MOTHERWELL DIOCESAN launch of The Wayside Club cares for This is Our Faith RE curriculum leaves the homeless not only at standing room only at Our Lady of Christmas but 365 days of the year Good Aid Cathedral. Page 5 GERARD GOUGH reports. Pages 12-13

No 5446 http://www.sconews.co.uk Friday December 16 2011 | £1

ANTI-CATHOLIC BIGOTRY

GOVERNMENT BILL must be starting point, not end game in tackling problem, says Church Page 3

INSIDE YOUR SCO

NEWS pages 1-9 OPINION pages 10-11 FEATURES pages 12-13, 21 LETTERS page 14 COLUMNISTS page 15, 22 INTIMATIONS pages 17-20 BISHOPS’ ENGAGEMENTS Scotland fails homosexual people page 20 CHILDREN’S LITURGY page 23 Cardinal O’Brien blames society, civil partnership law as government looks to redefine marriage CELEBRATING LIFE page 24

By SCO reporters interests of our society,” he said. “The pletely out of order. No government on Cardinal Keith O’Brien speaks outside the POPE TO VISIT CUBA empirical evidence is clear, same-sex earth has the right to change the nature of Scottish Parliament at the launch of the CARDINAL Keith O’Brien has said relationships are demonstrably harmful marriage which was instituted by God.” Scotland for Marriage interfaith campaign that Scottish society has ‘failed’ to the medical, emotional and spiritual against changing the legal definition of because it has encouraged relation- wellbeing of those involved, no com- Clarification request what constitutes marriage from a union ships between people of the same sex. passionate society should ever enact Cardinal O’Brien and Bishop Philip between a man and a woman Britain’s most senior Catholic cler- legislation to facilitate or promote such Tartaglia are still waiting for confirma- PIC: PAUL McSHERRY gyman was speaking after campaigners relationships, we have failed those who tion from the Scottish Government on from the Catholic Parliamentary Office struggle with same-sex attraction and whether or not foreign submissions to campaign handed in more than 28,000 wider society by our actions.” the consultation will be accepted. Scottish Government responses opposing the legalisation of The foreword of the consultation A Scottish Government spokeswoman same-sex ‘marriage’ before the Scottish Interfaith campaign said that views on whether or not the said only that the government would Government’s consultation closed last Cardinal O’Brien has led opposition to definition of marriage should be now consider the consultation. Friday night. redefining marriage in what has been one changed would be sought from ‘all sec- “The government will now analyse In total the consultation has received of the most successful interfaith cam- tions of Scottish society.’ However pro the responses and consider what steps more than 50,000 submissions, one of paigns in Scottish history, with members same-sex ‘marriage’ lobbying groups to take next,” she said. “As was made the largest responses ever prompted by of the Catholic Church, Church of Scot- urged their supporters to submit clear when the consultation was a Scottish Government consultation land, other Christian churches and the responses whether or not they live in launched, while we have expressed our with the response in opposition partic- Jewish and Muslim communities coming Scotland. The Scottish Government has initial view, we have given an assur- HOLY FATHER ularly strong from Catholics and other together to oppose moves to open mar- suggested that such responses would be ance that all opinions will be listened religious groups. riage to same-sex couples. Of the more accepted but identified separately. to. No final views have been reached announces plan for trip, Cardinal O’Brien said unless the than 28,000 postcards handed over on In his letter, Cardinal O’Brien has and therefore no decisions have been including stop in campaign against same-sex ‘marriage’ Friday, in excess of 4000 came from the said the consultation would be ‘utterly taken. The analysis of the responses was successful Catholics would face Scottish Muslim community. subverted’ if foreign submission were will be published in the spring.” Mexico, in the spring ‘further challenges including the likeli- Dr Salah Beltagui of the Muslim accepted. hood that Catholic teachers will be pro- Council of Scotland said the Scottish “Allowing thousands of respondents Gerald Warner on the sanctity of Page 9 hibited from passing on Gospel values.’ Islamic community were in agreement outwith Scotland to actively participate Marriage, page 10 He said that the current consultation with the Catholic Church on this issue. in our political process utterly subverts and the need for response were a direct “We are totally against the ideas of this stance,” the cardinal said. “Even to English and Welsh bishops result of the ill effects caused by the same-sex couples getting married,” he collate and separately identify non- criticised over their stance on Scottish Parliament’s decision to enact said. “God created man and he created Scottish responses would be to under- redefining marriage, page 7 civil partnership legislation in 2004. woman so they could marry and have mine the singular sovereignty of the “These measures were not in the best families. Same-sex ‘marriages’ are com- Scottish people.” [email protected]

SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT tel 0141 221 4956 fax 0141 221 4546 e-mail [email protected] 2 PICTURE NEWS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011

Cardinal O’Brien makes it a knight to remember in Moodiesburn

By Tom Knight last year. This was one of a pair and he had placed prize being a night for two people at the Beardmore (Above left) Cardinal Keith O’Brien draws the raffle as the other one round Pope Benedict XVI’s neck dur- Hotel in Clydebank. Cardinal O’Brien immediately Michelle McManus and VIPs look on. (Above) The cardi- THE Knights of St Columba gathered at the ing their journey from Holyrood Palace to the car- announced that he would pass the prize on to pho- nal presents the St Ninian’s tartan scarf that he wore Columba Club, Moodiesburn, last week with dinal’s residence. tographer Paul McSherry and his wife, in recogni- during last year’s Papal visit to raffle winner Anthony Cardinal Keith O’Brien, Michelle McManus His Eminence attended in person at Moodies- tion of Mr McSherry’s unfailing support to him. O’Neill in the presence of Supreme Knight Ron Lynch and VIPs to make the draw for the raffle they burn to draw the winning ticket, which had been Cardinal O’Brien thanked the Knights of St PICS: PAUL McSHERRY had organised in aid of HCPT the Pilgrimage purchased by Anthony O’Neill from Clydebank. Columba for their efforts to raise funds for charity Trust. Many other prizes, including a holiday, a signed and said he had been glad to donate the scarf when Cardinal O’Brien had donated and authenticated Celtic jersey and an iPad were also awarded. the order promised to use the proceeds to support Bishops of Scotland for joining with them in the the St Ninian’s tartan scarf, the one he wore in the To the considerable amusement of all present, a his favourite charity, the HCPT. marriage campaign and the question of morality Popemobile when the Holy Father visited Scotland ticket purchased by the cardinal was then drawn; the He also thanked the knights on behalf of the and not just in Scotland but throughout the UK.

A Christmas blessing in Glasgow Aberdeen’s crib helps light up Advent THE blessing of the crib at of Glasgow City Council, rep- Archbishop Mario Conti, Bob Winter, George Square in Glasgow resentatives of the Christian the Lord Provost, religious leaders BISHOP Hugh Gilbert of (Main left to right) Councillor Jennifer menical Team and children from took place on Wednesday Churches of Glasgow including and children from St Francis and Aberdeen was in attendance Stewart, Bishop Hugh Gilbert, Cate the three Catholic primary December 7 at 5.30pm. Archbishop Mario Conti, who Blackfriars Primary Schools at the for the blessing of the Christ- Adams, city centre chaplain and schools and Robert Gordon Col- Lord Provost of Glasgow blessed the crib. crib blessing in Glasgow’s George mas crib, which is on display councillor Martin Greig. (Inset) The lege along with Councillors Jen- Bob Winter led the proceedings The children from the Gor- Square PIC: PAUL McSHERRY in Aberdeen city centre. crib scene in the city centre nifer Stewart and Martin Greig. for his fifth and last time as bals Children’s Choir, made up The crib was purchased by Lord Provost. of pupils from St Francis Pri- Primary School, took part in Aberdeen City Council for the The blessing was attended by I Bishop Gilbert’s pastoral letter He was joined by members mary School and Blackfriars the celebrations. people of the city. members of the Regional Ecu- on silence, page 14

FIND AND LIKE THE SPOTLIGHT ON... SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER PAGE ON The Annual St Vincent de Paul Society FACEBOOK Christmas Mass for parishioners of St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh was celebrated on December 3 by Cardinal Keith EWTN CATHOLIC TV IS ON SKY EPG 589 O’Brien and Mgr Michael Regan. Follow- Sky Freesat £175 total cost , no monthly charges. ing the celebrations, 200 Free channels including EWTN TV & Radio. members of SVDP Call Sky on 08442411602 for installation. joined local pensioners Call EWTN on 020 83502542 or e-mail [email protected] and parishioners for a for free monthly posted programme guide and Christmas meal PIC: PAUL McSHERRY visit www.ewtn.co.uk formoreinfo. Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER NEWS 3

SFA staff member involved in e-mail Bill is starting point against bigotry scandal during Papal visit loses job A SCOTTISH Football tially sacked, Mr Berridge, sec- Spokesmen for the Catholic Church urge Scottish Government to get to root of problem Association staff member retary Amanda Macdonald, and involved in the e-mail scan- administration assistant Marco By Ian Dunn that money, to run cafes and drop in centres dal at the time of Pope McIntyre, got their jobs back to bring people of all faiths and none Benedict XVI’s visit to after successfully contesting AS THE SCO went to press, the SNP together and build ties within their com- Scotland has lost his job. the decision. majority government was expected to munities,” he said. “I know the Church of Tim Berridge, who used to It is understood trade union vote the Offensive Behaviour at Foot- Scotland are interested in doing things be a video analysis expert for representatives for the trio pro- ball and Threatening Communications along those lines and that could be a wise the national team, is believed to vided evidence of other spoof Bill into law on Wednesday, with the use of money.” have agreed a confidentiality e-mails sent around the SFA, legislation coming into effect by March. A spokesperson for the Scottish Gov- clause as part of his redun- including one on so-called Catholic Church representatives said ernment said that details of how that fund- dancy deal. ‘paedophile priests.’ It has now that they had told the government that the ing would be spent would be announced in Labour MSP Michael emerged Mr Berridge left the bill is but the starting point in finally bring- due course. McMahon said the SFA had ‘a SFA last month after he was ing anti-Catholicism in Scotland to an end. “Bigoted and sectarian behaviour of all duty’ to explain why Mr made redundant. kinds is totally unacceptable in modern Berridge had lost his job. Five A former audio-visual tech- Roots of the problem Scotland and it is important that we unite SFA employees were sacked nician at Dundee University, Peter Kearney, director of the Scottish as a society to tackle it,” the government last year after being accused of Mr Berridge joined the SFA in Catholic Media Office, said the Scottish Public perception representative said. “We already support forwarding an e-mail that sug- 2005. He was responsible for Government had still to commit to tackling John Deighan (above), the Scottish Bish- wide-ranging action to tackle the root gested the Pontiff was involved video production for the the root causes of the problem. ops’ parliamentary officer, said that there causes of sectarianism.” with child abuse. national team, the football “For all the talk about football, or also needs to be a change in the way soci- The spokesperson also said the Offen- The image contained in the development department, and Catholic schools or even Irish migration, ety sees people of faith. sive Behaviour at Football and Threaten- email was of a road-crossing for the communications and John Ogilive was killed in Glasgow for “There needs to a recognition that reli- ing Communications Bill was a vital part sign with an adult holding a referee development teams. being a Catholic long before any of those gion is a civilising factor in life and this is of that effort. child’s hand, next to the mes- One of his tasks had been to things,” he said. “There is a deep seated ani- why we have been pushing for a charter of sage: ‘CAUTION: The Pope is record and edit games for Scot- mosity to Catholicism that has its roots deep religious freedom,” he said. “As we saw Labour plans coming.’ The most high-profile land boss Craig Levein. in the past and what Scotland needs to do is with the boy who had his Pope Benedict The Scottish Labour Party, which has sacking was Hugh Dallas, at Mr McMahon said he have a serious conversation about its reli- scarf taken off him, there is an assumption opposed the SNP’s offensive behaviour that point the SFA’s head of ref- believed the initial e-mail had gious history, which is violent and tumul- among many that any expression of reli- legislation, this week unveiled their own eree development. been ‘inappropriate’ but not a tuous. But until that happens we are merely gious faith is somehow worrying or trou- plan for tackling sectarianism in Scotland. One of the staffers, mailroom sacking offence but that the looking at the symptoms of the problems bling. I think a charter of religious freedom It calls for a review of how anti-sectar- manager Bob Bryan, did not SFA had questions to answer rather than homing in on the cause.” would help defuse the tension in express- ianism can be taught in schools, a ‘stamp appeal his dismissal, however, about Mr Berridge’s subse- Mr Kearney also said he believed that ing faith. People of faith are good folk, out sectarianism’ campaign and a national the three others who were ini- quent departure. the Scottish Government had ‘missed a they are not the problem and we need to summit for teachers, youth workers and trick’ by not initiating such a debate during tackle the mindset that says they are.” other interested parties. It also suggests the 450th anniversary of the Scottish Ref- a crackdown on the sale of offensive Do you have a story for us here at the Scottish ormation last year. Government approach merchandise. Catholic Observer? You can call us on 0141 221 “Until we have that serious conversa- Mr Deighan added that he hoped the Scot- Mr Deighan said that the Church did not 4956 or send us an e-mail:info@scottishcatholic tion, the debate will be distorted by focus- tish Government would use the £9 million take sides on how best to approach specific observer. org.uk ing on football which is just an outlet for they have committed to anti-sectarianism social issues but called on all parties to the West of Scotland,” he said. “We don’t projects imaginatively and effectively. work towards ‘a fair and just society.’ have an understanding of the depth of the “For example I think Catholic parishes problem across Scotland.” should be encouraged to bid for some of I [email protected] Thomas Marin James Scott Independent Funeral Directors Funeral Directors “Stay local... keep it in the Your local Independent Funeral Director Reamonn Gormley’s parents speak of their grief as killers are sentenced family... offer a prompt Over eighty years of and personal service 24 giving undivided attention, THE parents of murdered sentencing would offer some decision to use a weapon. Unfor- hours a day... make it 24 hour care and a level of service Catholic teenager Reamonn comfort for the family but the tunately it was our son and his second to none. The only independent, Gormley have spoken of the effect of the murder is always friend they encountered but it affordable.” family-owned business in the area. ‘trauma and grief’ caused by with them. could have been anyone.” Thomas Marin 1926 Let our family look after your family his killers, after sentencing “Devastation is the only word Mr Gormley (left) was a for- Three generations later, his words are just took place at the High Court I could use, and his family will mer pupil at John Ogilvie High as important to our family business today. 314 Portobello High Street, in Perth last Thursday. never be the same again,” he School in Hamilton. Prior to Edinburgh EH15 2DA 62-64 St Mary Street, Tel: 0131 556 7192 or Daryn Maxwell, 23, was sen- said. “His family will never for- beginning his university studies Edinburgh EH1 1SX 0131 556 6874 (24 hrs) Tel: 0131 669 6333 tenced to life with a minimum of get the events of that night. he had spent several months or 0131 669 1285 (24hrs) 19 years for murdering the 19- They’ve got good family, good working for the Good Child 7 Bridge Street, Musselburgh EH21 6AA Tel: 0131 665 6925 year-old Glasgow University community support. However Foundation in Thailand, a char- sports science student by stab- they’ll not wake up from the ity with strong links to Celtic bing him repeatedly in an nightmare.” Football Club that helps children attempted robbery in Blantyre Mr Gormley’s family said in a been given a life sentence and with Down’s Syndrome. www.thomasmarin.co.uk www.thomasmarin.co.uk on February 1 this year. statement that they would like to you do not fully understand what Mr Gormley’s family said that Barry Smith, 19, who had ‘thank everyone involved in they felt. Ask yourself how they ‘struggle to come to terms helped plan the robbery, was bringing these evil people to would you feel? with the knowledge that a loving jailed for eight years and three some sort of justice.’ “As far as we are concerned and kind young man who would, months after pleading guilty to “However, it brings neither there will be no parole, no time without a doubt, have made his culpable homicide. satisfaction nor comfort to our off for good behaviour and we mark in this world and would At the time of the attack, Mr family,” the statement, released will have to deal with this for the have continued to make a signif- Gormley had been walking by Victim Support, said. “The rest of our lives. icant contribution to our society home with his friend David trauma and grief that those indi- “This was a premeditated is no longer with us yet two indi- McFall after watching a football viduals have put us through can- crime; these thugs took the con- viduals who have contributed match on the television. not be put in to words. scious decision to go onto the nothing positive to society but The local parish priest Fr “We have all heard on many streets armed, they took the con- only spread fear and violence Brian Lamb, who led Mr occasions from other families in scious decision to commit a rob- will one day be free to walk our Gormely’s funeral, said that the a similar situation that they have bery and they took the conscious streets again.’

Fr Fitzpatrick is the new vice rector of the Pontifical Scots College in Rome

THE Bishops’ Conference of the Scots College, Rome. Fr Fitzpatrick said it would be a rector of the Pontifical Scots Scotland have appointed Fr Bishop Philip Tartaglia of jerk to leave his parish but he was College and to continuing the Daniel Fitzpatrick, currently Paisley said he believed it would excited to take on his new role. work of my predecessor Fr parish priest of St James’, be an excellent appointment. “While I am sad to be leaving Frank Dougan who was in my Renfrew, to the post of vice “Although we will miss Fr St James’ where I have enjoyed year group in the college.” rector of the Pontifical Scots Dan from the diocese, I am four years of support from the Fr Fitzpatrick will take up his College, Rome. nonetheless very pleased to parish and the local schools, I new post at the beginning of Fr Fitzpatrick, 44, is from release him for this very impor- am happy to accept this new February 2012. Paisley and was ordained a priest tant responsibility in our national responsibility at the college in Prior to his ordination, Fr in 2001. The appointment is for seminary in Rome, for which Fr Rome, a place that holds many Fitzpatrick graduated in medi- five years, from 2012-2017. Dan is eminently suited,” he said. memories of my own time cine from Glasgow University in Fr Fitzpatrick will succeed Fr “We all wish him every blessing studying there,” he said. “I look 1990 and spent five years prac- Frank Dougan, a priest of Moth- in his new post.” forward to the responsibility and tising hospital medicine in the erwell Diocese, as vice rector of Reacting to his appointment, the challenge of being the vice West of Scotland. 4 NEWS FEATURE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 The highs and lows of missionary life This third extract from Walking With The Poor looks at the murder of a close friend and marriage ceremonies By Fr Martin Chambers THINGS were advancing quite nicely at the start of 2007 but, on the January 9, disaster was to strike. My usual rising time was 5.30am when I would wake up to the water truck horns starting. As I was getting myself ready that morning, my phone went. It was Adela with terrible news! Her aunt, Maria, had been shot dead along with her uncle Ramon and her niece, Angelica. What? Is this real? It sounded like a conversa- tion you might dream about; but sadly, this was reality. It was another day when I had to simply clear the diary of all other things and attend to what they needed. As the eldest niece, Adela was left to organise things. I took her to the Pope renews Pontifical morgue where the bodies had been taken by the police after the 2am shooting. We spent the day Council appointment of trying to make arrangements for a speedy funeral, going back and forward with the other Professor John Haldane family members, paying for coffins and embalm- ing. POPE Benedict XVI has reappointed Profes- As we did so, I mused on what my time with sor John Haldane (above with the Holy Ramon had meant and like everyone else I won- Father) to the prestigious role of consultor to dered why the murders had taken place. For me, the Pontifical Council for Culture while nam- Ramon had been a man of many parts: he had ing new members and consultors of the Pontif- been the first to knock on my door and had ical Council on Saturday December 10. helped me with initial paperwork about the land; The status of consultor was renewed for but he had also taken quite a bit of money from another period of five years for Professor Hal- me and pocketed at least some of it for himself. dane, director at the Centre for Ethics, Philoso- phy and Public Affairs at St Andrews University. Forgiveness had already entered another rainy season. Day Weddings like this one provided a welcome release He is also a contributor to the SCO in addition to And yet, as I looked at the three coffins laid after day, for around five or six hours, we would from the grinding poverty and violence of life in the being a popular broadcaster. Professor Haldane together in the funeral parlour, I prayed for for- have torrential rain pouring down our streets and slums of Ecuador. As in Scotland, marriage is very said he was ‘very happy’ at his reappointment. giveness from God for those who had killed finding the weakest point in the road to gouge important to the people there “One of Pope Benedict’s priorities is the re- them. It was a terrible way to die. When it came out a path in the mud streets. Once again I had evangelisation of Western civilisation and bring- to the day of the funeral, we celebrated a very shoes that were caked in mud. Everywhere I ing Europe back into Christendom,” he said. sombre liturgy. It was, by far, the darkest went it was impossible to keep clean. Masses I celebrated in Ecuador. “The way to re-evangelise Western civilisation is moment of my time in Ecuador. At that time I remember going to visit an old When it came to the moment when the cou- through cultural dialogue; that is through re- By this stage, I was half way through my five lady in a very small bamboo house. Her name ples proclaim the wedding vows, I asked Juan to interpreting the arts and philosophy through a years on the Missions and I had come to under- was Lizbeth and she was bedridden and in need repeat after me his vows. Line by line he Christian perspective. There is a larger issue stand that murders were very common in the sec- of some immediate financial help. However, the repeated what I was saying but when I asked him than declining numbers in churches and that is tor and yet it was still a shock to be so closely most degrading thing about her existence was to repeat prometo serte fiel (I promise to be faith- about convincing at a cultural and intellectual involved. I had realised over the years that that, while she was bedridden, pools of water ful), he said prometo ser infiel (I promise to be level. As a Catholic intellectual, I am very happy Ramon and Maria had been involved in some would leak in through the roof and lie there for unfaithful). This, of course, produced a roar of to be associated with this.” shady land deals and that they had been in direct weeks. laughter from everyone and caused a minor Cardinal Keith O’Brien, Archbishop of St conflict with the lawyer, Sergio Toral but no-one It was another instance when I realised that break in the Wedding Mass. Andrews and Edinburgh, said was among the was really able to explain to me why they had poverty causes a loss of dignity. However, after composing ourselves, the Mass first to congratulate the professor. died. It was all made more difficult because I went along nicely and, at the end, we had five “I congratulate John on his reappointment to was now a close colleague and friend of their Marriages happily married couples. this most prestigious council, he is a Catholic niece, Adela. But it wasn’t all doom and gloom in that early intellectual of world rank and a philosopher of part of 2007: we had a multiple wedding in the I To order a copy of Fr Martin Chambers’ book great standing,” he said. “His work embodies the Poverty newly-erected San Ignacio Chapel. Five couples Walking With The Poor, contact his home parish: greatest Catholic traditions of cultural and intel- It was a sad way to start the New Year and celebrated the Sacrament of Matrimony and it St Matthew’s, Grassyards Rd, New Farm Loch, lectual enquiry often lost in our shallow secular seemed to fit in with the mood all around as we produced one of the funniest lines in all of the Kilmarnock KA3 7SH or call 01563 533587 society. I wish him every success and blessing for his forthcoming term.” REVIEW Legion of Mary founder Frank Duff was ahead of his time

