Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and SEPTEMBER 6, 2020 any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbour as TERHAD PP 8460/11/2012(030939) yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbour; ISSN: 1394-3294 therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Vol. 27 No. 35 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY Rom. 13:8-10 Hunger will cause more victims in Asia and the world than COVID-19 ANGKOK: The world is and don’t have enough money to feed their plunging towards an un- families. precedented food crisis In addition to economic hardship, pro- B longed lockdowns and the interruption of triggered by COVID-19, which food supply chains have created serious could cause more victims than the problems to food distribution. virus itself. Even in its best-case projections, the UN According to a study by Oxfam, by the predicts that hunger will be greater over the end of the year, up to 12,000 people could next decade than forecast before the pan- die every day from hunger as a direct or demic. indirect consequence of the novel corona- By 2030, the number of undernourished virus. people could reach 909 million, compared Such a number would be greater than with a pre-COVID scenario of around 841 those caused by the pandemic itself and million. linked to an increase of more than 80 per “We’ll see the scars of this crisis for gen- cent of people for whom food is a critical erations,” said Mariana Chilton, director of factor. the Centre for Hunger-Free Communities at Updated estimates indicate that 132 mil- Drexel University. “In 2120, we’ll still be lion more people than expected could face talking about this crisis.” hunger by the end of 2020, three times The food crisis can trigger real political greater than any increase in this century. upheavals. Going back to the hectic days The pandemic has disrupted food supply of the French Revolution, food insecurity chains, undermined national economies and pushed people to take to the streets and pro- progressively eroded the purchasing power test against rising prices and to ask for bet- of consumers. ter conditions. Analysts and experts point out that COV- Nowadays, inflation and resource -scar ID-19 has put the spotlight on some of the city are some of the factors that exacerbated deepest inequalities in the world, sharpen- protests in Lebanon and Chile earlier this ing global social divisions. year. Meanwhile, the richest continue to enjoy Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, “Our a dizzying pace of wealth accumulation food systems are failing,” warns the United whilst millions of people have been laid off Nations. — AsiaNews/Agencies By the end of the year, 12,000 people could die every day from lack of food. (Asianews photo) Pope to take his post-pandemic pleas to global stage VATICAN: When he addresses, via video in a way that is better for human beings and “COVID-19 not only provoked a health litical and economic health as well, he said. message, the UN General Assembly Sept for the environment. crisis but impacted multiple aspects of hu- The pandemic revealed “our common 15, Pope Francis is expected to speak about He spoke about transforming “the roots of man life: the family, politics, labour, busi- weakness, our shared fragility,” he said. using the coronavirus crisis as an opportu- our physical, spiritual and social infirmities nesses, commerce, tourism, etc.,” Parolin “However, instead of fostering coopera- nity to rethink economic, political and envi- and the destructive practices that separate said. “The broad and interconnected char- tion for the universal common good, we ronmental policies in a way that will benefit us from each other, threatening the human acter of the pandemic constantly reminds see more and more walls rising around us, humanity and the earth. family and our planet.” us of the observation of Pope Francis that exalting borders as guarantees of security, Since COVID-19 was officially recog- In a long interview published Aug 27, ‘everything is connected.”’ practicing systematic violations of the law, nised as a pandemic in early March, the Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of The cardinal said acceptance of the idea and maintaining a situation of permanent Pope has been urging individuals, organi- state, was asked what principles of Catho- that the economy is not everything is the global conflict. sations and governments to recognise the lic social teaching could help the global only explanation for the fact that so many “As Pope Francis recalled in Nagasaki in inequalities the pandemic has highlighted economy recover from the pandemic and its national and local governments ordered November, arms spending reached its peak in economics and access to health care and lockdowns. lockdowns to prevent the spread of the coro- in 2019, and now there is a serious risk that, education, as well as the ways current pat- “The priority is not the economy as such, navirus! “It shows that the priority isn’t the after a period of decline, including due to terns of production and consumption have but the human person,” he responded to economy but the person.” pandemic-related restrictions, it will start to damaged the environment. Carlo di Cicco, former assistant editor of the However, he said, for the Catholic Church, increase again,” he said. Francis began a series of general audience Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano. it is not enough to be concerned about a per- But, he said, the pandemic demonstrates talks Aug 5 about the principles of Catholic The interview was posted on Riparte son’s physical health. “The integrity of the that what is needed is “friendship and be- social teaching that can help the world re- L’Italia, the online magazine of an econom- human person must be cared for,” which nevolence rather than hatred and fear.” — cover from the pandemic and move forward ic and social think tank. means caring for the person’s spiritual, po- By Cindy Wooden, CNS 2 Forum / Reflection HERALD September 6, 2020 Trials and tribulations his Merdeka and Malaysia Day, celebra- Yet, perhaps we can also sense a divine hand tions seem a little more subdued. Sunday Observer at work. The restricted movements and reduced T How is it possible to celebrate whole- economic activity have given nature a breather heartedly when so many people around the By and allowed us some time for much-needed re- world have been hit by the coronavirus, when so flection. It has put the brakes — at least tempo- many have perished? Anil Netto rarily — on a world hurtling towards irreversible That’s not all. Many, many people are losing climate change. [email protected] their jobs. One survey indicated that almost half The pandemic has taught us who really mat- of manufacturers in Malaysia are expected to lay ters in our world when the going gets tough. Was off up to 30 per cent of their workforce by the in the number of calls to their domestic violence With Jesus moving on from the scene, it was it the CEOs, the high financiers, the politicians end of the year. hotlines. time for the Spirit to descend and spread the who usually receive the lion’s share of media That would be devastating for so many house- Where is God in all this turmoil? Why does message, this time not confined to a geographi- coverage? Or was it the unsung healthcare per- holds, already struggling to cope. Many are now He allow suffering to happen even among “good cal location like Judaea and Galilee. Inspired, sonnel, the food delivery personnel, the restau- working with pay cuts, with the prospect of re- people”? That is the eternal question. infused and energised by the Spirit, the Apostles rant staff, the convenience store cashiers, the duced or zero increments and bonuses, even re- The book of Job tells us that even an upright were able to fan out across the world to spread household waste disposal personnel? duced working hours. and faithful person like Job was not spared dis- the Good News of a new kingdom. This time of tribulation has reminded us of the How are all these people going to make ends tress and suffering. His friends abandoned him, Fast forward to the present. The suffering is importance of community solidarity — even if meet, especially if more jobs are lost? What hap- even his wife could not understand his suffering. at so many levels — in our world, in our nation, sometimes hate speech and selfishness returned pens if they are unable to repay their bank loans God seemed distant, while the afflictions were in our households. Even the invisible bonds that to grip segments of society. It has rekindled in or vehicle instalments once the moratorium is all too real and painful. hold Creation together are frayed. us the importance of working towards a more lifted? To compound matters, not all prayers to re- We don’t know how the Father will harness inclusive nation. The economy is in the doldrums, while house- lieve suffering are answered in the way we hope the suffering in the world and in our own lives to Our reflection should point us to a saner path hold debt has skyrocketed. for or expect. Even Jesus’ anguished prayer in heal Creation, which is “in labour”. towards sustainable development and a more To make matters worse, the political situa- Gethsemane to be spared the cup of suffering The coronavirus pandemic has created a lot of egalitarian distribution of wealth. tion is sharply divided along racial and religious was not heeded. suffering and many deaths. Again, the question So while we acknowledge the suffering and lines. Racial and religious political parties from But that does not mean God has not heard the rings out: why did God ‘allow’ this to happen? do our best to relieve the pain felt by ourselves the old days are trying their best to stay relevant prayer or is not in control. In the case of Jesus, He didn’t will this affliction on us. But it hap- and our neighbours, let us always remember that with their divisive rhetoric. the Father used the suffering and death of his son pened. the Father is always there, waiting to heal our Yes, the nation is suffering at so many levels. to vindicate all that Jesus stood for. The pandemic has also exposed a lot that is land, our broken bonds with creation, and our At a household level, many people are also Jesus’ death and resurrection bridged the wrong in our world. It has placed in stark relief personal pain, if only we turn to him. suffering in their own lives, whether from pro- chasm between humanity and the Father and the structural, socioeconomic, environmental longed illness, stress, domestic abuse and vio- healed the broken bonds between us and our fel- and personal sins we have committed in this This piece is dedicated to the memory of my dear lence, or financial hardship. During the recent low sojourners, and between us and all of Crea- world, both the sins of commission and those of aunt, Elgin Corray, who passed away on August lockdowns, women’s groups reported a spike tion. omission. 28. Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time: Minority Report ou heard the kids stirring this morning. dered, “Why am I the one in the minority? Why YYou opened your eyes. It can’t be morn- am I getting up early on Sunday morning when ing already. It’s Sunday, I have to get them the rest are sleeping in? Why am I the one who Reflecting on our Sunday Readings dressed. You wash up. You get the kids washed is alone at the movie when others are out having where two or three are gathered in my name, I 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time up. You throw the paper inside and try to keep a good time? Why am I the only one in Med am there among them.” Readings: Ezekiel 33:7-9; the kids from killing each other over who gets School who structures church into my crowded We go to church because we believe in Jesus Romans 13:8-10; the comics first. You get some breakfast on and week? Why am I the only one who accepts the Christ. We believe in His presence in Word and Gospel: Matthew 18:15-20 get some coffee in yourself and cereal in the Church’s teaching on abortion? Why is my fam- Sacrament. We need His presence in our fami- kids. You look at the clock. 8:45 already! “Get ily the only family going to church?” lies. We come to church to get our spiritual bat- ithout you, medicine is a science without direc- the kids in the car, we’ve got to go.” You drive When questions like this disturb us, we have teries charged with the grace of His scriptural tion, Lord, may other Catholics stand behind down your street. You seem to be one of the to remember, Jesus never promised that we and sacramental presence. We come so we can your spirit in the Church, and Lord, may my few families stirring. Everyone else is going to would be in the majority. He just promised that have the courage to make it through another family and the families of all in my high school have a relaxing breakfast. It hits you. We are in He would be with us always. week, especially if we are called upon to stand class grow closer to you.” And we come to re- a minority on our block. We are one of the few The Gospel of Matthew revolves around this for our faith. We come so we can pray, “Lord, ceive the grace to live our lives in a way that families which goes to church Sunday morning. very theme. Jesus is with us, even if we seem my life is difficult at times, but you called me proclaims the presence of the Lord on earth. Five of you made the trip to corporate head- to be just a small, insignificant number. In the to marriage, you made me a father or mother, Our church is big, but there are not many at- quarters in Phoenix. The second night four of beginning of Matthew, Jesus is called Emma- help me to answer your call well.” We come to tending Mass in comparison to those who don’t. the others found dates; three of them are mar- nuel, the name that means, “God is with his peo- pray for others, “Lord, may the people on my We are, and will always be in the minority. But ried, but their view was that what their spouses ple.” The last words of the gospel are “Know block nourish the place you must have in their Jesus Christ never promised us that we would did not know wouldn’t hurt them. So you went that I am with you even until the end of time.” families. Lord, may the people at work learn be, in the majority. He just promised that he to a movie and it is so clear to you, “I wouldn’t Moreover, in the middle of the Gospel we have to honour, value, and respect their marriages. would be with us always. — By Msgr Joseph even think of cheating; yet, I’m in the minority.” the concluding words of today’s reading. “For Lord, may the others in med school learn that A Pellegrino You are among ninety-six of the most brilliant college graduates who have been accepted to a Thoughts From The Early Church particular medical school. Your excitement in- cludes finally getting to study to be a doctor; as I tell you that you must forgive not seven times but seventy times seven (Mt 18:22) well as the new way you have to frame your life he Lord puts the parable of the unforgiving Lord’s own words: “Forgive and you will be for- debt. with an off campus apartment in a quiet area so Tdebtor before us that we may learn from it. He given; give and you will receive.” (Mt 6:14) The And so, every day we pray; every day we beat you can study during the few hours when you has no desire for us to die, so he warns us: “This former concerns pardon, the latter generosity. upon God’s ears with our pleas; every day we are not in class. You ask for the location of the is how your heavenly Father will deal with you if As regards pardon he says: “Just as you want prostrate ourselves before him saying: “Forgive us nearest church and find that there are only three you, any of you, fail to forgive your brother or sis- to be forgiven, so someone is in need of your for- our trespasses, as we also forgive those who tres- others of the 96 who even believe in God. You ter from your heart.” giveness.” Again, as regards generosity, consider pass against us.” are in the minority. Take notice now, for clearly this is no idle warn- when a beggar asks you for something that you are Which of our trespasses, all of them or only Most of the people in the office you work in ing. The fulfilment of this command calls for the a beggar too in relation to God. some? All, you will answer. do go to church. About half of them are Catho- most vigorous obedience. We are all in debt to When we pray we are all beggars before God. Do likewise, therefore, with those who have of- lic. You are shocked when someone talks about God, just as other people are in debt to us. Is there We are standing at the door of a great householder, fended you. or rather, lying prostrate, and begging with tears. This is the rule you have laid down for your- abortion and says, “Well, I’m Catholic, but I anyone who is not God’s debtor? Only a person in whom no sin can be found. And is there any- We are longing to receive a gift — the gift of God self, the condition you have stipulated. When you don’t go along with what the Church is saying one who has no brother or sister in his debt? Only himself. pray according to this pact and covenant you re- on abortion.” Everyone else seems to be agree- if there be someone who has never suffered any What does a beggar ask of you? Bread. And member to say: “Forgive us, as we also forgive ing with the person. You are in the minority. wrong. you, what do you ask of God, if not Christ, who our debtors.” — Augustine (354-430) was born The sociology teacher in the high school asks, Do you think anyone can be found in the entire said: “I am the living bread that has come down at Thagaste in Africa and received a Christian “How many of your families are active mem- human race who has not in turn wronged another from heaven”? Do you want to be pardoned? Then education, although he was not baptised until bers of some Church or synagogue?” Less than in some way, incurring a debt to that person? No, pardon others. Forgive and you will be forgiven. 387. In 391 he was ordained priest and in 395 10 of the 35 in the class raise their hands. You all are debtors, and have others in debt to them. Do you want to receive? Give and you will re- he became coadjutor bishop to Valerius of Hippo, suddenly realise that you are in the minority. Accordingly God, who is just, has told you how to ceive. whom he succeeded in 396. Augustine’s theology Perhaps some of these situations, or others treat your debtor, because he means to treat us in If we think of our sins, reckoning up those we was formulated in the course of his struggle with like them, have occurred in your life. Perhaps the same way. have committed by sight, hearing, thought, and three heresies: Manichaeism, Donatism, and Pe- they occur frequently. Perhaps you have won- There are two works of mercy which will set us countless disorderly emotions, I do not know lagianism. His writings are voluminous and his free. They are briefly set down in the gospel in the whether we can even sleep without falling into influence on subsequent theology immense. HERALD September 6, 2020 Bishops’ Speak 3

