Edition 2 JULY 2013 CAIRNS DIOCESAN NEWS From the outback, through the rainforest to the sea

In the beginning God created the Heavens and the earth. Now the earth was a formless void, there was darkness over the deep and God’s Spirit hovered over the waters

Window 1 expresses emptiness the void, darkness it is a wholly alien world. Window 2 is as bright as window 1 is dark….First is the first Creation Windows act of Creation. Window 3 ‘Pillars of Creation’….stars are being born. Here are images of Creation on a grand scale. Windows designed and made (Creation Windows St Monica’s Cathedral Cairns Adapted) by Gerry Cummins and Jill Stehn Recent Appointments Rev. Dr. Barry Craig Bishops Message Priest in Residence Malanda Presbytery Fr Karel Duivenvoorden Administrator of Mossman & Port Douglas Parish Fr Tony Lumukso OSA Administrator of Tully and Silkwood Parishes

Normaton The Gulf in the dry. (From the collection of Brian Gibbs)

After Pentecost Sunday the Easter Season concludes and we move, in the Church’s liturgical year, to the blandly named Ordinary Sundays. Contents However appropriately, in these weeks after Pentecost, the Page 2 Bishop’s Message previous years, on the week nights after Pentecost Sunday, the Page 3 Priest in Profile Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated across this diocese. In Then in the following weeks this Sacrament was conferred in Page 4 Celebrating 50 years Cairnsthe larger city country parishes parishes. celebrated Finally Confirmations it was the in turn the Cathedral.of smaller Page 5 Parish in Profile and more distant communities. Page 6 Centacare This year, however, it happened the other way around! Some Winter Warmer of the smaller more remote faith communities celebrated Page 7 Honouring our Heritage Page 8 A letter to home ConfirmationOn the Monday, first. Tuesday and Wednesday after Pentecost Sunday Page 9 Catholic Aged Care Page 10 Atherton Debutante Ball Croydon and Normanton. Page 11 Southern Deanery lends a hand Confirmations were held out in the Gulf Country at Georgetown, As it came to pass Page 12 Essence of Spirituality Sistertowns. Irene Harrison, (Josephite), Deacon Peter de Hass and his wife Angela and I went West and overnighted in each of these Page 13 Strengthening Family Life Page 14 Three Saints Faith and Tradition Page 15 National Pastoral Planners Conference Whileafterwards. there were only a few candidates for Confirmation in each place, there were full churches with fine family gatherings Year 7 into Secondary Page 16 Mini Vinnies Atherton sacraments. Page 17 Catholic Women’s Breakfast Though small and far apart these were fine celebrations of the I shall not leave you orphans. St Augustine’s Page 18 Legacy of a Maltese Migrant JesusSpirit said:staying within us. This is not like some (John fly 14/18)in – fly out In visit the Page 19 Saint of Lost and Impossible Causes Confirmation homily I spoke of God’s life, God’s presence, God’s Page 20 Gulf Savannah Parish byThe some Holy V.I.P.:Spirit a comes Governor, to stay a political with us intimately leader (or and just permanently a bishop!). Page 21 NET - A Ministry of Hope - no matter where we may be or how far distant we may live! Page 22 St Francis Xavier on one page Page 23 Vocational Education & Training missed out on a good wet season. To make matters worse some Page 24 scherger Immigration Detention Centre The people in the Gulf Country, like all of us in the region, properties around Georgetown had been severely burned-out Cairns Diocesan News is a Diocesan endeavor on behalf of Bishop Foley and the Finance & Administration agency. Grateful acknowledgment to all contributors and Chrystopher Spicer [Editorial input] and our advertisers for their generous support. Please direct any enquiries to Cathy Spencer Pastoral Support Services, PO Box 625 Cairns, Qld 4870 Tel 07 40465653/0419688050 email [email protected] Printed by: Bolton Print 246 Hartley St Portsmith from lightning strikes at the end of last year’s dry season. So it

something appeared to them that seemed like tongues ofseemed fire. hardly appropriate to use the Pentecost image of God’s Spirit: … (Acts 1/4) there was darkness over the deep, and God’s spirit hovered overIt was the better water. to use the other images of God’s powerful presence: … … (Gen 1/2)

