CA HO IC V LIFE Diocese of Lismore

Tweed Coast to Camden Haven www.lismorediocese.org December 2014 Vol.12 No.4 ADVERTORIAL WCA Financial Planning wins ‘Lonsdale Planner of the Year’

Tony Bazzana of WCA Financial Planning has been judged on the basis of the practice’s value proposition named “Planner of the Year” at the Lonsdale and IOOF to clients, exemplary compliance record, commitment Alliances Annual Conference, competing against four to professional development of staff within the other finalists on a national basis for the prestigious title. organisation and professionalism exhibited within The award is the highest individual honour given the broader financial planning industry and general to a planner who can demonstrate excellence in community. advice, community involvement via contribution to Tony said “It was a great achievement for WCA to be both the Lonsdale network and the greater industry, a personal commitment and investment to their own recognised at a national level” acknowledging the firm’s professional development, strong communication and long standing history as a trusted professional services client engagement skills and exhibit a strong desire to firm within both the local and broader community. genuinely make a difference to their clients financial Mark Stephen said of Tony Bazzana: “Tony and WCA LONSDALE CEO Mark Stephen, WCA Director Tony wellbeing. are a valued member of the Lonsdale network and Bazzana and Head of IOOF Alliances Craig Joscelyne “I am honoured to receive this recognition on behalf of consistently deliver an exceptional level of service and WCA,” Tony said when accepting the award. “I would advice to their clients.” Tony and WCA like to recognise the support from Lonsdale, my fellow The award was presented in October at the gala dinner principals and our staff whom have provided enormous during the Lonsdale and IOOF Alliances National are a valued support to achieve this recognition”. Conference. member of the A Lonsdale and IOOF panel of industry professional’s – “Lonsdale network including technical, compliance, business management and the leadership team, judged the award. Mark and consistently Stephen, Chief Executive Officer, Lonsdale confirmed deliver an there was some fierce competition from the entire network of planners. exceptional level Mark Stephen said: “With more than 120 practices in of service and our dealer group Australia wide, sitting on the panel reviewing this category was quite a task as there were advice to their so many planners who were deserving of this award. clients.” The firm’s Solution Driven approach was also WCA Financial Planning staff: Kate Forbes, recognised with WCA being nominated as a finalist Melissa Rosolen, Janice Gallagher, Lucy Gannon & LONSDALE CEO for Lonsdale Practice of the Year Award. This award is Jodie Nommensen The Bishop Writes The recent installation of Archbishop Anthony Fisher in St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney, as our Province’s ninth Metropolitan Archbishop was an occasion as joyful as it was memorable. On behalf of all the clergy, religious and faithful of the diocese of Lismore I was able to express our welcome to him and the assurance of our prayers. aving known the new Archbishop since his days as a Dominican student friar, I have been able to trace the in some cases for admission to Holy Communion and the path along which he has come to this appointment of need for further reflection on how the Church should view such significance for the Church in this State and indeed those who are committed to same-sex relationships. in our country. Among all his qualifications, however, I As far as the secular media was concerned, these latter believe his best is as a pastor, an approachable and kindly seemed to be the only questions of interest and worthy shepherd of the Lord’s people. of its emphasis. It seemed to have a subtext that Pope Young people especially are attracted by his warmth Francis may have been more on the side of discordant and wisdom and by his clear stand for truth and goodness. voices, seeming to open up matters of doctrine previously Their response is to be seen in the energy of the expanding regarded as closed, than he was to the Church’s established youth movements in the Diocese of Parramatta and prior teaching. It is not to be wondered that the secular reportage to that in the ongoing fruits of the 2008 World Youth Day and comment on church matters generally is beguiled by in Sydney which he organised when he was the Auxiliary the Pope’s more informal style in discharging his office, Bishop. In his installation homily Archbishop Fisher used his distancing from some old Vatican protocols and words which every bishop would seek to echo to his own his determination to bring new and more efficient and young people: “To the young people of Sydney I say with accountable order to church governance. special affection: open your hearts to the adventure of the But is Pope Francis being a little romanticised by the Gospel. In my bill of appointment you heard tonight the media and sections of public opinion in the same way that Holy Father refer to you as spesEcclesiæ, “the hope of the St John XXIII was in the aftermath of the Second Vatican Church.” I am depending on you to lend me all your energy Council, both in contrast to their immediate predecessors? and idealism. Never buy the lies that nothing is true, all is Is there a certain superficiality in the way much of the relative, your ideals illusory, your good works in vain. With media assesses Pope Francis as being more in tune with God on your side, my young friends, who can be against secular modernity than the popes who preceded him? Why you?” is it that some things that Pope Francis says and does are While I was on my recent annual leave, which included broadcast with approval, but others, such as his constant some time in Rome, like many of you I followed closely and sometimes threatening references to the Devil are the course of the Third Extraordinary Synod of Bishops, allowed to fall into silence? devoted to the family in today’s world. It certainly had There was an interesting example recently, following its moments of excitement, as one would expect in the two statements made by Pope Francis in his address on atmosphere of openness and honest speaking which Pope 28th October to the Pontifical Academy of Science. “The Francis encouraged, telling the bishops to speak as the Lord Big Bang, which today we hold to be the origin of the inspired them, without hesitation or polite deference and world, does not contradict the intervention of the divine for all to listen with a similarly open heart. creator, but rather, requires it.” The work of the Synod was summed up in the Holy A second statement also drew the attention of the media. Father’s concluding address and in the final document “Evolution in nature is not inconsistent with the notion of which was voted on by the bishops on 18th October. creation, because evolution requires the creation of beings These texts are easily accessible on the internet. They that evolve.” reveal the ongoing and steady concern of the Church to Certain media outlets proclaimed these to be “provocative, care pastorally for those in fragile or troubled marriages, progressive statements,” that “could be aimed at healing a to present a clear understanding of the indissolubility of rift between science and religion.” marriage, of its relation to Christ and to openness to life and of the truth and beauty of family life. The need was The secular presumption is that the Catholic Church is seen for better preparation for marriage, the formation of intellectually backward and somehow engaged in a battle priests to give true Christian accompaniment at the parish against science. Its default position seems to be that the level to people in the early years of marriage and for better Church is blindly attached to ideas and doctrines that no pastoral approaches towards single parent families. enlightened person could regard with anything but ridicule. It was among these challenges identified by the bishops The fact is that the scientist who developed and that we find the questions presented by the situation of proposed, in 1931, the most important theory of modern remarried divorcees, the question of a possible exception Continued over page

