“... and a Little Child Shall Lead Them.” Isaiah 11:6

“... and a little child shall lead them.” Isaiah 11:6

The Newsletter Theof the Newsletter Catholic Bishop of the of Christchurch Catholic Bishop of Christchurch CHRISTMAS ISSUE 87 : DECEMBER 2011

Divine Mercy Priests Appointed Page 3 Page 7 New Parishes Announced Earthquake Update Page 5 Page 15

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 FROM THE BISHOP Earthquake Recovery

In December, the Bishops of New Zealand will travel to Rome Coordinator appointed for their five-yearly visit. Bishop Barry, in partnership with This is a duty laid down in Canon Law and is called the ad Caritas New Zealand, has created limina visit, which includes a pilgrimage to the tombs of the a new position of ‘Earthquake Apostles, Sts Peter and Paul, a meeting with the Holy Father Recovery Coordinator’ and Pope Benedict XVI, and meetings with the officials of the appointed Matt O’Connell to dicastaries of the Roman Curia. this full time role. “The first In these meetings the successor of task in this new role will be to St. Peter is able to confirm and support ascertain what the needs are in his brother bishops in faith and charity. the various communities,” says They in turn are able to give a report to Mike Stopforth, Bishop’s Deputy him on the state of their Dioceses. for Pastoral Planning. These visits are an opportunity of The Earthquake Recovery the greatest importance and constitute role has been created to work the centre of the highest ministry with parishes and communities committed to the Supreme Pontiff, providing leadership, support where communion and unity in the and guidance in assisting them innermost life of the Church are ostered to the highest degree. in responding to pastoral needs. My report refers to the damaged churches and schools due Matt leaves behind eight years as the Young Adults Worker to the earthquakes, and also thanks the Holy Father for his in the Catholic Youth Team. “He brings a wealth of experience messages of sympathy for the Pike River tragedy and the and existing networks to the role,” says Mike. earthquakes, as well as the financial support which he made available for the relief of those suffering.

Issue 87 18 December 2011 From the Editor We all have memories of Christmas. For many people Midnight Mass, when the craziness that precedes Christmas has subsided, brings warm sentimental moments. This year it falls on a Sunday. Wouldn’t it be great if every Sunday was so special? In fact it is, and the reason Bishop Barry has said he has “lain awake at night” wondering how he can ensure parishes gather as Church every Sunday, around the altar of the One who came as a fragile baby into our world at the first Christmas. What joy this newborn baby brings. A time for all to watch in awe and gratitude. This Christmas, and every Sunday, may His peace which is beyond all understanding be yours. Thanks to all contributors to Inform … and to you for reading it! Please pass it on. – Gerard Duignan Deadline for next issue: 24 February, 2012

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 News Divine Mercy – God’s Gift for Our Time

The New Zealand Apostolic Congress lymphodemia at the shrine of Divine on Mercy (NZACOM) held at St Bede’s Mercy in Krakow, Poland in 1981. College in August followed congresses “Of special note was the presence, held around the globe over the past three singing and enthusiasm of a large years. The World Apostolic Congress delegation of over 100 Samoans from New on Mercy held in Rome in 2008 made Zealand, Australia and Samoa,” says Pat. the urgent and universal call to become “Several attendees from the local Catholic community were unaware of the call and urgency of Divine Mercy and were captured by this message and mission.” Further details: www.divinemercy.co.nz/ NZACOM www.worldapostoliccongressonmercy.org

Benefactor Diana Lady Isaac cuts the centenary cake. Later she was presented with flowers by apostles of mercy in these days, according Maureen Whiting. to the model established and proclaimed by St Faustina Kowalska 1905-1938. St Ita’s Centenary “Her famous diary Divine Mercy in My Exactly 100 years to the day since it was Soul is one of the greatest spiritual classics Left to right, John Canavan, Pat Barrett (NZACOM Coordinator), Tommy Canning (Artist), opened by Bishop Grimes, Mass was of all time,” says Pat Barrett, National concelebrated in St Ita’s church. Coordinator for NZACOM. Fr Patrice Chocholski (WACOM Sec Gen.), John Fowler (Apostles of Mercy Aust.), Fr Antoine Formerly at Hinds, Mid Canterbury, Up to 500 at St Bede’s attended it was closed in 2005 then gifted to Masses, Eucharistic Adoration, talks, Thomas CSJ and Big Digan (USA) enjoying the Congress. Diana Lady Isaac who relocated it in presentations, films, and witnesses to and 2006 to the Heritage Village in the for mercy. This conference followed the Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust same objectives of WACOM - “attendees off McLeans Island Road, Harewood, were exhorted to proclaim mercy; first as Christchurch. a way of life, second, as a message and Sylvia Watson played the organ for the third, as a devotion,” says Pat. final hymn Song of Joy featuring words Bishop Barry Jones celebrated the specially written by her for the 75th opening Votive Mass of Divine Mercy anniversary. with Archbishop Alapati Mataeliga of Samoa, and coordinator for Divine Mercy for Oceania, Fr Patrice Chocholski, Secretary General for WACOM from St Bernadette’s, Hornby youth group Lyon, France, and a dozen other priests. at their camp celebrate a $3100 grant Fr Patrice spoke of the need for modern for resources and to strengthen witnesses to Divine Mercy in a world links with groups such as ICPE who infused by hate, revenge, and self. recently visited from Wellington. The high calibre of keynote speakers “Fr Paulo is a wonderful advocate included Fr Rory Morrissey from for youth,” say Steve and Wendy Auckland, Msgr Bill Middleton of Christ Entwistle. Since he arrived in the King Parish, Burnside, Fr Antoine Hornby seven years ago children’s Thomas CSJ of St Teresa’s Parish, liturgy has grown from 5 or 6 to 30 Riccarton. Also John Canavan director of or 40. Some of these have progressed into the youth group, and now lead Divine Mercy Publications, Melbourne, Current and former parish priests concelebrate the liturgy. “Our sincere thanks to and the inspirational American Deacon Mass once again in St Ita’s church, left to right, the Tindall Foundation who have Bob Digan, husband of Maureen Digan, Fr Geoff Gray, Msgr James Harrington, Fr Kevin clearly made youth a priority.” who received the miraculous cure of Burns, Fr Bernie Goulding and Fr Pat Crawford.