FRANK DUFF: A LIFE Duff’s life, from his schooling growth as providential, and Dublin diocesan authorities. mainly a matter of routine and STORY to his long period of work as a regarded the Blessed Virgin as His view of the role of the lacked sufficiently deep roots. by Finola Kennedy, Continuum, civil servant, as well as his its real founder in the sense that laity was far in advance of Subsequent events have shown, 2011, 288 pages, £12.99 work in founding the legion he was Her instrument. what many in the Church were sadly, that he was right. But he and the various apostolates During the 1920s the Legion prepared to accept at the time, was optimistic that after a FINOLA Kennedy has which grew out of that began to expand, slowly at first but his positions were ‘deep winter’ the Church would written a very absorbing involvement, including the but then with growing rapidity. vindicated by the teaching of emerge ‘in the spring of book on Frank Duff, the Sancta Maria hostel for In fact it was in Scotland that the Second Vatican Council. nature,’ and be ‘bursting with founder of the Legion of reformed prostitutes, and the the first branch outside Ireland He was a visionary in the expansion and efflorescence.’ Mary, (A Catholic lay Morning Star and Regina Caeli was established. best sense of the word. After his death in 1980, a his organisation which Hostels for homeless men and He travelled to Glasgow in Decades before the council, he Cause for Canonisation was celebrated its 90th women respectively. August 1927 and met had laid out the essential point later introduced by the anniversary this year) He was born in 1889 in Archbishop Mackintosh, who that the laity have a crucial role Archbishop of Dublin, Dr suggesting that his Dublin, to parents who were received him well and in building up the Church, the Desmond Connell. significance and importance civil servants and in 1914 he promised to speak to the Pope Body of Christ. He criticised a In sum, Finola Kennedy’s for the modern Church have joined the St Vincent de Paul about the Legion. focus on an ‘individualistic’ well researched book should not been sufficiently society. The first chapter outside Christianity at the expense of a make his life and legacy much realised. SVDP was one of the Ireland was established in wider concern for one’s better known in the Church, In fact, it could be said that formative influences regarding Glasgow. However, as Finola neighbours. and it is to be hoped that a his ideas have been, to a large the approach he later adopted Kennedy shows in a number of In the 1950s, when to the revitalised Legion of Mary will extent, ignored because his with the Legion of Mary. chapters, his path after the outside observer, all might be part of the new springtime vision of how the Church people. This is a very thorough Reflecting on the origins of founding of the Legion was far have seemed well in Catholic he foretold. should be was, and is, biography, detailing in 25 the legion in later life, Frank from easy, and he was Ireland, Duff was realistic uncomfortable for some chapters all aspects of Frank Duff saw its beginnings and marginalised for decades by the enough to see that this was DONAL FOLEY Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER LOCAL NEWS 5 Pupils profess the Faith in Motherwell New education syllabus, This is Our Faith, celebrated at Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral

By Martin Dunlop MOTHERWELL Diocese celebrated the launch of This is Our Faith, the new religious education syllabus for Catholic schools in Scotland, with a prayer service at Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral last Wednesday. Bishop Joseph Devine of Motherwell was joined by representatives from the education sector, civic and community leaders and politicians, including John Pentland MSP for Motherwell and St Bernadette’s, Larbert, pack Wishaw, as primary and secondary school children from across the diocese (right) their bags for Mary’s Meals ensured the cathedral was packed and awash with colour for the celebration. PIC: TOM EADIE PARISHIONERS from St Margaret McCafferty and Canon Michael McGrath, director of the Scot- Bernadette’s Church, Larbert, Urquhart are seen here with tish Catholic Education Service, spoke to Leonard’s Primary School, East Kilbride, “It was a beautiful evening and it was a have ensured young children Maurissa and Grace Clark those gathered about This is Our Faith, spoke about the document’s introduction privilege to take part,” Angela Cluckie, prin- in Africa will receive some- collection said. Ms McCafferty which was launched nationally last month in Motherwell Catholic schools, while cipal teacher at St Mary’s Primary School, thing special this Christmas made an appeal at weekend by the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, pupils from across Motherwell Diocese said. “The children loved the whole celebra- by collecting backpacked Masses at the beginning of the first religious education syllabus to be were also involved throughout the cathe- tion and it was very special for us as two of goods to be sent by Mary’s October and, six weeks later, originated wholly in Scotland and designed dral service last Wednesday. our staff were involved in the early stages of Meals charity to Kenya. almost 200 backpacks had been to meet the needs of young people in Barbara Campbell, religious education This is Our Faith’s production.” After initially setting a target filled by the enthusiastic Catholic primary and secondary schools. adviser for secondary schools in Mother- During the service, symbols represent- of filling 50 backpacks, the parishioners of St Bernadette’s. well Diocese, said: “We wanted to set out ing the eight strands of Faith were brought parish community got so Ms McCafferty told the SCO Document how exciting and challenging it will be for to the cathedral altar by pupils and, at the immersed in collecting essential that she had, this week, The new document has received the Vatican schools in Motherwell Diocese to use This evening’s conclusion, Bishop Devine pre- items, such as toothbrushes, pens received a letter from Mary’s seal of approval as it was granted the Decree is Our Faith.” sented each school with a copy of the new and pencils, for the children in Meals informing the St of Recognitio, a momentous achievement teaching document. Africa that they managed to fill Bernadette’s community that for Catholic education in Scotland. Celebration As Ms Cluckie added, the occasion had 188 bags, which were collected their goods were being shipped Bishop Devine, bishop president of the Senior pupils from diocesan secondary a lasting effect on the children present, in from St Bernadette’s earlier this to a Mary’s Meals project in Catholic Education Commission, spoke of schools, who are participating in the Pope particular one of her pupils at St Mary’s. month by representatives from Kenya on Thursday (December the importance of the new teaching docu- Benedict XVI Caritas Awards, took part in “As we were getting on the bus home, Mary’s Meals. 15) and that this was the first ment, which, he said will provide the basis the service, while the choir from St Mary’s one of the pupils said: ‘That was great, can “We had a fantastic response time the charity had sent a con- for RE teaching in Scottish Catholic Primary School, Hamilton and pupils from we do it again tomorrow?’” she said. from the parish and our priest, tainer to Kenya. “This is an schools ‘for decades to come.’ John Paul II Primary School, Viewpark, Canon John Urquhart, was very exciting time for us all,” the Des Timmons, headteacher of St sang on the evening. I [email protected] pleased,” parishioner Margaret charity’s message to St McCafferty, who organised the Bernadette’s read. 6 SCHOOLS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 St Joseph’s students enjoy ‘life-changing’ experience Group of pupils from the Catholic Secondary School in Kilmarnock enjoyed visit to Fr Martin Chambers’ former parish in Ecuador

By Martin Dunlop selfless and generous people before,” head girl Louise said. “Everything we did was enhanced A GROUP of nine pupils from St Joseph’s by the wonderful people we were with. They Academy, Kilmarnock, recently spent ten made the trip what it was and so saying goodbye days in the community of Nueva Prospe- to them was, without a doubt, the hardest thing I, rina—a shantytown in the Ecuadorian city and many of the others, had ever had to do.” of Guayaquil—and have returned home speaking of ‘life-changing’ and ‘unforget- Friendships table’ experiences. Fellow pupil Amy Muir spoke about how friend- The S6 pupils travelled to Ecuador in October ships were forged between the two communities with Fr Martin Chambers, the St Joseph’s school even though they were speaking different lan- chaplain, who, between 2004 and 2009, spent guages for the majority of the trip. five years in Nueva Prosperina as a missionary “In that situation you learn how to read body priest with the society of St James. The school language better,” Amy commented. “You know group were accompanied by teachers Joe Sikora when the right time to smile is. Friendliness can and Ann McDaid. breach the language barrier.” Eilidh Muir added that, on her return from School ties Ecuador, the experience has given her more of The school community has been involved in an appreciation of what she has in life. “When I fundraising work for Fr Chambers’ Ecuador think about moaning about something I try to Trust and the link with the South American coun- stop and think about the time I spent with the try goes back even further as they have also people in Ecuador,” she said. helped the mission of Fr Colin MacInnes, a priest ished by the warmth and smiles of those who had The students from St Joseph’s Academy in Kilmarnock The St Joseph’s pupils are now looking for- of Argyll and the Isles Diocese, who is based in come to welcome us into their country,” Louise pictured alongside Fr Martin Chambers, teachers Joe ward to next year, when they hope to welcome Ecuador. said. “From then on, whatever we were doing and Sikora and Ann McDaid and some of the locals from some of the Ecuadorian school pupils and staff During their time in South America, the pupils wherever we went, we were met with only the Nueva Prosperina in Guayaquil, Ecuador from Nueva Prosperina to Scotland, and are assisted at La Sagrada Familia School, where happiest and most welcoming of people.” intent on ensuring they can reciprocate the they worked with primary and secondary classes, warmth, generosity and friendship they experi- and helped prepare lunches for 150 of the 700 Trip highlights commented. “We hadn’t fully understood the enced during their visit to South America. pupils in the local school at a soup kitchen. As well as helping out at the school and soup impact he had had there until we saw it for our- In addition to Louise, Amy and Eilidh Muir, Louise Sloan, St Joseph’s head girl, recalled kitchen, the pupils visited many Nueva Prospe- selves first-hand.” the St Joseph’s pupils who took part in the trip the group’s arrival in Guayaquil, after 22 hours rina residents in their homes and attended Masses At the end of their ten days in Ecuador, the St to Ecuador were: Shannon Barclay, Siobhan of travel, where pupils and teachers from La at the local churches. They were also quick to Joseph’s pupils had to deal with the toughest part Connelly, James Green, Joe Hunter, Nicola Sagrada Familia were there to welcome them at point out how much of an impression Fr Cham- of their trip—saying goodbye to their newfound Robertson and Kal Walker. the airport. bers had made on the residents of the shantytown. friends. “Any of our initial fears were immediately ban- “He is treated like a hero out there,” the pupils “Not one of us had ever come across such kind, [email protected]

Former St Aloysius pupil wins top academic award A FORMER pupil of St Aloysius College, Glasgow, was recently recognised for his outstanding performance in the last school year as he scooped the SQA Academic Excellence Award. Gavin Macaulay (right) won the nationwide award, which paid tribute to the very best per- formances for candidates in the 2011 diet of exams, and collected Celebrating 150 years of St Patrick’s Primary School his prize last month at a cere- mony at Anniesland College. CARDINAL Keith O’Brien The anniversary Mass was The day was a special occa- Speaking to the SCO, Gavin was a special visitor to St celebrated at Denny’s St sion for St Patrick’s headteacher, said that he was informed in Patrick’s Primary School, Alexander’s Church by Cardi- Anne O’Donnell, who is a for- August, following the release of Denny recently, as 150 nal O’Brien, Fr Pat Boylan, mer pupil at the school. this year’s results, that he was on a years of the school were cel- parish priest at St Alexander’s, “We had a super day and it was shortlist of three to win the prize. ment and preferred to pay tribute Italian, and he also collected ebrated with a special Mass. Canon Joseph McMullan, Fr a great celebration,” Ms O’Don- “I didn’t know about the to the staff at the Jesuit college. prizes last month for top marks The school community was Paul Capaldi, Fr Christopher nell, who has been St Patrick’s awards until after the results “It was very nice to win the in Physics and Chemistry. delighted to mark the anniversary Heenan, Fr Robert Hendrie and headteacher for eight years, said. came through,” he said. “When I award but that wasn’t my moti- Gavin attended last month’s in such a way and a dinner/dance Fr Brian McNeil (above with “We’ve had a number of anniver- found out at the awards cere- vation for doing well,” he said. “I awards ceremony with his par- marking the occasion was also schoolchildren). sary events since August, and mony in November that I had really enjoyed the subjects I was ents and St Aloysius’ headteacher held last Saturday, where for- Pupils took part in the Liturgy we have more planned in the won it was a nice feeling.” doing and I had great teachers.” John Stoer and, since leaving mer pupils and those associated and the St Patrick’s choir New Year, it’s been a superb Although pleased to win the In his final year at St Aloysius, school, has continued his studies with the school had the chance received congratulations for community celebration.” award, Gavin was keen to play Gavin studied Advanced Higher in mathematics, physics and Ital- to share their old memories. their fine singing at the Mass. PIC: PAUL McSHERRY down his own part in the achieve- Physics, Chemistry, Maths and ian at Glasgow University.

St Andrew’s Secondary Don’t miss the double Christmas and New Year edition of School, Glasgow, your Scottish Catholic Observer. recently celebrated a Mass to mark the launch of the new translation of the Missal. The Mass In parishes December 23, priced £2. was celebrated at the school by Fr Michael Hutson, Fr Joe Sullivan, You will find messages from Canon Peter McBride, Fr Scotland’s bishops, Paul McAlinden and Fr Allan Cameron. The our bumper Year in Review section rounding up the school also invited River City actress Libby Catholic news of 2011, Christmas short stories from James McArthur who launched Barclay and KT Brogan, the shortlist for the SCO art and St Andrew’s Advent SPOTLIGHT ON... charity fundraising poetry competition, nativities from around the country campaign, which aims and much, much more. to raise money for a number of charities First edition in 2012 in parishes January 6. Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER LOCAL/NATIONAL NEWS 7

Biographer to Pope John Paul II An appeal to end genocide in Sudan speaks out in defence of Marriage THE biographer of Blessed Lord David Alton and Baroness Caroline Cox call for international community to intervene John Paul II has said that he disagrees with the Bishops of By Martin Dunlop England and Wales’ decision not to oppose legal recogni- LORD David Alton of Liverpool and tion for homosexual civil Baroness Caroline Cox have made an unions as part of their cam- appeal for the world to act to stop the paign to uphold marriage. genocide in Sudan. “In my experience in the US, In a letter to a London newspaper last this notion of civil unions has week, Lord Alton, a Catholic, and Baroness always been a kind of half way Cox, the founder of the Humanitarian Relief house to so called ‘gay mar- Trust Organisation, who has championed riages,’” George Weigel said. many Christian causes, said that unless the Mr Weigel (right) added that international community intervenes, the while a ‘humane state is going Sudanese government will believe it can con- to make appropriate provisions of sexual relationships.’ tinue its genocidal policies with impunity. for human relationships, particu- “Same-sex partnerships are larly in moments of distress, … not marriage because they have UK responsibility those issues can be dealt with no root in a sexual relationship Lord Alton and Baroness Cox noted that without going down this road of which marriage does,” Arch- the UK has a ‘special responsibility’ as the saying there is something in the bishop Nichols said. “And Republic of Sudan, which split from pre- nature of a stable or unstable that’s the distinction that I think dominantly Christian South Sudan in a Baroness Caroline Cox and Lord David Alton indicted by the ICC, who has overseen the homosexual union that the state it is important for us to under- referendum vote earlier this year, is a have appealed for an end to the genocide in slaughter of civilians, many of them in should honour and lift up.’ stand, that marriage is built on country with which the UK has a ‘special Sudan front of UN personnel; and there are cred- Mr Weigel made the com- the sexual partnership between relationship.’ ible reports of mass graves,” the letter con- ments after Archbishop Vincent a man and a woman which is “President Al-Bashir, responsible for the snake-infested caves; killer diseases and tinues. “Unless the international Nichols, leader of the Catholic open to children, to their nur- war against South Sudan in which two mil- severe malnutrition are rising; and Khar- community intervenes, Khartoum will Church in England and Wales, ture and education.” lion perished and four million were dis- toum denies humanitarian organisations believe it can continue its genocidal poli- said last month that civil part- The archbishop had received placed, and indicted by the International access to the victims. With the onset of the cies with impunity. It is high time that nerships ‘provide a structure in criticism from some Catholic Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against dry season, Khartoum has escalated its Britain led the way by imposing targeted which people of the same sex commentators over his earlier humanity in Darfur, is unleashing military offensive which will create a catastrophe of sanctions, such as restrictions on travel to who want a lifelong relation- comments but he was publicly offensives against his own people in South- even more massive proportions.” the UK, for senior members of the Khar- ship, a lifelong partnership can backed for his stance by Cardi- ern Kordofan and Blue Nile, with further toum government, many of whom enjoy find their place and protection nal Achille Silvestrini, the Vati- crimes against humanity,” they say in the Violence visiting their residences in London. in legal provision.’ can’s former prefect of the letter. “Aerial bombardment has forced They added that bombing is an ‘almost “The regime in Khartoum has, for Archbishop Nichols Congregation for Eastern 400,000 civilians to flee from their homes; daily occurrence’ and that there have been decades, continued to kill while it talks. expanded upon his thinking by Churches, who said that Arch- 23,000 have fled into the fragile new recent reports of ‘deployment of long- Unless we do more than talk, we will risk explaining that while a civil bishop Nichols was being Republic of South Sudan, with 300-500 range missiles against civilians.’ being seen to be complicit with the geno- union ‘gives a same-sex couple ‘forced to publicly defend him- arriving every day; a further 40,000 have “Mr Al-Bashir has dismissed the elected cide unfolding in Sudan today.” the same rights that a married self against claims that have been fled into Ethiopia; thousands still in South governors of Blue Nile and Southern couple have,’ the key distinc- made against him by Catholic Kordofan are sheltering from the bombs in Kordofan and imposed a governor, also I [email protected] tion between it and marriage is groups in the UK, for his ‘exces- that same-sex unions do not ‘in sive alignment with Rome’ when law contain a required element it comes to family ethics.’