Diocese of Penang Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu Notifications and updates Protect our earth Dear Clergy, Religious, Heads of Minis- 12. The Ordination to the Permanent – protect our tries and the Lay Faithful, Diaconate of Charles Lazaroo will be held on Oct 2, 2020, at the Taiping Catho- children campaign Greetings of Joy, Mercy and Hope! lic Church, Perak. Personal invitations for To all priests, religious. and faithful in the Archdiocese I wish to give you some notifications and this ordination will be handled by Taiping of Kota Kinabalu updates on the happenings in our diocese. Catholic Church, Perak. In Laudato Si’ (no 79), Pope Francis states that it is the 1. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of 13. The Collection of Peter’s Pence, duty of the Church to protect humanity from self-de- Malaysia has endorsed the decision to be which is usually done on the Solemnity struction. As disciples of Christ, we are bound to safe- part of the Caritas family under Caritas of Saints Peter and Paul on June 29, has guard ALL creation on Earth, especially the children of Asia. As the overarching body for all or- been transferred to Oct 4 this year. This today and tomorrow. ganisations involved in charity and human decision was made by the Holy See and The Creation Justice Commission (CJC) of Malay- development in the Malaysian dioceses, confirmed by the Catholic Bishops’ Con- sia has launched a five-year Malaysia-wide Campaign Caritas Malaysia was set up on January ference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Bru- which has been sanctioned by all the Arch/bishops of 10, 2020. Representing the Diocese of nei (CBCMSB). grated for all three state councils in Fr Malaysia. It is called the Protect Our Earth, Protect Penang are Fr Joachim Robert and Ms 14. It has been almost two months now Jude Miranda who is currently the ex- Our Children’ Campaign — in short, the ‘PROTEC’ Juanita Chin. More information on this that most parishes have begun opening isting Spiritual Advisor for the Diocesan CAMPAIGN. can be found on the link below. their doors for Sunday Masses, adhering Council of Penang. This PROTEC Campaign is aimed at protecting hu- https://www.caritas.asia/index.php/where- to the necessary Standard Operating Pro- manity from self-destruction (LS 79) to ensure intro we-are/southeast-asia-sub-region/caritas- 6. College General Major Seminary will cedure (SOPs) advised by the authorities. and intergenerational justice for current and future gen- malaysia be reopening for Semester 2 (3rd Quarter I thank you for your enthusiasm, courage erations (LS 159 - (62). We need to deepen our ecologi- for 2020) on Sept 1, 2020. and fervent faith in engaging with the 2. Catholic Healthcare Asia, which in- cal spirituality and turn it into action. The COVID-I9 7. Fr Louis Loi will be sent on a mission community at all levels through Creative, cludes Mt Miriam Cancer Hospital, Pen- pandemic should not detract us from ecological action. to accompany His Eminence Anthony Inclusive and Bridge-Building ways as ang, was officially established as a Public In fact, it should strengthen our resolve to advance cre- Soter Cardinal Fernandez, D.D. with ef- Missionary Disciples of Christ. As the Di- Juridic Personality by the Vatican on June ation justice and stop ecological destruction. Climate fect from Sept 1, 2020. ocese of Penang comprises five states and 19, 2020, the Feast of the Most Sacred change and the loss of biodiversity are large existential the situation in each state/district varies, I Heart of Jesus. 8. Please be informed that I will be away crisis that threaten the very fabric of life on Earth. humbly urge all parishes in the Diocese 3. A new unified service for the Catholic on my annual retreat from Sept 13 to 18, The PROTEC Campaign will focus on a different of Penang to constantly review the open- Charismatic Renewal was instituted by 2020. In my absence, kindly contact Msgr theme each year; meaning five different themes over ing of churches vigilantly, considering the the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life Stephen Liew, Msgr Henry Rajoo, and five years for the whole country. This campaign takes situations on the ground for the Common in Rome on December 8, 2018 called Msgr Aloysius Tan regarding diocesan off in this Laudato Si’ Special Anniversary Year as Good. Please follow the directives of the CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Renewal matters. declared by the Vatican (24th May 2020 – 24th May local and state authorities. Should there be International Service). This will now be a 9. The Collection for the Holy Land 2021). any doubt, kindly consult the local health, Service of Communion that emphasises which is traditionally done on Good Fri- police and other state authorities involved. the dimensions of evangelisation: the day in parishes, will be taken up on Sept THEME FOR YEAR 1 Please do not make decisions based on un- spread of Baptism in the Holy Spirit, the 13, 2020, close to the Feast of the Exalta- (Sept 1, 2020 - Aug 31, 2021): official/fake news. Always clarify with the unity of Christians and service to the poor. tion of the Holy Cross. This decision was USE LESS ELECTRICITY — For the Archdiocese authorities concerned. As such, CHARIS Malaysia was set up made by the Holy See and confirmed by of Kota Kinabalu, the launching of this Campaign will I assure you of my continuous prayers on Aug 13, 2020, endorsed by the Catholic the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ma- be held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral on Sept 5, 2020, and solidarity are with all in the Diocese of Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia. Repre- laysia, Singapore, and Brunei (CBCMSB). from 9.00am - 11.00am Penang, as the mission to love and serve senting the Diocese of Penang will be An- The Arch/Bishops of Malaysia, especially the Crea- 10. The Annual Clergy Retreat 2020 will continues in every possible way. God bless dre Ong and Vincent Lim. tion Justice Commission of Kota Kinabalu, earnestly be held from Sept 14 to 17, 2020 at Stella you with courage and hope in your mis- call upon all parishes, religious congregations, church 4. Fr Francis Anthony has officially re- Maris, Penang. Clergy who are unable to sionary efforts. tired with effect Aug 20, 2020 and is now attend this retreat are required to make organisations/offices, and all the faithful to support, implement and promote the recommended practices to Retired Priest in Residence at the Cathe- their own private annual retreat. “Be Disciples of Hope” save all life on Earth. dral of the Holy Spirit, Penang. 11. The Rite of Public Profession of the Sincerely in Christ, Evangelical Counsels of our Hermit, Sr 5. The Diocesan Council of Penang for Yours Devotedly, the Society of St Vincent de Paul encom- Maryanne of the Cross, will be on Sept 26, 2020, at the Church of St Joseph, Batu Rt Rev Sebastian Francis passing the three state councils of Kedah, Archbishop John Wong Perak and Penang will cease to have three Gajah. Personal invitations for this cer- Bishop of Penang emony will be handled by the Church of Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu separate Spiritual Advisors. With effect August 24, 2020 from Sept 1, 2020, this role will be inte- St Joseph, Batu Gajah, Perak. August 20, 2020

Diocese of Malacca Johore MJD News Update #6 Another week, another edition! The peace 2.0 A Few Announcements: 2.4. Seeing increasing needs and appeals for and evidence of witnesses, not hearsay or un- of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 2.1. The Annual Clergy Retreat will be spiritual liberation, a Training for Trainee Ex- signed letters or coffee shop talk. orcists is planned by the Deliverance & Exor- taking place from Sept 6 to 10 at MA- Thank you for watching. Stay tuned for more 1.0 A Thought For The Week: cism Office of MJD, headed by Fr Benedict JODI. Pray for your priests and deacons news and announcements next week and don’t A great boat race took place between a Yee, in November. to rekindle their call and mission. forget to Like and Subscribe to our Malacca team of the wise and a team of the foolish. 2.2. The extension of the RMCO till Dec Johore Diocese Facebook page and Youtube The wise won by a kilometre. So the fool- 2.5. September is dedicated as the Season of 31, 2020, calls for an “alternative way of channel. ish hired an expert to figure out what went Creation with the theme, Protect our Earth, being Church”. The Masses have begun Merdeka is over. Let us pray for “A Malay- wrong. The expert reported that the wise Protect our Children, with special focus on yet big numbers have yet to appear. The sia that is Truly Malaysian”. The pandemic had one person steering and eight people USE LESS ELECTRICITY. JOIN UP. Let us restrictions are there against the usual taught us, Malaysians, to help each other, rely rowing, while they had eight steering and do our part! home-bound, the children below 12, the on each other and work together. No racism nor one rowing. seniors above 70 and the critically ill. religious differences nor political leanings mat- The foolish immediately restructured 3.0 Today’s Q&Q: Can the people hold our “Alternative Ways of Doing Pastoral” tered to the affected. There is no peace without their team. Now they had one senior man- leaders, political and Church, accountable? are being looked into providing pastoral justice, no change without conversion of heart ager, seven management consultants and Yes. No one is above the law, and no one is care for the mentioned and the missing and no unity without untying prejudices. one rower. In the rematch, the wise beat the untouchable. In the Church, there is the Canon “healthy absentees”, for whatever rea- May His blessings be upon you and your foolish by two kilometres. Law, the pastoral directory and many other son. Online and controlled face-to-face family. Let us together continue building His The foolish had another consultation, SOPs on priestly life and ministry. The latest options are on the planning board. More Kingdom. and decided to fire their rower. call of the Pope is on Protection of Children info next. This is reflective of our nation, our many & The Vulnerable and Creating Safe Spaces. institutions and even our churches. The truth 2.3. What’s coming next? From Oct 12 There are boundaries and limits to all that we or the reality was staring at them in the face. to 15, a study week for clergy, pastoral do. When our deeds flaunt SOPs, correct prac- Bishop Bernard Paul But they could not see it. It is about seeing workers and MAJODI staff on Critical tices and procedures and guidelines, one must September 4, 2020 differently, seeing things as they really are. Leadership Thinking will take place at be held accountable. When it breaks the civil It has been said that “ we do not see things as MAJODI, which will be available online law, it is criminal. Proper proceedings and dis- they are, we see things as we are”. for registered viewers. ciplinary actions depend on documented report Click here to watch the video 4 Home HERALD September 6, 2020 Religious harmony — bedrock for nation’s prosperity, development Backgrounder KUALA LUMPUR: Pasir Puteh MP Nik Muham- need to apologise. Why should I? I don’t want to Despite being corrected by DAP’s Beruas MP l Please read the two statements mad Zawawi Nik Salleh has said that there is no comment, what I said is right. Why should I apolo- Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham, the PAS lawmaker insisted from the Malaysian Consultative need for him to apologise for saying that Bible has gise?” that he was correct and that he made the remarks Council of Buddhism, Christianity, been corrupted or manipulated. Nik Zawawi also Nik Zawawi had instead said that he is willing based on his study of comparative religion. Nik Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism said that Christians should not be offended, claim- to hold a “dialogue” over the matter. The PAS MP Zawawi had accused Ngeh of referring to a Bible (MCCBCHST and the Christian ing his statement was “a fact”. “They have no right made the remark when debating the Road Trans- that was already distorted when referring to alco- Federation of Malaysia (CFM) to be offended. What I said was not an accusation, port (Amendment) Bill 2020 to propose heavier hol consumption in Christianity. — By Soo Wern with regards to this issue. but a fact,” he was quoted saying. “There is no fines for drink driving offenders on August 26. Jun, MSN

The Malaysian Consultative Council of Bud- Parliament is a place to debate responsible riority by disparaging other religions. The above on behalf of MCCBCHST is issued dhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and and just governance based on rational argu- The MCCBCHST stands with the majority and endorsed by: Taoism (MCCBCHST) views with great con- ments, best practices and in tune with the pro- of peaceful Malaysians of goodwill and state ARCHBISHOP JULIAN LEOW BENG cern the developing controversy surrounding visions of the Federal Constitution. here that we will never allow certain politi- KIM of Christian Federation Malaysia the recent statement of the Pasir Puteh MP If this is the new normal, it will open the cians to dismantle the religious harmony that (CFM) and MCCBCHST president. Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh, when he door for others to do the same and it may lead we have built and upheld over 63 years. drew a comparison to Christianity, ridicul- to unnecessary arguments that may pit one The MCCBCHST calls upon the prime SARDAR JAGIR SINGH of Malaysian ing Christians by implying that they have religion against another, to be used by politi- minister to provide moral leadership by mak- Gurdwaras Council (MGC) and “distorted” the Bible on the interpretation of cians for their political gain and manoeuvring. ing a statement to forbid politicians who seek MCCBCHST deputy president. the use of alcohol in the august House of our We at MCCBCHST strongly feel that the to use religion to divide the nation. Bigotry in RS MOHAN SHAN of Malaysia Hindu Parliament. MP has crossed the line of bigotry as he of- public discourse should never be normalised. Sangam (MHS) and MCCBCHST vice- This is a radical departure in terms of de- fered a stereotyped view of another religion. The speaker of the House also carries the president. corum in parliamentary debates in our coun- If the current practice is condoned by the responsibility on behalf of all Malaysians to try, which is committed to religious harmony current government, we are indeed going disallow politicians who touch on matters of DAO ZHANG TAN HOE CHIEOW among all religious communities. An MP has to see an escalation of religious animosity religion other than their own in debates. of Federation of Taoist Associations given himself licence to criticise the tenets of between religious groups manufactured by This issue must be nipped in the bud im- Malaysian (FTAM) and MCCBCHST vice- another religion in Parliament, without the some politicians to divide and rule. mediately. president. expected rebuke from the honourable Speaker On the part of the MCCBCHST, we want If nothing is done, the current government VENERABLE SING KAN of Malaysia of the House. to categorically state that we are not going to will bear the full responsibility of destroying Buddhist Association (MBA) and This is a dangerous precedent and it is to- stoop so low and fall into the trap of build- the religious harmony which has served to MCCBCHST vice-president. tally unacceptable to all peace-loving Malay- ing animosity by allowing some irresponsible keep our country in peace and prosperity all sians of all faiths. politicians to claim religious and moral supe- these years. September 1, 2020 Inciting and sowing dissension at a time of need for unity The Christian Federation of Malaysia the Representative for Pasir Puteh will and hostility on the basis of reli- vestigations into the offensive conduct views with consternation and dismay showed a reprehensible disrespect gion among a significant segment of of this lawmaker. the assault by no less than a Member not only for his fellow Malaysians the population. Having assailed their Whilst the Christian Federation of of the Dewan Rakyat, in the august who are Christians but also for all the Holy Book, the Member of Parliament Malaysia remains constantly open to chamber on the entirety of the Scrip- efforts of our forefathers in forging then categorically stated that Chris- dialogue to advance greater under- tures on which generations of Chris- peoples of diverse creeds, colour and tians have no right to be offended. standing in order to foster peace and tians since time immemorial have cultures into a peace-loving and har- Recalcitrant and reportedly unwill- harmony among all peoples, dialogue found solace, comfort, wisdom, hope monious nation. ing to withdraw or apologise for his must be predicated on mutual respect and guidance. To be told that the Holy At a time when strenuous calls for demeaning words, this lawmaker and undertaken in a spirit of humility Book on which they rely are, a firm national unity are being made by the must be unreservedly censured and if it is to be fruitful in sowing seeds of foundation for their faith, has been Prime Minister and Malaysia Prihatin rebuked by all right-minded people. trust and goodwill for the betterment “manipulated,” is an affront to the Yet the Member for Pasir Puteh, (Malaysia Cares) is the guiding princi- Not having taken to date any appar- of all. utmost. That this belittlement of their Dr Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh, ple for the nation’s celebration of the ent action to rein in and admonish this sacred Scriptures occurs during a time thought little of making spurious 63rd anniversary of Merdeka Day and member for his divisive and incendi- Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim of distress, economic hardship, and claims that “Kitab Injil ini dipesong- the 57th anniversary of Malaysia Day, ary remarks, the party to which he be- Chairman and the Executive anxiety, about an uncertain future as kan ataupun diubah” (“the Gospel is it is an outrage that a Member of Par- longs being a component member of Committee, a global pandemic rages, displays not distorted or changed”) during a debate liament who sits on the Government’s the ruling coalition, should denounce The Christian Federation of just gross insensitivity but a blatant in the Dewan Rakyat on Aug 26, 2020. benches shows little concern for the such egregious behaviour. No person Malaysia disregard for the well-being of fellow In trampling with shocking audacity need to rebuild the nation. Instead he is above the law, and relevant authori- humankind. on the sacred and holy Word of God, intentionally promotes feelings of ill- ties need to undertake appropriate in- August 31, 2020 Respect begets respect As a citizen of this country and a Mus- Cooperation with and courtesy to- what was said to the messengers be- The Virgin Mary is given an exalted lim, I am distressed that the debate in wards other religions is recommended fore you” (41:43). spiritual position, and Chapter 29 of Parliament on Aug 26 about the pen- by the Holy Quran (6:108). “We gave Moses the Book and fol- the Holy Quran (Maryam) is named alty for drink-driving, which causes We must not ape Western societies lowed him up with a succession of after her. the death of other road users, degen- where blasphemy and profanity are messengers” (2:87). In a multireligious society, we must erated into an unnecessary dispute regarded as part of freedom of speech. In Surah 2:136, it is stated: “We abjure a sense of superiority over oth- about the authenticity or interpretation In innumerable passages, the Holy believe in Allah and that which has ers because of what we have and they of some parts of the Bible. Quran recognises religious diversity. been sent down to us and that which have not. The Bible is the firm religious foun- In 2:256, it states: “There is no has been sent down to Ibrahim (Abra- The character of faith is not vitriol dation of 2.4 billion Christians around compulsion in religion.” ham), Ismail (Ishmael), Ishaq (Isaac), for “the other”. the world and the view that its trans- In 109:6, there is this exquisite pas- Yaqoob (Jacob), and to Al-Asbaat (the The character of faith is to recog- lations have “terpesong” or deviated sage: “Unto you your religion, unto Shad Saleem Faruqi offspring of the 12 sons of Yaqoob), nise that love of God and fidelity to from the original version must indeed me mine.” him who will, believe; and let him and that which has been given to religion are manifested in kindness be very hurtful to the believers. In Surah 11:118, it is declared: “If who will, disbelieve.” Musa (Moses) and Esa (Jesus), and towards all humanity. In my view, insulting other reli- thy Lord had so willed, He could have “Allah alone is the One who will that which has been given to the A truly religious person must reject gions is against the tenets of Islam. made mankind one people: but they judge between them on the Day of Prophets from their Lord. We make hatred, ill-will and prejudice. The Holy Quran says: “And do not will not cease to dispute.” Resurrection” (2:113). no distinction between any of them, At least this is the message of Islam argue with the People of the Scripture In Surah 10:99, there is this admo- The Prophets of all revealed reli- and we are Muslims in submission to that I was brought up in. except in a way that is best” (29: 46). nition: “Had your Lord willed, those gions are regarded as brothers. Mus- Him.” “And insult not those who invoke on Earth would have believed, all of lims are obliged to believe in them The Hebrew prophets and Christ Shad Saleem Faruqi other than Allah, lest they should in- them together. Will you then compel all. Every nation has its messenger are deeply respected by Muslims. Kuala Lumpur sult Allah wrongfully without knowl- people against their will to believe?” (10:47). The tombs of the Hebrew prophets edge” (6:108). In 18:29, it is commanded: “Let “Nothing has been said to you save are revered by Muslims. Source: The Star HERALD September 6, 2020 Home 5 Malaysian Bishops give almost RM300k for Lebanon KUALA LUMPUR: The Catholic On Sept 4, Pope Francis sent Vati- turn once again to Lebanon and its Bishops Conference of Malaysia can Secretary of State, Cardinal Pie- people, so sorely tried,” the Pope donated RM275,078.91 to help with tro Parolin, to Lebanon as an expres- said during his weekly General Au- recovery efforts after the devastating sion of his “spiritual closeness and dience. explosion which occurred in the cap- solidarity” with the Lebanese people. He encouraged all to demonstrate ital city of Beirut on August 4. Pope Francis also called for a their closeness through concrete The donation was channelled via universal day of prayer and fasting works of charity. the Good Shepherd International on Sept 4 for Lebanon and invited The Pope also invited other Chris- Foundation. people of all religions to join in. Be- tian Churches and religious traditions Two hundred