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Pastoral Planning Office Sunday Eucharist the Heartbeat of the Local Church “A full church is better of which 150 “excellent preparation for lay ministry formation than half-full ones and helpful” submissions has been run by the Catholic Education … this is a brilliant were received. These were Office. Lay volunteers now support the opportunity for us all,” a studied by a planning hospital chaplaincy and continue to parishioner told Bishop committee of clergy take Holy Communion to house-bound Barry Jones at a packed and laity. After vigorous parishioners. St Peter’s parish hall, debate, re-drafts and “These changes will mean sorrow in Beckenham, during meetings with the Council and sadness on the one hand, but as a question and answer of Priests, the Bishop has well, new opportunities to advance the session led by Mike promulgated the final plan. mission of the Church,” said Bishop Stopforth, the Bishop’s Where two or more Barry. The Pastoral Planning Office is Deputy for the Diocesan parishes combine they will distributing resources to assist parishes Pastoral Plan. The form a new entity, with through the changes. Bishop was launching one finance committee his Provision of Sunday and one parish council. Mass in the Catholic The locational name of the Diocese of Christchurch, parish will describe the which sees the amalgamation of several geographic area or where a parish priest parishes over the next three years. It is resides in the presbytery beside what the final chapter in a process that began will become the main church of the new in May 2009. By February 2014 there parish. No existing presbyteries will be will be nine pastoral areas comprising sold. 24 parishes (down from 48) along A new patronal name will be sought with ethnic and Maori communities from parishioners by the Bishop. He will and chaplaincies. It sees the required also rely on the “wisdom and generosity number of priests drop to 30 from 39 of spirit of parishioners” to propose Vigil (as at September 2010) and proposes 29 and Sunday Mass times, taking into fewer Sunday Masses overall. Eighteen account the needs of the whole pastoral new parishes have been formed, six will area. have a parish priest and an assistant The meeting heard there are nine priest, the others only a parish priest. seminarians currently preparing for “The plan will ensure we are not the priesthood, with at least two others Pip Toomey makes a point to Tim Fahy, reacting to circumstances as we focus on expected to join them next year. A chairman of St Peter’s, Beckenham Parish the mission of the Church,” said Mike survey of parish councils four years ago Council and of Christchurch South Stopforth. Bishop Barry called over nine revealed no strong call for ordained Pastoral Area. meetings last year inviting responses, deacons. Since then a programme of

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INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Br Frank Brennan SM, left, celebrates changes in the diocese Parishioners came from all over the with John Hermans, right, and Fr Simon Eccleton, Parish diocese to meetings in Timaru, Hokitika, Priest of St Paul’s Dallington, soon to become the new parish Rangiora and Christchurch to learn about of ‘Mairehau’ along with Burwood and Mairehau parishes. the new parishes.

February 2012 February 2013 February 2014 New parishes Christchurch Central & Hills Christchurch West Christchurch South in the following Christchurch East Mid Canterbury Christchurch North North Canterbury Further details: Pastoral Areas South Canterbury West Coast www.chch.catholic.org.nz

Standing room only: A packed St Peter’s Hall listens as Bishop Barry Jones explains Sunday Mass is at the heart of the life of the Church.

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 HAPPENINGS

Broken Bay Institute Sydney offered a Spring e-conference in the comfort of the Sisters’ House, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, St Albans. This year’s theme was Following Jesus – Matthew. Re-view at www.matthew.vividas.com

International retreat director and author Margaret Silf led three seminars in November. Themes explored included “finding a true course in a changing world” and “discerning the movements of God in our hearts and lives”. Also hosted by the Sr Eveleen Retreat House, now at Mary Potter Community Centre, was a retreat with Macrina Wiederkehr OSB. Sr Macrina led reflection on “the medicine of deep listening”.