Catholic Life, December, 2014 3 The Bishop Writes Continued from previous page

cosmology, known to us as ‘the Big While it is easy for us to lament as seeming to be more sympathetic Bang,’ was a Belgian priest and protégé the ignorance of the secular mindset to positions that preoccupy them and of Albert Einstein, Monsignor Georges of our real position in many areas, much of the modern world, than the Lemaître (d. 1966). Its priestly origin we should also ask if we are not succession of Popes before him. What and the reception by the Church of the somewhat to blame. The same will be their reaction when finally he Big Bang theory demonstrates how ignorance can be found among many disappoints them, when finally they free the Church is to theorise about Catholics, even among those whom realise that the pope will always be causation and change in the cosmos we could reasonably expect to know the Pope and the Church will always as a whole. By contrast, it was the better. The way in which we present be the Church? to young minds today, in our own old Soviet Union, committed to an Catholic educational institutions, the Let us pray constantly for Pope atheistic view of the world’s origins, interaction of reason and faith and of Francis as he has asked us to do and that opposed the Big Bang theory science and religion, with precision for our new metropolitan, Archbishop until the 1960’s. and balance, is of great importance. Fisher. What Pope Francis said about The contribution of Catholics and As Christmas draws near and we evolution in October and which the other Christians to some of the modern prepare to celebrate the birth of our mass media thought so new and world’s great scientific breakthroughs, Saviour in our families and homes, I “progressive” of him, has in fact been among them many priests, is an wish you all the blessings of the Lord the teaching of the last six popes. absorbing and exciting story and I and his Virgin Mother. Grace and In 1950, Pope Pius XII deemed the wonder that it is not better known and peace be with you! theory of evolution compatible with regarded with pride. Christian belief; more recently, Pope We may well find a bit amusing Yours devotedly in Christ, Benedict XVI bluntly called anti- the way in which some of the secular ✠ Geoffrey Jarrett, evolutionism “absurd.” media likes to portray Pope Francis Bishop of Lismore

CONTENTS 16-18 Ninth Archbishop of Sydney Installed 24 St John’s Primary School, Mullumbimby Regular Features 19 New Performing Arts Centre Mary Help of Christians Primary School, Sawtell 3-4 The Bishop Writes for Woodlawn 25 Mt St Patrick College, Murwillumbah 5 Editorial School News St Joseph’s Regional College, 7 Vocations 21 MacKillop Senior College, Port Macquarie 12 Liturgy Port Macquarie St Paul’s High School, Port Macquarie 13 Churches of the World St Joseph’s Primary School, Wauchope 20 World View St Ambrose Primary School, Pottsville 26 Newman Senior Technical College, 22 St Brigid’s Primary School, Kyogle Port Macquarie Features St Joseph’s Primary School, Wauchope 6&19 CSO Director’s Article – Proclaim Mt St Patrick Primary School, 8-9 Around Our Parishes – Maclean Murwillumbah 27 St Mary’s Primary School, Casino St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour 10 CCD in the Diocese St Joseph’s Primary School, Holy Family Primary School, Skennars Head 11 Peace & Justice Sth Murwillumbah 14 ABC Welcomes Family Synod 28 St Patrick’s Primary School, Macksville Concluding Message 23 St Finbarr’s Primary School, Byron Bay St Joseph’s Primary School, Coraki 15 Rising Incidence of Violence against St Mary’s Primary School, Grafton 29 Trinity Catholic College, Lismore Women Condemned Xavier Catholic College, Ballina St John’s College, Woodlawn

Cover Editor and Publisher of Caption: Parish events: Close up of “Catholic Life”: Email your planned Parish events, an ornate Father Peter M Karam celebrations, anniversaries, etc., for religious icon Email: [email protected] inclusion on our website and in the next of the Virgin Fax: 02 6622 1771 edition of “Catholic Life”. Mary and Email to: [email protected] baby Jesus. Visit our Diocesan website: Advertising Enquiries: Photo taken on: August www.lismorediocese.org JFH marketing & media consultants 6th, 2011 Our website contains a daily news 0478 227 806 © Costa007 | bulletin, spiritual reflections and PO Box 42, Lismore, 2480 Dreamstime. daily Mass readings. [email protected] com Printed by: Catholic Life – Lismore City Printery A member of the Australasian 02 6621 5371 Catholic Press Association and the Australasian Religious Press Art Direction & Graphic Design: Association Inc. GPG [email protected]

4 Catholic Life, December, 2014 Editorial

Collecting and Telling Stories

Every life is a story, unique and valued. At the end of each year we gather up the stories that our life has told and we leave those that are Pope Francis blesses a child upon his arrival to lead a mass at Amman International Stadium, Amman, Jordan, still in the telling. Our stories 24 May 2014. The pontiff held a mass service lasting about three hours at a stadium in Amman, attended by about 20,000 people, many wearing white, waving Jordanian and Vatican flags and cheering for the leader describe who we are, what of the Roman Catholic Church when he entered. His first Middle East tour comes amid what religious leaders describe as a new chapter in Arab Muslim-Christian relations, following years of tense ties between followers of we have tried to achieve two of the world’s largest faiths. EPA/AMEL PAIN and how we measure up to what is left. The Church is blessed with a In the endings of 2014, we ask what storyteller of great moment. kind of a year was it and where do we ur faith in fact comes from go from here? stories with all their power Pope Francis is among the most and mystery, stories in a book listened-to human beings on the Urged on by Pope Francis, we ask we call the Bible, interpreted and planet. As he tells his stories of truth, how far are we prepared to go to take retold in what we call Tradition. Our human goodness, justice and peace, responsibility in finding the right stories inspire worship and ritual as he reflects the teachings of Christ in a answers in our own environment we move through our life journey. language that does not exclude. to help those displaced, disturbed, They speak of what has gone before Every day he tells a miracle, he hungry and with nowhere to be us and how we can learn from laughs, he hugs, he gives the kiss of safe and appreciated. Where does history. welcome. He tells the greatest story our spiritual awareness lead us in a There are other stories that that we haven’t heard in a long time. world that crumples up faith? include varied human experience, As recently as November 11th, Perhaps if we can look to the endeavour, strength and weakness. he spoke of two issues dearest to These stories have been lived out horizon, we might find a gem of his heart: Action to combat hunger in communities and family, with wisdom that says: ‘Time will do its and greater effort to protect the friends and co-workers. job.’ environment, linking these issues to The most interesting personal stories the need for greater social justice. Father Peter M. Karam – Editor are those that question us about “Nowadays there is much talk of what life expects of us rather than rights, frequently neglecting duties; I would like to take this what we expect from life. perhaps we have paid too little heed opportunity to wish the readers of “Catholic Life” every blessing and my Sometimes we have to battle to those who are hungry,” the Pope personal best wishes at Christmas to tell our stories with truth and said. and in the New Year. probity. Many would say that this “It is painful to see the struggle is becoming harder to do in a world against hunger and malnutrition is I thank the advertisers who have supported our magazine, enabling us where so many bad stories are being hindered by ‘market priorities’, the to provide this publication at no cost to told, bad stories that say life doesn’t ‘primacy of profit.” mean much, it is good to cause our readers. My special thanks to our havoc and that human goodness The Pope went on to say “The marketing and advertising manager Mr does not have any real purpose. second challenge to be faced is John Howard and our graphic designer Johanna Evans for their dedication to the Don’t show compassion because it the lack of solidarity. Our societies task and editorial support. makes you appear weak. It is better are characterised by growing to thieve, lie and steal because that individualism and division: this ends is what makes easy wealth. There is with our depriving the weakest of a growing distance between the City a decent life and provokes revolts of God and the earthly one. against institutions.”