Sir Tom Farmer drops in on Dundee and Perth Catenians

By Euan McArthur ing down to London on busi- which existed at that time. Sir Tom Farmer pictured with ness the following morning, as He shared his concerns on members of the Dundee and Perth Trio of singers from St Peter’s, Ardrossan, DUNDEE and Perth Cateni- well as his former Holy Cross how the traditional family is Catenians after their Christmas ans were delighted to wel- Academy school friend in under attack by recent govern- meeting and dinner set to take the stage for Christmas concert come Sir Tom Farmer, CVO Edinburgh, Gil Whale, who ment proposals on same-sex and KCSG, as guest speaker was a visiting gentleman from ‘marriage’ and urged Catenians while a large contingent also A TRIO of young singers attracted large audiences. at their recent Christmas City of Liechfield Circle. and their families to do every- travelled through from Stirling from Galloway Diocese are Ms Breen has recently toured meeting and dinner. Sir Tom spoke about his key thing possible to block these along with John McLean, making final preparations the UK with Scottish Opera and Initially scheduled for the to success in business, which changes. Province 16 Secretary and Presi- before presenting a Christ- Mr Munn has been a soloist with Queens Hotel in Perth, the event won him the Scottish Business- Sir Tom lives in Edinburgh dent of Fife St Margaret’s Circle. mas Concert at St Peter-in- the Nairobi Symphony Orches- soon outgrew its original venue man of the Year award in 1989 with his wife of 45 years, Anne. A vote of thanks was offered Chains Church, Ardrossan, tra twice in the past year. so was switched to the nearby and outlined quite simply the He remains the majority by Mr Godden, who earlier in this weekend. Amongst the trio’s many other Lovat Hotel to accommodate need to treat every employee stakeholder in Hibernian Foot- the night had addressed the Marie Claire Breen, Theresa performances have been appear- the larger than normal atten- with respect in the work-place. ball Club and is hoping their audience eloquently with his Coulter and Jamie Munn ances at the Papal Mass cele- dance which totaled almost 50. Raised as one of seven sib- new manager, Pat Fenlon, can call for Catenians and their (above)—who between them brated by Pope Benedict XVI at Sir Tom was joined at the top lings in Leith in Edinburgh, he bring about an upturn in their families to support vocations have performed at events Bellahouston Park, Glasgow, table by Brother Grand Presi- spoke of his thanks for his par- fortunes. and reminded all present of the throughout the world giving last September and the official dent Tony Godden who made ents and family for his stable George Brand, Province 16 on-going need to back the asso- operatic, solo and choral per- opening of the Scottish Parlia- time in his busy schedule at upbringing and fondly recalled Director, was joined by some of ciation’s bursary fund for formances in Russia, France, ment by the queen. such short notice before head- the strong community spirit his fellow Aberdeen members young Catholics. Kenya and Hungary, amongst other places—will sing Christ- I The concert will take place at mas carols, songs from the 3pm on Sunday December 18 A MUSICIAN at St Peter’s would be performing it. Ms Brennan explained that the shows, operatic favourites and with tickets priced £5 (£3 New Gloria set Parish in Patrick, Glasgow, “The choir seem to like it, I idea had been suggested by her some of the most well-known concessions) available at the has written a new arrange- was told they were singing it out- friend, St Peter’s organist, Frank and loved festive songs at Sun- door or via email at: ayrshire. for Midnight Mass ment of the Gloria which will side practice so it seems to have Devine. “He suggested it to me day’s concert. [email protected]. A at St Peter’s be used for the first time at passed the old grey whistle test,” way back before the Papal visit,” The concert has been running raffle will also take place and Midnight Mass in the parish. she said. “It’s a honour for it to be she said. “So I’ve been working for the past six years and last home baking will be on sale. All Parish in Partick Nel Brennan, an actress, said sung at St Peter’s, I’m very on it for quite a while, hopefully year almost £2000 was raised for proceeds from the event will go she was delighted that the choir excited about it.” it won’t disappoint!” charity and in the past has to charity. 8 INTERNATIONAL NEWS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011

immune from taxation. NEWS IN BRIEF IRISH CHURCH FACES FURTHER Lives still at risk after climate talks NUNCIO TO IRELAND SET TO ABUSE ALLEGATIONS BECOME AN ARCHBISHOP THE Irish Government is fac- SCIAF warns that deal reached in Durban will not prevent global temperature rises THE newly appointed Papal ing calls for an investigation Nuncio to Ireland will shortly into allegations of sexual abuse be elevated to archbishop, it has against former Archbishop of By Martin Dunlop tion needed to hold dangerous climate been reported this week. Dublin, John Charles McQuaid. change in check.’ Irish American New Yorker Police in Ireland are reported THE Scottish Catholic International Dr Sarah Wykes, climate analyst for Mgr Charles Brown (52) is to be investigating two com- Aid Fund has warned that ‘the collec- CAFOD, the Catholic aid agency for Eng- thought to have dealt personally plaints made against the senior tive failure of governments to agree land and Wales, said that it was ‘signifi- with the fallout from the Irish cleric, who was Archbishop of sufficient action’ at the UN’s climate cant’ that steps had been taken at the scandals in Rome, according to Dublin between 1940-1972. He change summit in South Africa summit towards a legally binding treaty the National Catholic Register, died a year later. ‘threatens to increase the climate- on emissions reduction but that ‘the and is considered very close to Maeve Lewis, director of sup- related death toll in developing coun- timetable and lack of clarity of the agree- Pope Benedict XVI. port group One in Four, has tries.’ ment is an insult to the urgency of this cri- called on Children’s Minister, Talks in the South African city of Durban sis for the poorest and all of our futures.’ CHURCH MAY START PAYING Francis Fitzgerald, to establish a ended in the early hours of Sunday morn- “We are still sleep-walking into cata- PROPERTY TAX IN ITALY sworn statutory inquiry. ing, 36 hours later than expected with a last strophic climate change,” she said. THE Catholic Church in Italy is minute agreement to reduce greenhouse gas under growing pressure to start DR CONGO MISSIONARY SPEAKS emission by 2012. While Maite Nkoana- Scotland paying taxes on its property OF POST ELECTION TENSION Mashabane, South Africa’s international Last week, SCIAF praised a speech given portfolio, a move that could A XAVERIAN missionary relations minister, said the countries taking by First Minister Alex Salmond in China, raise up to €800million priest has spoken of tensions in part in the summit ‘have made history,’ tries have failed yet again to agree to in which he called for united international (£680million) a year and help the Democratic Republic of with the Durban Platform, SCIAF have reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in action on climate change. bail the country out of its eco- Congo after outgoing President warned that ‘insufficient progress’ has been line with what scientists believe is neces- The First Minister said that climate nomic crisis. Joseph Kabila was last week made and it is ‘is likely to cost many lives in sary to avoid dangerous climate change,” change was making the planet’s economic As the country’s new declared the winner of presi- developing countries.’ Lexi Barnett, SCIAF’s campaigns officer inequalities far worse. “Climate change technocrat government of dential elections held at the end said from Durban. “This means we are exacerbates the vast gulf in resources which Mario Monti seeks to tackle the of last month, with the opposi- Falling short still on course for global temperature rises already exist across our planet, but it also nation’s 1.9 trillion euro debt, tion party disputing the results. The deal from the summit, which was of three to four degrees Celsius. Experts gives us an opportunity,” he said. “Climate attention is turning to the esti- “We will see what steps scheduled to have ended on Friday believe this will be catastrophic for much change is the issue above all issues which mated 65,000 buildings owned Etienne Tshisekedi [President evening, arose from an 11th hour com- of the world’s population, especially in illustrates humankind’s interconnectedness by the Church. Kabila’s main opponent] will take, promise about the phrasing of the agree- developing countries where the lives and across national boundaries... In response we They include 50,000 cathe- after having repeatedly pro- ment that will for the first time commit all livelihoods of many millions are at risk. need a greater shared ownership of both the drals, churches and chapels, claimed he had won the elec- nations—including the world’s three With 300,000 climate related deaths every problem and the solution.” which would retain their tax- tions,” Fr Loris Cattani said. biggest polluters: the US, China and year already, mainly in developing coun- Mr Salmond also told his Chinese hosts free status, but 11,000 Church- As the SCO went to press, India—to reducing their greenhouse gas tries, this lack of ambition is unaccept- it was vital to connect economic develop- owned schools, universities and the capital city, Kinshasa, was emissions from 2020. able.” ment to greater human rights. libraries, as well as nearly 5000 heavily guarded by the military In spite of the progress, SCIAF says The need for a single global treaty to Patrick Grady, SCIAF’s advocacy man- hospitals, clinics and other com- but Fr Cattani said that his that not enough is being done. come into force in the future was also ager, said Mr Salmond’s words were a mercial properties, would face ‘humble opinion’ was of a ‘pos- “While some positive progress has been agreed at the negotiations though SCIAF timely intervention. the tax. Under a law adopted in itive sign of a certain correct- made towards agreeing a global legal has said, however, that the terms of the 1982 and backed up by an ness of the vote, although at a framework, the major industrialised coun- pact have ‘fallen well short of the ambi- I [email protected] amendment in 2006, Church- local level several electoral owned properties are currently frauds have been reported.’

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US Church communications specialist Holy Father will visit Cuba next year Cardinal Foley, passes away aged 76 THE US Cardinal John P Foley, who spent more Pope Benedict XVI will follow in the footsteps of his predecessor by visiting the country than two decades leading the Church’s social commu- By Stephen Reilly nications council, died last Sunday after a battle with POPE Benedict XVI will visit Cuba leukemia. He was 76. next spring, the first trip to the island Upon hearing the news Pope by a Pontiff since Pope John Paul II’s Benedict XVI sent this message historic tour in 1998. to Archbishop Charles J. Cha- “Supported by divine providence, I put OFM Cap of Philadelphia, intend to carry out an apostolic voyage US: “Having learned with sad- before Easter to Mexico and Cuba to pro- ness of the death of Cardinal claim the Word of Christ,” the 84-year-old John Patrick Foley, grand mas- Pope said during Mass on Monday in hon- ter emeritus of the Equestrian our of the bicentennial of independence Order of the Holy Sepulchre of in Latin America, relayed to millions Jerusalem, I offer you my across the region. heartfelt condolences. As I The exact date of the trip, which coincides recall with gratitude the late with the 400th anniversary of Cuba’s patron cardinal’s years of priestly min- saint, will be confirmed shortly, Mgr José istry in his beloved archdiocese Felix Perez, executive secretary of the of Philadelphia, his distin- Cuban Bishops’ Conference, said last week. the Pope would meet with members of Pope Benedict XVI blesses a statue at the Vatican guished service to the Holy See “It will be a moment for energising the President Raul Castro’s government, and during a previous meeting with Cuban bishops as president of the Pontifical Africa, Europe and Australia. Faith in Cuba,” Mgr Perez added. “It will may discuss the economic reforms that on an ad limina visit. The Holy Father will visit Council for Social Communi- A journalist for many years give strength and vigour to the Faith in have already made it much easier for Cuba in the spring of 2012 cations, and most recently his himself, he said in 2007 that he Cuba. The visit should be one of peace Cubans to do things like go into business labours on behalf of the Chris- always tried to take ‘a positive and reconciliation.” for themselves, take out loans and buy and as Fidel Castro increasingly embraced tian communities of the Holy approach toward the means of sell their homes and cars. Marxism and the Soviet Union, anti-cler- Land, I willingly join you in communication and toward the Itinerary “What will be the content of their con- ical actions increased. Authorities dis- commending his noble soul to people who run them’. For Pope Benedict has already been to Latin versations? It’s difficult to foresee,” he couraged Christmas celebrations, closed God, the Father of all mercies.” decades he helped media gain American during his Pontificate. He vis- said. “The changes that are already under religious schools in 1962 and barred Com- Cardinal Foley (above right) access to cover or rebroadcast ited Brazil in 2007 and has said he hopes to way, which are perhaps too timid in my munist Party membership to people of traditionally provided commen- Vatican events. return in 2013 for World Youth Day in Rio. personal opinion, that is a matter that will religious belief. Relations between Church tary for the Vatican’s Christmas As head of the Pontifical Vatican officials have said that the Holy probably appear. But it’s not the purpose and state began easing after the Cold War. Midnight Mass. His media- Council for Social Communi- Father is also considering visiting Mexico of the Holy Father’s visit.” Cuba removed references to atheism from friendly style and quick sense cations from 1984 to 2009, the while in Latin America, before or after his the constitution in the 1990s and allowed of humour shone in person and cardinal took the lead in articu- visit to Cuba. Mgr Perez said the Pope’s Church and Cuba believers of all faiths to join the ruling throughout the numerous lating Catholic policy with primary motivation is to make a pilgrim- The Catholic Church has played an Communist Party. speeches and homilies he deliv- regard to the media. Under his age in honour of the Virgin of Caridad del increasingly important role in Cuba in With Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1998, ered around the world. He often leadership, the council issued Cobre, the patron of Cuba. A relic of the recent years, helping negotiate the release Castro shed his trademark olive-green spoke of the joys of working separate documents on ethical virgin has been making its way around the of political prisoners in 2009 and 2010, fatigues for a business suit and tie and to for the Church, telling his audi- standards in advertising, com- island this year. The Holy Father ‘has a and even consulting with President Raul greet the Pope personally at the airport. ences that while the pay often munications and the Internet. It special affection toward the Church and Castro and his advisers on free-market The Pope celebrated a Mass at a packed is not great ‘the benefits are out also produced a document people of Cuba for the social conditions in changes he is pushing to save the island’s Revolution Square, calling for ‘Cuba to of this world.’ denouncing pornography. our country,’ Mgr Perez said. economy from ruin. open to the world, and the world to open Vatican spokesman Fr Fed- Last February he retired from Mgr Perez said on next year’s trip that Following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, to Cuba.’ erico Lombardi described Car- his last post as grand master of dinal Foley as being a man the Knights of the Holy Sepul- ‘truly of great spiritual level.’ cher, a chivalric organisation “He incarnated, in the best dedicated to supporting the Church should fear the sin of its own members, Pope warns way, the friendly, open, atten- Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem tive relationship, of the Church and to responding to the needs THE Church should fear the that Christian persecution was umn topped by the statue. He “The right to religious free- in the world of social commu- of Catholics in the Holy Land. sin of its own members inevitable following the Vati- also greeted and blessed the dom, despite being repeatedly nications, not so much as an Addressing the 2010 Synod more than persecution, Pope can’s call last week for an inter- infirm and their caregivers. proclaimed by the international ‘impersonal’ world, but as a of Bishops on the Middle East, Benedict XVI said on the national day to mark the Earlier that week the Vatican community as well as in the world of persons,” Fr Lombardi he said he was convinced that feast of the Immaculate persecution of Christians. called for an international day constitutions of most States, said. “He understood and ‘the continued tension between Conception last Thursday. Pope Benedict marked the in support of Christians continues to be widely violated encouraged our work with all the Israelis and the Palestinians While the Church has suf- feast day last Thursday by mak- oppressed for their faith. today,” he said. his heart.” has contributed greatly to the fered from persecution ing an afternoon visit to a Archbishop Dominique Mam- The plan was warmly wel- To many, the cardinal was turmoil in all of the Middle throughout its history, it ‘is statue of Mary erected near the berti, the Holy See’s Secretary comed by the UK director of the the voice they heard giving East and also to the growth of supported by the light and Spanish Steps. for Relations with States, said he charity Aid to the Church in Need. commentary during the Pope’s Islamic fundamentalism’. strength of God’ and will He went from the Vatican to was proposing the international Neville Kyrke-Smith said it Christmas midnight Mass. For Born in the Philadelphia sub- always end up victorious, the the heart of Rome’s tourist and day initiative as ‘an important would be an excellent idea. 25 years, beginning in 1984, urb of Darby on November 11, Holy Father said. shopping district to pay hom- sign that governments are willing “We in the West are used to his voice was heard not only in 1935, he was ordained a priest Overcoming trials and outside age to Mary by praying before to deal with this serious issue.’ defending animal rights, the North America, but also Asia, in Philadelphia when he was 26. threats shows how the Christian the statue, which commemo- Speaking at a conference of rights of people with disabili- community ‘is the presence, the rates Pope Pius IX’s proclama- the Organisation for Security ties, the equality of women, the guarantee of God’s love against tion in 1854 that Mary, by and Cooperation in Europe need to respect ethnic and cul- Praise for the Catholic co-operative all ideologies of hatred and self- special divine favour, was with- (OSCE) in Vilnius, Lithuania, tural diversity,” he said. “And ishness’, he added. out sin from the moment She Archbishop Mamberti said that rightly so. But there is a deafen- movement’s influence and humanity “The only danger the Church was conceived. up to 200 million Christians ing silence in the face of wide- can and should fear is the sin of The Pope offered a large bas- were suffering today as a result spread reports of persecution in POPE Benedict XVI has countries following Pope Leo Her members,” the Pope said. ket of white roses, which was of ‘legal and cultural structures many parts of the world—espe- praised the Catholic co-oper- XIII’s 1891 encyclical Rerum He also warned, however, then set at the foot of the col- that lead to their discrimination.’ cially against Christians.” ative movement for helping Novarum which rejected both to humanise the world of unbridled capitalism and state economics and business dur- socialism. HOLY FATHER INVITED TO SWISS Mr Heuer recently took part the relationship between Mis- ing tough times. “What prompted members to NEWS IN BRIEF RESEARCH LABORATORY in a meeting at the Vatican’s sion and Contemplation, saying: At the heart of the cooperative join cooperative-type organisa- THE director of the European Pontifical Academy of Sciences. “It is not enough that there be in experience, said the Pope, is a tions, often with the decisive POPE SPEAKS OF ECONOMIC Organisation for Nuclear Research Now he is hoping Pope Benedict the Church those who dedicate ‘commitment to harmoniously contribution of the priests, was DIFFICULTIES THIS CHRISTMAS has invited the Pope to CERN’s XVI will accept his recent invi- themselves to contemplation order the individual and com- not only an economic require- POPE Benedict XVI has said he main laboratory in Switzerland. tation. Doing so, he said, would and those who dedicate them- munity dimensions.’ ment but also the desire to live knows Christmas this year will Physicist Rolf Heuer, has show the good relationship selves to mission: there must The Pope’s remarks came in an experience of unity and soli- be difficult, referencing the eco- been the director for two years between science and faith. rather be a synthesis of the two his address to a delegation from darity,” the Pope said. “Right nomic crisis in Europe. and he says the relationship things in the very life of every the Confederation of Italian Co- intention, transparency, and the He was speaking last Sunday between the organisation and the PAPAL PREACHER’S PRAISE FOR missionary.” operatives and the Italian Feder- search for positive results are while visiting a parish in a work- Vatican is ‘very good’. TEACHING OF THE GOSPELS Fr Cantalamessa concluded ation of Co-operative Credit mutually compatible and must ing-class neighborhood on the By early 2012, a group of car- CAPUCHIN Father Raniero his reflections on a Marian note. Banks who met with him at the never be detached from one outskirts of Rome. dinals is expected to visit the Cantalamessa, the official “Mary is the Star of Evange- Vatican’s Apostolic Palace last another.” The Pope told parishioners he nuclear facilities that house the preacher to the Papal household lisation, for She brought the Saturday. These institutions can help knows that Christimas will be famous Large Hadron Collider. has delivered a five-part dis- Word, not to this or that people, Traditionally, co-operatives are promote ‘a culture of life and ‘very difficult, but that he wanted It is an underground instrument course centred on the history of but to the whole world,” he said. small-scale economic bodies that family’ and a vision in which the to wish all a happy holiday, adding used by physicists to study the the Church’s preaching of the “She was filled even physically, are owned collectively by mem- economy and the market will that preparing for Christmas smallest known particles of the Gospel. with Christ—and She radiated bers, often including employees. ‘never be separated from soli- ‘doesn’t only mean buying’ gifts. Universe. Fr Cantalamessa reflected on Him with Her very presence.” They became popular in Catholic darity,’ he added. 10 COMMENT SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 Singing the praises of thrills on film As the Vatican lauds the film The Blues Brothers, we look at some other films that have Christian themes in them

creants, finding redemption of a sort Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi portraying as they try to raise $5k in a week to The Blues Brothers, Jake and Ellwood on save the orphanage that raised them is the big screen indeed uplifting. But more than that, it is very, very funny and lands some well-aimed punches on appropriate heart and a redemptiver spirit. I found targets. Nazis, southern hillbillies, the it uplifting. police; they all get it in the neck. But there is also a rebuke for the cruelty One Upon A Time In The West. This endemic in many Catholic welfare is the daddy of all westerns. Charles institutions with the portrayal of the Bronson is the enigmatic good cow- mad and barbaric Mother Superior of boy but with revenge on his mind. Jake and Elwood’s orphanage. It also Henry Fonda is the meanest, baddest contains copious helpings of industrial gunslinger in movie history. Claudia BY KEVIN McKENNA language. Nevertheless, the brothers Cardinale is just, well… a pure honey. constantly reminded everyone that The film explores themes of loyalty, they were on ‘a mission from God.’ redemption, forgiveness and the ulti- RECALL a teacher telling my mate emptiness of vengeance. And, class that he once smoked dope et while the Vatican is happy to though there is absolutely no mention and loved high voltage rock n record its approbation of this of God in the screenplay, I’d recom- roll. He then proceeded to Y1980 comedy classic it has mend it to Christians everywhere. rhyme off several tracks that thus far resisted conferring its full Itold us he was indeed familiar with the endorsement on the Harry Potter The Exorcist. Some people might oeuvre of AC/DC, Deep Purple and films. It seems that there is too much find this a mildly surprising choice, Led Zeppelin. Perhaps he was trying witchcraft and sorcery for some refined but I found this film to be a timely to tell us that, deep down, he was a Roman palates. This, despite the fact reminder that the devil is real and decent chap; someone with whom we that the storylines explore themes such ready at all times to attack men and could identify. Instead, it simply made as family, integrity, loyalty, forgiveness in fact it is merely subtle irony and action is accompanied by the best women of faith. The rite of exorcism us feel a little queasy and uncomfort- and redemption all the way through. humour that is at play. The evangeli- rhythm n blues soundtrack you will of the Catholic Church is beautiful and able; as if you had discovered that And the forces of evil, meanwhile, cals among us will never be satisfied ever hear. Perhaps Pope Benedict XVI powerful and is seen here in all its your granny had had a secret liaison. always get banjoed in the end. unless the heroes of literature and is a secret Mississippi Delta bluesman glory. At the very least it ought to give I felt the same when I was told The Vatican’s film critic has also films don’t, at some point, burst into in his spare time. us a few sleepless nights which we can recently that The Blues Brothers ranks moved quickly to condemn a new Ital- spontaneous prayer and start singing all put to good use in prayer, fasting highly on the Vatican’s list of the best ian language film, called We Have a in tongues. Yet messages that are Escape from New York. This for- and contemplation of the last things. films suitable for Christians. The Blues Pope in which a newly-elected Holy insinuated and suggested rather than gotten John Carpenter production There are lots of mentions of God and Brothers is my favourite all-time Father is overcome by a loss of confi- delivered on the front of a Tomahawk from 1981 is an edgy and dark classic more than a few of the devil. comic film creation and there are obvi- dence and depression at the prospect of missile are often those that settle and where New York has become a walled ous reasons why the Vatican would becoming the Bishop of Rome. It looks take root. penitentiary for America’s maddest A happy and holy Christmas to one recommend it to good Catholics every- great and I will be making efforts to see And so, in no particular order and and baddest criminals. But, when the and all. where. Even so, I’m not sure my it over the Christmas period. for no apparent reason, here are some president is forced to crash land in the enjoyment of it will be enhanced for Sometimes I feel that Catholics, films which I think are suitable for a city Kurt Russell, playing the flawed Kevin McKenna is former deputy knowing that Holy Mother Church myself included, become paranoid Christian audience: war hero Snake Plissken, is sent in to editor of the Herald and former thinks it’s the cat’s whiskers too. when we see our Church being por- rescue him. Snake is a sort of latterday executive editor of the Daily Mail in The story of Jake and Ellwood trayed in popular culture. Immediately The Blues Brothers. For all the Augustus; a man well-versed in the Scotland. He is currently a columnist Blues, two incorrigible Chicago mis- we think we are being mocked when aforesaid reasons and because the ways of the world but with a good for the Guardian