St Patrick’s Choir hosted an evening of song and poetry at St Patrick’s Church, Greymouth. Proceeds went to the Kate Barron Trust, Christchurch earthquake victim.

Thanks for higher learning were given at the Annual Academic Mass held in October at St Teresa’s Church, Riccarton. The Mass was attended by those who have benefited from life at university or John Paul II Centre polytechnic and was followed by supper at Kolbe House. for Life Sandra Martin and Carmel Malone The Catholics Returning Home team discuss the new Trust Bishop Barry was delighted to offer an extra session in Jones has established at the John Paul II Centre for Life in Idris Road. After five November because of unexpected demand. years under Family Life International, Please continue to pray for the success of this programme. Have the diocese, with generous assistance you invited someone you know to come home? For details phone from the Little Company of Mary, has Lyn on 352 9674 or visit www.catholicshomenow.co.nz established the trust. The Centre offers “0508 HERE 4 U” a service to meet the practical needs Come to the Father’s Heart was the theme of the Christchurch Dove of women with a ‘crisis’ or unplanned Retreat Day held at St Christopher’s Anglican Church, Avonhead. pregnancy. “It has been a blessing to see so many women in this situation choose Take It. Treasure It. Pray It. Fr Trevor Murray gave insights into the life for their babies,” says John Kennedy. Not only a ‘bottom of the cliff’ service, new translation and guiding principles of the revised Roman Missal the Centre’s educational side includes: at Christ the King Parish Centre, Burnside. - Catholic media comment on current ethical issues Joshua Catholic Men’s Fellowship continued to explore its 2011 - Educating young Catholics in theme: “The Transforming Power of the Holy Spirit” with a get- the Church’s teaching - Training engaged and married together at St Gregory’s Parish Centre, Bishopdale. Also a one-day couples in natural family conference “Healing and Hope” was offered for men who have been planning challenged by the effects of the earthquakes. - Marriage and family life education The Diocesan Liturgy Commission hosted a workshop for liturgy - Helping parents prepare their committees and musicians at Our Lady of Victories Church & Parish children for puberty and beyond. Centre, Sockburn. The Commission explored some of the revised Join the weekly Mass for Life, Holy musical settings of the Mass, discussed the role of sacred music and Hour for Life, quarterly Vigils for Life the value of chant in the Mass. and Candlelight Family Vigils. Contact: [email protected] Tel. 351 3225 Opus Consulting: Proudly Supporting Catholic Schools

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Clergy Around the Parishes appointments Bishop Barry Jones has announced The New Evangelism the following priestly appointments to take place on the week- Explained end of 28-29 January, 2012 (Resi- “One of the Church’s best messengers” spreading the Gospel he founded www. dence in brackets). according to Cardinal George of Chicago WordOnFire.org offering a daily blog, To the existing parishes of: Archdiocese, visited Christchurch at articles, commentaries and weekly the end of November. Fr Robert Barron sermon podcasts for over ten years. He Kaiapoi and Rangiora - Fr Denis (below) is internationally recognised as hosted Catholicism, a groundbreaking Nolan, Parish Priest (PP) (Rangio- an inspiring teacher. ten-part documentary series and study ra) Fr Augustine Palayal Assistant The US TV personality from program about the Catholic faith. Priest (AP) (Kaiapoi). Mundelein Seminary, Chicago presents Sockburn & Darfield - Fr Michael the Catholic faith reliably and clearly. Pui (PP), Fr Paulo Filoiali-i (AP). He led the retreat for our clergy and Verbum Domini Fr Paulo will continue as Parish presented a seminar at Christ the King Workshop Priest of Hornby and reside in parish, Burnside. Hornby. Responding to the call of both Pope North Canterbury and Chatham John Paul and Pope Benedict for priests Islands - Fr John C O’Connor (PP) to use technology in the mission of Addington - Fr John Craddock SM (PP) from May 2012; Fr John Jolliffe SM Administrator Febru- ary–May 2012. To the new parishes (from 25 Janu- ary, 2012) of:

On Saturday 24 September 2011 the Cathedral - Fr Christopher Friel, Verbum Domini workshop was held Administrator; Fr Christopher Orr at St Gregory’s Parish Centre. Bishop (AP). Barry spoke on the paper Verbum Woolston - Fr Daniel Doyle (PP) Domini and his depth of understanding and comprehension of the paper was Mairehau - Fr Simon Eccleton appreciated by all the attendees. Bishop (PP) Fr Job Thyikalamuriyil (AP) Barry’s interactive approach to the (Burwood) paper meant all those attending got New Brighton - Fr Bryan Parish to share their own understanding (PP) and develop a greater appreciation of God’s Word and the Catholic Church’s Bryndwr - Fr Rick Loughnan (PP) tradition. Timaru and Waimate Fr Peter After Bishop Barry’s talk concluded Costello (PP); Fr Kevin Foote (AP) a time of Lectio Divina was shared by Special Year of Faith all. This special time spent in God’s Opihi - Fr Brian Fennessy (PP) Presence gave all a chance to put into Mackenzie - Fr Jim Nicholas (PP) 2012-13 practice all that Bishop Barry shared. A special Year of Faith announced by Pope Benedict XVI will begin on 11 October, 2012, the 50th anniversary of the opening of the second Vatican Council. It will conclude on 24 November, 2013, the feast of Christ the King. It commences four days after the start of the 13th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the New Evangelisation for the Transmission of the Christian Faith in Rome. The purpose of the Year of Faith is to help Catholics appreciate the gift of faith, deepen their relationship with God and strengthen their commitment to sharing faith with others.