After terriblelike years the soundof drought of a gentle and famine, breeze the prophet Elijah, when the rains finally did come, experienced God’s presence on Normanton The Gulf in flood. Mt. Carmel: . (1Kings 19/13) Make holy therefore these gifts we pray by sending down your SpiritThe familiar upon them Second like Eucharistic the dewfall. Prayer has similar soft imagery: Asempty we yet travelled beautiful to andplace. from There the too Gulf the we people remarked are closer on the to This phrase echoes the assuring words in that rather obscure spiritual experience that journey had been. It is such a huge The favours of God are not all past, … vagaries of weather. every morning they are renewed great is God’s and influenced very much by the patterns of Nature and the Bookfaithfulness. of Lamentations: Strangely but strongly this life experience may bring people (like the dewfall): Relevant too(Lam is the 3/ 22-23)strong New Testament imagery at the the Spirit drove him out into the +Jamesmuch closer Foley to the Mystery, the Presence, the very Spirit of God. wilderness and he remained there for forty days and forty nights. BISHOP OF CAIRNS beginning of Jesus’ ministry: …

(Mark 1/12-13) priests in the diocese of Cairns and so he moved to the Far

North where in 1957 he was assigned to St Monica’s Cathedral FATHER Pat McKenna Parish.Diocesan During Chancellor. his eight years there, Father McKenna became “Looking forward” Bishop Cahill’s secretary, Administrator of the Cathedral, and Written by Fr McKenna and Chrystopher J Spicer there were only three in the Cairns area, where he remained PRIEST IN PROFILE: In 1965 he took over the new parish of Earlville, at a time when fortnight by sea and road, as well as travelling to Coen and forWeipa 18 years.periodically. He would make a trip to Yarrabah for Mass every

spending thirteen years in the Atherton parish and serving as Father McKenna then moved from the coast to the Tablelands,

the Dean of the Western Deanery before moving briefly to Mt Isa.Scripture Having on alwaysthe Via wantedDolorosa. the opportunity for further study, he travelled to Jerusalem in 1996 to spend time immersed in

up the post of Chancellor at the Cathedral, a role he continued But then he received an invitation to return to Cairns and take Parramatta Park, where he continues to serve. to fill until 2012. In March, 2000, he went to St Joseph’s at

Duringthe change nearly from 57 yearsa church in the administered priesthood, makingalmost himexclusively the oldest by activelyhierarchy employed and clergy local to parish a church priest, administered Father McKenna in many has rolesseen by laity, predominantly women, and he thinks it’s a wonderful thing to see the role of the laity increasing. Such aspects as

government funding of Catholic education were non-existent in Diocesanhis early days Education as a priest. Offices, Catholic Development Fund and

I’m talking to Father McKenna in the quiet of the presbytery at “Looking forward,” he says, “the hope of the future seems to be Stdidn’t Joseph’s, initially looking see himself back through in service. 84 years.After attendingBorn into Catholican Irish with the laity.” Catholic family in Lowood, north of Ipswich, Father McKenna Church, changing the language of service and the roles of clergy. So many more Vatican people IIare prompted competent enormous now in changesadministration for the schools in Gympie, he went to work for the Commonwealth and management work and can take over roles in the church Bank after WWII but eventually he felt the call from God and that free priests to focus on the spiritual aspects of their work entered Banyo Seminary for the Archdiocese of Brisbane in as preachers and providers of the Mass and the Sacraments. “I 1948. think,” he sums up, “that the Holy Spirit will have a far larger role in the future for the laity than existed in the past.” In his second year, there was a call for volunteers to work pageas 3 Celebrating 50 years of Priesthood

Written by John Lizzo keeping around the seminary property.” Mick and Tom were the

Jubilarians Fr Michael Bonnerschool, and unruly Frand barelyThomas out of adolescence, Mullins the future Frs “oldies” of the group. While the rest of them were straight from

Mick and Tom were steadying influences.