Catholic Life, December, 2014 5 This range of feelings and thoughts I bet, were also Proclaim Lismore experienced by the first Christians. Just think of the Parents 2014 Apostles before they received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The Apostles went from hiding to publicly proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ – they were full of the Spirit. Throughout our lives we meet people who are “full of by David Condon, spirit”. They are normally people who are not afraid to say Director of Catholic Schools or do what is needed, even if that does not come easily to them. They are passionate people with deep inner strength. for the Diocese of Lismore They put in time and energy for what they believe in. They are ‘can do’ people. Well, that is what the Holy Spirit did Every parent, I’m certain, has a burning desire to for the Apostles at Pentecost. ensure that their children receive the best possible Such ‘spirited’ and ‘can do’ people are needed again education they can. I’m just as certain that most if education across Australia and especially Catholic parents don’t always feel comfortable spending time in education are to co-design this enhanced territory of their children’s school. Schools are busy places; parental partnership and engagement. Let each of our I don’t want to annoy the teacher; my child might be spirits be filled with God’s Spirit of love. God’s love drives embarrassed; I don’t have any skills to offer and so on. out fear and builds compassion, unity, peace and inner strength. Can you relate to this? Catholic education is in a time of great adventure as ometimes schools aren’t comfortable with parents it fine tunes its designs for a stronger future. Why not either – schools are indeed busy places. And so what consider registering an Expression of Interest to participate Sshould be the most symbiotic of relationships, is in the Proclaim Lismore Parents and be part of this sometimes not. journey? Are you willing to join in building a fresh spirit of It’s nobody’s and everybody’s fault. I don’t think any partnership and unity in Catholic education? Be part of the generation has got the relationship between school and team the Holy Spirit has put on the field here in Catholic parents absolutely right. The history of parent partnership education to achieve maximum success for each student. and engagement with schools has not always been smooth and both parents and teachers have from time to time been unable to strike the correct balance needed to ensure that “It takes a village to raise a child”. parent engagement and partnership in the education of their children is real and relevant. From this situation can come a feeling of powerlessness and a sense of uncertainty and anxiety.

for all year t ro ea u tr n d A

Father Mac’s ‘The parent feedback discussion gets under way Heavenly puddings at the Lismore meeting A product of the Alstonville Catholic Parish How should the ‘Catholic Village’, namely, the Made from quality Australian ingredients. clergy, parishioners, parents and schools staffs No salt, artificial flavourings or preservatives. work together in raising its children to be well Special prices for group fundraising OR personal purchases educated and live meaningful lives? from the factory. hy did we do this? The fundamental reason is that children do best in a united adult world. 800g Gluten Free Further, the Church teaches that the future of Pudding Now Available both the Church and society passes by way of the family PO Box 102, 9 Perry St, in giving children full and meaningful Christian lives. The Alstonville 2477 Commonwealth Government states that parent partnership Ph: 6628 5474 and engagement in schooling is one of its four top priorities. Fax: 6628 3077 Educational research also reveals that parental partnership Email: maximises student achievement and that effective schools [email protected] have ‘high levels of parental and community involvement’. continued on page 19

6 Catholic Life, December, 2014 Pastoral Placement

by Fr Paul Winter Vocations Director find our fulfilment, our eternity, the one thing our hearts Thomas of Celano, the early 13th Century long for. As St. Augustine so eloquently said centuries ago, biographer of St. Francis of Assisi, wrote about how “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You… For in my St. Francis finally came to know the vocation the wounded heart I saw your splendour and it dazzled me” Lord was calling him to live. (Confessions, I:1; X:41) We are blessed in our diocese with eight fine seminarians elano relates that St. Francis was listening to the preparing for the priesthood but all of us, clergy and lay, Gospel at Mass one day. The Gospel was about Jesus need to do more to support and encourage our young people sending the disciples out to preach the Kingdom of to take seriously the call of God planted deep within their God (cf. Luke 10:10ff; Matt. 10:5ff). hearts; the call that will lead to their blessedness. A call Afterwards, St. Francis asked for an explanation from that is all too easily drowned out by the clamour of false the priest and when he heard “that the disciples should not happiness and false fulfilment in our society. possess gold or silver or money; nor carry along the way Let us all work towards a culture of vocation within our scrip, or wallet, or bread, or a staff; that they should not homes, within our parishes, within the whole diocese. Down have shoes, or two tunics; but that they should preach the through the centuries the Lord has always called young Kingdom of God and penance, [he] immediately cried out men to priesthood and young men and women to religious exultingly: ‘This is what I wish, this is what I seek, this is life – for their sake and for the sake of the mission of Christ. what I long to do with all my heart.’” (1 Celano 22) I have no doubt that the Lord is calling our young people The story of St. Francis’ calling reminds us that no today; perhaps your son or daughter, perhaps you. Let us all human being is an accident. God has known us from before have to the courage to answer Him. we were formed in our mother’s womb (cf. Jeremiah 1:5) St. Francis said to his brothers and sisters as he neared and called us into communion with Him for eternity. We death: “I have done what is mine to do. May Christ teach each have a divine purpose, a divine meaning – this is our you what is yours.” (Celano, Remembrance of the Desire of vocation; and whether we know it or not, it is the one thing a Soul, 214) Amen. that we long for, hunger for, desire with all our heart. It is in the longing for God, the longing to be more, that If – after prayer – you feel God has chosen you for a the Lord whispers his call to each of us. Within the Christian vocation then please contact: vocation of every baptised person this divine call will be Most Rev’d Bishop Geoffrey Jarrett incarnated in a particular way: it may be to priesthood, Bishop’s Office, P.O. Box 1, Lismore NSW 2480 religious life, marriage and family or the single life. The one Fr. Paul Winter, PO Box 2450, thing certain is that each of us is called to follow the Lord Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Phone: 6651 0000 in the way that He calls us. And in answering that call we [email protected] PILGRIMAGES