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Around the Parishes “The pioneers left us the Basilica – a magnificent Archbishop Charles Balvo, symbol of their faith. Apostolic Nuncio, celebrates Modern Catholics like Mass at the Centennial the church to be there of Sacred Heart Basilica, for weddings and Timaru baptisms and they love to send their children to Catholic schools, but will they support the Church financially as the pioneers did?” asked

Fr Pat Breeze Sean Brosnahan, at the blesses Marist launch of his book Thinking plaque Timaru about Heaven. It traces a centenary of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Timaru, A priest’s Mass celebrated by Bishop Robin Leamy SM which was opened on 1 October 1911. recognised the Society of Mary’s service 1869 – 2006 with A festive centennial weekend featured music from the choir priests ordained in the Basilica – Msgr Gerry O’Connor, Frs Leo and orchestra of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, McAteer SM, Geoffrey Gray, Brian Fennessy, Chris Friel and Christchurch and the Angelo Singers from Roncalli College. Patrick Breeze SM. Fascinating historical artifacts were displayed including the “Parishioners supported the celebrations with all our hearts christening gown of the oldest parishioner, 95 year old Mary and souls,” said Maree McKenzie. “Thanks be to God for our Hall. heritage of faith.”

Fr Rodello Renpillo Welcome Fr Simon Eccleton, Fr Gerry Nemi and members of the Filipino community welcome Fr Rodel Renpillo at Christchurch Airport on Show Day. There was a shared meal with him after the Vigil Mass at Christ the King parish, Burnside, where he will be working with Monsignor Bill Middleton. Fr Rodel was ordained in 1999, has a degree in mass Communication, has worked in television, and produced TV and radio programmes for his Bishop. “Mabuhay”, Fr Rodel!

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Schools

Final Co-Location Assembly Marian College and St Bede’s College senior students, left to right, Godfrey Redoblado, Jordan Toa, Megan Attewell and Olivia Morgan at a moving final assembly to complete their co-location since May. “The sentiment expressed showed that this situation we were faced with had been successful,” says St Bede’s Rector, Justin Boyle. Together the schools have raised a remarkable $15,000 for CanTeen.

It is rare for a school to celebrate two Gifts to Celebrate first places in a national competition with over 1,200 competitors. However, Temuka MacKillop Villa Maria is proud of the success of Georgia Bellett and Shannon Feast Day Hegarty (Year 13) in the New Zealand Temuka Parish celebrates the first Association for Gifted Children’s official feast day of the new Saint Mary competition. Georgia gained first place of the Cross MacKillop. “Friday night’s in the Awareness Art section, while pot luck tea was extremely popular,” Shannon penned her way to first place says Helen Mackle. A Holy Hour and in the Writing category. Mass were celebrated in the newly- Entries were received from over 90 dedicated Chapel of Saint Mary of the schools – a record number in the three Cross MacKillop. It features a beautiful years of the competition. The judges’ crucifix carved from a piece of timber gave accolades for Christchurch students from the old St. Joseph’s Convent. who entered. “Some Christchurch Mary MacKillop, writing from the teachers had gone to extraordinary Mother House in North Sydney to Sr lengths to ensure their pupils’ work Raymond in Temuka in 1888, 123 years was entered following three large to the day said, “Do the best you can aftershocks just before the competition with the means at your disposal, and The gifted and talented Shannon Hegarty, closed,” said competition organiser leave all the rest calmly to God.” left, and Georgia Bellett. Rachel Pound. Opus Consulting: Proudly Supporting Catholic Schools

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 HAPPENINGS Missed the Battle of the Basilica? This outstanding Hazaribag Day at St Matthew’s Parish, Bryndwr documentary around the post-earthquake work on provided financial support for Fr Bernard the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament can still be Donnelly’s work at the Jesuit Mission in India. viewed at www.TVNZondemand.co.nz Cakes and sweets were sold and parishioners enjoyed morning tea. Diocesan youth and young adults Mass followed Bishop Barry’s last catechesis session for 2011 The journey through the RCIA process was at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Manchester Street. celebrated with the Mass of the Neophytes by Celebrations concluded with a BBQ and a chance to Bishop Barry at St Matthew’s Church, Bryndwr. farewell the 2011 Mission Team. Those involved in the RCIA programme in the last year along with sponsors, godparents and family Rosary House Spiritual Life Centre continues its joined together to mark this occasion. ministry of planned retreats with a six-day retreat guided by Fr Roderick Milne sm. The focus was on It was off to Woodend for CYT Jam Camp for John’s Gospel through the eyes of John Varnier, years 7 & 8, who gathered together for music, the founder of L’arche and co-founder of Faith and games and the opportunity to learn more about Light. Jesus.