What do you think of KEVIN McKENNA’S comments on favourite films? Send your points of view to the SCO Write to Letters, SCO, 19 Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 6BT Or e-mail [email protected] Why the sanctity of Marriage remains non-negotiable HE Scottish Govern- on its pledge to respect mar- themselves with a clear under- phobia is an ugly, made-up The suggestion that one of the ment’s consultation riage, we know how much standing of the Church’s teach- word with no existence in Four Sins Crying to Heaven for on legislation to reliance we can place on its ing on homosexuality. authentic Catholic theology. If Vengeance could be ‘blessed’ in introduce same-sex current assurance that it will In 1975 the Congregation for it means harming homosexuals, the sanctuary of a church goes ‘marriage’ ended last not compel clergy to ‘marry’ the Doctrine of the Faith issued then that is already a sin against beyond sacrilege to absurdity. Tweek. Nobody should hold their same-sex couples in church. Persona Humana, in which it charity that needs no further The paranoid notion that the breath to discover the outcome: Such creeping gradualism is stated that: “Homosexual acts definition by secularist lobby- Church ‘hates’ homosexuals— like all Holyrood consultations how the secularist tyranny pro- are intrinsically disordered and ists. Nor should Catholics as distinct from the sin itself— it was a sham, preparations are motes its agenda. can in no sense be approved employ the loaded term ‘gay,’ is the reverse of the truth. The well advanced for legislation of.” By 1986 the CDF felt an invention of the same lobby; Church has a duty of charity to that will deliver the most he Catholic Church can- obliged to issue a further docu- the neutral term ‘homosexual’ homosexuals by warning them serious blow to marriage since not be accused of ignor- ment in which it complained is the correct one. of how God views their con- the Sacrament of Matrimony Ting this latest assault on that ‘an overly benign interpre- duct and its eschatological con- was introduced to Scotland by the Sacrament of Marriage; but tation was given to the homo- he state has hijacked con- sequences. early missionaries. BY GERALD WARNER its response, in common with sexual condition itself’ by some trol of marriage and is The Church authorities also The Scottish Government’s all its attempts to counter the people exploiting Persona Tseeking to redefine it out have a responsibility to spell weasel-worded claim, in its ples.” Yet here we are, just advance of the militant homo- Humana. By 1992, it had to of existence; only the Church out to their secular counterparts introduction to the consultation, eight years later, and the newly sexual lobby, lacks coherence. repeat the message that ‘the can define marriage, which is a that the objection to same-sex read: “The government tends created civil partnerships are This is a consequence of the inclination itself must be seen sacrament. ‘marriage’ is theologically towards the view that same-sex being discarded in favour of the moral ambivalence that pre- as an objective disorder.’ Yet it The sinfulness of homosex- insurmountable and that any ‘marriage’ should be introduced parody of marriage that Holy- vailed on many issues in the emphasised the spiritual oppor- ual acts is stated throughout encroachment on the Church’s but believes that faith groups rood insisted it had no intention turbulent years following the tunity for homosexuals, that scripture, from Leviticus 18:22 rights will be resolutely resis- and their celebrants should not of introducing. Second Vatican Council. through ‘prayer and sacramen- and 20:13 to St Paul in 1 ted, even if that means priests be obliged to solemnise same- The change of devolved gov- An erroneous notion that the tal grace, they can and should Corinthians 6:9 where he testi- facing imprisonment in the sex ‘marriages.’” Anybody who ernment, from Labour to SNP, Church could somehow ‘learn’ gradually and resolutely fies that those who engage in event that the present guarantee takes a grain of consolation is irrelevant: when it comes to from the world obfuscated the approach Christian perfection...’ homosexual activity shall not against enforcement of same- from that supposed reassurance any policy calculated to under- clarity of its doctrines. Those The problem is that, even in enter the Kingdom of God. sex ‘marriages’ on church should recall the pledge given mine Christianity you could not doctrines, however, continued important statements on the The same applies to unrepen- premises proves as unreliable as preceding the similar consulta- put a cigarette paper between to be proclaimed by the Magis- subject, one will look in vain tant heterosexual adulterers and previous assurances have done. tion on civil partnerships in the parties at Holyrood. Since it terium, even if they were not for the unfashionable word fornicators: the Church cannot Adherence to divinely ordained 2003: “We do not seek to open took just eight years for the adequately transmitted to the ‘sin,’ other than the claim that legitimise one particular mortal doctrine and the sanctity of up marriage to same-sex cou- Holyrood consensus to renege faithful. Catholics need to arm ‘homophobia’ is a sin. Homo- sin to appease secularist opinion. marriage is non negotiable. Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER COMMENT 11 Pro-life trials and triumphs keep us going This month’s SPUC SCOTLAND looks at the challenges and successes of 2011, and to what the future has in store

MSP Margo MacDonald’s member’s bill that there had, in fact, been another drop on assisted suicide was rejected by the in Scotland’s abortion rates. Scottish Parliament but this year she The statistics showed that for the brought forward another bill proposal on past two years there has been a fall in the same subject the number and rate of abortions with 12,826 in 2010 compared with 13,801 in 2009 and 13,902 in 2008. Obviously one abortion a year is sory Service—to allow women to take one too many for those who are pro- misoprostol, used in conjunction with life, it not only ends a new life but can the chemical abortion drug RU486, at destroy the life of the mother who SPUC SCOTLAND COLUMN home rather than in a hospital. opted for it. Evidence submitted by SPUC This fall, however, is a change to played a prominent part in the judge- the overall pattern of increase since HIS column, our last of the ment and provided key pieces of infor- the implementation of the 1967 Abor- year, begins with a list of mation including the fact that women tion Act and the caring and compas- huge and very important taking misoprostal under these condi- sionate work of the pro-life movement ‘thank yous’ from all the tions would experience the distress of on the ground in Scotland may team at SPUC Scotland. going into labour at home—already just have something to do with that TThank you to the SCO for allowing a risk with the RU486 method of abor- new trend. us this space to record all the latest tion. And that brings me to the main suc- goings on in the pro-life movement, As well as the initial High Court cess of all and the one we experience both at home and abroad. decision, the ruling achieved two very every year despite constantly having Thank you to the SCO readers for important things for the pro-life move- to face challenges to enshrine ‘death’ all their support in responding to our ment this year. The first was that it was in laws, and that is the unknown num- alerts for pro-life activity. able to prevent a legal challenge that bers of people, of human lives, we And thank you to the many thou- would have trivialised the issue of have been able to help protect through sands of people across Scotland who abortion further in the eyes of the pub- our dedicated work. show an unrelenting commitment and lic in the UK. The developing life in the womb support not only to the work of SPUC Secondly, the media coverage of the that is able to be born because its mum Scotland but to that of the pro-life case also brought home the impact of was given all the help she needed to movement in general. this method of abortion, now the allow her to have her child and avoid You are the people who make the method used for more than 70 per cent a destructive abortion experience. Or impact, whether it is by writing a let- of Scotland’s abortions each year. the person living with an illness or dis- ter to your MSP, helping the organisa- It may be a lot cheaper than the sur- ability who would be vulnerable to the tion survive by assisting with our gical method but, as the woman takes pressure of choosing euthanasia to White Flower appeals or fundraising the drugs herself and is sent home for please others. activities, volunteering to educate a time while the abortion is happening, It is impossible to quantify, but young people on pro-life subjects or the effect is pretty devastating for when we speak up to save one vulner- simplY staying informed about what’s many who experience it. able life we speak for all and that is a going on, it all counts. You are the In reference to the fact that the nature cause that’s worth being a part of. reason we exist and it is your support of the drug means that the woman must SPUC Scotland would like to wish that makes a difference as we strive to live with her abortion over the course of you all a very happy and holy Christ- establish a ‘culture of life’ in Scotland. a number of days even the president of mas and thank you again, from the Roussel Uclaf, the original makers of bottom of our hearts, for all your help t has been another busy year for the lenge to introduce euthanasia laws in eral, were able to celebrate in 2011 RU486, described this as ‘an appalling and support in 2011. pro-life lobby and we’ve had some Scotland. But we will, I am sure, face was the High Court decision back in psychological ordeal.’ (Edouard Sakiz, DONNA NICHOLSON Ireal successes to celebrate. it all with the same kind of support and February to prevent so called ‘bed- chairman, Roussel-Uclaf, August 1990) We began 2011 still basking in the enthusiastic pro-life activity that we room abortions.’ I Visit http://spucscotland.org or success of helping defeat the End of have seen each time a euthanasia chal- SPUC were the main intervening nd there was more good news contact SPUC Scotland at 75 Life Assistance bill in the Scottish Par- lenge has reared its head in Scotland. pro-life body in the case that saw the for the pro-life supporters in Bothwell Street, Glasgow, G2 6TS liament, even though we are now Another notable success that the High Court rule against an attempt by AScotland in May when the offi- Phone: 0141 221 2094 preparing to face another similar chal- pro-life movement, and SPUC in gen- BPAS—the British Pregnancy Advi- cial statistics were released and showed E-mail: [email protected] Can we say our own ‘yes’ to God and help build His Kingdom? FOR A change the weather we could grow or barter for impending birth of Jesus. choose not to translate from the their implications for our future. forecast was right on the would be available. No nights Luke tells us that ‘the Angel Greek. The word is ‘messenger.’ Mary knew the words of the money. The wind blew and round the television watching Gabriel was sent by God to a town Its anglicised version has become prophets. Mary knew that the then it blew some more. So pre- Fr Eddie endless repeats of Only Fools and in Galilee called Nazareth.’ There ‘angel’ and art has given angels Messiah would one day come. It pared were we, that there were Horses. No mobile phones, each are two questions we need to ask wings. In an unsophisticated soci- was part of God’s plan. She was no fatalities in such a storm. McGhee with its own particular ring tone immediately. What was Nazareth ety where Heaven was ‘up there’ asked to cooperate with the plan. The down side was that many determining our availability or like 2000 years ago? What did the and powered flight unknown, She said ‘yes.’ homes lost electrical power and The vagaries of the weather tell a getting us online to do our Christ- Angel Gabriel look like? except for birds, the only way to As we approach the Feast of not just for a few hours. different story. It is easier not to mas shopping. No jet travel. No Nazareth would have looked get ‘up there,’ was on wings. Sim- Christmas, do we believe that Sitting snugly in the warmth, listen. It is easier to put up with holidays in the winter sun. Strip like almost every other isolated ple yet immensely complicated God has a plan for 21st century all programmes available on tele- temporary inconvenience than to away all of the ‘things’ that we rural community then, poor and because it allows us to focus on people? I do. Mary’s ‘yes’ initi- vision, heat and light on demand, make radical changes to the way depend on and we would look offering shelter to a few people ‘angel’/messenger, rather than on ated a process. It is ongoing. Can it is easy to feel sorry for those that our comfortable lifestyle very vulnerable. who lived in proximity for safety the message. The message left we acknowledge that we are part burdened by power cuts. Would impacts on global weather pat- As we almost inevitably take and survival. It had houses which Mary disturbed. She did not fully of the process of building God’s we swap places with them? I terns. The winter storm will be for granted the lives that we are provided shelter but it had no comprehend but She was enough Kingdom and say our own ‘yes?’ doubt it. We have become so forgotten soon after power is privileged to lead, it does no amenities and only the promise of of a woman of faith to recognise dependant on our various power restored. harm to remember that Jesus was more of the same on a daily basis. God’s plan being presented to I FR EDDIE McGhee has been a supplies that it is hard to imagine Try to imagine how life would born into a very different world. Nazareth had little to recommend Her. She said a simple ‘yes’ to the priest of Galloway Diocese since life without them. How about life be without power. You would not The ways in which we represent it to the wider world. message and the messenger. 1972. Currently serving three without power? What a shock to be reading this. Instead of adjust- the world into which Jesus was What of the Angel Gabriel? So our sophisticated society parishes in the Kilmarnock area our systems that would be. ing a thermostat by a degree or born, only distorts its reality. Luke tells us that ‘Mary was moves on with or without the he helps on a part time basis with Of the many images of the two, keeping warm would Admirable though it is, to have a deeply disturbed’ by the greeting benefits of power. We can afford chaplaincy in HMP Kilmarnock. storm that were broadcast on our involve dressing for the occasion Christmas crib in our homes and of the angel. How can we per- to ignore the message of the He holds a Diploma in Religious television screens, there was one of with layers and layers of clothes. churches, they paint an idealised suade ourselves that Gabriel did storm. Even if it takes time, Education and a Masters in a wind turbine on fire. These tur- The world would smell differ- picture in our heads and hearts. not turn up in Nazareth with a full power will be restored. We can Education and has worked bines are supposed to be part of the ently. No hot water for showers Luke’s account of what we call set of wings attached to his back. only ignore the message of the extensively in Catholic schools effort at reducing our carbon or baths. Our cooking done over ‘The Annunciation’ has featured It was the message, not the storm for so long. Prophets in the as advisor in religious education. footprint. Did someone forget to and open fire, if we could gather in many very significant artistic appearance of Gabriel that deeply 21st century don’t have long A columnist for the SCO since switch it off in the storm? Have we enough fuel to keep it going. No works. How true to the Scriptures disturbed Mary. We need, con- beards. TheY invite us, as did the 1991, his hobbies include fishing, simply underestimated the power visits to the nearest shopping cen- are they? What is the reality that sciously, to move away from the prophets of old, to examine the pigeon-racing and poetry. He of nature? We love to think that in tre twinkling with lights to get lies behind the very formal lan- artistic portrayal of angel, towards consequences of our actions can be contacted by email: the 21st century we are in control. our winter supplies. Only what guage used to ‘announce’ the the word that we steadfastly today and to try and understand [email protected] 12 A TIME TO CARE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER A TIME TO CARE 13 CALLING, NOT FALLING, BY THE WAYSIDE Finding shelter and support at Christmas, or at any time of year, is not easy for everyone, GERARD GOUGH discovers while visiting Glasgow’s Wayside Club

OR many of us, Christmas time provides a welcome opportunity to focus our attention on our families and give thanks for being able to celebrate the joy of the festive seasons at home with them and the Wayside Club in Glasgow isF no different, even if the family and setting are both a little more unconventional. The club was founded—and is run—by the Legion of Mary, a lay Catholic group celebrating its 90th anniver- sary this year. The Wayside Club has been responding to the practical and spiritual needs of people affected by homelessness and social exclusion since the 1930s. Wayside team Upon visiting its Midland Street premises on a busy Tuesday evening, I was met by Jim White, a parishioner Wayside Club is open every of St Joseph’s in Clarkston and a former publicity man- ager for a textiles company, who has been involved with the Wayside Club for 50 years. He has worked in the var- night and its services are in ious sites throughout the city the club has used. Jim is currently involved in doing much of the secretarial work CHRISTMAS: A demand throughout the year behind the scenes, but he’s also there to meet and greet the people who come through its doors looking for food, TIME TO CARE By Deacon Michael them on their journey, while shelter and a little company. Despite his five decades of PART 3 O’Donnell also giving them the opportu- service though, like many, he was reluctant at first to get Wayside Club chaplain nity to reflect. involved. from St Mary’s, Calton I do this through greeting “I was staying in Knightswood at the time and I would cold outside, but the welcome, as ever, was warm. the men and women at the have been in my early 20s when a man came to my door Jim White and Ruth Robertson (above) both began helping at “The number of people coming to the door increased IT IS every Baptised per- door, chatting with them at the and asked if I’d be interested in helping out,” he said. “At the Wayside Club through indirect means but would encourage last Christmas,” Ruth said. “It was a particularly cold son’s duty to serve, but the table and generally just being the time I wasn’t full of enthusiasm, but I said I’d give it others to get involved. (Far right) Deacon Michael O’Connell winter. It was definitely the busiest time since I’ve been sacramental grace that a available to them. At 9pm we says the club support homeless people throughout the year, not have a period of Exposition a try and when I went down to help out I was quite just at Christmas here.” deacon receives at ordina- tion through the bishop’s where I give a short reading impressed. Only five or six people were involved in run- PICS: GERARD GOUGH “The place was mobbed,” Jim added, but he was care- ning it and you began to feel that because there were so ful to point out the perils that such a cold snap can bring imposition of hands and from the Gospel and I play few people and there was such a great need, that the work enjoy the social aspect of the season that so many of us with it. “There is a very real danger of people this winter the gift of the Holy Spirit some music such as the St was very important, because the people coming through take for granted. being out on the streets being vulnerable not only to the enables him to carry out Louis Jesuits, Weston Priory, the doors were really down and out in every sense of the “We have Christmas and New Year’s parties and weather but to violence as well.” the ministry of service Taize, Tom McGuinness SJ. word. Eventually we became like a family.” they’re good nights, they often go on until three in the with a special effective- Mainly we sit in silence, as Another current member of the Wayside family, who morning,” Jim said. “There’s the religious aspect of the Keeping hope alive ness. He is configured to their lives can be so noisy and works alongside Jim is Ruth Robertson, a careers advisor season too; we have the crib and sing Christmas carols. This self-awareness of both the rewarding aspect of vol- Christ in his servant role chaotic that they actually who works in schools with young unemployed people. We try and make it a little different from the rest of the unteering at the Wayside Club and also the more chal- and becomes a living sign value this quiet time. I end by How she became involvement in the club is, like Jim, for- year. It’s nothing grand but it is different.” lenging side to the work is something that both Jim and of the servanthood of His giving them a blessing. tuitous. “They all talk about the Christmas dinner and tell us Ruth share—success stories can be few and far between. Church. Deacons are con- The deacon should be a “About a year and a half ago, I was helping out one of how much they are looking forward to it,” Ruth added. “You get satisfaction when you help people find their sidered to be helpers of driving force for the Church’s the young people I work with in one of the schools to “The people who come in at Christmas look forward to feet, but you can’t always look for it, because you’ll be the bishop and render service and a sign of the Lord apply for a voluntary job and the advert for the Wayside that wee bit extra bit of company, it’s like having a night disappointed,” Jim said. “Human nature being what it is, assistance—on his who came ‘to bring the good Club came up, so it was kind of instinctive,” she said. “It out” Jim said. “The bush telegraph works tremendously a lot of people try very hard but fail and you can’t be behalf—to the poor and news to the poor…’ (Luke had always been in my mind to do something like this, so judgemental or criticise them. needy of the community. 4:18)—a witness of charity. I got in contact with Jim and I’ve been here ever since.” “Also, some nights I would go home with a terrible Deacons have a special This will be my first Christ- Again, like Jim, she was apprehensive at first, but soon When you’ve been conscience, because I was going home to a warm house, responsibility to identify to the mas as the chaplain at the developed friendships based on trust with many of the a warm bed, having whatever I wanted to eat and having church those who are in need, Wayside. people who frequent the club. here for a while, people the support of a loving family. These guys on the other while also being an advocate As you can imagine any hand were going to sleep under a bridge somewhere in for them within the Church. A companionship at this time is Taking a chance terrible weather. particular emphasis is placed special as being human peo- Both Jim and Ruth would encourage others to get get to know you and they “At times you have to steal yourself away and not on the ministry of charity ple do feel low, isolated and involved in the Wayside Club. become too emotionally involved or it can screw you up. (Matthew 25:35-36). Through question what has happened “I think if you can get through your first two weeks or speak to you and trust You see a lot of tragedy and wasted life. It can be very this, the deacon can be to them in life especially if so of volunteering you will be fine,” Ruth said. “You can depressing work and if you look for success stories, involved in serving in hospi- they were once married, chil- feel a bit intimidated at first, but you get through that. you more. you’ll often be disappointed. You just have to leave in tals, prisons and schools, dren and now have no con- When you’ve been here for a while, people get to know God’s hands.” minister to those who are tact at all with them or indeed you and they speak to you and trust you more. They Ruth Robertson of the Wayside Club “It is very rewarding work in one sense,” Ruth acqui- affected by issues such as any friends. could be a bit stand-offish at first but that dissipates and esced. “You go home feeling a bit better about yourself, addiction, discrimination or they begin to have a laugh and a joke with you. Many of but at the back of your mind is the thought that ‘I get to go struggling in any way. I The Wayside Club is the people who come in are simply looking for a chat and well, they all know what’s going on, they’re very street- home and they don’t.’ It’s particularly poignant when you I am chaplain to the Wayside funded by charitable dona- a bit of company. wise. hear someone say that they’ve nowhere to go to, because Club, which is served by the tions and supported by volun- “You can’t do anything until you’ve made that friend- “There’s a good atmosphere at Christmas. The bicker- some people who come in have temporary accommoda- Legion of Mary and friends and teers. Contact The Wayside ship,” Jim added. “You have to be very sensitive to their ing stops and people seem more cheerful, more willing to tion like hostels and so on. Some people, on the other hand is open every night of the year Club Centre, 32 Midland needs.” crack jokes and smile. I like it when people enjoy that though, don’t and they are often quite distressed. and provides food, hot drinks, Street, Glasgow G1 4PR. kind of atmosphere and people go away happy, you think “One of the good things about working here is that you companionship and prayer. Telephone 0141 221 016, fax Christmas, New Year and winter to yourself ‘that’s really something.’” start to realise just how little your problems matter,” Jim While I am there I spend time 0141 248 1245, e-mail These friendships built–up over time take on added sig- Even last year, in spite of the inclement weather, many said. “Their problems put yours into perspective, but with men and women and in enquiries@waysidecentre. nificance during the Christmas period, with many peo- people turned up to share in this atmosphere at the Way- everybody can contribute, anyone who is in here to can an informal way, accompany org.uk ple coming in off the streets looking to take part in and side Club around the festive period. It might have been help and they really do help.” 14 LETTERS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 Finding silence and PICTURE peace this Advent OF THE