During their combined 100 years of faithful service as Priests of the Cairns Diocese, they have remained steadying influences as they have ministered in a total of 11 parishes including Silkwood, Gordonvale, Edmonton, Cathedral, North Cairns, FrStratford, Mick with Northern his cheery Beaches, smile andRavenshoe Fr. Tom andwith Thursday his genuine Island. aura Both are well remembered in every parish in which they served:

of God-centred prayer. Fr Thomas Mullins and Fr Michael Bonner. thanksgiving, such as these. Both are typically spoken of in words of gratitude and “I knew Father Tom as a boy at St Augustine’s College,” Anthony See In 1963, Pope John XIII issued that very special encyclical “Peace touched the minds and hearts of many, infectious in its hope for Kee says, “so when he came to TI it was like meeting an old friend. on Earth.” It was a vintage year, full of a sense of optimism that the world. He did wonderful work here by caring for all the people in every Island. We all loved him. As well, he cared about the houses of God. That same year two mud-encrusted gladiators, Norm Provan In Horn Island he built a Church on land donated by Richard and and Arthur Summers, were immortalised by a photographer Fay See Kee. On Thursday Island he replaced the asbestos roof of the Church. May he have a blessed and joyful anniversary.” Hazel mutualas they respect helped eachand affection other off of the two field men after who slugging had led out teams the Parish Priest of Ravenshoe and then when the family moved to ARL Grand Final. That now-famous photograph captured the which had given their all, and it became symbolic of courage Thorne recalls. “Fr. that Mick she was first always met thereFather for Mick everyone,” when shehe was recalls, the “and he made and left many friends in both Parishes.” Gordonvale Andand perseverancein that same inyear the in NRL the Grand Diocese Final of Shield.Cairns, two spiritual prayed, studied, hoped, struggled and suffered for seven long “OurIn speaking hope at with ordination Fathers Mick time, and and Tom subsequently, together, Fr. was Mick that spoke God gladiators, Thomas Mullins and Michael Bonner, who had years , experienced the beginning of a life of dedicated service wouldfor both work of them: through our humble efforts and through God’s grace many good and great things would happen in God’s world. respectively. Sometimes things didn’t work out as I would have liked and I on their ordination to the Priesthood on the 28th and 29th June experienced disappointment, yet I never lost hope. I always knew These two men came from diverse backgrounds. Fr. Tom, son my Priesthood was God’s work and in God’s good time all things of a Euramo farmer and a footballer who had played half-back would come to fruition.” for Tully, was steeped in the rich soil of the Tully district. Fr. Michael, on the other hand, had been an assistant Station “I am sure,” he continued,” that Fr. Tom would agree with me that of the many good things achieved during the last 50 years we never acted alone. It is and was God’s work achieved with the Master at Babinda who, as life-long friend and work colleague of the inaugural members of the First Railway Army Regiment generous assistance of so many men and women in the various Sam Cardillo recalls, had volunteered in 1955 to become one parishes in which we served.” formed in Brisbane. Seminary life with its order, strictures, silence, prayer life and “My vocation was based on prayer,” Father Mick concluded with use of Latin did not come easy to such free spirits. Fr. Leo Skelly a a call to men.” Is this what God asks of me? I believe it is the “struggled with question that every one of us needs to ask ourselves. Where does the Latin at the seminary, and he was severely tested in musical God want me to be? If an Assistant Station Master and a sapper class mate from Brisbane, remembers that Mick talent. On one occasion when chosen to present an antiphon to with the Queensland Railway Army Regiment can be called by Monsignor Con Roberts, the Seminary Rector, at Vespers for the God to the Priesthood, so you can.” Feast of the Ascension, we spent all afternoon practising the tune of “Videntibus illis” and the end result was a terrible braying noise which caused the Rector great disgust, and his fellow seminarians DATE CLAIMER stifled fits of laughter. Official Diocesan Jubilee Celebration for Fr Michael Bonner and Fr Thomas Mullins will be held on Saturday the 27th of Tom Mullins, on the other hand was quiet and steady, as he has July beginning with Mass at 10.30 am and followed by light ever been.He kept his head down and worked hard at his studies refreshments. All interested parishioners are invited to attend. and prayer life, which he also did in his outside work at ground- Please rsvp to Therese at 40 465 620 by Friday the 19th of July