people were killed sides the deadly explosion of Aug 4 to join this initiative in a manner they and 6,000 were injured in the blast. in Beirut, the nation has been going deem most appropriate. Smoldering debris is seen in Beirut Aug. 5 2020, following The explosion also caused exten- through the worst economic and po- Let us continue to pray for all those explosions the previous day. Two massive explosions near sive damage to the city and flattened litical crisis in its history. affected and for all who are actively the port of the Lebanese capital injured dozens of people and buildings near the port left around “One month after the tragedy that contributing or supporting the relief shattered windows in buildings blocks away. (CNS photo/ 300,000 people homeless. struck the city of Beirut, my thoughts work to help those in distress. Mohamed Azakir, Reuters) Bishop Hii urges care for the environment New book from the Penang SIBU: Catholic Bishop of Sibu, the Bishop said the 12 parishes in Diocese Catechetical Commission Right Rev Joseph Hii, has called the Sibu Diocese would receive a PENANG: The Penang Diocese Cat- for conversion of hearts to start solar panel each to reduce the use echetical Commission has produced caring for and protecting the earth of electricity. its latest publication Acknowledging, from further destruction. “Hopefully, we will use less elec- Processing and Catechising Anger He said it is important for eve- tricity through this effort, not just through Faith. ryone today to do something for the church, but all of us must strive As many Catholics struggle with Mother Earth to enable the future to use less electricity,” he said. this emotion, this book will help us dis- generations to continue to have life Bishop Hii also said that Sept cover a deeper truth within ourselves while the world continues to pro- 1, the start of the campaign, is the through faith. Integrating the emotion gress and advance. annual World Day of Prayer for of anger in a healthy way enhances our “Our world has advanced so the ‘Care of Creation’ for Catho- Christian identity and living. much but at the expense of Mother lics around the world which was Priced at RM5, the book is available Nature. However, we cannot stop launched by Pope Francis in 2015. in St Anne’s Religious shop and at the the advancement. That is why we In addressing the climate change Catholic Information Service Centre, must have a balance. Bishop Joseph Hii. issue and the need to take action, in Penang. It is also can be purchased at “We have to reserve and keep 2015 Pope Francis also designated The five-year campaign from the Church of St John the Baptist, Sg some for our future generations,” Sept 1 until Oct 4 every year as the Siput. he pointed out. Sept 1 until Aug 31, 2025, is an ‘Season of Creation’. Bishop Hii said this at the hom- urgent nationwide Catholic call to He said that this year’s Season of ily during the Mass to launch the protect all life on earth. Creation theme is Jubilee for the KLABA now has a website five-year campaign to ‘Protect Our Every year, the campaign will Earth: New Rhythms, New Hope. Earth, Protect Our Children’ at the have a different theme. This year, After the launching Mass, there Sacred Heart Cathedral here yester- the theme is Use Less Electricity. was a video presentation and sketch day. In conjunction with the theme, presentation by the youth. It was then followed by ‘Plog- ging’ Walk which started at the Ca- thedral to Tong Sang Road, Wong King Huo Road, Aman Road, La- nang Road and back to the cathe- dral. Bishop Hii said the Catholic Church also joined other religions for the 15 days of prayer for the nation from Aug 31 until Sept 14 in conjunction with Malaysia Day celebration. The Catholic Church kicked off KUALA LUMPUR: The KL ples… .” The word ‘go’ is a verb, the first day with the prayer inten- Archdiocesan Bible Apostolate while the accent is on the com- tion “for belief in God”. (KLABA) now has a website. mand to make disciples, which Other churches and religions will Jesus’ Great Commission in ultimately means ‘to teach or to take turns for the next 14 days to Mt. 28:18-20 has great signifi- instruct’. pray for different intentions. — By cance for us as Church. It reads, Please visit www.myklaba.org Catholics pick up rubbish during the ‘Plogging’ Walk. (Borneo Post photo) Jane Moh, Borneo Post “Go, therefore, and make disci- for further information. Holy Spirit Cathedral welcomes 30 new members PENANG: After a long and anx- sApp. After completing the pro- In his homily, Fr Joachim ad- Michael. They then passed it on ious wait, 30 members of the Elect cess, the Elect waited apprehen- dressed the Elect and reminded to sponsors, who passed it to the of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit sively. them to always remember who Je- Elect. went through the Rites of Initiation Joining the Elect were two from sus is to them and be able to iden- After the Baptism, Fr Joachim and received the Sacraments of other denominations who were re- tify like Peter, “You are the Christ, anointed the Elect with the Oil of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucha- ceived into the Church, and three the Son of the living God”. He Chrism, conferring the Sacrament rist at the evening Mass on Aug 22. more who received the Sacrament stressed that baptism and confir- of Confirmation thus completing They started their journey of faith of Confirmation. Parish priest Fr mation were just the beginning be- the Initiation rites. The Neophytes through the RCIA in mid-2019, but Joachim Robert, who presided at cause their mission continues. He were then welcomed with huge it was abruptly interrupted when the Mass, welcomed them. Con- urged them to always share their applause by all present. The Neo- churches were forced to close due celebrating were Fr Michael Ray- joy of being part of His Body, the phytes also received their first Holy to the outbreak of COVID-19. In mond OFM Cap and Fr Francis Church, with others. Communion together with their the interim period, some of the ses- Anthony. Due to the RMCO, only The Rites then began. After sponsors and the rest of the congre- Fr Joachim Robert blesses the sions were forwarded to them as a restricted number of guests were baptism two RCIA facilitators re- gation. It was indeed a joyous oc- baptismal water. self-study lessons through What- allowed. ceived the Light of Christ from Fr casion. — By Gregory R. Warrier 6 Home HERALD September 6, 2020 Transforming parishes 2020 KUALA LUMPUR: Alpha Asia Pacific COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up organised a conference, Transforming call for everyone with many questions Parishes 2020, which attracted over being asked about life, the meaning and 600 participants from 200 parishes in 31 purpose of the suffering. He said Alpha countries. is a tool for evangelisation and bring- Held on August 28, the almost four ing people together, and is a catalyst for hour conference began with Mass cel- change during these trying times. It is ebrated by Fr Gerard Thevariam from also an opportunity to share our life and the Church of the Divine Mercy, Shah joy of the gospel with everyone. Alam, with participants and panellists Throughout the conference, there attending the event virtually. were testimonies on the faith journey The conference started with a speech by Catholics who at some point in their by Executive Director of Alpha Asia Pa- lives had lapsed in their faith and re- cific, Rev Miles Toulmin, of Holy Trin- turned to the Church through their par- ity Church Bukit Bintang who said the ticipation in Alpha. Making disciples in a change of age Extraordinary he first guest speaker was Daniel “St Paul didn’t have the four Gospels TAng, Director, Sydney Centre for as he embarked on his apostolic mission Ordinary Evangelisation, who spoke on Making across the Mediterranean, but he had ext to speak Disciples in a Change of Age. He de- disciples making disciples. Right now, Nwas Fr Rob scribed the conference as a statement of thanks to the disciples, we may have ma- Galea, who is a re- faith and hope, a recognition that parish- terials to use as a crutch, but we need to cording artiste and es can be transformed when people are be careful not to allow them to replace author, as well as transformed. the relationships,” he added, saying Al- a priest from the “This is when our parishes live out the pha is one of the stand-out resources that Sandhurst Diocese, great commission of Jesus to go make can be a genuine catalyst for parish re- Victoria, Australia. disciples of all nations. Our Parishes are newal. He said it would also depend on Well known glob- called not to be vestiges or remnants of the right people, welcoming people and ally as the Singing the past, not comfortable museums or open people. The church need witnesses Priest, Fr Galea monuments to better days. We are not more than teachers, he added. spoke around the called to be content with the select few, Ang said that despite transforming our theme of Extraordi- Fr Rob Galea and breathe the stale air of closed rooms. parishes, resources can never substitute nary Ordinary. “As Pope Francis points out, the parish Daniel Ang the relationships. Without the fundamen- “Everything is called to open itself as the true sign celebrated. Christ is alive and dwells in tal bridge of trust and the personalised seems so perfect on social media. Others want and presence of the Risen Lord among each of our parishes, a reality we some- approach to evangelisation in our com- to have what we have but many fail to see that us. Our Parishes are called to serve times overlook,” he added. munity, even the best programmes and most of life is not instagramable or tik tok-able, both as the doorway and the destination He stressed that we are not experi- structures will not work. for much of life, there are struggles and we don’t where Christ is truly present today. He encing an age of change, but a change His parting advice to the participants know what we are going to do next. This is even seeks out every human heart, through of age. Ang said it was not programmes was: “If you build the church, you rarely the same in my life. With the extraordinary mo- every one of our parishes where the and courses that made disciples, but dis- get disciples, but if you make disciples ment, there are ordinary moments and struggles. Word is proclaimed and his Eucharist is ciples that make disciples. you will always get the Church.” Even St Paul struggled throughout his life. But 2,000 years later we are talking about him being extraordinary. Even Mother Teresa who spoke to Parish experiences in embracing divine renovation world leaders and ministered to the poor, strug- nother speaker, Fr Savio D’Souza, many of the parishioners came with ques- gled with anxiety and loneliness. But she is still AParish Priest of St Dominic Savio tions and were not quite willing to spend one of the greatest saints of our generation. God Church, Wadala Mumbai shared the par- every Sunday over three months attend- has called us to an extraordinary life, but we also ish experience in embracing divine reno- ing Alpha. However, by the third meet- have to embrace the ordinary, embrace the strug- vation. After participating in a seminar ing, they were involved. gles and mess. God is able to take the ordinary on divine renovation, as part of the Alpha “There was a desire to speak about Him and make it extraordinary,” said Fr Galea. He study, he was questioned about his parish. to others and to spread His message to added that even the most faithful of Jesus’ disci- That was when he realised that many of others. When you talk about new evange- ples, St Peter, was messed up, weak and broken, his parishioners were not really into Je- lisation, in the place where you are, and having denied Jesus three times. He left his spir- sus. project Jesus in the place as the person itual life and went back to fishing, but Jesus ap- “We have a parish of 4,500 Catholics, you are, and witness Jesus in the world, peared to him and that changed his life. but only 1,000 attended weekend Masses that will raise the questions and you can “Be patient and keep following Jesus, despite and less than five per cent were involved do the direct evangelisation. That is the our brokenness, weakness and unworthliness. in active ministries. They were not really change I’m seeing in them. Personal love God doesn’t call us to perfection, but he calls for into Jesus as they hadn’t had a personal for Jesus and the desire to share it with us to be willing for him to make us perfect. He encounter with Jesus. I realised that Al- others. When they are filled with the love asked us to follow him, and he will make us per- pha could give that experience to them,” of Jesus, that drives them forward, and fect. If you fall, get up again and follow Jesus. he added. they have the desire to share it with oth- Jesus will take our imperfections and make us Fr Savio D’Souza He said that when he started Alpha, ers.” perfect and extraordinary,” he added. How Alpha helped transform some parishes he Director of Global Strategy, Divine were important — primacy of evangelisa- TRenovation Ministry, Fiona O’Reilly tion, reliance on the power of the Holy Spir- from Ireland, spoke about how Alpha has it and the best of leadership, all grounded helped transform parishes around the world. in the Eucharist, which will enable the par- She said every parishioner has a role to play, ishes to come alive. doesn’t matter what. Later Fr Savio, Aviril Baptista a parish- “Putting evangelisation first is what ioner from the same church, Daniel Ang, helped parishes come alive. The Alpha pro- Archbishop Simon Poh, and Fiona partici- gramme doesn’t just become a habit — it pated in a panel session moderated by Al- becomes the culture that sustains everything pha’s Elizabeth Lopez. with the Holy Spirit as the driving force. The message that came through strongly Everyone in the parish has a role to play. from the conference was that Evangelisa- It doesn’t happen overnight, but it can hap- tion is meant to be the cornerstone. The pen,” she said. main thing that Jesus said is go make disci- She added that there were three keys that ples of the nations. — By Regina William HERALD September 6, 2020 World 7 Mother Teresa ‘patroness of the 20th century’ 110 years since her birth KOLKATA: On Aug 26 morning, “until it hurts”. Her life was a radical total surrender to the Lord, simplic- the community of the Missionar- living and a bold proclamation of the ity, an annunciation attitude were ies of Charity — nuns, novices and Gospel. the hallmark of Mother Teresa’s Mother Prema, the superior general The cry of Jesus on the Cross, “I personality. The strength of her — celebrated the 110th anniversary thirst” (Jn 19: 28), expressing the mission derived from a strong faith of the birth of their founder, Mother depth of God's longing for man, nourished and renewed every day in Teresa of Calcutta. A Mass was cel- penetrated Mother Teresa's soul and the Eucharist. She would often say; ebrated in the chapel of the Mother found fertile soil in her heart. “The Holy Mass is the spiritual food House, where Mother Teresa’s tomb For her work was contemplation that sustains me – without which I is. The Mass was presided over by in action. Today the Missionaries could not get through one single day Fr Dominic Gomes, vicar general of of charity is spread all across the or hour in my life.” To the priests she the Archdiocese of Kolkata. world in more than 700 (including said, “My dear priests, celebrate the “One woman, one mission — the brothers) communities. When- Holy Mass as if it is your first Mass that’s all it took to change this ever she opened a community she and the last Mass.” world!” Mother Teresa captivated A Mass was celebrated in the chapel of the Motherhouse of the Missionaries would say ‘I have opened one more Mother Teresa fits very well into the whole world and so it would not of Charity in Kolkata, next to the tomb of the Mother. (Asianews photo) tabernacle for Jesus,’ which clearly this definition of the modern proph- be inappropriate to call Mother Te- resa highlights the deepest meaning of God’s children, “created to love manifest the orientation and purpose et. Mother Teresa grew where she resa “The Patron Saint of the Twen- of service — an act of love done to and be loved”. Thus was Mother Te- of her mission was planted. She is a prophet be- tieth Century”. the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, resa “bringing souls to God and God Mother Teresa used every op- cause with every breath she drew, As you did to one of the least of sick, prisoners (cf. Mt 25: 34-36) is to souls” and satiating Christ's thirst, portunity she got in life to magnify she tried to do “something beautiful these my brethren, you did it to me.” done to Jesus himself. especially for those most in need, the Lord and to defend the poor. On for God”. She is a prophet because In these words, which Mother Te- Recognising him, she ministered those whose vision of God had been receiving the Nobel Prize at Oslo in she tried to make everything she did, resa often repeated and in which we to him with wholehearted devotion, dimmed by suffering and pain. 1979 she said, “Christ makes him- even the smallest thoughts and tini- find the hallmark of Mother Teresa’s expressing the delicacy of her spous- “Whoever wants to be great self the hungry one, the naked one, est gestures, an oblation, an offering service to the poor, was the basis al love. Thus, in total gift of herself among you must be your servant” the homeless one and He says: ‘You of love. of her faith-filled conviction that in to God and neighbour, Mother Te- (Mk 10: 43). She had chosen to be did it to me.’ He is hungry for our Thus she fulfilled the golden rules touching the broken bodies of the resa found her greatest fulfilment not just the least but to be the serv- love, and this is the hunger that you in the books of Amos and Isaiah, by poor she was touching the body of and lived the noblest qualities of her ant of the least. As a real mother to and I must find. “Yes Jesus is God learning to do good, seeking justice, Christ. It was to Jesus himself, hid- femininity. She wanted to be a sign the poor, she bent down to those suf- and therefore His love, His thirst is rescuing the oppressed, defending den under the distressing disguise of “God’s love, God’s presence and fering various forms of poverty. Her infinite. Our aim is to quench this in- the orphans and pleading for the of the poorest of the poor, that her God’s compassion”, and so remind greatness lay in her ability to give finite thirst of a God made man. widows. — By P. Dominic Gomes, service was directed. Mother Te- all of the value and dignity of each without counting the cost, to give Cheerfulness, loving trust, and AsiaNews Sister Ivantic, 107, is living in Tourists in Rome surprised by chance to see Pope Francis her second pandemic VATICAN: Tourists in Rome had around 500 people. CHICAGO: For Benedictine Sr where she lives. “People have wine an unexpected chance to see Pope The announcement that Francis Vivian Ivantic, these times are not once in a while, but the whisky’s Francis at his first public audience would resume public audiences — unprecedented. Sr Ivantic was born pretty short.” for more than six months. albeit in a different location than usu- in 1913, five years before the Span- She grew up in north Chicago and People from all over the world ex- al and with limited numbers — was ish flu pandemic that began in 1918. joined the Chicago Benedictines pressed their happiness and surprise made Aug 26. Many of the people Now, the Chicago religious can add when she was 19. on Wednesday at having the oppor- who attended on Wednesday said the novel coronavirus to the deadly “I always wanted to,” she said. tunity to be present at Francis’ first they just happened to be in the right illnesses she has escaped. “In first grade, I said to my mother, in-person audience since the start of place at the right time. “The first (pandemic), I was too ‘That’s what I want to be.’ I just nev- the coronavirus outbreak. One family from Poland said they small to realise what was going on,” er thought of another kind of life.” “We were surprised because we found out about the audience just 20 said Sr Ivantic. “But I know it hap- Her first-grade teacher, Sr- Ad thought there were no audiences,” minutes beforehand. Seven-year-old pened because my mother’s mother elaide, would later become her su- said Belen and her friend, both from Franek, whose name is the Polish died. I knew she was crying, but I perior. Argentina. Belen is visiting Rome version of Francis, was excited he was too small to realise why.” Most of her career was spent as a from Spain where she lives. got to tell the Pope about their com- The 1918 pandemic infected an teacher, librarian and archivist. “We love the Pope. He’s from Ar- mon name. estimated 500 million people and “I’ve done lots of different things,” Chicago Benedictine Sr Vivian gentina too and we feel very close to Beaming, Franek said he was killed at least 50 million, includ- she said, noting that she taught third Ivantic works as a librarian in this him,” she said. “very happy.” undated photo. (CNS photo/courtesy Pope Francis has been livestream- Sandra, a Catholic visiting Rome ing about 675,000 in the United graders and high school Latin as well Benedictine Sisters of Chicago) States, according to the Centres for as being a librarian. ing his Wednesday general audience from India with her parents, sister, Disease Control and Prevention. She needs assistance to walk now “I know how carefully my father from his library since March, when and a family friend, said “It feels About 30 million people have been and uses a wheelchair when she goes worked with my mother to go vot- the coronavirus pandemic led Italy great. We never thought we could see infected with COVID-19, the illness outside to feed the squirrels. She also ing,” she said. “I was small, but I and other countries to impose a lock- him out, now we are going to.” caused by the coronavirus, and more appreciates retirement. knew something was going on. He down to slow down the virus’ spread. They found out about the audience than 848,000 have died, including “I take naps now, which I couldn’t was encouraging her to go.” The Sept 2 audience was held two days before, she said, and decid- 183,000 people in the United States do earlier,” Sr Ivantic said. “People She says her favourite work was in the San Damaso Courtyard on ed to go. “We just wanted to see him as of Sept 1. take good care of me.” teaching. the interior of the Vatican’s apos- and get his blessing.” — By Hannah Sr Ivantic had COVID-19 symp- With almost 11 decades under her “It was wonderful to be able to tolic palace, which has a capacity of Brockhaus, CNA toms in April, but she recovered. belt, has she seen many changes in open the eyes and ears and the souls Her symptoms were so mild that she religious life? of the little ones you taught,” Sr thought she just had a cold. “Definitely. Right now, I’m wear- Ivantic said, “not just about God, “I think I’m too old to be set back ing pants,” she said. “That was most but about history and geography. … very much,” she said. “I’ve been unusual for religious women when It was always a wonderful place to very, very fortunate.” I entered. We had these long, black be.” At 107, Sr Ivantic is the oldest robes, and you had to be careful Because of COVID-19 restric- living Benedictine in the world, her when it was muddy.” tions, her 107th birthday celebration community says. She was from a family of nine on Aug. 28 was spread out over the Many centenarians attribute their children, but in World War II, two of week, with a few relatives visiting longevity to a shot of whisky every her four brothers were killed within a each day. day or some other habit, but not Sr week of each other. Now, her brother “I’ve worked hard, I’ve had good Ivantic. Bill is her only living sibling. health,” Sr Ivantic said. “It’s been “We don’t serve whisky,” she said In 1920, when Sr Ivantic was 7, her a good life for me.” — By Dan Pope Francis greets people as he arrives to lead his general audience in the of the St Scholastica Monastery, mother got to vote for the first time. Stockman, CNS San Damaso courtyard at the Vatican Sept 2, 2020. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) 8 World HERALD September 6, 2020 Human fraternity is the Christian response to identity politics VATICAN: The secretary of the emerging again…” Tribalism, he ex- for Interreligious Dialogue (PCID) Kankanamalage said the PCID He said that the reason the PCID Vatican’s Pontifical Council for- In plained, affirms “your own group at for eight years, first as under-secre- has had an ongoing collaboration wanted to address these wounds terreligious Dialogue has argued that the expense of the others” and leads tary and now as secretary. with the WCC and members of the from an ecumenical and interreli- as tribalism and identity politics in- to discrimination. He spoke to CNA following the two bodies meet annually. “Serving a gious perspective was because “here crease, the Catholic Church should “Fraternity means that you try to publication of the document Serving Wounded World,” published Aug 27, we have a situation where we are cooperate with other religions to pro- welcome the other as a brother or a a Wounded World in Interreligious is their latest joint document. all wounded. It is not only one reli- mote human fraternity. sister in spite of his or her differenc- Solidarity, a joint project of the pon- “People are wounded because of gion or one nation or one part of the “Today we have a problem of iden- es… We belong to one family. We tifical council and the World Council this pandemic… And then also we world.” tity, an identity crisis. One affirms are brothers and sisters. This is also of Churches (WCC). have other wounds,” the PCID sec- “The whole humanity is wounded one’s identity… and excluding the very Christian.” The WCC is a global ecumenical retary said. He specifically pointed and here we need to respond unit- others,” said Fr Indunil Janakaratne Kankanamalage is from the Dio- body founded in 1948. The Catholic to racism, religious intolerance, dis- edly,” he explained. Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage. cese of Badulla in Sri Lanka, where Church is not a member of the or- crimination, economic and ecologi- Religion has the power to “trans- The Sri Lankan priest also said he was ordained priest in 2000. He ganisation, though it sends official cal injustice, as well as the injustices form the person within,” he noted. that “today we see that tribalism is has served at the Pontifical Council observers to meetings. faced by migrants and prisoners. — CNA India’s cycling priest tends to his flock during lockdown KOCHI: A Catholic priest in eastern others. good neighbours supplies me with India is winning hearts, not for any D’Souza, a 58-year-old former roti.” major achievement but for his sim- employee of the state road transport “When I need to go to hospital or plicity. corporation, managed to run the fam- need any assistance, I get the help Fr Vinod Kannatt, priest of Ra- ily with the help of his wife, Espiran- of Fr Kannatt, who is always only jkot’s Junagadh Parish in Gujarat, cia, until three years ago. Since then a phone call away. Day or night, if I cycles to the homes of his flock amid she too has been bedridden as she make a call, he reaches my home in the coronavirus pandemic to care for suffered a spinal injury following a less than 10 minutes.” the sick and elderly, as he believes it fall. She has lived alone since 2009 fol- is the ideal time to be with his people Knowing the condition of the fam- lowing the death of her husband, a when no one is around. ily, some neighbours and other well- former railway employee. She gets “If I lock myself in my room fear- wishers in the parish offered food his pension and is therefore solvent. ing the virus, my ordination as a mis- and other support following the ini- Fr Kannatt was first appointed sionary priest is useless. Now is the tiative of Fr Kannatt. to the parish in 2008 but was trans- time I need to be with my people But with the outbreak of COV- ferred in 2014. However, he was re- to comfort them,” said Fr Kannatt ID-19 in India, the neighbours’ sup- Fr Vinod Kannatt on his bicycle during his visits to his parishioners. (UCA appointed following the parishioners’ — popularly known as the cycling port stopped, leaving D’Souza disil- News photo) demand. priest. lusioned as he did not know how to assists my husband in setting our that her husband cannot leave their “The priest is so down to earth that “We are alive now because of the manage his family with his 2,500-ru- house in order, and spends time with daughters alone in the house. “We he is approachable to anyone round care and support of Fr Kannatt,” pee (RM141) monthly pension. us,” said Espirancia, 55. owe a great deal to the priest.” the clock,” said Patrick David, 54, a said John D’Souza, the father of two “The money my husband gets is “Our only outside contact since the The D’Souza family is not the member of the parish council. mentally disabled daughters aged 29 not enough for my medicine alone,” pandemic began has been Fr Kann- only one in the parish that relies on “He distributed holy Eucharist and 31. said Espirancia. att,” she said, adding that the priest the priest. three times in our homes after peni- One of them has been bedridden Fr Kannatt, however, rose to the arranges money for medicine, food “Fr Kannatt is my pillar of sup- tential service in the first three months from birth and the other cannot stand occasion and found additional re- and other requirements. port,” said Carmeline Josline Dias, of the countrywide lockdown, com- or walk properly. Neither of them can sources to help them. “Fr Kannatt takes me to hospital an 86-year-old widow who lives plying with COVID-19 protocols. — do anything without support from “Fr visits us at least twice a week, whenever required,” she said, adding alone. “I prepare curry and one of my By Saji Thomas, ucanews.com Wisconsin dioceses lift Sunday COVID-19 spike forces West Java churches to close again dispensation, churches open for Masses JAKARTA: Three parishes in Bo- know how the situation will devel- WISCONSIN: Catholics living in Wisconsin encourage all who are gor city in Indonesia’s West Java op. But once local authorities say Wisconsin will once again be re- healthy to seek the healing presence province have closed their church- the situation is under control, we quired to go to Mass on Sunday, of Christ the Bread of Life through a es again following the reimposition will reopen our church.” provided they are healthy and not at return to Mass,” said the statement. of strict social restrictions follow- The priest said all church activi- risk for coronavirus. The Sunday obligation has been ing a spike in COVID-19 cases. ties in the Cathedral Church were “With new measures now firmly dispensed throughout Wisconsin, Beatae Mariae Virginis Cathe- canceled except the Anointing of in place to promote and preserve as has been in most states, since the dral Church, St Francis of Assisi the Sick. the safety of those attending public start of the coronavirus pandemic in Church and St Ignatius of Loyola He suggested couples put off Mass, it is with elation that the bish- mid-March. Church closed again on Aug 29 weddings but said ceremonies ops of Wisconsin have announced While most areas have resumed until Sept 11 after having been al- might be able to go ahead with a plans to end the dispensation from Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki of some form of public worship in lowed to reopen for Sunday Mass- limited number of guests. the Sunday Mass obligation in Sep- Milwaukee celebrates a Mass for recent months, only the Diocese of es over the last two months. Fr Tukiyo also said that even tember 2020,” said a statement from the people of Kenosha, Wis., at St Sioux Falls in South Dakota had, so They previously had cancelled though the Cathedral Church had the Wisconsin Catholic Conference, Mark Church August 27. (CNS far, lifted the dispensation and is re- all church activities following the resumed public Sunday Masses on released August 31. photo/courtesy Jerry Topczewski, quiring healthy Catholics to attend outbreak of the coronavirus in ear- July 11 under strict health proto- The Wisconsin Catholic Con- Archdiocese of Milwaukee) Mass. ly March. cols, the number of Mass goers has ference speaks on behalf of the 10 actually go to Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic As of Aug 31, Bogor city had remained low. current and retired bishops, auxil- Despite the restored obligation, Church states that “The Sunday recorded 627 out of 174,796 COV- One parishioner, Stefanus iary bishops, and archbishops of the not everyone will be required to go Eucharist is the foundation and ID-19 cases in Indonesia and 30 Cahyadi, welcomed the Cathedral state’s five Catholic dioceses. to Mass, and who is still exempt confirmation of all Christian - prac out of 7,417 deaths. Church’s decision, adding that The bishops noted that “in re- from the obligation will be up to the tice. For this reason, the faithful are “Bogor’s mayor has issued a let- many parishioners were reluctant cent months, dioceses and parishes individual dioceses. obliged to participate in the Eucha- ter ordering the implementation of anyway to attend public Sunday throughout the state have been able The dioceses will separately an- rist on days of obligation, unless so-called micro and community- Masses amid the COVID-19 pan- to resume public worship by adher- nounce when they have lifted the excused for a serious reason (for scale social restrictions. This is also demic. ing to strict safety standards and dispensation, said the release, and example, illness, the care of infants) imposed on places of worship,” “I always join livestreamed Sun- by restricting access to services for the dioceses will clarify in these or dispensed by their own pastor.” said Fr Dominikus Tukiyo, the Ca- day Masses. It is because I still live those who are symptomatic, sick, or proclamations who is not required Failure to do so, without a “seri- thedral Church’s parish priest. with my parents. I care about their at risk of serious illness,” yet there to attend Mass. ous reason,” is considered to be a “We have to follow the local ad- health,” he said. — By Katharina was still no obligation in place to “As pastors, the bishops of mortal sin. — CNA ministration’s directive. We do not R. Lestari, ucanews.com HERALD September 6, 2020 World 9 Let’s use the title ‘co-worker’ for laypeople in parish leadership VATICAN: I am frustrated by the Vatican’s news flash — there are too few priests to serve ciative language” about lay leadership. Kasper recent instruction on The pastoral conversion the world’s expanding Catholic population. tactfully suggested the world’s bishops’ con- of the parish community in the service of the In Germany, the instruction was interpreted ferences should have been consulted before evangelizing mission of the Church, issued on as an effort to stop moves by German bishops the document was issued. July 20. to encourage both priest and lay leadership in The prefect of the Congregation for the At first, the document evokes an expansive consolidating parishes and providing pastoral Clergy, Cardinal Beniamino Stella, has in- vision of parish transformation by citing Pope care. One German canon lawyer succinctly vited German bishops to Rome to discuss the Francis’ call for “creativity” in “seeking how said the instruction “answers today’s ques- issues. I hope our German brothers can get best to proclaim the Gospel” and that “the tions with yesterday’s answers.” through to presumably well-intentioned Vati- Church, and also the Code of Canon Law, In a pastoral letter to his Magdeburg Dio- can officials who seem to have little - under gives us innumerable possibilities, much free- cese, German Bishop Gerhard Feige wrote, “I standing of the realities of parish life in a time dom to seek these things.” won’t let myself be paralysed and blocked by of fewer priests. Then the instruction tantalises reform-mind- their restrictive orders, since much in it is quite A caveat — there is one big positive in this ed Catholics by saying, “Parish communities unrealistic — especially with regard to our ex- document: It gives laypeople significantly will find herein a call to go out of themselves, treme diaspora situation, which they evidently more leverage in canonical appeals to pre- offering instruments of reform, even structur- cannot imagine — and since no positive so- serve their parish communities. al, in a spirit of communion and collaboration St Paul at the home of Priscilla and Aquila, lutions are indicated in view of the mounting The new Vatican instruction seems to agree, … for the proclamation of the Gospel.” depicted in a fresco at the Basilica of St Paul lack of priests.” insofar as it specifically says a bishop should Outside the Walls in Rome. (NCR photo/ But I find no structural instruments -of re Zatletic via Dreamstime) Feige also fears Rome’s instruction will not merge a parish or sell a church because of form here. turn lay Catholics away from working for the “the lack of clergy, demographic decline or With one notable exception, the instruction standing Church rules that mandate a male- church at all. the grave financial state of the diocese.” is essentially “all hat and no cattle” as my Tex- celibate-priest-centric and priest-controlled His concern was echoed by German Cardi- Yet “the lack of clergy [and] demographic as friends like to say. vision of parish community. nal Walter Kasper, who, while defending the decline” are the exact reasons given by most The Congregation for the Clergy’s instruc- This vision is already moribund in both the instruction, also said it would have benefited — if not all — US bishops seeking to consoli- tion restates (somewhat defensively) long- global north and the global south because — from “more positive, encouraging and appre- date parishes. — By Christine Schenk, NCR ‘I hope to be able to inspire’: Meet Australia’s 36-year-old ambassador to the Holy See VATICAN: Australia’s new ambassador to olic Church in Australia over the past few the Holy See is a 36-year-old mother of two years. We had a royal commission into child with a passion for youth outreach. sex abuse. There was Cardinal Pell’s case. I Ambassador Chiara Porro presented her feel like we are coming to a time now where credentials to Pope Francis last week and is we can reflect and look back at the experience, now the only resident ambassador from the look at what we went through,” she said. Pacific region in the Vatican diplomatic corps. “There were a lot of lessons learned, both “I hope to be able to inspire and act as a bit positive and negative, from the whole expe- of a bridge,” said Porro. rience. I hope we can find a mechanism to “I spoke with Pope Francis about young share some of those lessons.” people as well and the future of the Church She said that Pope Francis told her that one ... And he said, ‘Yes, but, Chiara, remember of the most important things is to listen. that the elderly have a lot to contribute still,’” During her meeting with the Pope, Porro she said. presented him with a relic of St Mary MacK- Chiara Porro, Australia’s ambassador to the Holy See, presents her credentials to Pope Francis Born in Italy, Porro said that she was able illop, Australia’s first saint. The Australian Aug 27, 2020. (CNA photo/Vatican Media) to have a lengthy conversation in Italian with Embassy to the Holy See is preparing to cel- Pope Francis during her meeting at the Apos- ebrate the 10th anniversary of MacKillop’s poor children. giving educational opportunities to the very tolic Palace last week. canonisation in October. She began the order’s work with a school in poor, and also she suffered a lot in her jour- “I asked him how one can engage with Now known as St Mary of the Cross, a stable in the small town of Penola in 1866. ney,” Porro said. youth, particularly when there is this crisis of MacKillop founded the Congregation of Before her death many more educational in- “And she really represents the spirit of confidence,” she said. the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. stitutions were established in “bush” areas of Australia: persevering, welcoming, open, you “It has been a difficult period for the Cath- She focused particularly on the education of Australia where hardship was common. know? Looking after those who most need Today, the “Josephites” are present across it.” Australia and New Zealand, and have extend- A career diplomat, Porro has previously Belarusian Catholics in solidarity ed their ministry to Ireland, Peru, East Timor, served in diplomatic posts in India, West Af- Scotland, and Brazil. rica, and on the Pacific island of New Caledo- with ‘exiled’ Msgr Kondrusiewicz “Her work was very much centred around nia. — By Courtney Mares, CNA MOSCOW: Belarusian Catho- his “exile” in Poland to worsen lics expressed their anxiety and the atmosphere in Belarus in any expectation after the refusal of way. Kondrusiewicz stresses that the Polish customs authorities to all his interventions were abso- allow Archbishop Tadeusz Kon- lutely sincere and transparent, drusiewicz to return home. The and therefore there is no reason to vicar general of the archdiocese suspect his participation in plots of Minsk, Msgr Jurij Kosobutskij, against the state. gave an interview to the catholic. Kosobutsky also stresses that by site, in which he expresses “all members of the Catholic great perplexity at a “complicated Church, first and foremost the and incomprehensible” situation. bishops, have the right and duty So far, no official explanation has not to remain indifferent to what been given for the refusal. Archbishop Tadeusz is happening in society.” It is not Metropolitan Kondrusiewicz Kondrusiewicz a question of meddling in poli- sent a message to the faithful tics: the head of the local Catholic from Bialystok, where he is currently staying. Church did not support any candidate, but He invites everyone to join in prayer for the only made an