WE LIVE in a noisy world. Our towns and cities are full of noise. WEEK There is noise in the skies and on the roads. There is noise in our This year’s graduates from homes, and even in our Maryvale Ecclesiastical Institute of churches. And most of all there Religious Sciences in Birmingham is noise in our minds and hearts. are pictured, left. The graduates The Danish philosopher are the first since Maryvale Kierkegaard once wrote: ‘The present received its new status as an state of the world and the whole of life Ecclesiastical institute from the is diseased. If I were a doctor and I Holy See. Bishop Mark Davies of were asked for my advice, I should Bishop Hugh Shrewsbury presided at the reply: “Create silence! Bring people graduation. Maryvale teaches to silence!” The Word of God cannot Gilbert Scotland’s deacons, works in prisons and assists with be heard in the noisy world of today. catechetical work in Scotland’s And even if it were trumpeted forth oases, sanctuaries of silence. parishes. The institiute aims to with all the panoply of noise so that it And here comes a difficult ques- gain Pontifical University College could be heard in the midst of all the tion: what has happened to silence in status in the future other noise, then it would no longer be our churches? Many people ask this. the Word of God. Therefore, create When the late Canon Duncan Stone, silence!’ as a young priest in the 1940s, visited ‘Create silence!’ There’s a chal- a parish in the Highlands, he was to relegate the comments of a lenge here. Surely speaking is a good struck to often find 30 or 40 people Church can help care leading religious leader in the and healthy thing? Yes indeed. Surely kneeling there in silent prayer. Now for the elderly city, and the country, to its there are bad kinds of silence? Yes often there is talking up to the very YOU HAVE no idea how letters page? again. But still Kierkegaard is on to beginning of Mass, and it starts again refreshing it is to pick up a What, dare I ask, something. immediately afterwards. But what is a Catholic newspaper and find a Letters constitutes ‘news’ these days, There is a simple truth at stake. church for, and why do we go there? voice of reason that is not SCO, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6BT if not moral and spiritual There can be no real relationship with We go to meet the Lord and the Lord only talking sense but doing guidance from an archbishop? God, there can be no real meeting comes to meet us. ‘The Lord is in His so on the issues that really [email protected] Poor show. with God, without silence. Silence holy temple. Let all the earth keep matter. Gary Coyle prepares for that meeting and silence silence before Him!’ said the prophet Last month Cath Doherty, GLASGOW follows it. An early Christian wrote, Habakkuk. Surely the silent sacra- and Kevin McKenna for that requiring only name, email conscience as an obstacle... In ‘To someone who has experienced mental presence of the Lord in the tab- matter, highlighted the and post-code. fact what one finds most often Promoting tolerance, Christ himself, silence is more pre- ernacle should lead us to silence? We occupation of St Paul’s The link for this important is not so much a feeling of respect and diversity cious than anything else.’ For us God need to focus ourselves and put aside Cathedral in London and the petition is: unworthiness as a certain lack I TOOK great heart from has the first word, and our silence distractions before the Mass begins. need to minister to the poor. http://scotlandformarriage.org. of interior willingness, if one reading Michael McGrath’s opens our hearts to hear Him. Only We want to prepare to hear the Word This month Mrs Doherty Michael Creechan may use this expression, a defence of Catholic schools in then will our own words really be of the Lord in the readings and hom- again focuses on a needy and BAILLIESTON lack of Eucharistic ‘hunger’ last week’s SCO. words, echoes of God’s, and not just ily. Surely we need a quiet mind to vulnerable group, the elderly. and ‘thirst,’ whch is also a Shared campus schools more litter on the rubbish dump of connect to the great Eucharistic These days I do not see Conscience of others sign of a lack of adequate have their benefits, and in noise. Prayer? And when we receive Holy anyone marching to the is not for us to decide sensitivity towards the great some cases are the most ‘How silently, how silently, the Communion, surely we want to listen Scottish Parliament protesting ST PAUL is quite clear that ‘a Sacrament of love and a lack reasonable and cost-effective wondrous gift is given.’ So the carol to what the Lord God has to say, ‘the the lack of legislation to deal man must examine himself of understanding of its solution when new schools goes. For all the noise, rush and row- voice that speaks of peace’? Being with the neglect of our senior first, and then eat of that bread nature.” are being built. To suggest diness of contemporary Christmasses, together in this way can make us one citizens. And I wonder, does and drink of that cup,’ (1 Cor, Pope John Paul also refers they would eradicate we all know there is a link between —the Body of Christ—quite as effec- their seeming lack of 11-28.) But there is no to what he terms ‘a personal sectarianism, however, is way Advent and silence, Christmas and tively as words. discretionary income render suggestion anywhere, in the decision whether to approach off the mark silence. Our cribs are silent places. A wise elderly priest of the diocese the elderly an unimportant Scriptures or the Magisterium Eucharistic communion or to As Mr McGrath noted, if Who can imagine Mary as a noisy said recently: “Two people talking and an unfashionable cause? of the Church, that we should abstain.’ Surely, it must be left more shared campus schools person? In the Gospels, St Joseph stop 40 people praying.” Because well-funded political examine other people’s at that. are the solution to tackling never says a word; he simply obeys ‘Create silence!’ I don’t want to be action, such as campaigns consciences. Mgr Basil Loftus sectarianism, then that would the words brought him by angels. And misunderstood. We all understand over bigotry surrounding The letter from PA VIA EMAIL suggest denominational when John the Baptist later comes out about babies. Nor are we meant to football matches or same-sex Ferguson, (SCO November schooling is the problem. He with words of fire, it is after years of come and go from church as cold iso- couples wishing to marry, 25) not only judges others in ‘Equality’ legislation points out that Catholic silence in the desert. Add to this the lated individuals, uninterested in one seem to get plenty of this respect, but refers also to quashing our views? schools ‘already promote silence of our long northern nights, another. We want our parishes to be attention, and coverage by the ‘the Polish community I RECENTLY read a letter by tolerance, respect and and the silence that follows the snow. warm and welcoming places. We press. However care for the coming to Scotland (being) Archbishop Mario Conti in a diversity very effectively.’ Isn’t all this asking us to still our- want to meet and greet and speak with elderly, and lack thereof, just surprised at so many of the national newspaper defending From my experience this is selves? one another. There are arrangements isn’t talked about. congregations going forward his own and the Church’s certainly true and not A passage from the Old Testament to be made, items of news to be I think the idea of Church for Communion in our stance against redefining something I would wish to see Book of Wisdom describes the night shared, messages to be passed. A good volunteer involvement in a churches, unworthy of marriage to allow same-sex compromised for future of Israel’s Exodus from Egypt as a word is above the best gift, says the watchdog body to monitor the Communion.’ How did they couples to marry. I was generations of young Catholics. night full of silence. It is used by the Bible. But it is a question of where level of care in our nursing know? alarmed for two reasons. Lisa Burns liturgy of the night of Jesus’ birth: and when. Better in the porch than at homes is long, long overdue. It was, after all, a Polish Firstly, why do Christian GLASGOW ‘When a deep silence covered all the back of the church. Better after the I for one would take part. Pope, John Paul II, who values need to be defended things and night was in the middle of Mass in a hall or a room. There is a Mrs Doherty’s column was a balanced the need for a man against accusations of Great advice for those its course, your all-powerful Word, O time and place for speaking and a time timely reminder that we to examine himself first, ‘intolerance’ and who are grieving Lord, leapt from heaven’s royal and place for silence. In the church should all campaign for better before receiving Communion, ‘homophobia’ and explained I WANTED to write a short throne’ (Wis 18:14-15). itself, so far as possible, silence should care for our most vulnerable, with the corresponding need in such a way? note to congratulate the SCO ‘Holy night, silent night!’ So we prevail. It should be the norm before after all senior citizenship is to avoid false and Jansenistic We live in a Christian on last week’s SCO article sing. The outward silence of Christmas and after Mass, and at other times as one group we all aspire to ideas of unworthiness. democracy after all, but it entitled: Family who took night invites us to make silence within well. When there is a real need to say belong to one day. On February 24 1980, in his seems that very rapidly comfort in their faith, re those us. Then the Word can leap into us as something, let it be done as quietly as Mrs Dawson Letter, Dominicae Cenae, he European Union ‘equality’ who have suffered a recent well, as a wise man wrote: ‘If deep can be. At the very least, such silence MOTHERWELL wrote as follows: “Our legislation is not only bereavement, particularly silence has a hold on what is inside us, is a courtesy towards those who want Catholic communities undermining our values but around the festive season. then into us too the all-powerful Word to pray. It signals our reverence for the Urgency required in certainly do not lack people also our basic human right to I found the article very will slip quietly from the Father’s Blessed Sacrament. It respects the marriage petition who could participate in object, to be heard. interesting reading and clearly throne.’ longing of the Holy Spirit to prepare FOR whatever reason, the list Eucharistic Communion and Secondly, why does a written by someone with not This is the Word who proceeds us to celebrate the sacred mysteries. of signatories to the Scotland do not, even though they have national newspaper based in only great faith but also a from the silence of the Father. He And then the Mass, with its words and for Marriage petition appears no serious sin on their Glasgow deem it appropriate genuine concern and became an infant, and ‘infant’ means music and movement and its own to be surprisingly short of understanding of what the loss literally ‘one who doesn’t speak.’ The moments of silence, will become priests, which may indicate a of a loved one means to child Jesus would have cried—for air more real. It will unite us at a deeper lack of urgency in promoting SCO reserves the right to edit letters to conform with space or different people in very and drink and food—but he didn’t level, and those who visit our this petition to congregations style requirements different ways. speak. ‘Let him who has ears to hear, churches will sense the Holy One and their families. This page is used solely for reader opinion and therefore views I particularly liked the hear what this loving and mysterious amongst us. May I suggest to SCO expressed are not necessarily shared by SCO supplement: New Beginnings silence of the eternal Word says to us.’ ‘Create silence!’ It is an imperative. readers that they and their If you would like to share your opinion, send your for the Bereaved, giving We need to listen to this quietness of May the Word coming forth from families sign the petition and correspondence to the above address advice on how to help Jesus, and allow it to make its home in silence find our silence waiting for pass the link to everyone on children cope with the grieving Whether you use e-mail or post, you must provide your full name, our minds and hearts. him like a crib! ‘The devil’, said St their personal emailing list, address, and phone number or your letter will not be used process over Christmas. ‘Create silence!’ How much we Ambrose, ‘loves noise; Christ looks asking that they do the same. Frank Hamill need this! The world needs places, for silence.’ Signing could not be simpler, COATBRIDGE Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER THAT’S LIFE 15 Placing profits before people at Christmas THAT’S LIFE questions the decision by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service to offer emergency contraception

An advert by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service publicises their over-the-phone emergency contraceptive service, which has been criticised by pro-life groups and medical professionals alike By Mary ake no mistake, this isn’t any kind of pub- McGinty lic service, it’s a calculated business strat- Megy and it’s big business for BPAS. This HRISTMAS mugs filled with cocoa is not an organisation with the best interests of in front of the fireside, a family show- women at heart. As SPUC’s Paul Tully com- ing—for those prepared to play along mented, this is another ad campaign by a ‘money- with me—of Miracle on 34th Street, grabbing organisation which has a vested interest a house festooned with red berries. In in increasing the irresponsible sexual activity Cthis happy season these are a few of my favourite which often leads to abortion.’ As he points out, things. And fairy lights, lots of fairy lights. I’m a abortion is a massive industry and BPAS is vying sucker for the warmth and good cheer they bring for ‘a greater share of the multi-million pound to these short, dark days. government contracts in state-funded abortion and A set of Christmas lights that hasn’t pleased me birth control.’ so much, to put it mildly, is the one on the British Fellow campaigners are equally condemnatory. Pregnancy Advisory seasonal advert for the morn- The campaign has rightly been denounced as ing-after pill. ‘Sex’ they merrily proclaim. BPAS’s ‘incredibly vulgar’ by the ProLife Alliance. They tawdry campaign makes casual sex an expectation say it ‘trivialises women’s sexuality’ and rather of the party season. “He’s hot, he lights you up than ‘making women responsible it will lead to inside, you can’t switch off and before you know them exposing themselves to more risk.’ Another it, the sparks are flying...” it boldly announces. prominent voice has likened it to ordering a pizza. Charming. There’s every chance that the woman The morning after the night before emergency this message is addressing knows no more about contraception can seem like a quick-fix solution. the man than his first name. And sought and taken once it becomes so much If they’re at a party and the music is loud and the easier next time. alcohol flowing then even that’s not a given. And, Now a member of the Faculty of Sexual and of course, it quite likely that it’s not a man and a Reproductive Health—a faculty of the Royal Col- woman, but a boy and a girl. Underage and over- lege of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists—has whelmed by the expectation that this is just what said that Levonelle One Step, which is the morn- you do she’ll have sex without consideration of the ing-after pill dispensed by the BPAS is ‘not effec- consequences. It’s party time and if you can’t enjoy tive’ for up to five days around ovulation. In the stoop to any level to promote and expand its serv- and how private clinics are making massive a bit of reckless abandon now when can you? faculty’s guidance published this summer it was ice and it seems it will employ any tactics to avoid amounts of revenue with more money going to pri- Thanks to this advert a mere phone call will stated that Levonelle ‘has been shown to be no bet- scrutiny of its funding agreements. vate clinics than NHS hospitals. And all the while secure a stash of emergency contraception. A foot- ter than placebo at suppressing ovulation when Last month, Lord Alton obtained figures show- the real cost is to human life and the future of note advises that it is free subject to medical suit- given immediately prior to ovulation, and is not ing parliament had not been told the real figures health and fertility of young women. ability. Just how you determine medical suitability thought to be effective once the process of fertili- over the phone, especially when the caller could sation has occurred.’ be giving false information is anyone’s guess. But the only time during her cycle a woman can BPAS themselves admit that under-age girls will become pregnant are the days around ovulation. be able to access the pills this way. The Health So what’s the point? Revenue is the answer. While Secretary, for his part, agrees that this is not satis- BPAS proudly advertises its service as free it is and Scotland’s only National Catholic Weekly factory but, hey, what can you do? This seems to we, the tax-payers, who are funding it to the tune be his attitude. of tens of millions. The organisation is prepared to Bring you the Ultimate Catholic Reading Package REVIEW for as little as £7.50 per month. Direct Debit Only - Saving £66 per year on over-the-counter price. Spirit of hope shines in the capital Pray in communion with the whole Church and keep up with the news at home and abroad written from a Catholic perspective. EDINBURGH NATIVITY bustling Lothian Road along accent tapped into wider PERFORMANCE with employees from the narratives around bankers and Directed by: Rob Drummond financial district standing side the delusion of self reliance. It • Magnificat every month • SCO every week • Produced by: Suzanne Lofthus by side with Big Issue sellers. being Edinburgh you couldn’t • Magnificat Advent and Lent Companion • The audience, which was help but think of the estimated IT WAS a bitterly cold but mainly families snuggling one billion wasted on the dry, crisp and clear night in together for warmth amid pointless and much detested Sent by post direct to your home for only £7.50 per month Edinburgh for the city’s prams and buggies, was just as ‘trams project.’ saving you time and money. festive take on the nativity. mixed with various Christian This interpretation Prior to this performance, the denominations and class encourages us to think about Simply fill in the direct debit form and send to: Scottish Catholic Observer, big screen in Festival Square backgrounds moving together Mary and Joseph as a young 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow, G2 6BT displayed an image of a new around the three stages. couple in love, Joseph’s born baby with a halo above its Mary and Joseph were struggle with Mary’s Call: 0141 241 6112 for more information head. This particularly striking played as an ordinary pregnancy and his character. still greeted the assembled Edinburgh couple with strong When he thinks’ Mary is Name: Postcode: punters making their way into working class accents making pregnant by another man, Address: to the centre of the action. you think about the city and its although he feels betrayed he The pairing of Glasgow class divide, the included and remains concerned for Mary’s Phone: Ultimate Catholic Reading Package passion playwright Rob excluded. The production made safety and dignity. The Catholic Herald Ltd, Freepost 22527, Herald House, 15 Lamb’s Passage, Bunhill Row, London, EC1B 1EY Drummond and producer excellent use of location and Prior to the birth of Christ, the Names of Account Holder(s) Suzanne Lofthus (Cutting Edge the ‘no room at The Sheraton’ audience picked up on a star Theatre) is a creative scene sent up the ‘you’ll have above stable burning bright in Bank / Building Society Account No. Branch Sort Code partnership that is capable to had you’re tea’ mentality. the Lothian sky. The use of an Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society getting big ideas off the ground. Three unwise women actual baby contrasted with an To: The Manager Bank or Building Society Originator’s Identification Number Borrowing from the flash celebrating material comfort, image on the screen of Christ 6 8 5 2 7 2

mob phenomenon, Silent Night aesthetics and selfhood also got crucified was a brave move but Reference Number (for office use only) was livened up with singers the hotel net curtains twitching. one that worked well; making us moving among the throng, There was also a different think beyond the gifts, holidays Instruction to your Bank or Building Society. Please pay the Catholic Herald Ltd Direct Signature(s): making it difficult to tell actors take on the three wise men and food of the season. Despite Debits from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this Instruction may remain with The Date: apart from the audience, one or from the east who appeared to the daily doom and gloom of a Catholic Herald Ltd. and, if so, details passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society. two of which, also joined in. be fake astrologers out to make global recession; you couldn’t Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit Instructions for some types of account This guarantee should be detached and retained by the Payer: The Direct Debit Guarantee As the nativity got under a quick buck. King Herod in a escape the undeniable spirit of  This Guarantee is offered by all Banks and Building Societies that take part in the Direct Debit Scheme. The efficiency and security of the Scheme is monitored and protected by your own Bank or Building Society. way, Christmas shoppers and business suit obsessed with hope as we spilled out into the  If the amounts to be paid or the payment dates change, The Catholic Herald Ltd. will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. after-work drinkers stopped in status, reputation and power busy thoroughfare.  If an error is made by The Catholic Herald Ltd. or your Bank or Building Society you are guaranteed a full and immediate refund from your bank of the amount paid. their tracks to watch from a with a well spoken English RICHARD PURDEN  You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by writing to your Bank or Building Society. Please also send a copy of the letter to us. 16 MISSIONS MESSAGE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011