THINKING OF GOING ON PILGRIMAGE?

CONTACT US NOW TO RESERVE A COPY OF OUR NEW 2015 BROCHURE!

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT HARVEST ON 1800 819 156 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.harvestpilgrims.com

* Costs have been based on prices as at 30 November 2013 and must remain subject to change without notice based on currency exchange rates, departure city and minimum group size contingency. Prices are based on twin share or double rooming.

Catholic Life, December, 2014 7 Proudly supporting Catholic Life and ‘Around Our Parishes’ 1300 655 003 www.catholicinsurance.org.au

Home Contents Car Travel Landlord Personal Accident Caravan

CCI Catholic Life Lismore printAd APR14.indd 1 In 1876, the lower Clarence received its first resident26/02/2014 4:28:38 PM ...You were asking about priest Fr J H Doyle and was established as its own parish. Maclean Parish ... In 1882 the islands and heads, chiefly the centres of Palmers Island, Chatsworth Island, Yamba and Iluka, James Moloney separated off as their own parish under Fr Schurr with church and presbytery at Palmers Island on land given The first Mass in Maclean, the central township of the lower by Mr Barry. It is a reminder that colonial Australia was part of the Clarence River, was celebrated by Fr W X Johnson more multicultural than we sometimes think that the 150 years ago, in November 1864. Fr Johnson had been Italian Bishop of Armidale, Bishop Torreggiani, blessed resident priest in Grafton from the previous year, looking and opened these new buildings, to be first occupied by after all of the northern rivers region. French Fr Schurr. In 1866 the Catholic residents of Maclean and district The islands and heads remained a separate parish until met to consider building their own church and an acre of 1905 when they were reunited with Maclean as the lower land was donated in Wharf Street near Short Street by Mr Clarence parish. However during this time there were Da Silva, a local publican who had hosted the first Mass churches built at Iluka (replacing an earlier slab structure) in his hotel. The little timber structure was functional and Chatsworth and a convent and school at Yamba in by the beginning of 1867, with Fr Johnson rowing 1900, with the school also serving as church until 1931 a boat down the river to say Mass quarterly. Private when a church was erected in part using materials from homes at Palmers Island and Shark Creek also served as the Palmers Island church. The current St James’ was Mass centres on these rowing tours. Brushgrove, further built in 1975, with a new convent in 1970 now closed up river towards Grafton, received visits a little more and the community hall Ted Howe Room built in 1995. A frequently for Mass and lower river residents would row new St John’s Iluka was built in 1976. their boats from as far as Yamba and Iluka up the river to St James’ Primary School has operated at Yamba since attend there. 1997.

8 Catholic Life, December, 2014 The first St Dominic’s was erected at Harwood in 1908, Parish Masses: replaced by a brick church in 1966, which was closed and St Mary’s, Maclean sold in 2011. A convent and school operated at Harwood Thursday: 5.30pm (9.30am during Winter) 1928 to 1957. St Mary’s, Maclean was opened on a new site in Friday: 12 noon Sunday: 8.30am 1893 replacing the old timber church in Wharf St which St James Yamba was heavily white ant infested from the late 1880s. The Wednesday: 9.30am Saturday Vigil: 5.30pm presbytery was built in 1901 and the Cranney Room St Johns Iluka community hall in 1998. St Mary’s is recognised as one Tuesday: 9.00am Sunday: 5.00pm of the finest heritage buildings in the Clarence Valley, being the first stone church built in the Lismore Diocese. Confessions: At its opening in 1893, Bishop Doyle declared it was “the St Marys Maclean: 11.30am Friday finest Church in the diocese” and “the most beautiful St James: 5.00pm Saturday edifice of its kind in the North Coast districts”. A fitting St Johns: 4.45pm Sunday presbytery was erected in 1901 replacing an earlier hut on the site. Contact Details: The Sisters of Mercy came to Maclean in 1898 St Mary’s (Parish established 1893) establishing St Joseph’s school. In 1961 the new brick Fr Peter Padsungay, Parish Priest St Joseph’s School was built. In 2003 the old convent 27 Woodford St (PO Box 19) Maclean NSW 2463 buildings became the parish office. Ph: 02 6645 1188 Fax: 02 6645 1188 In an environment sometimes difficult to traverse and bring together isolated populations, the prodigious efforts Email: [email protected] of building and organisation and indeed rebuilding and Parish Office Hours: reorganisation, reflect the enthusiasm and commitment of Monday, Wednesday Friday 9.00am – 4.00pm lower Clarence Catholics over a century and a half. Maclean has had an extraordinary dedicated list of St Joseph’s Primary School, Maclean priestly service too, including Fr J D Walsh (1899-1919), Stanley Street, Maclean NSW 2463 Fr J J Durkin (1920-1948) and Fr G Cranney (1948-1975). Ph: 02 6645 2340 Today, the lower Clarence parish is served by Fr Peter Email: [email protected] Padsungay. Many colourful and interesting anecdotes about the St James Primary School, Yamba parish are recorded in the centenary history of St Mary’s, Lot 1, Carrs Drive, Yamba NSW 2464 “A Century Set in Stone: St Mary’s Church Maclean Ph: 02 6646 3266 1893-1993” by T N Edey. Email: [email protected] Interior of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Kingscliff Good for you. Good for your community.