page 4 Edmonton Written by Fr John McGrath Parish Priest

its beginnings, were forced to withdraw from the parish butThe growing first shaping town offelt the the parishneed for of a Edmonton church there. dates Miss back May to becauseIn 1976 theof their Sisters dwindling of Mercy numbers. who had Thestaffed last the religious school at from the McLaughlanthe early 1920s donated when property the Catholic for a communitychurch and inwas the one small of

school was Sr Brigid Murray. thoseParish instrumental in building in the first Profilechurch. This church Highway was fast becoming inaccessible to parishioners and Thiswas blessedgalvanised and theopened small in Catholic1925. community to plan for a especiallyBy the early to 1990s the theschool Edmonton community. Parish Acomplex four-lane on thehighway Bruce concertconvent ...school. was presented The Cairns in aid Post of ofthe 23 funds March for 1928 the proposed reports: settingwas projected down of alongpeople, the the Bruce turning Highway into the frontage grounds andand the “The Edmonton Hall was packed on Wednesday night when a parkingvolume a of hazardous inbound andoperation. outbound This trafficcoupled was with making the noise the of heavy road vehicles and trains forced the Parish to seek an new Catholic Convent.” It was established on 29 April 1929 alternative location. Committeewith an enrolment at Edmonton of 20 organised students. a On most 21 successful September dance... 1929, the Cairns post reports: “On Saturday last the Catholic Ladies Phelan and his workers had built this school in Chillagoe but, on the spacious verandahs of the Convent School.” In 1914 Fr mountainThe Parish back was drop,fortunate an outlook to purchase to the anPyramid 8.781 andhectares a hint site of (currently 135-167 Robert Road) which has a magnificent Sistersas the populationof Mercy to there teach was there diminished were Sr M by Patrick 1928, Meagher, he had the Sr St Therese’s school relocated to this new site. Over the coming school transported and re-established at Edmonton. The first yearsCairns so city also on wasthe North-Easternthe Presbytery aspect. and the On Convent 28 January relocated 1995

M Josephine Haren and Sr M Agatha Moher. parish. During this time the sense of community grew even and finally the New Church was blessed and opened on the 17 It was another 36 years, 1965, before Edmonton became a June 2001. dramatically, not only because of the building developments on deeper, truthfully reflecting the Parish and School motto: theOver site the but last especially 10 years because the face the of parish, the parish now incorporating has changed “Through the work of many united together as one, great things are done.” Fr Ivan Hernon was the first Parish Priest White Rock, experienced a huge population growth. At the last and was succeeded in turn by Fr John Lizzio, Fr Tom Mullins, the suburbs of Edmonton, Bentley Park, Mt Sheridan and Fr Bill Grundy and Mons. John Lennon. undertaken by voluntary labour. Only the tradesman census there were 8,400 Catholics living in the parish of whom In 1969 the building of a new St Therese’s School was about 400 worship regularly at the parish church, St Therese’s, there today were forged in this period. on 135 Robert Road, Bentley Park. How is the parish church supervising the project was paid. Many links that are still community each to meet year. this Also influx St Therese’s of mainly School, younger which families? is the Through Baptisms, an average of 120 families touch our faith stream school. The challenge remains so we need to revisit On 14 February 1974 the Handmaids of the Lord arrived in parish’s major enterprise, is near its enrolment quota for a 4 residence.Cairns and stayed in the old Mercy convent at Edmonton. In united together as one, great things are done”. 1979 they purchased 201 Bruce Highway for their convent once again the call of our motto: “Through the work of many page 5 Centacare Head Winter Warmer Office has moved Dance at Malanda Written by Anita Andacic Centacare Quality and HR Officer Written by Janice Hunt [Pastoral Projects Leader Malanda Parish]