Waiting for the birth of a new creation was the The Korean Catholic Community Church, New theme of three Advent and Christmas meditations Brighton was farewelled prior to its demolition led by Joy Ryan-Bloore at Rosary House Spiritual with a service of thanksgiving in October. Centre. Parishioners gave thanks and shared their memories of the Church and community. Sounds Catholic broadcasts on-line and on-air Sundays at noon and 10pm on Plains FM 96.6. The 25th Anniversary of the Assisi World Day of Recent programmes include highlights from the Prayer was held at the Peace Bell in Hagley Park recent academic Mass at St Teresa’s, Riccarton; with the theme, “Pilgrims of Truth, Pilgrims of Bishop Barry’s presentations of the future provision Peace”. This afternoon of reflection and prayer of Sunday Mass in the Diocese and choral music for peace and justice was held in partnership from the Cathedral Choir concert in St Mary’s with the Christchurch Interfaith Society. Pro-Cathedral, Manchester Street. Podcasts of programmes at www.chch.catholic.org.nz/radio Website messages The diocesan website: www.chch.catholic.org.nz advertises Fr Robert Barron, Chicago-based teacher and TV events happening within the diocese. personality gave a down-to-earth approach to As a parish, school, or church group effective evangelisation at an evening seminar at you are welcome to advertise events. You can list your event from the link on Christ the King Parish Centre, Burnside. the home page under ‘events’.

10 INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Milestones Earthquake Farewells

Lyttelton Sumner Vicar General Fr Rick Loughnan prays Parish priest Fr Denis Nolan and Bishop A registered nurse, Sister Paulinus with parish priest Fr Denis Nolan at a Barry Jones listen to a sonnet by Kevin Keating LCM, passed away in Princess liturgy of Thanksgiving and Farewell O’Connor at a liturgy of Thanksgiving Margaret Hospital in October, aged 90. in the car park of St Joseph the Worker and Farewell for Our Lady Star of the She was in the 68th year of her Religious church, Lyttelton in September. Fr Denis Sea church, Sumner (1913-2011). His Profession. recalled the 29 parish priests and two words echoed from the beloved church, A proud Coaster from Greymouth, she administrators who served in the church “… ninety-nine years she stayed and was the 7th of 10 children. over 146 years, and the Sisters of Mercy nourished young and old who cared She was known as an efficient ward for 121 of those, since its opening in by pointing her bricks and sealing her sister and spent many years as a theatre 1865. leaks”. nurse. She held positions as Community Leader and Matron of Calvary Hospital Korean Christchurch. After retiring from nursing she was involved in pastoral care Community especially with the aged and infirm. Many relatives and friends were present to farewell a much loved and faithful sister. May she rest in peace.

Pic: Earthquake Korean farewell.JPG

Fr Matthew Kim and Fr Rick Loughnan on a beautiful spring afternoon lead a liturgy of thanksgiving and farewell at the Korean Catholic Community Church in Bower Avenue, New Brighton, prior to its demolition. Originally the property of the Redemptorists, then private investors, the Korean community had purchased and improved the property. “Patricia lived the LCM charism through her patient acceptance of suffering,” says Sr Helena Kearns LCM about Sr Trusted care for our Seniors. Patricia O’Sullivan LCM, who died in Christchurch after a long illness. • Companionship th • Light Housekeeping She was in the 45 year of her • Meal Preparation Religious Profession and aged 71 years. • Shopping & Errands • Personal Care Her Taranaki family all travelled to Christchurch for her funeral at the end of August. She had been evacuated from Call for a free, no-obligation appointment: Nazareth House to Nelson after the February earthquake, and returned to Christchurch Christchurch only three weeks before her (03) 384 8484 suddenComparing death. notes at Arise conference Each Home Instead Senior Care franchise office is May she now rest in peace. independently owned and operated. homeinstead.co.nz