We don’t just insure Catholic organisations. We also arrange a great range of quality insurance products for individuals. And keeping with Church values, we support the Catholic community by channeling profits into a range of community programs. Visit our new and improved website to learn more of CCI’s dedication to the wider Catholic community. www.catholicinsurance.org.au

Image: Australian Catholic Youth Festival, Melbourne, December 2013

Home Contents Car Personal Accident Travel Landlord Caravan

Catholic Church Insurance Limited ABN 76 000 005 210, AFS Licence No. 235415 (CCI) arranges this insurance as promoter of the underwriter Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFS Licence No. 234708 (Allianz). We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply. Before deciding please refer to the PDS available by calling 1300 655 003; or from www.catholicinsurance.org.au.

CatholicCCI Catholic Life, Life Lismore December, - halfpage NOV14.indd 2014 1 18/11/2014 11:23:03 AM9 and culture. They tell CCD in the young people about the depth of God’s Diocese of Lismore love. They share with children the richness of our Catholic faith The Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) is and how God calls us a worldwide organisation concerned with faith to a full and vibrant life as members of education. It began with the work of lay people in His church. Milan, Italy in 1556. From them, our his ministry was taken on by different orders of sisters kids learn to pray, in the Diocese of Lismore in the 1960s and became worship God and T known as the Motor Mission, as the sisters travelled to serve our neighbour. small communities and gave Religious Education lessons to It is an amazing ministry, serving both our Church and Catholic students attending state schools. public education and giving parents admirable assistance The Motor Mission grew and parishioners became in passing on the faith to the next generation.” involved and gradually took over the work of the sisters Catholic SRE teachers in the Diocese – also referred to in continuing to spread God’s word to the children in as catechists – are volunteers who are approved, authorised government schools. At the present time there are 115 and trained by the diocese. They follow an approved catechists in the Diocese who teach SRE (Special Religious curriculum – Christ Our Light and Life, which has teacher Education) to over 1500 students in government schools notes and student books as well as other resources to in the Diocese of Lismore. The Catholic Church sees the complement the program. Catechists are dedicated and education of Catholic children in the faith as integral and committed to sharing their faith with students and teach key to its mission. The NSW Department of Education and a 30 minute lesson each week. We are always hopeful of Communities describes SRE as “an integral part of school new people wanting to join this very worthy ministry. Your activities”. Parish Priest will be able to give you further information. The Most Reverend Peter Comensoli, Auxiliary Bishop of Sister Shirley Dallas rsm (pictured above) is the only Sydney has responsibility for the apostolate of the CCD in remaining nun involved in SRE. Sister has a team of four NSW and the ACT, describes the role of catechists: volunteers who teach the students at Lawrence Primary “Catholic SRE teachers cooperate with God’s grace to School. engage young people in hearing the Good News about Jesus Julia Kelly, CCD Coordinator Christ and learning the key elements of our Christian life Diocese of Lismore

Moved by the desperate plight of Christians fear as increasing poverty and growing extremism throughout the Middle East, the Catholic charity Aid threaten the survival of these ancient communities. to the Church in Need (ACN) calls on your support to ACN is helping to keep faith and hope alive throughout help the region’s beleaguered Christian population. the region by providing urgent aid to priests, religious A mass exodus of Christians from the Middle East and lay people, offering subsistence help to refugees is now taking place. For some, like the Christians of and building and repairing Churches and convents. Iraq and Syria, it is a question of their very survival Please help us strengthen and rebuild the Church in as they flee the bloody persecution of the militants of the land of Christ’s birth. the Islamic State (formerly ISIS). A beautiful, olive wood crucifix, handcrafted in For others, in parts of the Holy Land that Our Bethlehem, will be sent to all those who give a Lord Jesus Christ knew so well, the proportion of donation of $20.00 or more to help this campaign. Christians has plummeted from 20% to as little as Please tick the box below if you would like to 1.4% in the last forty years. The faithful now live in receive the little olive wood crucifix*.

Send to: Aid to the Church in Need PO Box 7246 Baulkham Hills NSW 2153 Tel No: (02) 9679-1929 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aidtochurch.org I enclose a cheque/money order payable to Aid to the Church in Need

OR please debit my Visa or Mastercard: Broken Bay NewsLIS

Signature ...... Exp Date ...... /...... BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Rev ...... Address ...... PC ...... Ph ...... Email ...... AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED...a Catholic charity dependent on the Holy See, providing pastoral relief to needy and oppressed Churches

10 Catholic Life, December, 2014 in a relaxed and jovial manner. Following the Welcome ‘Peace and Justice’ to Country, the morning Liturgy took place. President Moya Potts then had the pleasure of welcoming Bishop Jarrett, Fathers Don and John, special guests, students and Catholic Women’s League Australia – their teacher from John Paul College and members to the Conference. New South Wales Inc State Conference The choice of Guest Speakers were excellent. The Hon John Hannaford, former New South Wales Attorney Members from Armidale, Bathurst, Broken Bay, Lismore, General was thought provoking in his address as he spoke Maitland-Newcastle, Parramatta, Sydney Archdiocese to the theme ‘Peace and Justice’. and Wollongong Dioceses converged at the Novotel Sister Giovanni Farquer rsj is the Director for Ecumenism Pacific Bay Resort Coffs Harbour for the Catholic and Inter-religious Relations in the Archdiocese of Sydney Women’s League Australia – New South Wales Inc State and Sister Anne Henson a professed member of the Lismore Congregation of Presentation for 63 years held our Conference on 9th & 10th September 2014. attention throughout their addresses. ishop Geoffrey Jarrett DD officially opened the Catherine McGrath WUCWO (World Union of Catholic Conference following the Opening Mass where Women’s Organisations) Board Member Australia gave an B he was main celebrant in Mary Help of Christians update of the happenings in WUCWO, Catherine will attend Church Sawtell. Bishop Jarrett was assisted by Fathers John the General Assembly in Fatima in October. Casey PP of Sawtell and Lismore Diocesan Chaplain, Don National President, Carolyn Metcalfe was warmly Richardson – State Chaplain, Paul Winter PP Coffs Harbour, welcomed on her arrival from North Queensland where Frederick Basco, Shelwin Fernandez and Frank O’Gorman. she attended the Qld. State Conference. As the Bishops, Priests, Presidents from all dioceses NSW State Secretary Denise McCaffery gave a beautiful processed into the church the beautiful voices of Sawtell presentation on ‘Life is a Journey we are but Travellers Parish Choir led the singing with the hymn ‘Mary, Help of here... Mary MacKillop 1867.’ Christians’ which was apt for this special occasion with the As Lismore Diocese celebrated 40 years since Catholic venue being in Mary Help of Christians Church and also, Women’s League was formed in our diocese, President Catholic Women’s League is under the patronage of Mary Teresa McKinnon and Ann Pereira were invited to present Help of Christians. Both Bishop Jarrett and Father Casey a power point presentation of old photos from days gone spoke highly of the members of Catholic Women’s League, by, there were many “oohs & aahs” during the course of referring to the valuable work being done not only in the this presentation! Church but in the community also. A lovely surprise followed for our President Teresa Following the celebration of Mass, dinner and fellowship when, with great pleasure State President Moya announced was enjoyed by all at the Sawtell RSL Club. that Teresa had been granted life membership of Catholic State Vice President Sue Freestone was the ‘perfect Women’s League Australia – New South Wales Inc. choice’ as MC for the Conference, Sue kept things moving Lynne Higham – editor ‘The Anchor’ – Lismore Diocese