appeal to honesty, dialogue and solution of this unfortunate situation, and in an end to violence, that is, to moral principles general for a peaceful solution to the country’s and principles of common interest. — By social and political crisis. He does not want Courtney Mares, CNA 10 Editorial HERALD September 6, 2020 HERALD Pope Francis: Amazon synod September 6, 2020 The art of China’s was for discernment, not for Vatican deal ext month, the 2018 Vatican-China deal expires. Those Nclose to the negotiations, both in Rome and in Beijing, now confidently predict a one-year extension to the two-year deal to fighting about married priests be agreed. But while the last two years have failed to deliver any meas- ope Francis did not approve a pro- den agendas’ called to conversion,” the the synod is not over. This time of wel- urable progress on the Vatican’s priorities, the status quo of posal to ordain married men in the Pope added. coming the whole process that we have all-dialogue-and-no-delivery has strengthened China’s position Amazon region because the idea The October 2019 Synod of Bish- lived challenges us to continue walking over the Church in the country, and neutralised diplomatic pres- P was discussed, and even argued about, ops on the Pan-Amazon Region was a together and to put this experience into sure internationally. but not prayerfully discerned at a 2019 gathering of bishops from the region, practice.” The original provisional agreement, the details of which re- synod of bishops, according to notes and from other parts of the world, who Pope Francis was criticised in some main unpublished, had a two-fold aim: to unify the underground from the Pope included in an article met to discuss pastoral strategies for quarters for his decision not to approve Church with the state-controlled patriotic church under Roman published Sept 3 in the Catholic peri- evangelisation, catechesis, and pastoral viri probati, despite support for the pro- leadership, and to provide a workable means for appointing odical La Civiltà Cattolica. care in the region, which spans several posal from the bishops at the synod. bishops in China. “There was a discussion ... a rich dis- South American countries, and is beset Church historian Massimo Faggioli At the end of its term, many Catholics in China conclude that, cussion ... a well-founded discussion, by social, economic, and environmental wrote in Commonweal that “what we by both measures, the deal has failed. but no discernment, which is something challenges. see with Querida Amazonia might sug- Two years after the “underground Church” was said to have different than just arriving at a good Some bishops at the synod proposed gest a betrayal of the Amazon Synod at been effectively eliminated in China, many Chinese bishops and justified consensus or at a relative that Francis should permit the ordina- least in terms of what it means for insti- and priests still refuse to sign up to the Chinese Patriotic Catho- majority,” Pope Francis said, on the is- tion of married men to the priesthood tutional Church reforms.” lic Association, citing their objection to official pledges to the sue of addressing a priest shortage in to address a regional shortage of priests. But in his recently published note, state authority and to communist ideology which they are re- the Amazon by ordaining so-called viri Critics of the idea said it would under- Francis emphasised that a synod is not quired to sign. probati, or older, mature and married mine the Church’s understanding of a legislative body, looking only for ma- Government officials have retaliated by harassing them, shut- men from local communities. clerical celibacy as a gift, would become jority approval on proposals. ting down churches and evicting them from their homes, or ar- The Pope clarified that synods of a widespread demand in the Church, “We must understand that the synod resting them. bishops should be opportunities for and would not effectively resolve the is more than a parliament; and in this At the same time, and despite Rome’s acceptance of several prayerful reflection, not parliamentary clerical shortage in the Amazon. specific case it could not escape that communist-appointed bishops, no measurable progress has lobbying. In his Feb 12 exhortation Querida [parliamentary] dynamic. On this is- been made on the task of filling vacant dioceses on the main- Pope Francis explained that a synod Amazonia, which responded to the sue it was a rich, productive and even land. More than 50 Sees in China are currently empty. Those of bishops is a “spiritual exercise,” a synod’s discussion on the region, Pope necessary parliament; but no more than which have been filled in recent months have welcomed newly period for discernment of how the Holy Francis did not endorse the proposal for that. To me, this was decisive in the fi- appointed bishops well past retirement age, even in their 80s, Spirit is speaking, and for self-examina- the ordination of married men. nal discernment, when I thought about who cannot be reasonably expected to bring stability to the lo- tion regarding the motive beyond posi- Instead, the urgent need for priests in how to do the exhortation." cal Church. Those close to the appointment process in Rome have ex- tions. the region “leads me to urge all bishops, “One of the riches and originality of pressed frustration with the process of episcopal appointments “Walking together means dedicat- especially those in Latin America, not the synodal pedagogy lies precisely in — the vaunted centrepiece of the entire deal. ing time to honest listening, capable only to promote prayer for priestly vo- going out of a parliamentary logic to Vatican sources say that lists of acceptable candidates are of making us reveal and unmask (or at cations, but also to be more generous in learn to listen, in community, to what carefully compiled, selections are made and sent for consulta- least to be sincere) the apparent purity encouraging those who display a mis- the Spirit says to the Church; for this tion to Beijing, where they are met with silence. of our positions and to help us discern sionary vocation to opt for the Amazon reason I always propose to remain silent China has kept silent when confronted about missing or ar- the wheat that — up to the Parousia — region,” he wrote. after a certain number of interventions,” rested clergy. The matter is raised, officials in Rome insist, but always grows among the weeds.” In his remarks published last week, the Pope added. no answers are given. “Whoever has not realised this evan- the Pope emphasised that continued “What sense would the synodal as- What, then, could the Vatican hope to achieve by extending a gelical vision of reality exposes them- discernment is needed to implement sembly have if it were not for listening deal which has yielded no results? selves to useless bitterness. Sincere and the vision laid out in his exhortation. together to what the Spirit says to the The 2018 deal was sealed when the Vatican recognised eight prayerful listening shows us the ‘hid- “I like to think that, in a certain sense, Church?” Pope Francis asked. — CNA Communist-appointed bishops, previously considered schis- matic, even allowing two of them to travel to Rome to partici- pate in that year’s synod. This time around, Rome is positioned Philippines joins global Christian effort to save nature to demand a reciprocal gesture from Beijing. MANILA: The Association of Ma- the pandemic also brought home in as non-renewable energy mining, log- The public announcement of several high-profile appoint- jor Religious Superiors in the Philip- real terms the meaning of Pope Fran- ging that leads to deforestation, indus- ments to Chinese dioceses, including Hong Kong, may become pines (AMRSP) has helped launch cis’ concepts of 'our common home' trial farming and fishing, industrial the asking price for the Holy See to agree to the expected one- this year’s Season of Creation with an and humanity as being a single fam- production of foods and consumer year extension. Beijing might be willing to entertain but try to appeal to Catholics to renew their re- ily,” said the AMRSP statement. goods that infringe on wildlife and the defer. lationship with God and all creation. The group also said no country rights of nature. For its part, Beijing will likely look to give away as little as The global event is a month-long has been spared in the pandemic, yet “Governments must also take bolder possible and continue its proven negotiating tactic of deferring campaign by Orthodox and Catholic churchgoers have gained a deeper un- steps to prevent wars and the nuclear any direct requests. Those close to the negotiations suggest that churchgoers against climate change. derstanding of “global solidarity” to arms race. At the heart of nature’s plea the status quo is already a “win” for China. “The Season of Creation is a time to address threats to public health. to every human being and all govern- “The 2018 deal was supposed to create one Church in China renew our relationship with our crea- The statement also said another con- ments — respect and uphold the rights in communion with Rome. What it did was flush out great num- tor and all creation through repenting, cept of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laud- of nature and human rights. Live with bers of underground Catholics for the state to snatch up. What repairing and rejoicing together. The ato Si’ was made real, “the cry of the justice, peace, charity and compassion they have is one Church in communion with Beijing.” annual season, which runs from Sept earth, the cry of the poor.” in our hearts.” “It must be understood that, to the Party, the Church is an 1 through Oct 4, is our time to con- “It's the poor and vulnerable who The religious superiors also said existential threat — it is an ideological competitor with its own nect with our creator on a deeper, more are hardest hit by natural disasters and that jubilee celebrations, according to organisational structure and hierarchy. Sinicisation is nothing to intentional level,” the group said in a pandemics … We need to strengthen Scripture, had a special impact on the do with cultural harmony but everything to do with co-opting the Church and sanitising it into an agent of the state.” statement posted on its website. the conviction that we are one single ownership and management of land in — By Ed Condon, CNA Each year, the ecumenical steering human family. The earth, our home, is the Land of Israel. committee chooses a theme to unify beginning to look more and more like “According to the Book of Leviticus, Christian religious groups around the an immense pile of filth,” said the su- Hebrew slaves and prisoners would be HERALD — The Catholic Weekly Jointly published by the world. This year’s theme is Jubilee for periors. freed, debts would be forgiven, and Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, the Earth: New Rhythms, New Hope. According to the AMRSP, a healthy the mercies of God would be particu- Diocese of Malacca Johore, Diocese of The AMRSP said there were lessons biodiversity would lessen the prob- larly manifest,” the statement said. Penang and Diocese of Keningau to be learned during the coronavirus ability of another pandemic from oc- While such was the biblical inter- Editor: Fr Lawrence Andrew, SJ pandemic in relation to human eco- curring. pretation of “jubilee,” the AMRSP HERALD, 5, Jalan Robertson, 50150, KL nomic activities. “A healthy planet is a healthy people said the modern-day implication of Tel: 03-20268290/20268291; “Climate change caused by human and can be a world at peace. There can the concept meant no less than restor- Fax: 03-20268293 invasions on biodiversity impacts the be no turning back. In a post-COVID ing the balance between nature and Online: www.heraldmalaysia.com. health of both the earth and human be- 19 world, governments and businesses man. — By Joseph Peter Calleja, E-mail: [email protected] ings. A sick world is a sick people. Yet must stop destructive practices such ucanews.com HERALD September 6, 2020 Focus 11 Muslim Emperor Akbar encouraged Christian art ortuguese India during the 16th century — that is, the In a two-part Pcolonial enclaves of Goa, series, Indian Bassein, Cochin and the Pearl Jesuit writer Fishery Coast — was blessed by Fr Myron the presence of the Jesuits. They Pereira built monumental churches, col- leges and residences. reflects on The Portuguese Jesuits lavishly the influence decorated these buildings with of early paintings, statues and church fur- Jesuits in the development nishings, and they commissioned of Christian art in India. numerous artists, painters, build- ers and sculptors. different faiths. He invited schol- Indeed, the Jesuit church was ars and theologians to engage in designed to represent a particular discussions on religious topics. image of Catholicism in the East: Knowing about the Portuguese a triumphant Church. Christians in Goa, Akbar invited Most of these artists were Christian scholars to his capital to Hindus. They created ivory and engage in religious discussions. wooden statues and furnishings in This resulted in the first Jesuit A part of a picture shows Jesuit priests Rodolpho Acquaviva and Antonio Monserrate (in black) attending a meeting in a subtle hybrid style, merging the mission to Akbar’s court. Two the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar. (UCA News photo/Wikimedia) late Renaissance influence of Eu- Jesuit priests — Rodolpho Acq- Why the Jesuits failed tableaux, which used a painting, a en. Akbar was not the least inter- rope and elements of local Hindu uaviva and Antonio Monserrate The Jesuits were not slow to en- sculpture, or a combination of the ested in changing his faith. temple art. — and the lay brother Francisco courage the emperor’s passion two, as a back-up altarpiece. Disappointed with the emper- While the pictures of Mary, the Henriques arrived in Akbar’s court for art. They arranged to have Akbar was so fond of his col- or, the Jesuits left Akbar’s court saints and the angels were derived in 1580. The gifts they brought to more pictures of Jesus and Mary lection of Christian paintings (as within three years. However, from Italian and Iberian originals, the emperor included the Royal (important figures in the Quran), was his son, Prince Salim, the there were two other missions to most of them were adapted to In- Polyglot Bible, an eight-volume Biblical scenes, and the saints future emperor Jehangir) that on the Moghul in 1591 and 1595. dian sensibilities. edition copiously illustrated and for the court painters to copy, in- certain Christian feast days, he They faced similar failures. The One example of such hybrid art printed in Antwerp, and a beauti- digenize and disseminate among would arrange to have a public interest of the Moghul rulers in can be found in the courts of the ful Byzantine Madonna. the Mughal aristocracy, who ea- exhibition and placed his paint- Christian art never meant a desire great Moghuls — Akbar, Jehangir The quality and the technique of gerly followed the inclinations of ings on display. It was his way to become Christian. and Shah Jehan. They were the these gifts from Europe opened a Akbar and his son. of showing his friendship for the If the miniatures and frescos in result of the early Jesuit missions whole new vision of religious art The pictures came in different Jesuits, and particularly for Padre the Moghul court were the most to the Moghul court in Fatehpur in the Moghul court, which had an formats. There were the typical Acquaviva. public form of Christian religious Sikri, near Agra. earlier tradition of court painting, Moghul-style miniatures, usu- The emperor had invited the art, the churches of Portuguese mostly under Iranian influence. ally watercolours on paper or Jesuits to Fatehpur Sikri for reli- India displayed other examples The Moghul mission Akbar wanted his court artists parchment. There were also fres- gious discussions, though the Jes- of Christian iconography. These Emperor Akbar (1542-1605) had to make copies of these Christian cos, which decorated the walls uits had other secret ambitions: to were a unique blend of European ambitions of founding a new reli- pictures, both in content and tech- of homes or palaces, and there convert Akbar to Christianity, and inspiration and local Indian tech- gion, the Din Ilahi (divine faith), nique, and a whole new style of were the retablos, Portuguese de- with him the whole of his empire. niques. — By Fr Myron Pereira amalgamating the teachings of painting was born. votional paintings or decorative In this they were sorely mistak- SJ, ucanews.com Istanbul’s Kariye Camii Museum (monastery of Christ the Saviour in Chora) to become a mosque ISTANBUL: Turkish President of the rarest examples of Byzantine Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued the art given its mosaics and frescoes, order to transform the splendid Ka- a landmark of humanity’s cultural riye Camii museum, also known as heritage, as the great Turkish his- the Monastery of the Holy Saviour torian İlber Ortaylı put it. in Chora, into a mosque. His de- Some of its splendid frescoes cision was published today in the and mosaics, which had been cov- Official Gazette. ered with plaster when it became Erdoğan’s order is based on a a mosque in the 16th century, ruling by the State Council in No- were restored by 1958, after care- vember 2019 according to which ful work by an US archaeological using the building as a museum school, with the contribution of was “against the law”. some Turkish scholars. Last May, the same Council Some diplomats note that gave Erdoğan the green light to Erdoğan’s decision reflects his ar- turn the Hagia Sophia museum rogant ambitions, largely for do- into a mosque. mestic consumption, which mix The Kariye Camii Museum is politics, ideology and culture. located in Fatih, Istanbul’s most Unfortunately, this has been met populous and religiously conserv- by the tolerance of the “polite” ative district. leaders of Western powers, driven With this decision, the museum more by economic and financial now comes under the control of interests than human dignity. the powerful Directorate of Re- Some observers cite, for exam- ligious Affairs (Diyanet), which ple, the presence of 6,000 Ger- will carry out the necessary work Resurrection in Parekklesion in Kariye Camii Museum. (Asianews photo) man and other foreign businesses to transform it into a mosque. tirely covered with mosaics and the monastery, like the Basilica Turning the museum into a in Turkey, as well as US President The original monastery was frescoes that date back to the 11th of Hagia Sophia, was seized and mosque is an insult to the cultural Donald Trump who has praised built in 534 AD, during the early century. turned into a mosque in 1511. In heritage of humanity, even more Erdoğan’s “leadership”. For them, Byzantine period. The internal After the conquest of Constan- 1945, Turkey’s cabinet converted than in the case of Hagia Sophia. “May ‘Allah’ save Turkey!” — By walls, pillars and domes are en- tinople by the Ottomans (1453), the mosque into a museum. The Chora monastery is in fact one NAT da Polis, AsiaNews 12 Varia HERALD September 6, 2020 The last temptation