Faith is flourishing in the MISSIONS MESSAGE missions this Christmas Scottish priest FR COLIN MacINNES, a missionary living and working in Atahualpa, Ecuador, this month tells how he has formed a missionary association for lay people and also started a sacramental campaign to assist married couples

Christmas is a time which provokes awe and those who commit themselves daily to saying pre- campaign to get couples to the sacrament. I do (Above left) Fr Colin MacInnes with a group of newly mystery in the unbeliever as much as the believer. scribed prayers for Church renewal; those of the three workshops with them, revising the marriage married couples in St Timothy’s Church in Guayaquil. It is also a time when the mystery unfolds in a second level say the daily prayers and include giv- rite. A second group of 15 will be married this Sat- Fr MacInnes has started a campaign to allow couples message of love and divine joy. ing two hours weekly to charitable works; those of urday, December 17. Pray for them and for those access to the Sacrament. (Above) The part-time retreat May each one of you experience this divine joy the third level attend to the above and do a year’s who are afraid to come forward to receive God’s house with its various facilities, that is under the and be generous in sharing it with others. course in order to prepare them for missionary blessing. control of the Guayaquil Archdiocese Christmas blessings. Padre Colin. activity inside and outside the parish or country. There are three stages to the course. First is self he Society of St James the Apostle was is a beautiful blue lagoon—a lagoon like that which HEN the bishops of Latin Amer- knowledge (self esteem; identity, gender, person- given a country house on the sea which Canon McQueen boasts for his parish in Barra, ica and the Caribbean met two ality and missionary psychology); the second stage Tdeveloped into a part time retreat house. though it is quite dissimilar! There is also a walled years ago to determine policy is theology; the third is spirituality. After that they With the decline in the number of priests in the garden with tall trees, tropical plants and flowers that they were to implement dur- become full members of the association. Society and the infrequent use we made of the provide an environment of calmness and tranquil- ing the next ten years, they stated The association is not a religious order but it has property we decided to hand it over to the ity, ideal for prayer and contemplation. I would Wquite clearly and categorically that the Church been approved by the Church. We are at an initial Guayaquil Archdiocese. The archbishop asked me accept groups from Scotland who wish to make a needed a thorough shakeup. We just cannot con- stage and 25 people are involved at present. We to be the director and to have it in regular weekly retreat or want to have a missionary experience. tinue as we are. Faith in Jesus Christ is being chal- need your prayers. use for retreats, conferences, diocesan meetings lenged at all levels. People who live in isolated areas of Ecuador had and such similar events. I If anyone wishes to support Fr Colin MacInnesʼ To respond to this challenge I have formed a little opportunity of a Church wedding or even of The house overlooks as enclosed bay where the missionary effort, donations can be made out to missionary association for lay people. There are a civil wedding. They would just come together waves lap lazily on to a fine golden sandy beach— Scottish Catholic Observer Charity Appeal, 19 three levels of commitment: the initial level is for and that was the start of family life. I started a it rivals any South Pacific setting. Beyond the bay Waterloo St, Glasgow, G2 6BT Pray in your time of need and let God give you strength IN HER autobiography, The prayer over and over again. And we see it in Jesus who also classical fairy tales where the anger. I am bitter at so many Long Loneliness, Dorothy She took a train home that climbs Mount Horeb to pray figure of God often appears in things. I hate some of the places Day tells of a very difficult Fr Ronald evening and as she walked up and who spends whole nights the form of an angel, a fairy, a where my Christian morality time in her life. She had just to her apartment, a man, Peter in prayer, struggling to find fox, or a horse. Invariably those has led me. I am jealous of oth- converted to Christianity, Rolheiser Maurin, was sitting on the both the guidance and the who approach that God-figure ers who don’t have my moral after a long period of athe- steps. He invited her to start the courage He needs for His with over-confidence, arro- inhibitions. I am tempted in ism, and then given birth to all her former circles, it left her Catholic Worker. The rest is mission. gance, or pretense, are denied ways that I am ashamed to her daughter. During her with more than a missing soul history. Looking at the prayer of all counsel and all magic. Con- speak of. I need more support season of atheism, she had mate. It left her too without a Our prayers aren’t always Moses, Jesus, Dorothy Day, versely those who approach the than you have been giving me. fallen in love with a man job, without support for her answered that swiftly and and countless other women and God-figure in humility and Send me someone or send me who had fathered her child; child, and without her former directly, but they are always men who have prayed for guid- admit that they are lost in their something. If you want me to and she and this man, athe- purpose in life. She felt answered, as Jesus assures us, ance from God, we see that search are awarded with coun- continue on this road you have ists disillusioned with main- painfully alone and lost. because God does not withhold their prayer, especially when sel and magic. There is an got to give me more help. I stream society, had made a This drove her to her knees, the Holy Spirit from those who they feel most alone and des- important prayer-lesson in that. need this now.” pact never to marry, as literally. One day she took a ask for it. If we pray for guid- perate, is marked by three All of us, at different times in And then we need to wait, in statement against the con- train to Washington, DC, from ance and support, it will be things: honesty, directness, and our lives, find ourselves alone, patience, in Advent. Perhaps no ventions of society. But her New York and spent the day given us. humility. They lift their own lost, confused, and tempted Peter Maurin will appear on conversion to Christianity praying at the National Shrine In Scripture, we see many minds and hearts to God, not towards a road that will not lead our doorstep that night, but, had turned that world upside of the Immaculate Conception. salient examples of people someone else’s. They share to life. At such times we need to with desert-helplessness having down. And, as she shares in her auto- who, like Dorothy Day, seek their aloneness and fears with approach God with a prayer done its work, an angel will The father of her child had biography, her prayer that day out God’s guidance in prayer, shameless honesty. There is no that is shamelessly honest, come to strengthen us. given her an ultimatum; if she was shamelessly direct, hum- especially so when they are pretense, no rationalisation, no direct, and humble. Like had their child Baptised he ble, and clear. Essentially she alone and afraid as they stand hiding of weaknesses. They Dorothy Day, we need to raise I RONALD Rolheiser is a would end their relationship. told God, again and again, that before some major upheaval or pour out their fears, their inade- our true fears and insecurities to Catholic priest and member of Dorothy chose to Baptise the she was lost, that she needed a impending suffering in their quacy, their temptations, and God, praying, over and over the Missionary Oblates of Mary child, but paid a heavy price. clear direction for her life, and lives. We see this, for example, their confusion, as do children, again: “I am afraid. I feel so Immaculate. He is president of She deeply loved this man and that she needed that direction in Moses who when lost in the begging for someone’s hand to alone and isolated in this. I the Oblate School of Theology suffered greatly at their now, not in some distant future. desert and facing a revolt from help them. don’t want to do this. I am com- in San Antonio, Texas. Visit breakup. Moreover, given that And, like Jesus in the Garden his own people climbs Mount There is an interesting paral- pletely inadequate. I haven’t his website, www.ronrolheiser her conversion took her out of of Gethsemane, she prayed that Horeb to ask for God’s counsel. lel to this inside some of our any strength left. I am full of .com Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER CHURCH NOTICES 17

ST ALOYSIUS’ CHURCH VOCATIONS 25 Rose Street CHURCH NOTICES JERICHO Glasgow G3 “The Compassion of (off Sauchiehall Street) Jesus.” LEGION OF MARY CHRISTMAS CRIB Drug & Alcohol Rehabs., CHRISTMAS DAY: IN SCOTLAND APOSTOLATE 2011 Refuge for Victims of Saturday Vigil 7.00pm; Midnight Mass 12.00am; 9am; 10.30am (Family Mass); 12noon Domestic Violence, Dates and venues where the Holy Rosary will be prayed in public: Supported Accommodation WEEKDAY MASS: for the Destitute, the Monday - Friday: 8am; 12.30pm; 5.45pm GLASGOW FALKIRK Distressed, and all being Howgate Shopping Centre Saturday: 10am; 12.30pm Barra’s ‘passed by on the other side.’ Saturday 17th December, 1 – 3pm Friday 16th December, 9am – 6pm Saturday 17th December, 9am – 6pm A COMMUNITY OF CONFESSIONS: Knightswood Shopping Centre Sunday 18th December, 9am – 6pm MEN OF PRAYER FOR Monday - Friday: 11.30am - 12.15pm; 5.15pm - 5.30pm Saturday 17th December, 11am – 1pm Portobello Town Hall OUR TIMES (founded 1970) Saturday: 10.30am - 12.15pm; 2pm - 3.15pm; 4.15pm - 5.15pm Partick - Beside St Peter’s RC Church Saturday 17th December, 11am – 1pm Vocation info from Sunday 18th December, 1pm – 3pm GOUROCK - “The Pier” Bro Patrick Mullen, EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT: Pollok – Silverburn Shopping Centre Saturday 17th December, 11am – 12pm The Jericho Society, Saturday: 2pm - 5.15pm Weddings permitting Mater Salvatoris, Harelaw Farm, Saturday 10th December, 11am – 1pPos- GREENOCK Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire, PA10 2PY Sunday: 1.15pm - 8.30pm silpark - Saracen Cross Town Centre, Westburn St. Scottish Charity SC016909 Saturday 17th December, 12noon – 2pm Saturday 17th December, 11am – 1pm Tel: 01505 614669 ROSARY: Email: Saturday 24th December, 12noon – 2pm HAMILTON CENTRE (bandstand) [email protected] Monday - Saturday 12.00pm before 12.30pm Mass Saturday 10th December, 12 - 3pm Clarkston – St. Joseph’s Church Saturday 17th December, 12 - 3pm grounds, Clarkston Road Saturday 24th December, 12 - 3pm PASSIONIST COMMUNITY Saturday 17th December, 10.30am – 12.30pm IRVINE – Shopping Mall Do you feel that ST MUNGO’S CHURCH Braes Shopping Centre Castlemilk Saturday 17th December, 2pm – 4pm God is calling 52 Parson Street, Glasgow Saturday 10th December,11 – 1pm JOHNSTONE Houston Square you to the Shawlands Arcade Saturday 17th December, 11am – 1pm Missionary Saturday 17th December, 12noon – 2pm CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2011 PAISLEY – DUNN SQUARE Priesthood University of Glasgow – Saturday 17th December, 11am – 1pm Then we can help outside library PORT GLASGOW - you CHRISTMAS EVE,SATURDAY 24TH DECEMBER Monday 12th December, 10am – 6pm Princes’ St. Gardens Saturday 17th December, 10.30am -12.30pm -Vigil Wayside Club – 32 Midland Street 6pm DUNDEE – Wellgate Shopping 11.30pm - Carol Service Crib displayed in window from Contact: 17th December Centre 12 Midnight - Solemn Concelebrated Mass of Friday 16th December, 10am – 12noon Cambuslang Monday 19th December, 2pm – 4pm The Vocations Director the Nativity Friday 16th December, 11 – 2pm Wednesday 21st December, 12noon – 2pm SMA FATHERS St Theresaʼs CHRISTMAS DAY,SUNDAY 25TH DECEMBER Clarendon Place, Dunblane Call: 0141 241 6105 Perthshire FK15 9HB Massses at 10am and 12 noon only. The Sisters of the Gospel of Life There will be NO Evening Mass today. invite you to a Monthly Mass for Life RECRUITMENT MONDAY 26TH DECEMBER At Our Lady of Consolation Church THE WHITE FATHERS Inglefield Street, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7PZ Masses at 10am and 12.15pm only. (MISSIONARIES OF AFRICA) Celebrant: Fr Neil Donnachie ST in Rutherglen are looking for a part time SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER Priests wishing to concelebrate please bring Alb 6pm - Mass of Thanksgiving for 2011 House Manager/Keeper to help run their house. Wednesday December 21st The successful applicant will be familiar with basic SUNDAY 1ST JANUARY 2012 @7.30pm Masses at 10am and 12 midday only. Followed by tea, coffee & a chance to meet computer accounting; have previous experience of There will be NO Evening Mass today. up with pro-life friends staff management and hold a clean driving licence. gospeloflifesisters.wordpress.com Hours will initially be twelve per week (over 5 days) MONDAY 2ND JANUARY 2012 extending to fifteen if necessary and are to be Massses at 10am and 12.15pm only. Prayer Group Meeting Times arranged with the local Superior.

Diocese of Motherwell Diocese of Dunkeld Salary will be £10-12 per hour CONFESSIONS Healing Ministry, Ss Peter and Paul’s Prayer Monday 19th December 10.30am-12 noon & Tent of Divine Mercy Ministry, Group depending on experience. Meets on the 1st Saturday of Ss Peter and Paul’s Parish 5.30pm-6pm the month, Centre Applicants are invited to send their CV to Tuesday 20 th December 10.30am-12 noon & St Francis Xavier’s Church, Milton Street, Dundee Sarah Wood at [email protected] Carfin, (Behind Church) 5.30pm-6pm Saturday 2 – 4.30pm Tuesdays 7.30pm from whom a full job description can be obtained. Wednesday 21st December 10.30am-12 noon & Closing date for applications is Friday 6th January 2012. 5.30pm-6pm EXPERT SERVICES 7.30pm Parish Reconciliation Service To PERSONAL Thursday 22nd December 10.30am-12 noon & SCOT-COVER Advertise UNATTACHED? 5.30pm-6pm RE-UPHOLSTERY on Join the Friday 23rd December 10.30am-12 noon & Freephone: 0800 389 8084 4.30pm-6pm • Repairs • New Foams • Springs Repaired this page CATHOLIC th 10.30am-12 noon also MOBILE REPAIR SERVICE UNATTACHED Saturday 24 December all over Scotland email: only Excellent choice of fabrics and DIRECTORY th NO CONFESSIONS quality leathers specialising in: advertising@ Monday 26 December Tel: 01322 222 213 Monday 2nd January NO CONFESSIONS Dykes • Reids • G Plan Parker Knoll • Cintique • Wade sconews.co.uk for free brochure 18 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

ROBINSON BLAKE CAMPBELL GALLACHER BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Treasured memories of my dear Treasured memories of our In loving memory of Iain In loving memory of our dear husband, John (Jackie), a darling granddaughter, Claire Matheson, a precious son, mother, Ann Jane, who died on BRADY devoted husband and father, Ashley, who died December 20, brother and uncle, who died on December 17, 1983, also our Remembering with love on his who died on March 7, 2000, and 1989, aged 11 months. December 16, 2007, aged 29 dear father, Michael, who died birthday, December 22, our dear whose birthday occurs on You are always in our thoughts. years, and also his father, Iain, a December 21. Gran and Grampa Coyle and loving husband, father and Gen on December 10, 1962. Also nephew Paul. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for Aunt Camille. who died on December 27, 1994 Mrs Betty Connachan, died July We hold you close within our him. aged 49 years. R.I.P. 19, 2011. hearts, Inserted by his loving wife BRADY Silent thoughts of time together, In the shelter of Thy Sacred Josephine and family. In loving memory of Danny, a Hold memories that will last for- And there you will remain, Heart, To walk with us throughout our beloved husband, father and ever. grandpa, who died on Mum, Annmarie, Marion and Dear Jesus, may they rest. lives, MacNEIL RELIGIOUS MEMORIAM December 20, 2004, also families. St Anne, St Michael and St Until we meet again. With loving memories of our son Michael, a beloved son, brother Anthony, pray for them. and brother, Domhnall MacNeil, CARDEN Aunt Philomena and Uncle and uncle, who died on May 11, Inserted by the family. Andrew. whom God called home on May 1990, aged 23. Treasured memories of my 2, 2001 and whose 26th In our hearts you are always devoted husband, William birthday occurs on December there, Anthony (Bill), who died Decem- 20. Loved and remembered in every ber 18, 2007. Sending birthday wishes to you prayer. St Anthony, pray for him. above, Loving wife Kathleen and all the Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray Fondly remembered with all our family. for him. love. In my thoughts and prayers Mum, Dad, Clare-Anne, BUNCE always. Mairead, Michael, Sarah-Ann Treasured memories of my dear Maureen. and baby Domhnall. mother, Ellen Caulfield, who died on December 16, 1991, CRUM DENNEHY also my dear father, Peter, who 25th Anniversary 31st Anniversary died on February 6, 1991. R.I.P. In loving memory of our dear In loving memory of Monsignor mother, Betty, who died COONEY (nee Houston) No one knows the broken heart, JENKINS John Brendan Dennehy, who That lies behind my smile, December 16, 1986. -Bridget (Bunty) died December 17, 1980. No one knows the loneliness, Deep in our hearts a memory is 9th Anniversary Remembering with love and Will those who think of him That’s with me all the while, kept, Precious memories of Anthony pride, our treasured Mum, today, Silent tears do gently fall, Of a mother we loved and will (Tony), a dear and loving Mum-in-law and Grandma, A little prayer to Jesus say. Which others do not see, never forget. husband, dad and papa, who Inserted by Terence. St Anthony pray for her. Bunty, who died on April 4, For the kind and loving mum died on December 17, 2002. and dad, Inserted by her children. 2007, and whose birthday God has you in His keeping, Who meant the world to me. occurs on December 21. In the shelter of Thy Sacred DEEGAN We have you in our prayers, and St. Pio, pray for her. Heart, In loving memory of Kathleen, our hearts. MacNEIL Remembering too, Jim and Dear Jesus, may they rest. our beloved sister, died Decem- On his soul, sweet Jesus, have 43rd Birthday Inserted by their loving daughter ber 19, 2001. John, also gone before us. Loving memories of my mercy. Elizabeth. Miss you every day. Eternal rest grant unto them, O husband, John Martin, who died Maureen, Pauline, Linda and Remembering with love Auntie St Jude pray for her. November 25, 2001, and whose Martin, Aisling and Gabriel. Lord, Ella and Uncle Peter. Owen, Anne and all the family. 43rd birthday occurs on And let perpetual light shine So sadly missed by all of us. December 18. upon them, Saints Peter and Paul, pray for DIVERS In my heart you will always stay, them. 12th Anniversary LEES May they rest in peace, Amen. Loved and remembered every Love from Babs and nephews Always in our thoughts and 31st Anniversary of our dear Inserted by the family. day. prayers. Robert, James and their mother, Margaret (Maggie Love you always. xxx SWEENEY Miss you lots. th families. MacDONALD His loving wife Mairi, Taobh Na 10 Anniversary From Brenda, Bill, Stephen, Wilson), who died on December Mara, 445 Lochboisdale. Please remember in your Treasured memories of our BURNS Tommy, George, Jim and Paul. 20, 1980. prayers Father Peter Sweeney, Happy Birthday Dad. 14th Anniversary We had a mother with a heart of precious son, Colin, who died on Love and miss you Dad. xxx late Parish Priest of St John In loving memory of Michael, FERRIE gold, September 16, 2002, and whose Darren and Kerri. Ogilvie’s, Easterhouse, who who died December 18, 1997. 2nd Anniversary Who was more to us than birthday occurs on December died on December 19, 2001. Remembering with love, my In the shelter of Thy Sacred wealth untold, 17. St John Ogilvie, pray for him. Heart, husband Joe, who died MacNEIL If we had all the world to give, Watch beside him Guardian Dear Jesus, may he rest. December 18, 2009. A loving In loving memory of our beloved father, brother and uncle. We’d give it, yes and more, Angel, We miss him much but still we son and brother, John Martin, MEMORIAM know, Death leaves a heartache no To hear her voice and see her Virgin Mother light his way. who died on November 25, Thy Holy will is best. one can heal, smile, Heart of Jesus grant him mercy, 2001, whose birthday occurs on AITCHISON Inserted by the family. Love leaves a memory no one And greet her at the door. That’s our prayer for Colin each December 18. 16th Anniversary can steal. Loved and remembered every In loving memory of a dearly Little Flower at this hour, pray day. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for day in our hearts. loved wife, mother and him. for her. Loved and missed and forever St Martin de Porres, pray for grandmother, Mary (Brown) Loved and remembered every Son Bobby, grandchildren and in our hearts. him. Aitchison, who died at home on day. great-grandchildren. December 18, 1995. R.I.P. Mum, Dad and all the family. From Mum, Roddy, Seonag and Liz, Danielle Katie and Martin. Forever treasured are memories Neil. Sadly missed. of you. Always in our thoughts and FRENCH prayers. In loving memory of my dear Today, tomorrow and all life MacNEIL Inserted by her loving family. parents, Frank, who died on through. Remembering with love our December 15, 1954, and St Francis Xavier, pray for her. son-in-law, John Martin, who Catherine, who died on July 24, Son Andrew and Agnes Julie. AUSTIN died November 25, 2001, and 1978, also my dear sisters, You were always there when we whose 43rd birthday occurs on 20th Anniversasry CAMPBELL Mary, who died on July 12, needed you, December 18. Treasured memories of our Treasured memories of Peter, 1994, and Margaret, who died You left us quietly, your thought youngest sister, Margaret Ellen who died on December 17, on February 13, 2003. No task too great or small, unknown, (nee Docherty), who died 2009. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for With willing hands and a heart of You left us memories we are tragically on December 22, So sadly missed, so dearly them. gold, proud to own. 1991. loved. May they rest in peace. For us you did them all. Our Lady of the Isles, pray for McGUNNIGLE Remembered by Ernie and Loved by us forever. 38 Ladybank Drive. St Anthony, pray for her. Seonag, 445 Lochboisdale. Mary, Elizabeth, Rosina and him. Treasured memories of my From Tress, Dave, grandchil- Patricia. Inserted by his loving wife and beloved husband, Hughie, JONES family. 21st Anniversary dren and great-grandchildren. father, granda, great-granda, A thought for all, a heart of gold, O’DONNELL Place Your Intimation In loving memory of our dear father-in-law, whose birthday In loving memory of John, who BALLANTYNE Announcing, mother and nana, Mary Anne, One of the best this world could occurs on December 16. died on May 20, 2008, and In loving memory of our dear Remembering, died December 17, 1990. also Thanking hold, whose birthday occurs on mother, Mary Tweedie, who died Births, Marriages, our dear father, Frank, who died Hughie, I know you must be in Deaths,Anniversaries Never selfish, always kind, December 15. Also his son, December 19, 1996, and our May 18, 1986. R.I.P. Heaven because you loved God These are the memories you left Dominic, who died on March 4, dear father, John, who died April St Anne and St Francis, pray for so much. 2007, and whose birthday 22, 2001. them. behind. Pray for us. occurs on December 21. Inserted by Beth, Cath, John Inserted by Patsy, Brendan, St Margaret, pray for her. To place a Family Announcement Contact From your Lily and loving family. May they rest in peace. and Charles. Patricia Cairney: 0141 241 6106 Kevin and families. Son Peter. Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 19 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