We believe in the spirit of Christmas GLOBAL GIFTS 2014

See the world a little differently this Christmas, give a Global Gift: Choose from Receive a card to Your donation Select the gift you wish to purchase and either: STEP the range of give to your friend changes lives Complete this form and return it in to 24-32 O’Riordan Global Gifts. or loved one. around the world. St, Alexandria, NSW, 2015, call us on 1800 024 413 or visit us online at: www.caritas.org.au/globalgifts

Water Food Agriculture Healthcare Education Emergency Relief $10 $25 $50 $70 $100 $250

Please debit my credit card: Name of Cardholder: GG14PR1 Visa MasterCard Amex Diners Credit Card Number: Expiry Date: Signature:

/ / / /

Name/Address:

Please allow 7 working days for delivery. Orders should be placed before Dec 12th to arrive in time for Christmas. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Catholic Life, December, 2014 11 Liturgy

Great Sign Of Hope Bishop Peter J. Elliott

Chapter 7 of the Book of Revelation presents The fruit of the new order of Jesus and Mary is justice. the same image: the pregnant woman is a Mary’s song is the cry of the hope of poor women: “… “great sign in heaven”. She is clothed in the the almighty has done great things for me.” She sings a song of justice for the poor: the rich and powerful sun, crowned with stars the moon beneath her humbled, the poor and hungry fed, the just reign of feet, details later added the Mexican image. But the true Messiah is coming! Tremble as the Kingdom of there is a paradox here. How can we combine Heaven breaks in! the celestial queen of the Book of Revelation Oppressed by Spanish conquest and impoverished and the obscure village under colonial rule, the indigenous people of Mexico maiden of the Gospel recognised the pregnant Virgin of Guadalupe as their infancy narratives? sister. She raised them up, We turn to one of those called them to faith and narratives for the key. Luke brought about a new spirit of tells us that this maiden, reconciliation in a turbulent perhaps only sixteen years colonial era, as people of old, was hailed by her older all races and classes came cousin as “The mother of my together at her shrine. May Lord” (Luke 1:43). That is a we find reconciliation in the royal title reserved for the Immaculate Virgin. May she “queen mother”, the king’s bring the hope of the new mother who ranked first after life in her womb to our sterile the king in the royal families society and reconciliation of the Middle East in the time and justice to wipe away of Christ. indifference and complacency The Eastern royal title in Australia. affirms that this maiden is the human being on whom all history is poised. Through her, The One Who Waits the Messiah King will come Mary Immaculate is the to save his people. His reign last Advent reminder of how depends on the consent of this young Jewish woman, in God prepared the way for an obscure village in a remote his coming among us. All the province of the Roman saving events in Israel, the Empire, a virgin chosen to be Our Lady of Guadalupe sufferings of God’s chosen the mother of the Messiah, people, the prophecies and an honour for which all Jewish dreams led up to one perfect women would long. point, to the Woman, the new Eve. Mary immaculate is God’s new creation, a new beginning. Free from original Hope And Justice Reign sin from the first instant she existed, conceived in Ann’s The royal responsibility of Mary brings joy: “Blessed womb, Mary is free to love, free to give, unimpeded are you among woman and blessed is the fruit of your by human failings. But she is no mere “instrument” and womb.” cries her cousin. But it also brings pain: “and yet her innocence brings her deeper suffering. She is a sword will pierce your heart.” predicts the Temple a person whose consent to a divine plan is a “yes” to prophet. If John the Baptist must offer his life to greater risk and pain. So the Mother of the Lord waits “prepare the way” for Jesus the Messiah, the chosen expectantly to travel South with Joseph, from Nazareth Mother must endure another martyrdom to complete his to Bethlehem. journey. This is why mothers best understand Advent. They At the cross, Mary, the second Eve will take her stand with the second Adam, Jesus her Son. Together they will know how to wait and hope, as they sense their time be united in a healing work of obedience at the new tree drawing nearer. So we catch the breathless anticipation of life. This mystical theology is a strong theme in the of Mother Church crying out with godly impatience: writings of the Fathers of the Church. “COME, LORD JESUS! DO NOT DELAY!”

12 Catholic Life, December, 2014 Churches of Coventry the World Cathedral United Kingdom

Coventry Cathedral, also known as St Michael’s Cathedral, a monastic building, only a few ruins of which remain. The is the seat of the Bishop of Coventry and the Diocese of second was St Michael’s, a 14th-century Gothic church later Coventry, in Coventry, West Midlands, England. The current designated Cathedral, that remains a ruined shell after its (9th) bishop is the Right Revd Christopher Cocksworth and the bombing during the Second World War. The third is the current Dean is The Very Revd John Witcombe. new St Michael’s Cathedral, built after the destruction of the The city has had three cathedrals. The first was St. Mary’s, former and a celebration of 20th-century architecture.