youth and emergency relief services for a week in April and Centacare Cairns head office closed counselling, corporate, moved from 195 Abbott Street to 22 – 34 Aplin Street. More than 500 boxes and many truckloads of furniture were moved aboveand 25 the staff Commonwealth spent the week Rehabilitation sorting, cleaning, Services packing Australia and in Aplinunpacking. Street. The The new week office was is exhausting located on but the all1st the and hard 2nd workfloor A wonderfully energetic time was had by all at the Winter has paid off as the new premise offers brighter facilities and Warmer Dance held at the Malanda Showgrounds on Saturday better accessibility for clients. Catherine Fraser and Duncan Smith. Entertainment for the Centacare Cairns is the social services agency of the Catholic 1st June. Music was provided by the world famous duo Diocese of Cairns providing services to Cairns and the all up and dancing throughout the evening, while the skirl of wider region, particularly to people who are vulnerable, night included a combination of fiddle and piano which had disadvantaged or marginalised within our community. the spirits bright. Currently services funded by both Commonwealth and State pipes from the Tablelands Pipe Band kept the toes warm and

Services, Migrant Services, Respite Services and Mental Health community, gathered to dance the night away and raise money Services.Governments include Counselling, Emergency Relief, Youth For the cost of $10, young and old, from the broader maintenance. This followed on from the successful Trivia Centacare’s vision is for a healthy and connected community Nightfor the and St JamesChristmas Catholic ‘Raising Church the Roof’and the Dance continuing of last year.work Soof far we have been able to replace the roof and paint the outside of all people. Therefore it was fundamental that the new of our heritage listed church, while establishing a garden buildingthat reflects was and accessible supports for the clients dignity, with equality mobility and participation disabilities. around the newly installed ramp. Many thanks to parishioners A lift was installed that enables access to all levels. Also the who participated in the repairs and new paintwork making new site is now directly opposite Centrelink and is close to the the Priest’s Residence at the Presbytery a more pleasant place Lake Street bus terminal allowing for greater accessibility of Centacare’s services. forS treetsFr Barry Craig Ou totreach reside as Scholarneeds in yo Residenceur su atpport St James.. Centacare continues to have Mental Health Resource Services, Respite and Migrant services operating at various other sites. Rosies is working towards opening a Thursday night outreach and we are therefore in need of volunteers services that are offered. Centacare welcomes enquires from the community on the fortnightly roster in Munro Martin Park. Rosies seeks to Dust is still settling and all staff are progressing with arranging or school teams (and also sandwich donations) for a resources to best meet client needs. Centacare plans to have live out its Mission and Vision by being …. a community case the facilities. toof peoplebe present sharing with the them, Oblate offering spirit of them daring. experiences Inspired byof an official opening, in due course, of the new premises to show communitythe Gospel, Rosiesand belonging. reaches out to those most abandoned, To access further information on Centacare services Expressions of interest can be made to Melissa: [email protected] / phone 0410562579 call 4044 0130 or visit www.centacarecairns.org

page 6 Honouring our Heritage, Fulfilling Our Future Written by Kirsten Sharpe Principal St Monica’s Catholic College

Sisters in the old Convent grounds New Agnes Building the old and the new, the traditional and the contemporary, the heritageSt Monica’s and College the future. is an embodiment of contrasting ideals – theirSt Monica’s future animated College graduates by self-belief benefit and from courage. the assimilationSt Monica’s communityof two realms is blessed– their traditions to have the of best mercy of bothand communityworlds. and

The College will be celebrating two milestones this year: the 100 year anniversary of the opening of the heritage listed building, St Joseph’s Convent, and the opening of the strikingly modern four-leveled Agnes Building. St Joseph’s Convent, as it was named by the Sisters of Mercy, was officially opened in March 1914. St Monica’s College’s Highfrontage School onto building Abbott now Street called has the two Cecilia heritage Centre. buildings: Morrissey the Houseconvent denotes building our now Mercy called traditions Morrissey and heritage; House and it is the a symbol 1941 of our old fashioned values, our time honoured manners of St Monica’s College after Stage One of the restoration and our attention to social justice. The convent became part and refurbishment was completed in 2000 and Stage Two studentcompleted services. in 2003. The Morrisseywooden staircase, House is the the bell, administration the wooden building, housing offices, staff facilities, reception, and features of Morrissey House. architectural features and the “nuns’ cells” are endearing