McGURK MacINTYRE NOVENA TO ST CLARE 24th Anniversary In loving memory of our dear Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine Of your charity, please pray for mother, Christina, who died days with a lighted candle; pub- the repose of the soul of my December 14, 2004, also our lication promised. - P.L. and dear husband and father, Andy, dear father, Ronald, who died died December 17, 1987; also K.Mc.P loved ones gone before and on June 1, 1994, and our loving after. brother, Patrick Iain, who died In the shelter of Thy Sacred January 31, 2005. GRATEFUL thanks to St Martha Heart, Remembering Alison, who died for favours received. – K.C. Dear Jesus, may they rest. suddenly on September 10, St Francis of Assisi, pray for 2006. them. Rest in peace. McCAFFERTY Inserted by his loving wife Nan MacLEAN MacNEIL DEAR HEART OF JESUS 13th Anniversary and family. St Joseph, pray for them. 4th Anniversary 3rd Anniversary of our dearest Dear Heart of Jesus in the In loving memory of Jacqueline, brother, brother-in-law and We hold you close within our In loving memory of a much past I have asked you for our daughter, sister and aunt to hearts, uncle, Angus John (Dian) who loved and sorely missed many favours, this time I ask Lily, who died on December 22, And there you all remain, died at home in Ardveenish, Isle 1998. husband, Donald Roderick, who of Barra, on December 18, you for this special one To walk with us throughout our Forever in our thoughts. died December 16, 2007. 2008, aged 38 years. (mention favour), take it Dear lives, Inserted by her family. To hide my sorrow I always try, His life earnest, his actions kind, Heart of Jesus, and place it Until we meet again. To laugh with others, alone I cry, A willing hand, an active mind, within Your broken heart where So rest in peace dear loved Anxious to please, loath to With aching heart I whisper low, your Father sees it, then in his ones, offend, God Bless you, Donald, I miss merciful eyes it will become And thanks for all you have A loving brother and faithful you so. Your favour, not mine. Amen. done, friend. Our Lady of the Isles, pray for St Barr, pray for him. Say for three days, publication We pray that God has given Fois shiorruidh thoir dha a you, him. promised. – M. Inserted by his loving wife Thighearna. McHUGH The crown you have truly won. Inserted by his family home and Rodina. 24th Anniversary Forever in our thoughts and away. In loving memory of my beloved prayers. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED husband, John McHugh, who Inserted by John Lachie, Ewan, PITCATHLEY VIRGIN died December 18, 1987. Michael, John Angus and MacLEAN 40th Anniversary O Most Beautiful Flower of In the shelter of Thy Sacred 4th Anniversary Of your charity, pray for the Mount Carmel, fruitful in the McDERMOTT Marybell. Heart, In loving memory of a much repose of the soul of William splendour of Heaven, Blessed 35th Anniversary Dear Jesus, may he rest, Pitcathley, who died December loved father and father-in-law, Mother of the Son of God, Treasured memories of my I miss him much but still I know, MacKINNON 19, 1971. dearly loved husband, and our Thy Holy will is best. 15th Anniversary Donald Roderick, who died Immaculate Virgin, assist me in much loved father, Andrew Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for In loving memory of our dear December 16, 2007. SHIELDS this my necessity. O Star of the McDermott, died December 16, him. mother, Annie, who died on Deep in our hearts your memory Treasured memories of our Sea, help me and show me 1976. R.I.P. Inserted by his loving wife December 13, 1996; also our is kept, mum, Elizabeth Davie, who died herein You are my Mother. O A heart of gold stopped beating, Margaret. dear father, John, died March 4, To love, to cherish, to never December 17, 1979, and dad, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Hard working hands at rest, James (Jimmy), died March 7, 1983. R.I.P. For each and every one of us, forget. 1999. Queen of Heaven and Earth, I Fois shiorruidh thoir dhaibh A You always did your best, MacINNES Sacred Heart of Jesus, have Sacred Heart of Jesus, have humbly beseech You from the As time goes by without you, 4th Anniversary Thighearna. mercy on him. mercy on them. bottom of my heart to succour And days turn into years, Treasured memories of our dear Agus solus siorruidh dearrsadh Inserted by Patricia and Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for me in my necessity. There are They’ll hold a million memories, mum, Doris, who died orra. Duncan, Askernish. them. none that can withstand Your And a thousand silent tears. Inserted by the family. December 22, 2007. Also Inserted by the family. power. O show me herein You Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for remembering our dad, Hector, are my mother. O Mary, con- him. who died February 20, 1998 and TIMONEY MacKINNON MacLEAN Inserted by his loving wife and our brother, John, who died 29th Anniversary ceived without sin, pray for us 27th Anniversary family. February 7, 2008. R.I.P. 4th Anniversary In loving remembrance of our who have recourse to Thee You left us beautiful memories, In loving memory of my dear Treasured memories of my very dear mother and grand- (three times). Holy Mary, I place Your love is still our guide, husband and father, Ronald, stepfather, Donald Roderick, mother, Jean, who died on this cause in your hands (three December 18, 1982; also all Though we cannot see you who died on December 19, who died December 16, 2007. times). O thank you for your loved ones gone before and mum, 1984. R.I.P. R.I.P. mercy to me and mine. Amen. You are always by our side. Softly from the shadows, after. R.I.P. Just a prayer from the ones who Treasured forever are memories Say for three days; publication We’re thankful for the times we There came a gentle call, loved you, of you, promised. – M.M. shared, With farewells left unspoken, And the priceless memories too, Just a memory fond and true, Today, tomorrow and all life You quietly left us all. For those memories are a In our hearts you will live through. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for Little Flower of Jesus, pray for comfort now, forever, DEAR HEART OF JESUS him. them. When we think of you. Because we thought the world Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I Inserted by her loving family. Inserted by his wife Betty and Venerable Margaret Sinclair, of you. have asked you for many Look around the garden Lord, family. pray for them. And when she turns and smiles, St Martin de Porres, pray for Very Reverend Father Francis favours, this time I ask you for McDONALD Put Your arms around her, him. Timoney and all the family. this special one (mention 2nd Anniversary of William. And hold her for a while. Inserted by Neil and Morag. Loving son of Bessie, devoted favour), take it Dear Heart of With love today and always, brother, father and granda. Also Jesus, and place it within Your your grandchildren. WALKER my husband Ronnie and son-in- In loving memory of our dear broken heart where your Father law John. MacLEAN father and pappy, John A. died sees it, then in his merciful eyes We think about you always, 4th Anniversary on December 21, 1988. Our it will become Your favour, not We talk about you too, In loving memory of our dear mum and gran, Catherine died mine. Amen. Say for three We have such precious pappy, Donald Roderick, who on June 10, 1996. Our brothers days, publication promised. – memories, and uncles, Kenneth died on died December 16, 2007. M.M. But wish we still had you. December 31, 1985 and Iain St Roch, St Joseph, pray for Never more than a thought Alaisdair died on January 4, them. McLAUGHLIN away, 2006. 4th Anniversary of Jim Loved and remembered every May they have eternal rest. DEAR HEART OF JESUS day. Those special years cannot Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I McELENEY McLaughlin, died December 21, Donna, JR and Ronalda. return have asked you for many Please pray for the repose of 2007. When we were all together, favours, this time I ask you for the souls of our dear father and Treasured memories of my But as God calls us one by one granda, Dan, who died McKEON wonderful husband, Jim, father The links shall join again. this special one (mention December 16, 1997, and 32nd Anniversary to Pat, Margaret, Elaine and MacLEAN Inserted by their sorrowing favour), take it Dear Heart of our dear mother and granny, In loving memory of our beloved Annmarie and son-in-law, Scott, 4th Anniversary family. Jesus, and place it within Your Mary, who died September 15, parents, Elizabeth, died grandfather of Nadia. For our beloved pappy, Donald broken heart where your Father 1997. December 18, 1979, and Forever in our hearts, Roderick MacLean, who died on THANKSGIVING sees it, then in his merciful eyes Sacred Heart of Jesus, grant Francis, died July 20, 1981, also December 16, 2007. it will become Your favour, not them eternal rest. our dear brothers, Jim, who died Always in our thoughts. NOVENA TO ST CLARE St Joseph and St Roch, pray for May 7, 1995, and Pat, who died Sadly missed. Rest in peace. Sadly missed. Say nine Hail Mary’s for nine mine. Amen. Say for three them. September 17, 1995. From Isabel and the family. From Neil John, Rhoda, Marion days with a lighted candle; pub- days, publication promised. – From the family. Much loved and sadly missed. St Anthony, pray for him. and Louise. lication promised. – E.H. M.O.N. 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORY SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 FUNERAL DIRECTORY BISHOPS ENGAGEMENTS CARDINAL O’BRIEN Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh Organist John Clark Funeral Service www.archdiocese-edinburgh.org.uk and All Arrangements MON DEC 19 12NOON Silver Jubilee of Completed To Your Satisfaction ordination of Fr Pidluskyj, Our Lady of Cantor Pochaev and St Andrew’s Ukrainian Catholic 24 Hour Service A sign that we care Pre-Payment Funeral Church, Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh. TUE 20 Tel: 01698 325 493 Plans 9.30AM Official opening of North Inch Com- for demonstration, Professional & caring Staff T&R O’BRIEN munity Campus, Perth; 12NOON Mass with listen online at: FUNERAL DIRECTORS St John’s Secondary School, Perth. THU 22 Tel: 11AM Mass and celebration with staff, St www. 01698 842233 ESTABLISHED 1890 Bennet’s, Edinburgh. SAT 24 6PM Vigil paulcarrollmusic 1 Unthank Road, Mossend It is our business to care. 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AST week, we saw the Germany combined. In Ontario in growth of the Scottish 1804, he was one of only a few priests, Catholic community in most of whom were Francophone. For Canada, and the first organ- the rest of his life, Fr Alexander was to isation of religious life under oscillate between his duties towards the Lthe courageous Fr James MacDonald. Church and his role as an important However, there were several other Scot- political figure. tish Catholic priests working in Canada When, in 1812, war broke out in the early days of the settlements. One between Britain and the USA, he raised was Alexander MacDonald of Scotus, a the Glengarry Light Infantry Fencibles, cadet house of the chiefs of Clanranald, which he accompanied as their chap- who worked in Glengarry. His arrival lain. He saw action in no fewer than was noted by the Quebec Gazette in seven battles. He also played an impor- 1786: “Arrived the ship ‘McDonald’ tant role in elections to the Provincial with emigrants, nearly the whole of a parliament. He guided the Scots parish in the north of Scotland [520 Catholics, and ensured that there really people in all] who emigrated with their was a ‘Catholic vote’ in Ontario at this priest.” He is not to be confused with time. In 1820, he became a suffragan of Alexander ‘Big Sandy’ MacDonell, Quebec, and expected to become Vicar who was to become Bishop of Apostolic. This followed in 1826, a lit- Kingston. tle before his friend, Bishop MacEach- The first Fr Alexander was a strik- ern, became the vicar apostolic of ingly militant figure. He went with his Charlottetown. flock to New York state, and was a His achievements in Ontario were chaplain in their fencible regiment that phenomenal. He secured government fought for the crown against George finance for Catholic schools almost a Washington’s revolutionaries. When century before this was achieved in they found themselves on the losing Scotland. He erected the first seminary, side, they left for Canada, where they and during his episcopate more than 20 settled in Glengarry County. Fr Alexan- men joined the priesthood to serve in der was a man who seemed to have rel- the 35 churches and chapels that he ished conflict. He became notorious for constructed. One cannot do justice to his aggressive stance against his Scot- Bishop MacDonell’s enormous tish Presbyterian neighbours. achievements in this short passage. He Fr Alexander died in 1803. Whilst in was a dominant force in the political Glengarry County, he may have met and religious life of Ontario, and cre- another Scottish priest, the very shad- ated for Scots Catholics a haven that owy Fr Roderick MacDonell. He was they had not known since 1560. supposed to have been a graduate of the Scots College in Spain, but does not he final Scottish bishop is appear in its records. He is mentioned William Fraser, already briefly as working amongst the native popula- Tmentioned. He was born in Glen tion in what is now Ontario around Cannich north of Loch Ness, studied 1785, just before Fr Alexander arrived and was ordained in the Scots College off Quebec. We do not even know when in Spain, and had served the small he died. Highland District seminary on Lismore. The first of the three Scottish priests From there he left for Canada in 1822, who were destined to become bishops having tried for years to get permission in Canada was Angus MacEachern. He to leave. His base would become St also graduated in the Scots College in Ninian’s at Antigonish, an appropriate Spain. This becomes something of a red titular for a Scot. Bishop Edmund Burke line running through this story: the had died in 1820, and the Pope decided Scots Catholics on the Continent edu- that he wanted a Scot as his successor. cated the Scots Catholics who founded Fr Fraser became the second Vicar Gen- the English-speaking Church in eral of Nova Scotia in 1824, and soon Canada. Fr MacEachern was related to tered around Halifax, and the Arcadians Bishop Alexander MacDonell was a dominant of the first Catholic regiment in the had Cape Breton added to his charge. the MacDonalds who initiated the first now had a few French-speaking priests, force in the political and religious life of British army, the Glengarry Fencibles. By 1831, he presided over some Scottish Catholic settlement on Prince some of whom refugees from Revolu- Ontario, leading Scots Catholics in the When that regiment was disbanded dur- 50,000 Catholics, half of whom were Edward Island. He had left for Spain a tionary France. The Scots had had no early days of the Canadian settlements ing the brief Peace of Amiens in 1802, Scots. To provide some context, his dio- few years after the emigrants had sailed priest able to speak Gaelic since the Fr Alexander worked hard to ensure that cese was almost as large as the entire for Canada on the ‘Alexander’. death of Fr James MacDonald five years Vicar Apostolic, but unlike Bishop many of the soldiers whom he had Scottish Church, already enjoying an Having been ordained, he worked on earlier. Soon, the linguistically able Fr Burke, he was still under the diocese of served could emigrate to Canada. influx of Irish Catholics. Bishop the Small Isles for three years. Then, he Angus was administrating to the Scots, Quebec. His charge encompassed New Fr Alexander came from a family of Fraser’s episcopate was marred by hos- joined 230 Catholics from the Rough Acadians and Irish settlers on Prince Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, tacksmen in Glengarry, and he was tility from the Irish Catholics around Bounds and Small Isles and left for Edward Island and New Brunswick. to which Cape Breton was soon added. deeply devoted to the British crown. Halifax, but he still managed to estab- Canada. His Bishop, Alexander Mac- As with all the early missionaries in In 1825, he established a seminary, His strident monarchical sentiment, lish his diocese on a solid footing. He Donald, Vicar Apostolic of the High- Canada, one is awestruck by their abil- almost completely paid for by Scots which was to earn him the moniker of, established schools for Irish, Scots and land District, gave a very reluctant ity to travel enormous distances in all Catholics, aided by another Scottish The Greatest Tory in Canada, was the Acadian Catholics, and participated in blessing. One can see why. He weathers. As Bishop Alexander Mac- bishop, William Fraser, who had suc- typical if paradoxical attitude of most the Maritimes seminary. describes MacEachern in a letter as ‘a Donell was later to write: “I travelled ceeded Bishop Burke. Soon, Bishop former Jacobites. He opted to go to Between them, Bishops MacEachern, deserving young clergyman full of zeal, everywhere, in heat and ice and snow, MacEachern had some priests to assist Glengarry County, partly because of the MacDonell and Fraser established the and for abilities both natural and on horseback, on foot, and in Indian him, and in 1830 he finally became family links for many of the newcom- English-speaking Church in Canada. acquired, equal to the daily discharge of birch bark canoes.” By 1808, Fr Angus independent from Quebec. He died in ers, but also because he wished to par- They provided it with seminaries, his respective functions.’ was the only priest in the western Mar- 1835, having secured the English- ticipate in the strengthening of the schools and even newspapers. In sharp itimes, with the Irish priest, Fr Edmund speaking Church in the western Maritimes. border between the crown’s lands in contrast to Scotland, these men, all edu- t this time, the whole of Burke in Nova Scotia. He was the first North America and the new USA. cated in Spain, managed to establish a Britain’s possessions in Canada Vicar General of Nova Scotia, and had is Ontario counterpart is the He became the priest of St Raphaels Church that overcame the prejudices of Acame under the diocese of Que- established a Catholic mission there in more famous Alexander Mac- in Glengarry County, and secured some the Protestant colonial establishment. bec, but the Maritimes were delegated the teeth of opposition by the British HDonell. Another pupil from the 126,000 acres for those who came with They ensured that Catholic Canada to a special mission, headed by the and the Anglican Church. Scots College in Spain, he had been the him. From there, he was to administer would not be confined to French-speak- headstrong Irish Capuchin, Fr James Fr Angus would soon emulate this first resident Catholic priest in Glasgow, the Church in what is now Ontario, a ing Quebec, but that the Church became Jones. The Irish Catholics were clus- achievement. In 1819, he was made a and had been the first Catholic chaplain region much larger than France and an integral part of the whole country. 22 A GRAND LITTLE PARISH SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011 WEEK 50, VOLUME 2 Let the punishment fit the crime Parishes are poised to merge in KT BROGAN’S fictional series, after a tense meeting HE meeting with the bishop. His the reply. “However, judging by the communi- “Bless them,” he said at last. “They’ve taken fears about it seemed well-founded, cation from the Gildeas, I can see that St the first step towards bringing St Aidan’s and St from the moment an unsmiling Jerome’s is a parish which will require a firm Jerome’s together. Out of the mouths of babes...” housekeeper showed him into the hand, and I’m aware that Fr John Paul will need For the first time that day, the canon forgot small conference room just inside all the help he can get to keep control there. Fr all about the Gildeas. Tthe door of the bishop’s house, instead of tak- Hanley has always taken quite a relaxed ing him along the corridor to his superior’s sit- approach to things, you see. It has worked for fter lunch, the canon kept his promise ting room. A carafe of water and two glasses him to some extent, but there might be a cost to to Kitty by calling in on Netta. He sat on the conference table. The canon gave up be met when the changeover takes place.” Abrought with him a large box of choco- A GRAND LITTLE PARISH all hope of morning coffee and took a glass of “So,” he finished. “I’m making the Gildeas lates. “I’ve been meaning to hand this in... a water to steady his nerves. Ten minutes later, your particular responsibility. All matters relat- small token of thanks for all your help in the the bishop appeared, bearing a sheaf of papers ing to repairs and renewals have to be referred, in presbytery, Netta.” Netta looked as near to and a stern expression. the first instance, to you. Explain the hard facts to pleased as she could manage. “Look at this,” he said, thrusting Mr Gildea’s the Gildeas and get yourself disentangled from After an uneasy hesitation, he was invited letter and list at the canon without preamble. the swagged curtains Mrs Gildea is suggesting into the front room. It was wreathed in a haar of “...And THIS,” he added a moment later, for all the public rooms in the presbytery.” tobacco smoke. Through it, the canon could see slapping a sheaf of papers down in front of “You’re making the punishment fit the a small man puffing away at his pipe and star- Canon Brennan, who was growing more appre- crime, then?” the canon asked faintly. ing into an empty fireplace. hensive by the moment. “Quite,” was the reply. “This is ma man... Eluck,” announced Netta, “These are estimates for the repairs and throwing open a window. “Pit that pipe oot.” refurbishments suggested by the Gildeas,” the t lunch, he said little to Fr John Paul The canon braced himself for the outbreak bishop in a dangerously quiet voice. “I just about his visit to the bishop. Instead, he of hostilities. The pipe was set aside and the thought that you should see what kind of hor- Atold him about his subsequent visit to visitor breathed a sigh of relief. He accepted net’s nest you have stirred up.” the school for the final preparation for First the offer of a cup of tea and managed to start up EWTN PROGRAMMES There was silence for a moment or two, Communion. a conversation with the man of the house. while the estimates were examined. Then, the “The children still have their hearts set on a “He’s been made redundant,” the canon told SUN 18 DECEMBER 9PM canon sighed heavily. Corpus Christi procession on First Communion Fr John Paul that evening. “He’s a joiner. Worked 9AM PASSIONATELY LOVING THE “Out of the question, I suppose... the repairs Day,” he smiled, “And, as you know, St Jerome’s in that factory that makes double glazing units... IN CONCERT: CORRETTE’S CHRIST- WORLD: ORDINARY AMERICANS MAS SYMPHONIES LIVING THE SPIRITUALITY OF ST and renewals, I mean,” he said. pupils don’t want to be outdone, and still want to window frames and suchlike. Says that since the 10.30AM JOSEMARIA “Well... since Mrs Gildea seems intent on borrow our splendid canopy for the procession whole country’s now double glazed, the work’s ADVENT REFLECTIONS WITH DR 10AM turning St Jerome’s Presbytery into something they’re hoping to have on that same day...” run out, and ...in his own words...he’s on the TIM GRAY NEW SERIES SAINTS ALIVE! 11AM WED 21 DECEMBER resembling the Palace of Versailles, I think you “Oh dear,” Fr John Paul braced himself for an scrap heap. He’s not a happy man. Won’t leave LIVE ANGELUS WITH POPE BENE- 1PM know the answer to that, Tom Brannan,” the account of cross-parish tensions. the house. Teetering on the edge of depression. DICT XVI LIVE HOLY MASS bishop replied. The canon beamed. “Problems ahead, you Netta’s at her wits end with him.” 1PM 9PM LIVE SUNDAY MASS WORD IS BORN, THE: CHRISTMAS There was an uneasy silence for what might think. But you’d be wrong. The children “However,” he added with a smile, “I told him 3.30PM WITH THE LOUISVILLE CHORUS seemed an age, while the miscreant struggled have worked it all out among themselves. They’ve about the plans for building the new church hall ADVENT REFLECTIONS FROM 9.30PM to find a foothold. suggested a three o’clock procession at St Aidan’s and he seemed quite interested, so I suggested that SHREWSBURY CATHEDRAL FOWLER SISTERS: CHRISTMAS GIFT 4PM THURS 22 DECEMBER “Any chance of a cup of tea, my Lord?” he on First Communion Day and one at six o’clock he might like to lend his expertise to the project LIFE ON THE ROCK 1PM heard himself saying. Hot, sweet tea is consid- over at St Jerome’s, followed by Benediction. And once it starts. He seemed quite pleased. I think I’ll 5PM LIVE HOLY MASS ered the best thing for someone who’s had a the canopy, they suggested, could be used for both. ask Addie Ford to call in and tell him about it. THE WORLD OVER 7PM shock...” Furthermore, they’ve asked if the St Aidan’s First Strike while the iron’s hot, so to speak...” 7PM CHRISTMAS WITH THE NUNS JOYFUL HOUR 8PM The bishop allowed himself just the ghost of a Communicants who want to share in the later pro- “Great idea,” Fr John Paul said.“Which brings 8PM EWTN LIVE smile and nodded. “Yes. I notice that you’re cession can come over to St Jerome’s for that. me to news that I’ve been saving for you all after- THE BEST OF THE JOURNEY HOME 9PM looking a bit pale...” They’ve discussed it all with Miss Rose, but she noon. I had a call to say that our planning appli- 10PM FOOTPRINTS OF GOD: JESUS: THE VATICANO WORD BECAME FLESH Over the reviving tea and biscuits, the atmos- tells me that it was their own idea. They seem to cation for the hall’s through and we’ll get the letter 11PM FRI 23 DECEMBER 2011 phere thawed a bit. “I was just trying to ease Bert be quite taken with the idea of the two parishes of confirmation in the next couple of days...” BENEDICTION 1PM Mullaney’s path into the presbytery,” the canon joining forces, so to speak.” The canon leapt to his feet, sheer delight MON 19 DECEMBER LIVE HOLY MASS 1PM 7PM said.“I got a bit carried away, I’m afraid.” A slow smile spread across Fr John Paul’s spread across his features. LIVE HOLY MASS FORGOTTEN HERITAGE: EUROPE “I’d agree with that, Canon Brannan,” was face, and he didn’t speak for a moment or two. “Let hostilities commence,” he laughed. 7PM AND OUR LADY LIVING THE DISCERNING LIFE: THE 8PM SPIRITUAL TEACHING OF ST THE WORLD OVER IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA 9PM 9PM G K CHESTERTON'S, ‘THE SURPRISE’ MEETING JOSEMARIA ESCRIVA 10PM Our priests are not museum curators TUES 20 DECEMBER CRASH COURSE IN THE SAINTS 1PM SAT 24 DECEMBER AS A young priest the then Fr LIVE HOLY MASS 1PM Roncalli was puzzled at the 4.30PM LIVE HOLY MASS A TIME TO REMEMBER 8PM careerism of priests in the Mgr Basil 7PM CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA'S Roman Curia, where so many MUSIC FOR ADVENT AND CHRIST- CHRISTMAS CONCERT of them were entirely Loftus Zeal and Patience MAS 9PM 8PM SOLEMN MASS OF CHRISTMAS EVE involved in legal and THE JOURNEY HOME WITH POPE BENEDICT XVI administrative work. He wrote to a friend on developed and developing, rather your solitary Masses, your because ‘in the course of the Christmas Eve, 1928: than a fossilised, theology of the prelatical doting upon rank or years we have truly to become “Gladly did I leave priesthood. In order to be more affluence, your privileged station what we already are.’ As priests LAY READERS’ GUIDE Rome...What a degradation of accommodating to the secular at altar or confessional—and we cannot serve today’s world by Fr John Breslin the priestly life.” culture, old-fashioned identify radiantly, humbly, with from a model of the priesthood So when the same Fr Roncalli relationships of obedience to the everyman.’ The priesthood today fashioned on the values of the became Pope John XXIII 30 authority of bishop and priest had requires growth in the Council of Trent, or of a SUNDAY DECEMBER 18 years later there was considerable to adapt to a milieu of social and understanding of how the long-gone Christendom. That Advent 4/B. 2 Samuel 7:1-5. 8-12. 14-16. Response: I will sing forever of your love, O Lord. Romans 16:26-27. Luke interest in the views he would gender equality, and increasing vocation can function in today’s would be a priesthood becoming 1:26-38. express on the priesthood. informality of address and world. After the council, on what it used to be. Individual Pope John’s Second Vatican behaviour. September 23, 1992, the German priests understand that. It is time MONDAY Council was there to read the The word ‘presbyteros’ in bishops again led the way in for the institutional church to Judge 13:2-7.24-15 Response: My lips are filled with your signs of the times. Theology and Greek means an elder of the trying to ensure that our show that it does so as well. praise and your glory all day. Luke 1:5-25. spirituality are not timeless. And people—not necessarily an older understanding of the priesthood It all shows that Pope John because the priesthood interacts person, but someone who is is relevant to the society that the XXIII was right when he said TUESDAY Isaiah 7:10-14. Response: Let the Lord enter! He is the with the developing cultural life well-respected. This was the priests serve today. They during the Second Vatican King of Glory. Luke 1:26-38 of the whole People of God, it is hallmark of the priests in the addressed a letter to all the Council that the Church is not a particularly sensitive to early days of the Church, when German priests, stressing that museum. Our current problem, WEDNESDAY developments in the world. By Luke, in the Acts of the Apostles, Christendom—by which they in a changing world and a Song of songs: 2:8-14. Response: Ring out your joy to the the 20th century careerism describes them as ‘praising God meant a world in which changing church, is to make sure Lord, O you just; O sing Him a song that is new. Luke 1:39- amongst priests was not such a and having the goodwill of all the Christianity and Christian values that priests are not understood as 45. widespread problem. But people,’ (2:42). The Liturgy prevailed— had gone forever. museum curators, because, in Fr THURSDAY clericalism, the undue influence introduced bythe Secon Vatican What, they then asked, had Roncalli’s words, that truly 1 Samuel 1:24-28. Response: My heart exhults in the Lord of clergy within the People of Councill could not hope to priests to do today to be sure of would be ‘a degradation of the my saviour. Luke 1:18-56. God, certainly was, and perhaps succeed unless there was also a ‘having the goodwill of all the priesthood.’ still is. Archbishop D’Souza ‘user-friendly’ priesthood. So the people?’ FRIDAY from India put the problem very council produced a document on The German bishops spoke of Mgr Basil Loftus is a priest of Malachi 3: 1-4.23-24 Isaiah 7:10-14;8:10. Response: Stand bluntly during the debate on the the priesthood (Presbyterorum the need to envisage a changed the Diocese of Leeds now living erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near priesthood ‘are we...truly Ordinem) that was summed up future image of a Church, and of in retirement in the North of at hand. Luke 1:57-6. prepared to abdicate clericalism?’ by John Oliver Nelson, the associated and necessary changes Sutherland. He worked in SATURDAY Julius Döpfner, the Cardinal American Presbyterian minister, to our understanding of the secretariat for English and 2 Samuel 7:1-5.8-12.14-16 Response: I will sing forever of Archbishop of Munich, urged the who replied to the document, as priesthood, which would be a Welsh bishops in Rome during your love, O Lord. Luke 1:67-79. council to adapt a historically saying to priests ‘come out of crash-course in ‘catch-up,’ the Second Vatican Council Friday December 16 2011 SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER CHILDREN’S LITURGY 23