he last temptation is the It’s a temptation that comes dis- tion, and in discussion with oth- rior pride in how humble we’ve greatest treason: guised as a grace and tempts us in ers. How do we overcome that been! It’s the same with all of the T To do the right deed for this way: be unselfish, be faithful, “last temptation”, to do the right deadly sins. As we succeed in not the wrong reason. do good things, never compro- things without making it about giving in to crasser temptations, T.S. Eliot wrote those words mise the truth, be about others, ourselves? they re-root themselves in subtler to describe how difficult it is to carry your solitude at a high lev- The struggle to overcome self- forms within us. purge our motivation of selfish el, be above the mediocrity of the ishness and motivate ourselves Our faults display themselves concerns, to do things for reasons crowd, be that exceptional moral by a clear, honest altruism can publicly and crassly when we’re that are not ultimately about our- person, accept martyrdom if it is be an impossible battle to win. immature, but the hard fact is that selves. In Eliot’s asked of you. But why? For what Classically, the Church has told they generally don’t disappear Murder in the Cathedral, his reason? us there are seven deadly sins when we are mature. They sim- main character is Thomas Beck- There are many motives for (pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, ply take on more subtle forms. et, the Archbishop of Canterbury, wanting to be good, but the one gluttony, and sloth) that are tied For instance, when I’m imma- who is martyred for his faith. that disguises itself as a grace and to our very nature and with which ture and wrapped up in my own From every outward appearance, is really a negative temptation is Fr Ron Rolheiser we will struggle our whole lives. life and ambitions, I might not Becket is a saint, unselfish, -mo this one: be good because of the The problem is that the more we give much thought to helping tivated by faith and love. But as respect, admiration, and perma- respect it garners for me? When seem to overcome them, the more the poor. Then, when I’m older, Eliot teases out in Murder in the nent good name it will win you, I’m teaching is my real motiva- they manage to simply disguise more mature and more theologi- Cathedral, the outward narra- for the glory that this brings. This tion to make others fall in love themselves in more subtle forms cally schooled, I will write arti- tive doesn’t tell the deeper story, is the temptation faced by a good with Jesus or to have them admire in our lives. For example, take Je- cles publicly confessing that we doesn’t show what’s more radi- person. Wanting a good name is me for my insights? When I write sus’ counsel to not be proud and all should be doing more for the cally at issue. It’s not that Thomas not a bad thing, but in the end it’s books and articles, am I really take the most prestigious place at poor. Well, challenging myself Becket wasn’t a saint or wasn’t still about ourselves. trying to dispense wisdom or am table and then be embarrassed by and others to be more attentive to honest in his motivation for doing In my more reflective -mo I trying to show how wise I am? It being asked to move to a lower the poor is in fact a good thing … good works; rather there was still ments, I’m haunted by this and this about God or about me? place, but rather to humbly take and while that might not help the a “last temptation” that he needed left with self-doubts. Am I really Perhaps we can never really the lowest seat so as to be invit- poor very much, it will certainly to overcome on the road to be- doing what I am doing for Jesus, answer these questions since our ed to move higher. That’s sound help me to feel better about my- coming a full saint. Beneath the for others, for the world, or am I motivation is always mixed and practical advice, no doubt, but it self. surface narrative there’s always doing it for my own good name it’s impossible to sort this out ex- can also be a recipe for humility How do we ever get beyond a deeper, more-subtle, invisible and how I can then feel good actly. But still, we owe it to oth- we can really be proud of. Once this, this last temptation, to do moral battle going on, a “last about that? Am I doing it so that ers and to ourselves to scrutinize we have displayed our humility the right thing for the wrong rea- temptation” that must be over- others might lead fuller, less fear- ourselves over this in prayer, in and been publicly recognised for son? — By Fr Ron Rolheiser, all come. What’s that temptation? ful lives, or am I doing it for the conscience, in spiritual direc- it, then we can feel a truly supe- rights reserved Dealing with grief in a time of coronavirus n normal times — when there is anticipating “400, maybe even Inot a global pandemic — Linda 800 people” to not being allowed Dyson assists Catholics at the Ca- to gather more than 10 people in a thedral of Christ the King in Atlan- space. ta, Georgia with pastoral care min- “The family of the young man istries, which are for people who are went ahead and had a funeral, and experiencing some kind of spiritual, there were probably about 10 peo- emotional, or physical need. ple there,” Dyson said. “Which means everything’s sad,” The artist’s family decided to Dyson said. “All of the sad minis- postpone, to see if they could wait tries fall under me.” to hold the funeral until more peo- This includes everything sur- ple were allowed to gather. rounding death — pre-funeral plan- “So, that’s really been the flavour ning, day-of funeral coordination, of the whole (pandemic) period and post-funeral services such as either getting along without your grief classes. closest friends and family, and hav- Now, when there is a global pan- ing to limit the funeral to a much demic, Dyson is still in charge of smaller size,” she said, or “postpon- pastoral care ministries — but many ing in hopes that restrictions lift to things have changed. In Atlanta, as a point where a larger funeral is al- (CNA photo/Syda Productions via Shutterstock) in most places throughout the coun- lowed”. try, the coronavirus pandemic has Neither situation — a limited would normally expect to come by those emotions, as those services of approaching death or the same impacted everything surrounding funeral, or a delayed funeral — is and even bring a fresh baked loaf of “all give some amount of structure foundation or rituals that other cul- grief, from families not being able ideal, Dyson said. For families bread, and they’re not coming over to saying goodbye.” tures have,” he said. to say goodbye to their dying loved which press on, the funeral experi- to hug you, and there’s no touching, Cancelled or restricted ceremo- In advanced countries, the ap- ones due to isolation and quarantine ence is very stripped down — no and there’s no warmth — there’s an nies take away those structures. proach to grief seems to be “all to small funeral sizes due to limits sympathising with anyone other extra layer of loss.” “As things are now, even the usu- about getting closure. And I think on crowds, and few supports availa- than immediate family, no luncheon Even as some coronavirus restric- al sources of support are lacking,” people mean by that, ‘Well, why ble after the funeral because of fears after the funeral to swap stories with tions have eased, many still remain she said. aren’t you, or are you over your of spreading the virus. friends, no lines of hugs and condo- in place. Nursing homes and hos- Pandemic restrictions can disrupt mother’s death now? It’s been a “After the March announcement lences. pitals still maintain strict rules on grief in certain ways, Kevin Pren- month, you’re probably getting about the virus...the tragic thing is “It’s really the family, the body visitors, meaning that some fami- dergast a Catholic clinical counsel- back to normal,’” Prendergast said. that we were in the middle of two of the person that they love, and the lies may miss the opportunity to say lor said. Being unable to attend the “And I think what people just relatively large funeral plans for Eucharist, which in some ways is goodbye to a sick and dying loved funeral of a loved one may mean don’t realise...is that grief just takes two people who had just died,” Dy- very lovely, and in some ways it’s one. Gatherings in Georgia are now that the loss takes even longer to time,” he said. son said. heart wrenching, all at the same limited to 50 people — still a far cry process. There might be feelings “Grief...comes in waves. At the One person was a prominent art- time,” she said. from the hundreds that used to show of “I can’t believe they’re really beginning it’s really intense, but ist from the area. Another one was a She added that “2020 probably up at bigger funerals. gone,” he said. then it does subside and get back to young man from a university. has to be the worst year for grief.” “Grief is itself disorienting,” said Prendergast said that loss and a more normal level. But then all of “So obviously, two different “When you think about grief, Dr Julie Masters, a professor of ger- grief are already very difficult, and a sudden, out of the blue, because types of funerals, but at the same there is that aspect of wanting to be ontology at the University of Ne- that customs in the United States there’s a special date on the calen- time, a lot of people loved both of alone and just to process that grief,” braska Omaha. Normally, if some- surrounding death typically do not dar, or we see a location or we hear those individuals,” she said. she said, “but a big part of that pro- one misses the moment of death allow people adequate time and a song, we look at a picture, and it Within a matter of days, due to cessing is community. And so when of a loved one, they might look to space to process their emotions, all comes back. And so I think we coronavirus precautions, the fami- we don’t have that community, ceremonies such as wakes, rosaries when compared to other countries. have to ride through those waves,” lies at those funerals went from you don’t have the people that you and funerals as a way to process “We don’t have the same way he said. — By Mary Farrow, CNA HERALD September 6, 2020 13 Can we make retreats better? How modern Catholics are reinventing an ancient tradition he term retreat implies an action we try to make sense of it.” that is also a location; we with- Other design choices are not so Tdraw to some place away from universally accepted. Consider the our normal lives. 1950s-style retreat centres, massive And yet the physical structure of the old novitiate buildings and convents place where we go on retreat, things out in the woods somewhere repur- like its layout and interior design, are posed into hardy meat-and-potatoes key elements for our experience as places. For some, their concrete mon- well. “Our bodies are our primary way umentalism offers a comforting sense of knowing the world,” the architect of permanence, a God who is strong Terrence Curry, SJ, says. The way that and unflappable. Others find that such world is structured informs everything structures make them feel small and from how we feel and think about our- inconsequential. They seem to require selves to our experience of God. submission instead of inviting a rela- Some architectural features of re- tionship with God. ligious structures seem to work for Today a number of designers of re- everybody. Fr Curry notes the way treat centres around the country are “immensity and infinity induce a qual- thinking intentionally about this re- ity of awe” as well as the satisfaction lationship between physical environ- we all take from a composition that is ment and spiritual experience. Their coherent and engaging. “Our brains work suggests key ways that design are constantly trying to make sense of can help people grow in their relation- things; every time we look at a space ship with God. Joyce Centre (America photo/Tom Rettig) Spiritual Exercises in Glass and Stone Every element of the building should be inspired in some way by the Spiritual Exercises or decades, the College of the viously. “Narragansett was a clue for and the residential wing on the other. in Scottsdale, Ariz., and was struck they tend to use in retreats. “If retrea- FHoly Cross in Worcester, Mass., us,” says Marybeth Kearns-Barrett, The simpler the building’s structure, by the way Wright tried to make the tants want to pray with this passage offered the Spiritual Exercises of St director of the Office of the College the designers believed, the fewer po- outdoors blend seamlessly with the from Scripture, we can invite people Ignatius four times a year at a dioc- Chaplains. “We knew we wanted tential distractions it would pose, and indoors. “This idea of bringing the to go and sit in front of it,” says Ms esan retreat centre on the Atlantic something that had some sense of the easier it would be for people to outdoors in is so Ignatian,” she says. Fox-Kelly. Ocean in Narragansett, R.I., about the natural world and God’s presence feel at home. “We wanted students “We’re always trying to say, ‘Look at Meanwhile Fr Boroughs had the two hours from the college campus. in that, a place that would leave you to feel they can breathe here,” ex- the world; there you will find God, in idea to include photographs of reli- The experience was very popular. sort of in awe.” plained Megan Fox-Kelly, associate all of its beauty and all of its rough- gious iconography from campus, like “You hear stories of married cou- Michael Pagano, the project’s lead chaplain and director of retreats. The ness and all of its overwhelming details of statues; and Ms Kearns- ples taking their children to show architect from Lamoureux Pagano hoped-for result, Mr. Pagano says, awesomeness.’” Barrett invited the artists who had them the spot where they made their Associates, spent months learning “is a sense of comfort and of being Everywhere you go on the public designed the altar, lectern and cruci- retreat,” says Paul Harman, SJ, the from the university’s planning com- welcomed. A quiet mind.” side of the Joyce Centre, you find fix in the college chapel to design the university’s former vice president of mittee, not only about the kinds of The idea of creating a space with full-length windows that offer views pieces for the Joyce chapel as well. mission. programmes the chaplains planned minimal distractions led to other of the reservoir below, over which The hope is that these kinds of details When the retreat centre closed, to conduct at the center, but also choices as well. The parking lot was the sun rises each morning. It creates might allow the experience people Holy Cross began considering the about the spirituality of St Ignatius placed down the hill and behind the “a wonderful way to center prayer,” have at the centre to continue back possibility of creating a place of their Loyola, which informed them. In centre, where it was not likely to be says Philip Boroughs, SJ, the presi- at home. “I go back to campus and own. Years of exploration finally led the end, the group decided that every seen. The centre is also located at the dent of Holy Cross. Ms Kearns- I’m reminded of my retreat again,” them to 50 acres of woodlands over- element of the building should be in- end of a winding, four-block long Barrett agrees, noting the view also explains Ms Fox-Kelly. looking the Wachusett Reservoir spired in some way by the Spiritual uphill driveway through a wooded has a way of drawing students out The centre also offers a great vari- near Worcester. Exercises. area, which gives retreatants a physi- of themselves: “Sometimes a retreat ety of spaces in which to pray. In ad- The site checked a number of Simplicity became a key element cal experience of leaving behind can become so self-focused. To see dition to the chapel and dining room, boxes. Its location just 15 minutes in fulfilling that desire. The design the ordinary world. The three-story what’s outside, it’s like something alcoves throughout the building offer from campus would allow the col- would rely on just a few main ma- building was also built into the hill, bigger than yourself always calling quiet spaces in which people can sit lege chaplains to offer not just week- terials — glass, stone, wood. The rather than on top of it. “We wanted back to you.” and look out on the reservoir, the for- ends or weeks away but programs layout would likewise be easy to the natural landscape to dominate the Meanwhile, the 48 bedrooms on est, an interior courtyard or some of on weekdays or evenings. And the understand, with the public spaces of experience,” Mr Pagano explains. the western side each have large win- the building’s artwork. The entrance spectacular views would give them the dining room, meeting room and Ms Kearns-Barrett had visited dows looking out on nearby woods room to the building is also designed the best of what they had known pre- chapel all on one side of the building Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West through which the sun sets. The like the living room of a home, with rooms off the chapel for spiritual di- a fireplace, couches and a long shelf rection and confession were also giv- abutting the window, where students en substantial windows with woodsy like to set up pillows and blankets. views. “In some [retreat centres] the The centre seems to inspire such direction rooms can feel so dark and personal adaptations naturally. Dis- cold,” Ms Fox-Kelly explains. “We covering the long windows looking wanted ours to be a space where into the forest in the largely quiet students could feel comfortable and stairwells, students moved chairs invited.” there. A chaplain had the idea to turn In reading about St Ignatius, Mr some chairs near the dining room to- Pagano was touched by the story ward the side courtyard. “It was like of how he used to love to look up a whole other new experience,” Ms at the stars. To provide some sense Kearns-Barrett says. “So many kids of that experience, Mr Pagano gave started eating their meals facing out the chapel 52 small ball-shaped light in those chairs, or just sitting there fixtures at different heights and in a during the day.” The design of the pattern that subtly mirrors a spiral building thus has become a means galaxy. Students “will sit or lie on the of living out the invitation of an Ig- ground and look up at them,” says natian retreat, empowering people to Ms Fox-Kelly. “It’s pretty amazing.” trust in their own instincts and rela- In considering artwork for the tionship with God. building, chaplains chose pieces that Sunrise at the Joyce Centre (America photo/John Cannon) reflect the main scriptural images l Continued on Page 14 14 HERALD September 6, 2020 Christ in the Desert: Refuge and Wonder l Continued from Page 13 estled between mesas 13 tion but also in the massive panes miles down a treacher- of glass that circle the upper walls. Nous, winding, red dirt road Much as at the Joyce Centre, the in north central New Mexico, the world is offered as material for Benedictine Monastery of Christ contemplation — the skies and in the Desert has surprisingly few cliffs that rise around the church, buildings. The abbey proper and a their colours constantly changing small church sit at the top of a rise. with the light; the moon and stars The church is built from the same at night. stone as the mesas that rise behind Here the invitation of the archi- it, as though it had been carved out tecture calls forth a physical re- from them. sponse. One’s eyes are constantly A simple adobe guesthouse and a drawn upward to those windows; The Benedictine Monastery of Christ in the Desert in New Mexico is built from the same stone as the mesas that rise small free-standing ranch house lie the body naturally takes on a pos- behind it, as though it had been carved out from them. (CNS (photo) a five-minute walk down the hill. ture of seeking, of looking beyond an inbreaking of eternity becomes during your stay,” the guestmaster an immediate feeling of comfort In terms of architecture, that’s it. oneself. It is a pose well-suited to a lived experience. writes. “We have found that search- and home. If the Joyce Centre’s aim is to blur a structure built for the Liturgy of The guesthouse down the road ing for God is always a bit mysteri- The most significant item in each the separation between indoors and the Hours, sung here by the monks has an unexpectedly fortress-like ous and requires the need to won- room is a large reproduction of a re- out, Christ in the Desert instead of- throughout the day. Worshipers quality; there are no windows or der, to puzzle, to reflect and to pray ligious painting, like Bartolomé Es- fers the canyon setting itself as the looking upward mirror the monks’ reception area, just a set of wooden for a deeper understanding of what teban Murillo’s poignant image of “structure” to inspire people’s spir- voices raised in hope to the Lord. beam doors that take a bit of puz- lies right before us.” St Francis embracing the crucified itual experience. The Benedictines have come to zling out to unlatch. From outside In his book The Poetics of Space, Christ. Placed in such small, simple There is wisdom in that deci- use the setting in meaningful ways. you have no sense of what lies the French philosopher Gaston Ba- quarters, the art offers its own pow- sion. The silence and stillness of Incense at Sunday Mass creates within: 13 rooms nestled around a chelard talks about the human need erful invitation into prayer. the mesas have a powerful effect on material with which the sunlight courtyard and looking out on the for cave-like spaces. “It gives [one] Christian Leisy, OSB, the abbot the place; they function as a high pouring in forms beams, until the gorgeous mesas and river of the a physical pleasure,” he writes, to of the monastery, notes that the re- pressure front, forcing you to slow entire church is filled with them, Chama Valley. dwell within “the primitiveness of treat centre's location in a canyon down and step gently. Over the transforming the small, simple But as disconcerting as that en- the refuge.” is a somewhat unusual place for a course of days, the space seems to prayer space into something other- trance seems — so different from In a place where brutal heat, cold Benedictine community. “Benedic- naturally draw away any busyness worldly. Likewise, the large, free- the typical retreat house — with it or precipitation can descend and tine abbeys are traditionally located within, leaving you room to simply standing tabernacle, which when comes an immediate sense of pri- the darkness of night is sometimes on mountains,” he explains. “That’s be still and meet God in the silence open displays icons of saints from vacy and ownership. For the days frighteningly absolute, the guest the tradition of Monte Cassino or and subtle beauties of this place. nine countries (representing some you are here it is clear: This is rooms at Christ in the Desert very Subiaco.” But he believes their The abbey church, designed in of the