Catholic Life, December, 2014 13 Australian Bishops Conference Welcomes Family Synod Concluding Message

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference welcomes the concluding message released by the Synod Fathers Bishops from around the world gather for the inaugural Mass of the 2014 at the III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod Synod on the Family. Credit: Petrik Bohumil/CNA of Bishops in Rome on 18 October 2014. that has the doors wide open to receive the needy, the e support the Synod Fathers in their penitent, and not only the just or those who believe they acknowledgement that as priests and bishops we are perfect!” have lived alongside families who have spoken to “Pope Francis has reminded us that we still have one year us and shown us the saga of their joys and their difficulties. to mature, with true spiritual discernment, the proposed Their example of generous faithfulness in marriage stands ideas and to find concrete solutions to so many challenges as an example for every society. that families must confront, and to give answers to Following his contributions during the extraordinary the many discouragements that surround families,” Synod, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Archbishop Hart added. Conference Archbishop Denis Hart said: “The Australian Over the coming months, the Australian Catholic Bishops Bishops will continue to pray for families everywhere, Conference will review the ‘lineamenta’ (guidelines), in particular reflecting on how we can accompany and presented to each episcopal conference following the lead those in difficult situations, such as single women conclusion of the extraordinary Synod. bringing up children and those who have divorced and “As Pope Francis has explained, the Church now has one remarried, towards participation in Church life.” year to work on the ‘Synodal Relatio’, which is the faithful Archbishop Hart said that Pope Francis’ concluding and clear summary of everything that has been said and address to the Synod Fathers was encouraging and discussed during this extraordinary Synod,” Archbishop inclusive: “The Holy Father described our Church as one Hart said.

14 Catholic Life, December, 2014 Rising Incidence of Violence against Women Condemned

The Australian Catholic Bishops have asked all to focus The Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) reports that in a 12-month period, between five and ten per cent of on the message of Jesus Christ and his relationship Australian women experienced at least one incident of with women, always one of dignity and respect. abusive violence. eferring to the ‘Woman and Man: One in Christ The reasons for violence are complex and we all have a part Jesus Report’ (1999) on the Participation of Women to play in reducing violence against women. Some practical in the Catholic Church in Australia, the Australian ways that you can show your support for this issue include: Catholic Bishops quote Pope St John Paul II who wrote: • Listening to women and learning from women “Transcending the established norms of this own culture, • Learning about the issue of domestic violence Jesus treated women with openness, respect, acceptance • Challenging language that degrades women and tenderness.” • Learning to identify and oppose gender harassment Violence against women has no place in our society, the and violence in your community Australian Catholic Bishops stress. • Supporting local women’s programs “Our belief in the sanctity of human life and the inherent • Examining how your own attitudes and behaviour dignity of the human person is the foundation of all the might contribute to the problem principles of our social teaching.” As Pope Francis notes and the Australian Catholic Bishops The United Nations’ Declaration on the Elimination of reiterate: “Doubly poor are those women who endure Violence against Women defines violence against women situations of exclusion, mistreatment and violence, since as any act of “gender-based violence” that results in they are frequently less able to defend their rights. Even so, “harm to women”. we constantly witness among them impressive examples of According to the UN, globally, up to 70 per cent of women daily heroism in defending and protecting their vulnerable experience violence in their lifetime. families.” (Evangelii Gaudium, 212)

Open for Breakfast & Dinner Breakfast: Monday – Saturday 7am – 9am Sunday 8am – 10am (Room Service Only) Dinner: Monday – Saturday 6pm – Late

Catholic Life, December, 2014 15 Bishop Jarrett preaches his homily

Ninthz Archbishopz of Sydney Installed

Left: Archbishop Fisher Right: Entrance procession. Photos this page by Steve Turner. Used with permission, Catholic Communications Archdiocese of Sydney.

he Most Reverend Anthony Fisher OP was installed as Arriving at Cathedral Square, the new Archbishop was welcomed the ninth Archbishop of Sydney during a solemn Mass by the Dean of the Cathedral, Very Reverend Paul Hilder, Auxiliary of Installation at St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney on 12 Bishops of Sydney Terry Brady and Peter Comensoli, Indigenous TNovember 2014. Elder Aunty Elsie Heiss and an honour guard of papal and President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, equestrian-hospitaller knights, as children of the Catholic Schools Archbishop Denis Hart concelebrated the Mass with archbishops Performing Arts Choir sang a song of welcome. Amongst the full and bishops from overseas, priests of the Archdiocese of Sydney Cathedral congregation gathered for the Mass, a number of federal and of other dioceses and religious congregations. and state politicians attended including representatives of other The Apostolic Nuncio to Australia, Archbishop Paul Gallagher churches and major faiths. DD, read out in latin the Papal Bull appointing the Most Reverend Music was lead by the Choir of St Mary’s Cathedral, while Anthony Fisher OP DD Metropolitan Archbishop of Sydney. Melbourne-based singer James Edwards performed ‘Lord I Need Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Mgr John Usher, read out the You’, as representatives of the clergy, religious and laity of English translation of the Papal Bull. the Archdiocese and its agencies, civic and religious leaders, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop congratulated the Archbishop on his new role as shepherd of the Denis Hart congratulated the new Archbishop and said that becoming people of Sydney. an Archbishop is always a quantum leap in service and responsibility. In his homily, Archbishop Fisher said: “Pope Francis said pastors “Archbishop Fisher will teach, lead people to God in worship and should smell of their sheep. This is not a comment on clerical give generous service. Knowledge of the people, being one with them hygiene: it is an insistence that we are from and for our flocks. and walking with them where they are is so important. We wish him Pray, therefore, that I will always be a shepherd for Sydney after many years of dedicated and compassionate service.” the heart of Jesus Christ.” 1616 Anointing of hands

Dominican Sisters welcome Archbishop Fisher

A student representative of The parents of Catholic Schools congratulates Archbishop Fisher offer the Archbishop their congratulations

Pictured at the conclusion of the ceremony (from left) Father Shelwin Fernandez, newly-ordained Father Bing Monteagudo, Bishop Geoffrey Jarrett

Photos this page by Giovanni Portelli. Used with permission, Catholic Communications Archdiocese of Sydney