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 11 Book review: The Faith of Our News Fathers – David McCarthy The Faith of Our Fathers not only tells the story of Marist ambitions in education but also gives us a wide understanding of local Catholic society. “Here is a book that weaves the interaction of ambition, expectation and Catholic culture together, giving the reader a very clear picture of the Bedean community,” says Barbara Te Miha. One hundred years of St Bede’s College bound into 459 pages of history, research, biographies and the professional development of young men and priests. McCarthy’s meticulous research and detail makes for very interesting reading as he divides a century into decades. One senses what McCarthy describes as “the indefinable relationship between teachers and boys beginning their journey to manhood” is not only about the formation of boys Pilgrims of Truth, Pilgrims of Peace but of priests as well. Fr Rod Milne SM, involved in The Faith of Our Fathers. Sunshine blessed over 60 people from many denominations teaching music and drama, found 450 pages. Author: David who gathered around the Peace Bell in Hagley Park, the task of teaching the recorder McCarthy. Published by Christchurch. They prayed for peace and an end to violence, so a very painful experience, and the Centennial Organising that all will be free to profess their religion and faith without the accompanying photo of one Committee, St Bede’s fear or harassment. such session, tells its own story. College. The book comes The event was organised by the NZ Catholic Bishops’ He went on to help found L’Arche with registration for Committee for Interfaith Relations in conjunction with the homes in Kapiti and was awarded the centennial, 25-27 Christchurch Interfaith Society on the 25th anniversary of the the QSM for this and his work in May 2012. Contact Tina Assisi interfaith gathering for peace. education. “Violence never again! McKay (03 375 0647). Bishop Barry Jones lit a candle, Overall this is a story about War never again! In after he had spoken of creating whanaungatanga, belonging to the Bedean family. The the name of God, may scapegoats. “When something goes ceremony marking the end of Year 13 when young men are every religion bring wrong, the community turns on an divested of their college ties that are replaced with those of upon earth justice and innocent group, because somehow it “old boys” underwrites this. Those young men who marched peace, forgiveness is seen as different to the majority,” away to war, and others whose lives were also tragically and life, love!” Pope he said, citing the abuse of the cut short, remain forever members of the St Bede’s College Benedict XVI, Assisi Filipino community living in the Bay whanau. 2011 of Plenty because the grounded ship St Bede’s College began in 1911 with Rector Fr Charles Rena had Filipino crew. Graham SM who absconded from his duties in 1923 and Pope Benedict XVI, following Pope John Paul II’s example disappeared into the Canadian wilderness, where he married on three previous occasions, brought religious leaders with the former matron of the college. There they raised a family him on pilgrimage to Assisi. For the first time, among the 300 and he continued his remarkable teaching career. In 2011, gathered, were four philosophers who do not identify with any his 84 year old daughter and her two sons returned to single religion. Christchurch where they were warmly welcomed back into the Bedean fold. An extraordinary story from an extraordinary college.

“The art of living well and the art of dying well are one”. The annual day of prayer to Respect Life held in October focused on this year’s theme of respecting and protecting human life by the way we care for the dying. It encouraged us to consider what it means to die well.

12 INFORM DECEMBER 2011 CYT WYD Madrid “I was fortunate enough to be able to join the Christchurch Diocese pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Madrid, thanks to generous sponsorship from St Mary’s parish. During the four weeks in Europe we visited some amazing locations. In Madrid we joined around two million other young people CYT Revolution Camp from all over the world to learn more about and celebrate our Revolution camp was a great success. Sixty Year 9 and 10 Catholic faith. I would highly recommend any young person to students from all over Christchurch spent a weekend of mu- join the next pilgrimage to WYD in Brazil.” Nick Ashley sic, prayer, games and sacraments out at Woodend Christian My year on Mission Team… Campsite. A highlight was Adoration on Saturday night. What a year! This year has been truly the most exciting of my life. After moving from Tauranga to a very unfamiliar land Young Adult I soon fitted right in. Being a part of youth ministry in the Retreat Christchurch Diocese has been wonderful. Sharing my faith, Thirty young adults enjoyed travelling all over the show, learning lots of cool stuff and ex- a peaceful weekend away periencing a deepening in my own faith life. A great opportu- at Wainui in early October. nity I will be forever grateful for. – Stella Brennan It was led by Fr Anthony Mary Free study from the Com- Introduction to Spirituality for Youth Ministers began munity of St John, in October, a paper in the Certificate in Catholic Youth who focused on the Ministry. The course has seven papers in Scripture, Beatitudes. Theology and Youth Ministry. Contact Chris Lysaght to enrol in the future. God’s Precious Infants “It has been the constant teaching of the Church for 2000 JAM Camp years that the killing of an unborn child is a serious offence against God, the author of life, and a violation of the inalien- able right to life of the child,” says Ken Orr, spokesperson for Right to Life. “We have endeavoured to respond to that call.” In May 2005 the Society sought a Judicial review of the performance of the Abortion Supervisory Committee (ASC) in the District Court in Wellington. They sought legal recognition that the unborn child was entitled to protection under the New Zealand Bill of Rights. The Court of Appeal found that the unborn child was not a human being until it was born and did not have a right to life. They also found that there was no requirement that abortion “The weekend went with precision timing and we had such counsellors should be independent of abortion providers. This a great time,” says Olie Hickman, Youth Group Leader of St judgment was upheld by the Supreme Court. Matthews, Bryndwr. Over 100 young people enjoyed a great On 13 March 2012 the Supreme Court will hear an appeal on weekend at Woodend Christian Camp in November. “Jesus and the grounds that the ASC does have a statutory duty to hold Me” took a different significance when Fr Filipo CSJ talked certifying consultants accountable for the lawfulness of the about Mary and the Rosary. Now JAM also means ‘Jesus and abortions that they authorise, “and that there is reason … to Mary’. doubt the lawfulness of many abortions authorised,” says Ken. Bishop Barry Jones and Fr Pat Kennedy are patrons of Carmel Youth Mass Right to Life. The Society has invested over $100,000 in legal Father Antoine Thomas from the Community of St expenses to date and incurred costs awarded by the Court of John celebrated the annual Youth Mass at the Carmelite Appeal to the Abortion Supervisory Committee estimated at Monastery. After Mass supper with the sisters featured a WYD $80,000. presentation.