The Agnes Building is the dominant architectural aspect on Lake Street. Completed in early 2013, the building houses the Library, a Technology floor, a Science floor and a Performing Arts floor. These thoroughly modern facilities have enhanced ofthe thisquality building education epitomizes St Monica’s our hascontemporary, provided for innovative124 years approachand secondary to girls’ education education for 72and years. our proactive The modern social nature and structure loudly proclaiming catholicity and the values of self-beliefemotional and learning courage. initiatives. St Monica’s The Agnes girls Buildingenter their is afuture bold heartened to lead with a focus on service and social awareness.

page 7 A Letter to Home………. Written by Nathan McKay (Diocese of Cairns Seminarian at Beda College Rome)

In regards to my study, I often pass St Peter’s Basilica on my way to the English bookshops. It’s moments like these that I’m deepeningeven more ouraware prayer of how and fortunate getting along I am withto be everyone. here. Our study does entail more than the intellectual aspect. It also includes

seminarians. Hence, you need to manage your time well and naturallySeminary youlife dois busyhave andyour I challenges.live in the houseHowever, with this another is part 56 of

life, and I know God is there with me.

Recently I received the Ministry of Acolyte, this is the last lay ministry. God willing, in June 2014 I will be ordained a Deacon. I do reflect on the inner peace I have and how God has called

Pope Francis meeting Nathan McKay me, to where I am. The things that come to mind include: a experiencesdeepening relationship of Church and with Catholic God; a love education of Church, and sacraments remember I’m currently studying in Rome at the Pontifical Beda College and desire to bring this to others; I also recall my good missand have the lovely been here tropical for two environment years. God of willing Far North at the Queensland. end of June 2015, I will be ordained a priest for the Cairns Diocese. I do feelsmy devout called Catholic to Holy grandmotherOrders, don’t (onbe afraid.my dad’s Do side), your whobest saidand she would always pray that I would be a priest. If someone In saying this, there are also many things, I love about Italy. God will do the rest. willThe Italianshelp you that wherever I’ve met they have can. always The beenCatholic very churches friendly and met within the Cairns Diocese and look forward to meeting helpful. If you’re travelling in Italy, you can be assured that they moreIn closing, of you I often on my think return. of the Please many do wonderful keep me inpeople your prayers,that I’ve over here, will take your breath away. No words can describe as my studies continue. theirthe Italian beauty. countryside Also being inare Rome also doesvery givebeautiful. you the The opportunity churches Take Care & God Bless to attend a Mass celebrated by the Holy Father. Nathan McKay

page 8 Catholic Aged Care in Cairns Written by Jacky Mallon Pastoral Care Co-ordinator, Holy Spirit Westcourt

Inside view of Holy Spirit Chapel

as an innovative concept for care of the elderly and owned byWhen the BethlehemDiocese of NursingCairns, it Home was modernwas opened and inthe the pride early of 60’s the Anglican Service is every 2nd Friday at 10am. Catholic community. Under the care of the Sisters of Mercy work in Cairns. She has now relocated to Carseldine. The Holy and a great nursing staff, it was a wonderful setting for the frail SpiritSr Noela Sisters Williamson presence was in thisthe firstdiocese Holy is Spiritnow represented Sister to live by and Sr elderly. There are so many stories of the many volunteers and

Matthia Kolbeck and Sr Felicitas Lindenbuss who are living in fund raisers, under t¬¬he direction of the late Monsignor John the new Bareki apartments. Sr Matthia attends to the care of Lennon, who contributed so much to Bethlehem’s existence. the Chapel and visits at Coral Sea Gardens and Sr Felicitas is a Inspect Sunday It has a long history of providing dedicated care in our region. welcome pastoral care visitor at Bethlehem.Wednesday10.30 10 to to 11.30am 11.00am thisHowever, day and fifty age years for a facility down caring the track for the some aged. changes were You can afford to live a needed to bring Bethlehem Home to the standard expected in quality retirement lifestyle. Buy now pay later! In 2006 Holy Spirit Care Services purchased from the diocese, Bethlehem Nursing Home, Mary Potter Nursing Home and Coral Sea Gardens Retirement Village. With the mission of the wouldHoly Spirit remain Sisters into as the a significant future. priority, the elderly residents of these facilities were assured that continued quality of care Holy Spirit Care Services undertook a massive building programme with the refurbishing of Mary Potter Home on

ratherToogood impressive Road, and new a total Holy rebuild Spirit Westcourt. on the Bethlehem site. If you drive along Gatton Street these days, you will see the