different nationalities of the your space. The guidebook placed much function like Bachelard’s physical location creates a unique the 1960s by George Nakashima, monks), glows golden in the af- in each room goes further: “This cave. Many are little more than spiritual experience: “I think of takes its cue from the land around ternoon sun. When praying in this orientation will surely not answer cells in size, yet the craftsmanship God cradling us in this space in so it, not only in its stone construc- church, the notion of the Mass as every question that you will have of the furniture somehow provides many ways.” The Spiritual Ministry Centre: No Place Like Home rom the outside, the Spiritual of the setup of the centre — has surfing, ‘He was there with me.’” FMinistry Centre in the Ocean turned out to be a powerful part of In Margaret Visser’s The Geom- Beach community of San Diego that experience for some, as well. etry of Love, a best-selling book looks like a set of two-story town- “People really like the freedom on the architecture and spirituality houses in the middle of a suburban to eat what they want, when they of St Agnes Church in Rome, the block. Farther down the street chil- want,” explains Sr Flick. “It creates author writes, “A church is de- dren run around playing with their a kind of hermitage for people; it liberately ordered toward conse- dog while guys sit in lawn chairs actually kind of amplifies their si- quences, toward the future.” It is listening to the Padres on the radio. lence and their routines.” laid out “with a certain trajectory This is a community of yard sales And on a pleasant San Diego of the soul in mind.” It has a “plot,” and American flags, bird feeders evening, having a simple meal a story being told. and the kind of gently swaying by yourself on a patio as the stars For as different as they are in palm trees one sees in the mov- slowly come out is itself a kind setting and design, the Joyce Con- ies. A 10-minute walk away, in the of spiritual experience. The light templative Centre, the Monastery centre of town, tourists wander past changes so gradually, you find of Christ in the Desert and the souvenir shops while homeless yourself naturally starting to slow Spiritual Ministry Centre share an children sell paintings and beg for At the Spiritual Ministry Centre in the Ocean Beach community of San down, savouring the world around interest in simplicity and in the change along the beach. Diego, every detail of the space has been considered with an eye toward giving you. world as a fundamental source of retreatants an experience of home (photo/the Spiritual Ministry Centre). It is an unexpected location, in The other thing that has made the grace. These features give them a other words, for a retreat house. who may come for anything from match. Nor do the sheets. For the Spiritual Ministry Centre uniquely slightly different orientation from And intentionally so; when the So- a weekend or evening to 40 days. sisters, that, too, is about creating attractive for retreatants is its prox- Visser’s image of church. Rather ciety of the Sacred Heart decided Every detail of the space has a feeling of home. “Our model is imity to the commercial district than being pointed toward a future, to start a retreat centre in 1987, been considered with an eye to- that we are not institutional,” says of Ocean Beach. For visitors, the the modern retreat house intends a they did so inspired by the idea of ward giving retreatants an experi- Jane O’Shaughnessy, RSCJ, a neighbourhood streets become a deepened appreciation of the multi- bringing together contemplation ence of home. The beds are much staff member. “People can come, part of the experience, a kind of tudinous present, an opportunity to and normal life. “The thought was bigger than one would normally and the retreat is arranged the way actual labyrinth space in which discover, as Gerard Manley Hop- to leave these isolated, protected find in a retreat centre, with com- they’d like.” their physical wandering can mir- kins, SJ, wrote, that “Christ plays big houses where everyone is holed fortable mattresses and bed linens. The idea of going on retreat to a ror what they are going through in ten thousand places,/ Lovely in up and be immersed in the regular, The rooms also have a pleasant sit- place that looks quite like the one spiritually. And oftentimes in that limbs, and lovely in eyes not his.” ordinary life,” says Marie-Louise ting area, large walk-in closets and you left at home may seem odd. activity, retreatants have power- Like all Catholic institutions, Flick, RSCJ, the director of the an en suite bathroom. “We believe And yet the sisters have witnessed ful experiences of discovering, these centres have, as both their centre. comfort is important,” explains Sr how, being in a space that looks or being discovered, by God. Sr foundation and purpose, our shared The front two townhouses of the Flick. and feels like a home without all O’Shaughnessy recalled a woman story, the story of salvation. And centre serve as a community for the At the same time, there is sim- the responsibilities of one, creates a from the East Coast: “She came yet, rather than directing people nuns who work there and a gather- plicity to the space. “We don’t sense of freedom and rest. “People with her surfboard, rented a bicy- where to go, they seem built to en- ing place for workshops on prayer, have a lot of fluff around,” says Sr really do like the ease of it,” says Sr cle and she was all over the place. able all who visit to meet the God psychology, spirituality and art. Flick. The artwork on the walls is O’Shaughnessy. “They find their When I met with her and asked who loves them as they are, in their Meanwhile, the back half offers understated, and while the furni- comfort zone.” where was Jesus, [she said] Jesus own way. — By Jim McDermott, rooms for up to four retreatants, ture is comfortable, it doesn’t all Cooking for oneself — part was on the rock, he was out there America HERALD September 6, 2020 Children 15 LittleLittle CCatholicsatholics’ CCornerorner

W O R D S E A R C H Sometimes we see other people doing thing that we know are wrong. When we see other people doing wrong, does Jesus want us to talk to them about it?

TRUTH AGREE HEAVEN AGAINST BIND WON CHURCH SINS FATHER YOU REFUSES SHOW HEAVEN TESTIMONY LISTENS EARTH FAULT BROTHER WITNESSES LOOSE Fill In The Blanks Love does no ______to its ______. To find the answer, only Therefore ______is the colour in the spaces with ______of the law. crosses like this:  (Romans 13:10)

harm neighbour fulfillment love

Hello children, We aren't trying to make them feel bad; In today's Gospel we're trying to help! For where there am I with them... reading, Jesus tells Has anyone ever two or three (Matthew 18: 20) us that if someone told you when you sins against us, we were doing something gather in should quietly go and wrong? my name ... talk to them about Did you find it easy it. Have you ever to listen to them? We Let's Colour seen someone elso try to help someone do something bad? to turn away from Did you talk to them his/her sins. It's about it? hard to do, but it When we talk to makes God so happy somebody about to see us helping peo- something wrong that ple come back to Him! they are doing, we should do it with love. Aunty Eliz

Jesus is present through His Word — the Bible.

Connect the dots and col- our the picture! HERALD

Social BEC Communication (1976) (1996)

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

Family (1996) Youth (1986) YOUTH YOUTHSeptember 6, 2020 Indonesia’s Catholic Church holds Virtual Youth Day AKARTA: For the first time, Indo- Commenting on the theme of Colossians nesia’s young Catholics held the 2:7, he said that young people were called to make life choices wisely by being rooted, JIndonesian Youth Day online be- blooming and bearing fruit in Christ. cause of the COVID-19 restrictions. Rooted, blooming and bearing fruit Reaching out via social media was the theme of the Aug 28-30 Virtu- “To be rooted in Christ means that our life is al Youth Day (VYD) that was streamed sourced in Christ. To bloom in Christ means live on YouTube. Organisers said over that we recognise our growth potential and challenges. To bear fruit in Christ means that 5,000 youth from all over the vast ar- we have grateful hearts which are capable of chipelago participated in the event. loving others,” he said. Bishop Pius Riana Prapdi of Ketapang, Despite the challenges regarding jobs, chairman of the Commission for Youth of studies, communities and health conditions the Bishops’ Conference of Indonesia (KWI), amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop Prapdi kicked off the two-day event on Aug 28 with encouraged the young people to continue a concelebrated Mass in the Cathedral of being “rooted in Christ, to grow in faith and Ketapang, in West Kalimantan, on the island to bear fruit through services by using social of Borneo. media platforms”. VYD’s second day programme included tra- Fr Antonius Haryanto (top centre), executive secretary of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference’s Rooted, blooming, and bearing ditional songs, dances and sharing sessions. Commission for Youth, joins a sharing program of the Virtual Youth Day celebrations held on fruit in Christ The idea of a Virtual Youth Day was decided Aug 28-29. (UCA News photo) “God always finds ways to love young people. in late July because of the COVID-19 restric- “I do hope that young people can become Archdiocese of Kupang, regarded the first Young people’s imagination and energy to tions, said Fr Antonius Haryanto, executive the main actors. Even though their activities Virtual Youth Day as “a milestone.” “We live be creative never end, even amid the COV- secretary of the Commission for Youth. are very limited amid the COVID-19 pandem- in a modern world. We can use social media ID-19 pandemic,” Bishop Prapdi said in his In the lead-up to the August VYD, he said ic, they still can become visionary leaders platforms positively to show the world that homily. He commended their spirit to serve they held live-streamed talk shows, in which who help the society or make breakthroughs young people in Indonesia can do some- the Church and the nation and the desire to priests, psychologists and young people de- possible,” Fr Haryanto said. thing useful for others,” he said. — By Robin share their joy and inspiration with others. veloped the theme of the event. Ronald Taemisa, a participant from the Gomes, Vatican News Catholic Covid-19 volunteer inspires Myanmar youth MANDALAY, Myanmar: When calls came While Saw Thaw served as a volunteer in there are many priests who died on the front Catholic Major Seminary, which has been through for young volunteers to help quar- Sittwe, he had the privilege of taking part in line while caring for the infected. turned into a quarantine facility. antined people in COVID hotspot Sittwe, a video conference with State Counsellor “I would be proud of your work and com- The National Catholic Youth Commission Benedict Saw Thaw Moe didn’t hesitate and Aung San Suu Kyi to discuss the COVID-19 mitment even if you face a critical condi- (NCYC) has hailed Saw Thaw as “a good ex- quickly decided to offer his time and energy situation and how the government needs to tion,” his father said. ample for young people” in the country as he on the front line. respond. The Catholic youth told Aung San Suu Kyi has been serving in a frontline role as a vol- Despite his parents’ concern over the During a video conference including the of the challenges on the ground as protec- unteer since the pandemic erupted in March. spread of the deadly coronavirus and the chief minister and health officials from Ra- tive equipment is not arriving in time and the “On behalf of Catholic youths in Myan- stigma faced by healthcare workers and vol- khine, he talked about why he decided to need for quality products and more volun- mar, we are really proud of his dedication unteers, Saw Thaw packed his bags and left work as a volunteer in Sittwe, far from his teers to help the growing number of people and commitment, setting a good example to for Yangon. hometown. who are in quarantine centres. others,” the NCYC said. Encouraged by his father, the ethnic Karen “God teaches us to love our neighbours “We have no fear of being infected with the Hundreds of youths from various denomi- from Insein township in Yangon went to Sit- and help those in need and the teachings of virus but we, the volunteers, need protection nations have signed up for the program as twe, capital of Rakhine, to join other volun- Jesus Christ urge us to give a hand to every so that we can help the people effectively,” part of the Church’s response, as Myanmar teers at quarantine centres on Aug 26. human being. A true Christian is one who Saw Thaw said. has battled the pandemic since May. Locally transmitted cases have emerged in helps those in need regardless of race and re- Saw Thaw is vice-president of the Yan- Church officials have urged young people Sittwe since Aug 16 and the contagion spread ligion,” he said. gon Archdiocesan Catholic Youth Commis- to work as volunteers in the COVID-19 cam- to several townships in the conflict-torn state Asked how his father responded when he sion and has already served in four quaran- paign and in quarantine centres. — By John within two weeks. sought permission, he said his father said tine centers in Yangon including St Joseph’s Zaw, ucanews.com HERALD September 6, 2020 Youth 17 Klang District: Online Youth Hangout KLANG: The youth of Klang District re- cently organised an online gathering host- ed by the Archdiocesan Single Adult and Youth Office (ASAYO) on August 23. The individual parishes had been organising their own online gatherings. This online gathering was organised with the aim of connecting youth from the various parishes in the Klang District. The online gather- ing comprised youth from the Church of St Anne (SAC), Church of the Holy Redeem- er (HRC) and Church of Sts Peter and Paul (SPP). A total of 32 youngsters, including the pastoral workers from ASAYO, partici- pated in the session that ran for approxi- mately an hour and a half. The parishes often tend to get absorbed in their own programmes. This occasion served as a perfect platform to break out and interact with other youth and share common experiences. The youth divided the duties and responsibilities that come with organising an online meeting, starting from registration to planning and imple- mentation. To this end, the ASAYO pas- toral workers offered help and guidance. Matthias Niven Raj from HRC had this to say: “It was really exciting for me to see Youths from various parishes in the Klang district together with ASAYO meet via Google Hangout. many youth from different parishes come youths comfortable with each other. The online gathering was followed by enjoyed the gathering and met some amaz- together even during these difficult times. According to Lusiana Bangi Anak Je- praise and worship, expressing gratitude to ing new people. I really look forward to the It goes to show that today’s can do much rome, “It was the first time joining this kind God for His blessings. It culminated in a next district gathering,” stated Stephen An- more for the Church and it also shows how of activity. It was fun and seeing the inter- thought-filled session where the youth were dre Richard from SAC. “It was fun. I got to our knowledge in technology can help us action between each one of us was really asked to type in and offer up their inten- meet youths from different parishes,” stated branch out to connect with one another.” sweet. Though many of us were new to the tions. Vanessa Silva from SAC. “The gathering The goal was to get the youth comfortable gathering, it didn’t feel awkward and we On this, Erwin Edwin from SAC shared: was simply awesome, I enjoyed the games with each other although many had not instantly clicked.” “It was inspiring to see the chat live with and the praise and worship really touched met each other before. Sherwin from SPP Andelyne anak Andrew shared, “I love the prayer intentions from the youth. me. I really enjoyed praying together and shared: “Even though it was new to us, they how the team livened up the atmosphere.” Reading them and praying for them really smiling,” said Abigail Ashwini Das. didn’t make us feel that way and it was like Ethan Mark D’Rozario shared, “I really touched me.” The Klang District Youth Ministries are we had a secret bond.” liked how we all interacted with each other, Based on the positive feedback the youth striving to keep the youth feeling alive and The gathering included an exciting round especially after the jokes. We all seemed to were looking forward to conducting fur- connected in spite of the challenges of the of ice breakers and games that got the be having a good time.” ther get-togethers with other parishes. “I pandemic. — By Daphne Jothy Selvarajah “LAKSA for our JIWA” Young Asian Catholics A “Must Try” for Every seek to help marginalised MANILA: Catholic students in the Asia-Pa- sustainable development goals; abuse — Hungry Christian cific region are taking part in a series of on- children and young people; ecumenism and line workshops aimed at training participants inclusiveness. KUCHING: The Kuching Archdiocese Youth Thursday. It was then when Jesus shared with to help marginalised communities. The schedules will be posted on the website Commission (KAYC) is keeping in touch us His Body and Blood. It was there where The International Movement of Catholic and Facebook page of IMCS Asia Pacific. with our young people in a “delicious and He Himself offered us His very self with a Students (IMCS) Asia Pacific is holding five- healthy” way during this period with its latest command to serve and love as He has done. day courses from now until February in the “To assist Catholic tertiary project LAKSA for our JIWA. Hear Thus, KAYC’s serving of LAK- first phase of the project. students with adequate contextual about it! See and taste it SA for our JIWA every Students from Bangladesh, Hong Kong, analysis, rights and legal education Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, yourself! Thursday night. about marginalised communities, Every week, It is the hope the Philippines and Vietnam took part in a starting this Au- of the Youth session on human rights via Zoom from Aug faith and spiritual formation and gust, KAYC Commis- 17-21. skill development.” is posting in sion that The 21 members shared their ideas on top- its Facebook this weekly ics such as the history and discourse of human IMCS Asia Pacific, staying true to its vision and What- serving will rights in different countries, the Universal and mission, aims to assist Catholic tertiary sApp ac- help people Declaration of Human Rights, human rights students with adequate contextual analysis, counts a short to see and and cultural relativism, human dignity, Cath- rights and legal education about marginalised video where… share God in olic social teaching and the IMCS mission. communities, faith, spiritual formation and a young person their lives and “We realised that we need to look not just at skill development. or a youth minister of those of the online the current situation but rather also at a post- The first seven-month phase of the- pro the Archdiocese gives a talk guests, to get them more COVID world,” said IMCS Asia Pacific co- gram will cover IMCS national movements, addressed especially the young. This inspired by Jesus’ presence in their ordinator William Nokrek. ecumenical partners and solidarity groups in is one of our Catholic Church’s timely initia- lives. “Our virtual engagement will not be ad hoc the Asia-Pacific region. tives to keep young people in touch with God, God bless our Church, our young people, in but rather a long-term initiative. Therefore, It aims to build the capacities of key leaders even during the MCO days. these trying times. May this project serve its we have decided to name it ‘IMCS Continued in national movements and influence policies, LAKSA for our JIWA is a weekly yummy purpose well ie, to feed our young with God’s Learning and Action Programme’ (CLAP). programs and student actions. serving of inspirational sharing from some- inspiration. The first edition of the workshop on human IMCS is an international non-government one’s heart to everyone’s soul. This video #LAKSAforourJIWA… Get nourished and rights was received with great enthusiasm.” organisation that was formed in 1921 in Fri- posting is done every Thursday at 6.00pm in crave for more! — Kuching Archdiocesan Other workshops will cover sex, sexuality bourg, Switzerland, under the name Pax Ro- memory of The Lord’s Supper that is Holy Youth Commissiona, Today’s Catholic and gender; social analysis; migrant rights; mana. — ucanews.com 18 HERALD August 30, 2020 For more enquiries, please contact: Email: advertisement@herald. m e m o r i a m com.my Tel: 03-2026 8290 / 03-2026 8291 Supporting the bereaved 1st Anniversary In Ever Loving Memory of n the face of pandemic precautions and Kevin Prendergast, a Catholic clinical coun- people or no one present. Priests whose role limitations, there is much that can still be sellor, said. If there is a delayed funeral or in life is to provide us the sacraments but are Idone by friends, family and the commu- memorial service that is safer to attend as limited in what they can do. Nursing assis- nity that can support the bereaved, Dr Julie restrictions are lifted, show up. When the tants, nurses, doctors, housekeepers, dietary Masters, a professor of gerontology at the deceased person’s birthday or anniversary staff, who are serving in a surrogate role as University of Nebraska Omaha said. comes, send a note or make a call. the last people to be present while someone “It becomes necessary for people to find a Telling stories about the deceased are also is dying is also impactful. They need our way to sort things out in their minds. This is a great comfort to the bereaved, he added. prayers to sustain them,” she said. “They ex- where having good friends who are willing “Any story: ‘I remember this about your emplify Bishop Robert Barron’s quote: ‘Your to listen to our stories over and over become dad’, or ‘Did your dad ever tell you this?’ or life is not about you.’” key,” she said, or pastoral ministers, deacons ‘Maybe I’ve never mentioned to you how Linda Dyson, who assists Catholics at and priests who can step in and fill the gaps much your loved one helped me, what they the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, when friends or family are scarce. meant to me.’ People treasure those stories. Georgia with pastoral care ministries, said Offering condolences or support “in per- A lot of times that’ll happen at the funeral that at the cathedral, they’ve tried to make Stancil Benedict son may not be possible, but perhaps with a service or afterwards, people will say those as many accommodations as possible. They phone call,” she said, adding that older peo- kinds of things. And we can’t replace that,” live-stream funeral services for families and Departed: 11 September 2019 ple may prefer simple calls to more compli- he said, but phone calls or letters with those offer DVD copies, in case anyone missed the Fondly remembered and missed by cated technology if they are not well-versed stories go a long way. live version. They’ve arranged phone-calls his beloved sisters: Hilda & Philo, in it. Regular check-ins and sending notes or Masters added that she has been heartened and visitations — even if limited, outdoor, cards are also important, she said. by the many good people and accommoda- distanced ones — when possible. They’ve nephews: Arun & Ajit “This is key for them — and also for us. tions being made for those experiencing loss sent out prayer shawls and cards to grieving and their families, relatives and friends. We are called to be there for each other,” she during the pandemic. families, “just to let people know that we care said. “There are so many people who are doing and we haven't forgotten.” Blessed is the one whose transgression is “Showing up” for the bereaved continues great things that we fail to see. Funeral direc- The parish grief classes were transferred forgiven, whose sin is covered. to be important even months after the loss, tors who are conducting services with few online to Zoom, and then partially in-person and partially online as restrictions lifted. Dy- Blessed is the man against whom the Lord son said that the grief class, which started in counts no iniquity,and in whose spirit April and just wrapped up, went “very, very there is no deceit. well.” “I think the pain and the struggle and the For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away challenges that they went through had an through my groaning all day long. unexpected benefit, in the sense that they all For day and night your hand have a deep sense of what grief is, and also a was heavy upon me; my strength sense of purpose,” she said. was dried up as by the heat of summer. Several people from the class that just wrapped up have offered to minister to other I acknowledged my sin to you, people experiencing grief, Dyson said. Usu- and I did not cover my iniquity; ally it takes people much longer to get to a I said, “I will confess my transgressions place where they want to minister to other to the Lord,” and you forgave grieving people, she noted, but this class “re- the iniquity of my sin. ally feels committed to paying it forward.” — By Mary Farrow, CNA Psalm 32: 1-5 HERALD September 6, 2020 Saints of the Week & Short Readings 19 Daily Short Nativity of the Reading Sunday, September 6 (Ezekiel 37:12-14) Blessed Virgin Mary The Lord says this: I am now go- ing to open your graves; I mean Feastday: September 8 to raise you from your graves, my people, and lead you back to the he Church has celebrated Mary’s birth soil of Israel. And you will know Tsince at least the sixth century. A Sep- that I am the Lord, when I open tember birth was chosen because the Eastern your graves and raise you from Church begins its Church year with Septem- your graves, my people. And ber. The September 8 date helped determine I shall put my spirit in you, and the date for the feast of the Immaculate Con- you will live, and I shall resettle ception on December 8. you on your own soil; and you will Scripture does not give an account of know that I, the Lord, have said Mary’s birth. However, the apocryphal Pro- and done this – it is the Lord who toevangelium of James fills in the gap. This speaks. work has no historical value, but it does reflect the development of Christian piety. According Monday, September 7 to this account, Anna and Joachim are infertile (James 2:12-13) but pray for a child. They receive the promise Talk and behave like people who of a child who will advance God’s plan of sal- are going to be judged by the law vation for the world. Such a story, like many of freedom, because there will biblical counterparts, stresses the special pres- be judgement without mercy for ence of God in Mary’s life from the beginning. those who have not been merci- St Augustine connects Mary’s birth with Je- ful themselves; but the merciful sus’ saving work. He tells the earth to rejoice need have no fear of judgement. and shine forth in the light of her birth. “She Tuesday, September 8 is the flower of the field from whom bloomed (Isaiah 11:1-3) the precious lily of the valley. Through her A shoot springs from the stock birth the nature inherited from our first par- of Jesse, a scion thrusts from ents is changed.” The opening prayer at Mass his roots: on him the spirit of the speaks of the birth of Mary’s Son as the dawn Lord rests, a spirit of wisdom and of our salvation, and asks for an increase of insight, a spirit of counsel and peace. power, a spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. The fear of Reflection the Lord is his delight. We can see every human birth as a call for new hope in the world. The love of two hu- Wednesday, September 9 man beings has joined with God in his creative If Jesus is the perfect expression of God’s Next to the birth of Jesus, Mary’s birth of- (Job 1:21,2:10) work. The loving parents have shown hope in love, Mary is the foreshadowing of that love. fers the greatest possible happiness to the Naked I came from my mother’s a world filled with travail. The new child has If Jesus has brought the fullness of salvation, world. Each time we celebrate her birth, we womb, naked I shall return. The the potential to be a channel of God’s love and Mary is its dawning. can confidently hope for an increase of peace Lord gave, the Lord has taken peace to the world. Birthday celebrations bring happiness to in our hearts and in the world at large. — back. Blessed be the name of the This is all true in a magnificent way in Mary. the celebrant as well as to family and friends. franciscanmedia.org Lord! If we take happiness from God’s hand, must we not take sorrow too? St Peter Claver Thursday, September 10 native of Spain, young Jesuit Peter an estimated 300,000 slaves. (1 Peter 4:10-11) A Claver left his homeland forever in Fr Claver’s apostolate extended beyond Each one of you has received a 1610 to be a missionary in the colonies of his care for slaves. He became a moral special grace, so, like good stew- the New World. He sailed into Cartagena, a force, indeed, the apostle of Cartagena. He ards responsible for all these dif- rich port city washed by the Caribbean. He preached in the city square, gave missions ferent graces of God, put your- was ordained there in 1615. to sailors and traders as well as country selves at the service of others. By this time the slave trade had been es- missions during which he avoided, when If you are a speaker, speak in tablished in the Americas for nearly 100 possible, the hospitality of the planters and words which seem to come from years, and Cartagena was a chief centre for owners and lodged in the slave quarters in- God; if you are a helper, help as it. Ten thousand slaves poured into the port stead. though every action was done at each year after crossing the Atlantic from After four years of sickness, which forced God’s orders; so that in every- West Africa under conditions so foul and in- the saint to remain inactive and largely ne- thing God may receive the glory, human that an estimated one-third of them glected, Claver died on September 8, 1654. through Jesus Christ, since to died in transit. Although the practice of The city magistrates, who had previously him alone belong all glory and slave-trading was condemned by Pope Paul frowned at his solicitude for the black out- power for ever and ever. Amen. III and later labeled “supreme villainy” by casts, ordered that he should be buried at Pope Pius IX, it continued to flourish. public expense and with great pomp. Friday, September 11 Peter Claver’s predecessor, Jesuit Father Peter Claver was canonized in 1888, and (2 Corinthians 12:9b-10) Alfonso de Sandoval, had devoted himself Pope Leo XIII declared him the worldwide I am most happy, then, to be to the service of the slaves for 40 years be- patron of missionary work among black proud of my weaknesses, in order fore Claver arrived to continue his work, slaves. to feel the protection of Christ’s declaring himself “the slave of the Negroes power over me. I am content with forever.” Reflection weaknesses, insults, hardships, As soon as a slave ship entered the port, The Holy Spirit’s might and power are persecutions, and difficulties for Peter Claver moved into its infested hold manifested in the striking decisions and Christ’s sake. For when I am to minister to the ill-treated and exhausted bold actions of Peter Claver. A decision to weak, then I am strong. passengers. After the slaves were herded leave one’s homeland never to return re- Saturday, September 12 out of the ship like chained animals and veals a gigantic act of will difficult for us (Philippians 2:14-15) shut up in nearby yards to be gazed at by to imagine. Peter’s determination to serve the crowds, Claver plunged in among them forever the most abused, rejected, and low- Feastday: September 9 Do everything without complain- ing or arguing, so that you may with medicines, food, bread, brandy, lem- ly of all people is stunningly heroic. When Patron Saint of: ons, and tobacco. With the help of interpret- we measure our lives against such a man’s, be innocent and pure, as God’s African Americans perfect children who live in a ers he gave basic instructions and assured we become aware of our own barely used African Missions his brothers and sisters of their human dig- potential and of our need to open ourselves world of corrupt and sinful peo- Colombia ple. You must shine among them nity and God’s love. During the 40 years of more to the jolting power of Jesus’ Spirit. Interracial Justice his ministry, Claver instructed and baptized — franciscanmedia.org like starts lighting up the sky. Universal: Respect for the Planet’s Resources We pray that the planet’s resources will not be plundered, but shared in a just and respectful manner. Download the Click To Pray updates now. THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY September 6, 2020 Protect our common home with the richness of faith VATICAN: September 1, 2020 is the to defend lives and ensure that we ing his catechesis on August 26, this World Day of Prayer for the Care of do not fall victims of the virus. It is home was given by God to the whole Creation and this is an important op- also an opportunity for a new form human race, and as stewards of crea- portunity to celebrate the richness of of solidarity to emerge. tion, we are called to ensure that its the Christian faith as an expression to Caritas members started to work fruits are, in fact, shared by all. But protect our common home. with local communities to fight unfortunately, the reality that we As followers of Christ, we share a against the spread of disease. As our observe every day doing our work common role as stewards of God’s globalised world got viral, we con- alongside local communities around creation. Our well-being is linked to tinued to spread what our President, the world is far from this. Local com- the well-being of our Mother Earth. Cardinal Tagle called the “pandemic munities are the first victims of the It is also a moment of renewing our of love and solidarity”, which contin- failure to safeguard our common hearts and minds, and in rebuilding ues to take form in different parts of home and today they are asking us our relationship with Mother Earth, the world. for targeted and immediate action, we are restoring our relationship On this particular World Day of especially concerning food security, with God. Prayer for the Care of Creation, Cari- access to water and ecosystem pres- In these months in which our glo- tas Internationalis proposes to reflect ervation. Caritas Internationalis proposes to reflect on our roles and responsibilities balised world has been severely af- on our roles and responsibilities in Caritas Internasionalis is con- in building a just and equitable society. (Caritas photo) fected by the COVID-19 pandemic, building a just and equitable society vinced that integral human develop- wise we cannot expect them to feel the earth and ecological, economic, we have become aware of our shared which would give the possibility for ment can be promoted only if: responsibility for the world. Every- social and political ways of living. human nature and how interconnect- each and every one of us to live with l life is protected and nurtured where in the world, Caritas is com- l all decision makers adopt and ed the political, economic, social, dignity and in harmony with Mother and the sustainability of ecological, mitted to building the capacity of the implement courageous policies to spiritual and cultural dimensions are. Earth. As Christians, our relationship economic, social and political sys- people and raising their awareness at preserve the environment We realise how unjust systems cre- with the environment can never be tems are ensured. It is the responsi- the grassroots level. On this particular day, Caritas In- ated the environment for the spread isolated from our relationship with bility of each one of us to assume this l the post COVID-19 new start ternationalis joins the Holy Father’s of diseases, how fragile our lives are, others and with God, and COVID-19 individually and collectively. will consider new, just and sustain- call to take bold steps in order to and how vulnerable we were before must be for us a call to respect our l human beings’ unique capaci- able ways of living by taking into safeguard our common home, pray the virus. The pandemic also became common home. ties of knowledge, will, freedom and consideration the interconnected and act for building a community of an opportunity for us to join hands As Pope Francis reminded us dur- responsibility are recognised. Other- relationship between the respect for solidarity and love. — caritas.org Hong Kong cardinal warns priests Vatican, WCC call for interreligious acts of charity, solidarity to ‘watch your language’ in homilies VATICAN: Christians must work boundaries in one’s service to, and WASHINGTON: The leader of “A church and its sanctuary are sa- with members of other religions in solidarity with, the suffering,” the the Diocese of Hong Kong has in- cred places where the faithful come responding to “a world wounded document said. “It is also a call to structed priests to avoid politics to encounter God,” Cardinal Tong by the COVID-19 pandemic and overcome the negative assump- in homilies and admonished them wrote Friday. “In a critical time like by the scourge of religious intol- tions we may hold and to recog- for “offensive” and “provocative” today, our faithful are hoping to hear erance, discrimination, racism, nise with humility and gratitude preaching. The warning comes amid something comforting, constructive economic and ecological injustice that the ‘other’ — the Samaritan a crackdown on free expression in and encouraging from the preachers and many other sins,” said a new in this case — may show us the Hong Kong, after the implementa- during the liturgy.” document from the Vatican and true meaning of service and soli- tion of the new National Security “Through preaching, we can help the World Council of Churches. darity.” Law in July. ease their mind. This could not be Drawing on the teaching and The parable also teaches that A letter was sent by Cardinal John achieved using abusive or provoca- example of Jesus, Christians must Christians must “overcome re- Tong Hon, the former Bishop of tive expressions.” recognise that their charity and ligious prejudice and cultural Hong Kong and current administra- “Let us in particular watch our lan- advocacy cannot be limited to biases” both in deciding whom tor of the diocese on Friday. guage,” he said. helping only other Christians or to serve and who they are will- “The homily is not meant to con- Cardinal John Tong Hon of Hong Kong Tong’s letter has met with oppo- to rallying only other Christians to ing to serve with in order to help vey the preacher’s personal views reference the ongoing political situa- sition in some quarters of the local help, said the document released more people and build a more just (such as his own view on a social or tion, the cardinal warned that priests Church. Aug 27. world, the document said. political issue) but God’s message,” and deacons “should be well aware “The youth of the Church is for de- Serving a Wounded World in In- Action and cooperation are ur- the cardinal wrote. that our faithful are all the time lis- mocracy, they simply are,” he said. terreligious Solidarity was written gent, it said, because the pandem- “Our homilies must not lose touch tening to what we say and watching “They are looking for leadership, and by the Pontifical Council for Inter- ic has sown not only illness and with our daily life and the concrete what we do.” I doubt you would find any Catholic religious Dialogue and the World death, but also increased poverty, situation of society. A reference, to or “Therefore, we have to be prudent under 35 here who is not angry, and Council of Churches as part of domestic violence and isolation. brief analysis of, current social issues and attentive to what we say in our who does not see the chancery as their ongoing work to reflect -to In fact, it said, “global hunger would often be helpful and some- homilies, sermons and speeches.” siding with the people tear-gassing gether on Christian principles of could double due to this catastro- times even necessary for a homily” Cardinal Tong has previously spo- them in the streets.” interreligious dialogue and inter- phe.” with the aim of “encouraging the ken in support of the National Secu- “The Church is for human dignity, religious solidarity. Acknowledging a sense of faithful… to bear Christian witness rity Law, which came into force July for human rights. To pretend like we The document begins with a “shared vulnerability,” the Vatican in social life and in social transfor- 1. can sing a lullaby for a homily in reflection on Jesus’ parable of the and the WCC encouraged peo- mation,” he added. The cardinal insisted the law these times is absurd.” good Samaritan, who comes from ple to respond with “new forms “However, slander and offensive would have “no effect” on the local Another local priest, who also a different religious community of solidarity reaching across all expressions insinuating or instigat- Church’s religious freedom. Since asked not to be named, said that the but is the only person who stops to boundaries,” because, as Chris- ing hatred and social disorder are the law came into force, Catholic cardinal’s letter was meant to have a help the man beaten and left by the tians profess, all people are cre- unchristian and inappropriate for the journalists, political activists, and “chilling effect” on priests speaking side of the road. ated by God and share equal dig- liturgy.” businessmen have been arrested on about the political situation. — By “The story is an invitation to nity as brothers and sisters. — By While the letter does not explicitly charges of sedition. Ed Condon, CNA reflect on the need to transcend Cindy Wooden, CNS