Our weekly series on Children’s Liturgy has lesson plans and activity suggestions for use with young people who are on the path to Christ Each week, Catechists will find readings and Psalm responses, complemented by prayer, reflection, FAITH discussion questions, and activities. Please feel free to use them as you wish The lessons are created by Adorer-theologians using the lens of the spirituality of St Maria de Mattias, which also embraces precious blood spirituality FIRST While this is the starting point for the lessons, readers are invited to approach them however the spirit moves you The Church is concerned with the availability and understanding of scripture for children who have their rightful place in the Church. In light of this SCO aims to provide a useful tool in drawing children closer to KIDS the Catholic Faith message contrary to the cultural milieu of and praise His name. the first century. This historical event of (R) Today is born our Saviour, Christ the birth of Jesus took place in a prepared, Lord. Nativity of Our Lord—First simple, and ordinary place; birthed from Day after day announce: “The Lord has a young, simple, ordinary woman, named saved us!” Reading Mary (Miriam); and fostered by an Tell every nation on earth: “The Lord is A son is given to us. A reading from the book of the ordinary man, named Joseph. Too often wonderful and does marvellous things!” we let this reality become a part of the (R) Today is born our Saviour, Christ the prophet Isaiah 9:2-4, 6-7. Christmas Story. Lord. Mary and Joseph were ordinary Tell the heavens and the earth to be glad Those who walked in the dark have seen a bright people, living in an ordinary household of and celebrate! light. And it shines upon everyone who lives in the first century. Their lives, however, Command the ocean to roar with all of its the land of darkest shadows. were not so ordinary, but rather, creatures and the fields to rejoice with all of Our Lord, you have made your nation stronger. ordinary people who responded in faith their crops. Because of you, its people are glad and to an invitation of God to live life in an (R) Today is born our Saviour, Christ the celebrate like workers at harvest time or soldiers extraordinary way—in their humanity. Lord. dividing what they have taken. You have broken We too, are called by our Baptismal the power of those who oppressed and enslaved call, to live extraordinary lives as Second Reading your people. You have rescued them as you did witnesses of Jesus’ life, death and God’s grace has been revealed to all people. A from Midian. resurrection. We are given three-fold gifts reading from the first letter of Paul to Titus 3:4-6 For us a child has been born. A son has been to assist us, namely: The Word of Brothers and sisters, God our Saviour given to us, and He will be our ruler. His names God-Scriptures, God’s unconditional gift showed us how good and kind He is. will be: Wonderful Adviser and Mighty God, of Grace, and a Catholic Christian He saved us because of His mercy, and not Eternal Father and Prince of Peace. His power Community, to strengthen and foster our because of any good things that we have will never end, and peace will last forever. He will faith commitment to live as a disciple of done. rule David’s kingdom and make it grow strong. Christ. Mary pondered the call, God washed us by the power of the Holy proclaimed Her ‘yes’ to God, and to live Spirit. He gave us new birth and a fresh He will always rule with honesty and justice. The Reflection Her call to holiness, for the sake of the beginning. God sent Jesus Christ our Sav- Lord All-Powerful will make certain that all of this THE prophets revealed God’s will for the people of God. She is the first disciple to iour to give us his Spirit. is done. Israelites whether they wanted to listen or witness the Incarnate Word of God—our The Word of the Lord. The Word of the Lord not. Jesus is born of the House of David. Redeemer, within Her womb. The lengthy genealogy of God’s Promise, Alleluia Fidelity and unconditional Love is Discussion Luke 2:10-11 proclaimed for us this day. The Hebrew How have you given witness to the birth (R) Alleluia, alleluia. The Children’s Liturgy page is published one Scriptures begin the Story of God’s of Christ within you? Good news and great joy to all the world: week in advance to allow RE teachers and those promise to send a redeemer, often to a How well do you live your call to today is born our Saviour, Christ the Lord. people that resisted hearing what God had holiness; to live as an ordinary person (R) Alleluia, alleluia. taking the Children’s Liturgy at weekly Masses to to say. The Church has given us this graced extraordinarily? use, if they wish, this page as an accompaniment filled season to remember the earliest story Our Baptism calls us to bear witness to Gospel of our Faith; the Christian Story. the Living Word of God, the Scriptures. Today a Saviour has been born for you. A to their teaching materials We now celebrate the Season of How well have you live your reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke Christmas. Traditionally, this is a time to Baptismal call to be Living Saints? 2:1-14 reflect upon the fulfillment of God’s The Incarnate Word of God lived a Emperor Augustus gave orders for the Word to all peoples: “This is my beloved human life in an extraordinary way, calling names of all the people to be listed in Son, listen to Him!” The story began with His disciples to follow his Way. What does record books. These first records were the reminder that we are a people in need your discipleship look like? How well do made when Quirinius was Governor of of a redeemer to free us from our you live your call to be priest, prophet and Syria. Everyone had to go to their own inclination to turn away from God: Sin. Servant? How well do you live your call to hometown to be listed. So Joseph had to Jesus is born among us, like us in human be all that God intended for you? leave Nazareth in Galilee and go to nature, the Incarnate Word of God—God Bethlehem in Judea. with us. God promised the young woman, Activities Long ago Bethlehem had been King Mary, to be ever present, to be Her Prepare a modern crib scene. Our David’s hometown, and Joseph went there strength, to guide Her along the way. baptismal call begins at birth surrounded because he was from David’s family. Mary Mary, Joseph and Jesus, the Holy Family, by our ‘holy family.’ was engaged to Joseph and travelled with must continue to travel from place to Materials needed: Photos of ordinary him to Bethlehem. She was soon going to place, to seek refuge from an ever people, an infant child (as Jesus), a young have a baby, and while they were there, increasing dangerous political unrest. woman (as Mary), and an adult male (as She gave birth to Her first-born son. She The birth of Jesus stirs the hearts of Joseph). Glue and coloured card. dressed Him in baby clothes and laid Him many; those who have long prayed for The younger ones will need some help. in a manger, because there was no room for His coming; the poor, the marginalised, The older children may want to expand the them in the inn. the throw-away people of society. There family to include relatives. Mary had That night in the fields near Bethlehem are also those who have long awaited the parents, Joachim and Anna; and extended some shepherds were guarding their sheep. promised Messiah: our Jewish brothers family members of Elizabeth, Zachariah All at once an angel came down to them and sisters. In the first century, as the and John (the Baptist). from the Lord, and the brightness of the Scriptures mention and the writings of Lord’s glory flashed around them. The Josephus, a Jewish chronicler for the Prayer shepherds were frightened. But the angel Romans, who wrote about the Military Dear Jesus, as your birthday approaches said: “Don’t be afraid! I have good news battles of the Romans and the Chosen there are so many things happening. Every for you, which will make everyone happy. People; thus they hoped for a Messiah thing is so pretty. Help me to remember that This very day in King David’s hometown a that would be for them a religious leader, Christmas is all about you and not how Saviour was born for you. He is Christ the a political leader and still yet a military many presents I get. Amen. Lord. You will know who He is, because leader—to wage a battle on their you will find Him dressed in baby clothes enemies. As we witness the reality of the Responsorial Psalm and lying in a manger.” Middle East a religious, political, and 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 11-12a Suddenly many other angels came down military leadership is still longed for. (R) Today is born our Saviour, Christ the from heaven And joined in praising God. The Birth of Christ, the Messiah, the Lord. They said: “Praise God in Heaven! Peace Chosen One of God, became for Sing a new song to the Lord! Everyone on on earth to everyone who pleases God.” Christians a promise of peace and love; a this earth, sing praises to the Lord, sing The Gospel of the Lord 24 CELEBRATING LIFE SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER SCOTTISH CATHOLIC OBSERVER Friday December 16 2011

Young parishioners of St Mary’s Church in Fort William are pictured with Bishop Joseph Toal of Argyl and the Isles Diocese after they received the Sacrament of Confirmation. PIC: ANTHONY MACMILLAN Knights honour St Martin de Tours Stirling parish raises new By Dan McGinty from Province 28 Paisley. Brother Alan Beaton is pictured receiving his banner in honour of patron As part of the celebration, Brother Alan Meritorious Award from New Provincial Grand THE Knights of St Columba gathered Beaton of Council 8 Clydebank, received Knight Thomas McKinlay. in Glasgow’s St Alphonsus Church on a Meritorious Award for his commitment St Margaret, on feast day the feast of St Martin of Tours. and work within the order over the past During the Mass, celebrated by Fr quarter of a century, while at the end of ST MARGARET’S in Stir- winding its way through Stir- Hendry, the Provincial Chaplain to the Mass Brother Charlie McCluskey was recent Supreme Council. Brother Alan ling unveiled a new banner ling. The banner was made by Knights in Glasgow, three men joined the presented with his Past Provincial Grand Beaton is pictured receiving his Meritori- designed to honour the a team of nine dedicated parish- order while seven existing brothers were Knights Collar and Jewel after being ous Award from New Provincial Grand patron saint of the parish for ioners, led by Morven Roche, raised to full Knighthood, including two elected to the Board of Directors at the Knight Thomas McKinlay. her recent feast day. who range in age from 10 to 80 Designed by Christine years old. McIver, the banner is based on After several sessions in the a window behind the altar of church hall, cutting, ironing the church and features the cen- and stitching the raw material, tral elements of St Margaret’s the banner was finally quilted. life, such as her almsgiving. After the finishing touches Eight marguerite daisies on were added, the banner was the border represent each one blessed on St Margaret’s feast of her children, and the flowing day and will serve the parish water mirrors the River Forth for many years to come. SPOTLIGHT ON...

Children and parishioners at St John Ogilvie’s in Edinburgh presented SCIAF a cheque for almost £600. The money was raised over the course of the year by the children's liturgy group, and will pay for a SCIAF Real Gift of water for a village Celebrating Life Do you have a special occasion from your parish or a celebration at your school that you wish to share with the SCO? If so, e-mail our local news editor Martin Dunlop: [email protected]