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 13 Advent Reflections with the Community of St John Every Friday night during December the Community of St John invited everyone to St Teresa’s Parish, Riccarton, to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas. They enjoyed teachings, reflection time, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the Second Rite of Reconciliation, to allow God to break through pre-Christmas distractions, to focus on the reality of the message of the Advent season – God’s coming to earth. Christmas 2011 St Francis’ devotion to the Christ child It was St Francis of Assisi who humility, generosity and above all, emphasised the humanity of Christ’s poverty. His 13th century world had lost birth in the concrete form of the manger its sense of the spiritual meaning of scene with live people and animals. Christmas. He introduced the tradition of the In a cave in the hills above Greccio, Christmas crib in Greccio, a quiet little Francis prepared a manger with real Italian town. people and animals. When the people of St Francis had a very special love and the town heard what was going on they devotion for the Christ child. He spoke gathered together and made their way of Christmas as a feast of gentleness, up the hillside with torches toward the cave. On a table above the manger Mass was celebrated. Beneath the improvised altar lay the figure of the infant Jesus, surrounded by an ox and donkey. St Francis of Assisi’s heart burned with love, hope and renewed faith at the great gift of Christ. May we have Children gather round the crib to a nativity scene in our own homes to sing ‘Away in a Manger’. remind us of this great gift of love.

Christmas Carols Continue “We always have a good crowd. People love it,” says Sr Helena Kearns, LCM. Favourite Christmas carols ring out at the Little Company of Mary in LOL November, at the Mary Potter Community Centre. A woman goes to the Post Office Carol evenings have been running for over 21 years, originally to cheer and says, “May I have 50 Christmas patients at Calvary and later Mary Potter hospitals, and now residents of stamps?” Mary Potter Villas and friends. Singing was led by Mrs Patricia Norris, “What denomination?” the teller mother of a former staff member, accompanied on guitar by her talented asks. grandson, Dean. “Oh my gosh, has it come to this?” the woman asks. “Give me 6 Catholic, 12 Anglican and 32 Baptists.”

14 INFORM DECEMBER 2011 Earthquake Recovery Chicago Helps A bonus from Stolen chalices found the earthquakes has been that Squatters stole historic chalices from so many friends in New Zealand the earthquake damaged Cathedral, Brielle Moulin of St Bernadette’s and abroad have got in touch unbeknownst to church staff. Police School, Hornby shares the with messages of sympathy and discovered them in the nearby Christmas story with her sister encouragement. Samoan Centre, Barbadoes Street and Jorja on an iPad. This took a very practical form returned them to cathedral custodian with some of my friends in the of artworks, Max Broadbent. Archdiocese of Chicago. Under Meanwhile, most other valuable the patronage of the Archbishop, artworks have been rescued. Cardinal Francis George OMI, they organised as the “Friends of Bishop Meeking”. During a week of vacation I was spending in Chicago at the beginning of August they organised a benefit dinner. It took place at Gianni’s, a restaurant favoured by some of the clergy, and attracted about thirty guests. It was quite a reunion of friends, “Refugees in Our Own including a number of priests and lay faithful with whom I had worked Land” Sr Enid Lagan RSM has while in Chicago after my retirement captured the experience of residents What Christmas from Christchurch. It also gave me of Nazareth House rest home who means to me the pleasure of visiting with some I were forced to relocate to Nelson might not otherwise have had the following the 22 February magnitude As a disciple of Jesus, Christmas opportunity to see in my brief stay. 6.3 earthquake. She has published is a particularly reflective time for Christmas 2011 At the end of the dinner I was her reflections in a new bookRefugees me. When I look at the crib and asked to speak about the effect of in Our Own Land. contemplate Mary’s “iat” I ponder the earthquakes on the Diocese of Her humorous and perceptive the question “How am I birthing Christchurch. This was made more insights describe many challenges, Jesus in my world?” vivid by copies of a booklet with such as a sudden, “long and eerie” As I have grown older I have come illustrations which was given to bus trip driving into the darkness for to realise that the life of Mary is the guests; it had been prepared by seven hours without toilet stops. “We the life that each follower of Jesus Sarah Boyd in the diocesan office. are like the Holy Family when the is called to emulate. So Christmas As a result of the benefit dinner angel told St Joseph to take the Child is a time for me to re-examine my and a collection taken up in the and his Mother and leave the same commitment to follow Jesus and to parish of St John Cantius, where night for Egypt. They didn’t know recommit myself to that call. I had often celebrated Mass while where they were going and neither Anne-Marie Pike. in Chicago, over NZD$30,000 has do we.” been sent to the diocesan office. Of We learn of Sr Enid’s sense of When I think of Christmas, my mind this $10,000 will go to the Sisters justice (repairing footpaths on the goes back to those midnight Masses of Nazareth towards rebuilding streets of Stoke), her appreciation of we celebrated in the Convent in Nazareth House and the remaining miracles (a laptop that rose from the Timaru. The chapel altar had been $20,000 to the fund for the dead) and the many joys and sorrows beautifully decorated with Christmas restoration of the Cathedral. of a tumultuous year. lilies and pink carnations, the red + Basil Meeking, Bishop Emeritus of carpet laid down for this so special Christchurch. Feast, the crib empty, awaiting the moment of midnight. The main premises of St The silence was vibrant as Vincent de Paul in Stanmore Road, we gathered to celebrate this Richmond, Christchurch cannot be Pic: time capsule Lyttelton unspeakable gift of Christ among us. reused following aftershock damage. Twelve o’clock struck and the The society’s smaller shops have Lyttelton Time Capsule Alan convent bell rang out over the city. continued to trade. Ransley of Paul Smith Earthmoving Reverently the priest placed the examines a time capsule discovered on Holy Child in His crib as Mother Newsletter published The the Lyttelton church site. “The contents Mercedes gently spoke through the Cathedral Management Board has have been stabilised by Canterbury beautiful organ, leading the choir begun issuing regular updates on museum,” says Carole-Lynn Kerrigan into the Silent Night. Truly a night to the future of the Cathedral of the of Opus International. A time capsule remember. Blessed Sacrament. for Sumner remains intact and a paper Sr Enid Lagan RSM www.chch.catholic.org.nz conservator will investigate them both.