“What will this Archdiocese look like when, God willing I retire in thanked all his family, friends, diocesan clergy and said that he 2035?” he asked. “My hope is for a Church in which the gospel is “missed the people of Parramatta already”. preached with joy, the wisdom of our tradition mined with fidelity, Archbishop Fisher also congratulated the Apostolic Nuncio on his the sacraments celebrated with dignity and welcome and the new appointment as Secretary for Relations with States, “On behalf seminaries, convents and youth groups are teeming with new life.” of the Church of Sydney, I congratulate Archbishop Gallagher, “That will depend hugely on three factors: our clergy and religious; the first Anglophone Foreign Minister of the Church, on his new our families; and our young people,” the Archbishop added. appointment.” Archbishop Hart said that “Archbishop Fisher is a gifted teacher The Archbishop’s Coat of Arms and motto records Archbishop who’s gifts and vision will bring people to a vibrant appreciation of catholic life and will help our young people and families to Anthony’s personal motto: ‘Veritatem facientas in caritate’ from St move forward together in our modern society”. Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians, which translates as ‘Speaking the Sr Mary Rachel Capets OP and Michael Diggs recited the readings. truth in love’. Prayers of the faithful were lead in diverse languages by members The Metropolitan: “Metropolitan” Is taken from a Greek word used to describe a of various communities in the Archdiocese. Archbishop Fisher’s “mother state” or “city”, viz., a city or state from which other states and cities grew and parents, Colin and Gloria and his siblings Christopher, Angela, spread. It is the name given to the Archbishop of the principal diocese of a province Louise and Gregory brought the Eucharistic gifts to the altar. (ecclesiastical region). In addition to his responsibilities as the Bishop of the Diocese, the Archbishop has responsibilities in regard to the other diocese of the province. These After Communion, the Archbishop moved through the aisles of relate, primarily, to supervision. The Metropolitan receive and wears a “pallium” over his the Cathedral and crypt blessing those in attendance. Returning vestments. The pallium is an inch wide white wool circular band ornamented with six

to the altar, Archbishop Fisher thanked Archbishop Hart for small crosses. It is made of wool from lambs blessed in the Church of St Agnes in Rome. Copyright images All concelebrating the Mass and Bishop Comensoli for his work as An outward sign of union with the Holy See it is blessed by the Pope and presented in a Archdiocesan Administrator in recent months. The new Archbishop special ceremony in Rome. 1717 “Tonight, I’ve looked back to the origins of this cathedral, diocese and national church. Looking forward, we have much to build on... With St. Mary Help of Christians let our souls magnify the Lord and our spirits rejoice in God our Saviour. For the Almighty works marvels for us: Holy is His name!” Archbishop Fisher at his installation as the Ninth Metropolitan Archbishop of Sydney

St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney 18 Image: Rob Potter New Performing Arts Centre for Woodlawn

Although there have been many wonderful refurbishments of existing buildings, the state of the art Performing Arts Centre called ‘The Pidcock Centre for Performing Arts’ is the first new building on the beautiful St John’s College Woodlawn site since 1991. roudly designed by Pat Twohill and built by Alan Marsh, the centre’s brickwork and architecture are sympathetic to the school’s original buildings whilst Father Paul Pidcock (centre of the group) and relatives at the opening of the Performing Arts Centre named in his honour) providing modern architecture of distinction. Not only does it pay homage to the old bakery site on which it stands, but mentor, director of the arts and later a Chaplin. Involved in fittingly pays tribute to its name-sake Fr Paul Pidcock S.M., every aspect of the school Fr Paul fondly remembers being Woodlawn’s current and long-serving chaplain. Fr Paul’s involved in the schools first ‘Gilbert and Sullivan’ musicals lifelong dedication to the college is a well-known story and when the students had to practice in their spare time. When equally his enormous contribution to the arts at the College Father was asked about having the performing arts centre is legendary. named after him he said “It’s a great privilege” and “I hope The Pidcock Centre for Performing Arts celebrated its it encourages performing arts at the school”. official opening on Friday 10th of October; 130 guests The centre itself is complete with a large foyer, 180-seat came from far and wide to catch the first glimpse of the theatre, dance studio/performance room, work shop area, theatre and to be treated to spectacular performances by multiple purpose-built facility rooms and amenities, a Woodlawn students. Special guests included those who grand piano and advanced sound and lighting equipment. were instrumental in the financial planning, the designing The project could never have been completed without the and building of the centre, as well as Fr Paul’s extended ten years of intensive and careful planning. The Pidcock family. The naming of the building could not have been Centre for Performing Arts thus becomes the new pride more appropriate, since Fr Paul Pidcock has only spent a of the school and provides a learning space full of new short few years away from Woodlawn whilst studying to possibilities which will undoubtedly encourage excellence be a priest. He attended the College as a young student and in creativity and performance for future generations of went on to serve as a chaplain and teacher, bursar, sports Woodlawn students.

situations, society and religious adherence. “It takes a village to raise a child”. Consequently, Proclaim Lismore Parents is seen as part of a process to co-design a stronger future for Catholic continued from page 6 education. “Each of us is now privileged to be part of the response to these realities by taking part in the co-designing In this light, the Catholic Schools Office, Lismore, has of a re-imagined approach to parent partnership” he said. facilitated a two-stage process of listening to parents and This revitalised Catholic educational village would be built caregivers regarding these understandings. around the person of Jesus Christ and the purposes, values In the first stage of the listening process the Centre for and goals of Catholic mission. Future opportunities for Children and Young People, Southern Cross University, better communication and agreed membership would be facilitated a research project with parents, caregivers, clergy encouraged. and principals. This parent partnership project identified Parents then heard from members of the Catholic strengths present in parish schools, yet also identified Schools Office, notably Dr John Graham, Assistant Director, significant areas where partnership needs strengthening. School Evangelisation and Catechetical Services; Dr Paul The second stage involved an invitation to all parents Thornton, Assistant Director, Education Services; and Mrs and caregivers to meet with the Director and Executive Hayley Youngberry, Consultant, Human Services. They Team of the Catholic Schools Office. In the six venues of invited parents to join them in co-designing better ways Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Lismore, Ballina and Kingscliff, over 400 parents attended. to work together in providing the best environments for At each venue Mr David Condon, Director of Schools in young people to grow into full and meaningful Christian the Diocese of Lismore, gave an informative and passionate lives, to build mutuality in educational matters and build address regarding the many changes in technology, social more effective systems for decision sharing. and cultural shifts and communication of the past 50 Overall, the meetings were expressions of great hope years. He stated these have placed great pressure on school for the future. Parents, clergy and Catholic educators are parent partnership. As such he saw it as time to work firmly as one with Bishop Jarrett, who has acknowledged together in response to the many changing realities outlined his awareness of the ‘fresh green shoots’ of a revitalised in educational research, government directions, family Catholic school system emerging in our time.

Catholic Life, December, 2014 19