m navirus,” said Pope Francis, “and promises,” he said. This creates a prolific meteor many other members of the Roman done on this side!” may she assure generous blessings The Pope told the German- shower that can best be seen in the clergy. He was the last of the seven Catholics began calling the me- for you, your families and all the speaking faithful that the up- Northern Hemisphere from late deacons of Rome to die. teors the “tears of St Lawrence,” Polish people.” coming Solemnity “reveals the July to early August, usually peak- After Pope Sixtus II, was mar- even though the celestial phenom- He also expressed his spiritual sublime dignity which God has ing around Aug 10, the feast of St tyred on Aug 6, Lawrence became enon predates the saint. support for the hundreds of Catho- bestowed upon humanity.” Lawrence. the principal authority of the Ro- Some Italian lore also holds that lics taking part in a pilgrimage to “Let us ask the Lord for the During its peak, the rate of me- man Church, having been the the fiery bits of debris seen during the Shrine of the Black Madonna grace of the humility of His Serv- teors reaches 60 or more per hour. Church’s treasurer. a meteor shower are representative of Częstochowa. ant, so that He might do great The name “Perseids” comes When he was summoned before of the coals that killed St Law- “May this pilgrimage, undertak- things in us as well.” from the constellation Perseus, the executioners, Lawrence was rence. en with care due to the pandemic, Our Lady of the Assumption is named for a character in Greek ordered to bring all the wealth of Anyone in the Northern Hemi- be for all a moment of reflection, also the patroness of France. Pope mythology, and the radiant of the the Church with him. He showed sphere should be able to view the prayer and fraternity in faith and Francis prayed that Mary might shower or the point from which it up with a handful of crippled, poor “tears of St Lawrence” best on the love,” he prayed. “strengthen [the] faith and hope” appears to originate. and sick men, and when ques- nights of Aug 11 and 12 this year. In his greetings to the English- of the French people. The name “tears of St Lawrence” tioned, replied that “These are the The meteors will come from vari- speaking faithful, Pope Francis “May she help you always to came from the association with his true wealth of the Church.” ous points in the sky rather than encouraged everyone to prepare resist selfishness, indifference and feast day and from the legends that He was immediately sent to his from one particular direction. themselves to celebrate the feast individualism to build a more fra- built up around the Saint after his death, being cooked alive on a For the best viewing, it is recom- of the Assumption of Mary. ternal society built on solidarity.” death. gridiron. Legend has it that one of mended to go to a rural area away “May she guide our pilgrim- — ICN St Lawrence was martyred on his last words was a joke about his from light pollution. — CNA