INFORM DECEMBER 2011 15 Anniversaries Celebrating our heritage 50 year anniversary of the 1962 third form classes at St Mary’s College, Christchurch – 10-12 February 2012. Contact: [email protected] Golden Jubilee of St Pius X, Tokoroa – parishioners and friends, past and present, are invited to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of St Pius X, Tokoroa, Saturday 3 March 2012, with afternoon tea at 3.00pm, followed by Mass with Bishop Denis Browne and the Jubilee Dinner at 7pm. St George’s Catholic Church, Te Kuiti, Centenary Celebrations, Saturday 10 March 2012 beginning with Mass at 10.00am. Register: What’s on? stgeorgestkcentenary2012@farmside. co.nz or phone Ngaire 07 878 6938. Baby Gear Needed John Paul II Good Shepherd College Auckland Centre for Life urgently requires good offers papers for post-graduate part-time St Patrick’s Dominican College, condition high chairs, baby baths, study online. Contact: Fr Merv Duffy Teschemakers centenary 23-25 March bassinettes and prams. Contact Carmel SM [email protected] www.gsc.ac.nz 2012. [email protected] Judy 385 Malone 351 3227 or drop off to 88 Idris 9954 or Joyce 942 7424. Road 9.30am – 4.30pm. Notice of Christmas Closure The Catholic Cathedral College Catholic Development Fund office will (Encompassing Xavier and Sacred Heart St JohnWhat’s the Baptist Scholarship close onon? Thursday 22 December 2011 Colleges) 25th anniversary – Easter Bishop Barry Jones invites applications at 2pm and will reopen Wednesday 4 weekend 2012. Contact: Justin Fields if you would like to undertake full time January 2012. CDF Online will also be [email protected] or check theological studies at Good Shepherd closed during this period. facebook. College or Catholic Discipleship College, Auckland in 2012. 150th celebrations of the founding of the Apply www.chch.catholic.org.nz Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (rndm) – 14-15 April 2012. Addington Musicians and music planners Parish Church and Hall. in parishes - enter your details in a St Bede’s College Centenary new database and our Diocesan Liturgy celebrations have been re-scheduled for Commission will it to communicate 25-27 May 2012, starting with Mass on regularly training opportunities and the feast day of St Bede. new developments. Complete the online questionnaire, or contact the parish priest for one.

Catholic people, thought, action, prayer, and music on air. Sounds Catholic is now on twice every Sunday - midday and 10.00pm on The Newsletter of the Catholic Bishop of Christchurch Plains FM, 96.9. Online www.chch.catholic.org.nz/radio A quarterly newsletter published by the Catholic Bishop of Christchurch. Vigil hour every first Friday 7-8pm Ensure any photos are ‘attached’ to the email rather than embedded in the at Christ the King church, Burnside. article. JPG format is most suitable for photos. Apostles of Divine Mercy pray for reprieve from earthquakes. Deadline for next issue: Friday, 24 February 2012 Contributions may be sent at any time to: Rock Climbing – Experienced The Editor, Gerard Duignan mountaineer Fr Antoine Thomas from P O Box 4544, Christchurch 8140 the Community of St John leads a rock 027 540 8265 • (03) 355 3988 climbing group on Friday evenings. Email: [email protected] • Website: www.chch.catholic.org.nz Contact [email protected]

16 INFORM DECEMBER 2011