Holy Spirit Westcourt complex was officially opened and blessed by Bishop James Foley in August 2012. It consists • Brand new, affordable apartments for over 65s alsoof a newextended nursing to include centre whichindependent retains living the Bethlehem at the Coral name Sea • Now more affordable with option to buy now and provides dedicated care to 86 residents. This care is and pay 10% on exit • Prices start from $ 327,600 (after 10% deferment) Gardens Retirement Village and the new Bareki Apartments. • Cafe, pool, gym, activities and friendship consists of the Holy Spirit Chapel, a large function room, Café, • 24/7 on-site nursing care in your apartment In the centre of the complex is the community centre which or the Bethlehem Nursing Centre

Call now on 07 4031 6977 for more hairdressing salon, and gym. Brianah at the B’Hive Hair and information and a FREE tour. AsBeauty well salon as being also caterswonderful for outside for residents clients asand well their as residents. families, 257 Gatton Street, WESTCOURT QLD 4870 otherThe Coral people Café are opens welcome 8am totill dine 2pm at Sunday the Café. through to Friday. T (07) 4031 6977 E [email protected] W www.holyspiritwestcourt.com.au

Mass in the Chapel is Sunday 10am and Tuesday 10am and thepage 9 2013 Debutants with thanks to Pine Creek Photos celebrating and affirming our young Athertonwomen aDebutantend men Written Ball by Trish Nash Principal St Joseph’s Primary School Atherton What a splendid night was had by all! Twenty-eight stunning debutantes and their partners were presented to Rev Dr the economic side.” This special night was a chance for the all that affirming for young men and women, particularly in dignity, and to express the community’s respect. Gregory Moses, Parish Priest of Atherton, on Saturday 25th community to; affirm the debutantes and their partners’ FriendsMay, at MerrilandAssociation, Hall worked in Atherton. tirelessly The to ensureDeb Ball the committee, night was The Debutantes and their partners spent many, many hours ana sub-committee outstanding success. of the St Joseph’s Parish School Parents and

practising ballroom dancing under the guidance of Kylie Akers ensuredand Jenna that Pezzelato. the hall Madonnawas beautifully Lawrence, decorated, Tanya Pezzelato,the food theirFr Moses dignity, spoke and their about importance the evening to us being as a aboutcommunity.” “Respect, He deliciousDeana Nasser, and the Jamie evening DeLai, well Dee organised. Kitchen The and debutantes’ Lyn Byrne explainedaffirming ourthat respect the debutantes for our young and theirmen andpartners women were and now for

flowers were kindly donated by Village Roses in Tolga. As one in“full so participating far as a lot membersof what else of our goes community.” on in our Hesociety stated is thatnot of the debutant’s parents said about the committee, “They did the Ball is “particularly important and remains important, a fantastic job; I wish they were running our country.” DATE EVENT PLACE WESTERN DEANERY ATHERTON Maria Della Quercia Annual Feast of Our Lady of the Oak Tree Atherton Atherton 18thOctober August Atherton Parish Catholic Ladies Mass & Luncheon Atherton 19th October Spring Fair 2013 MALANDA Malanda

JulyMAREEBA – September TBA Confirmation Dimbulah Mareeba July – September TBA ConfirmationFeast of Our Lady of the Chain Mareeba July – September TBA Confirmation 8th September page 10 work with engaged couples in the area; with a sincere Southern Deanery eagerness.

lends a hand where people were deeply appreciative of her effort in Written by Fr Karel Duivenvoorden comingJennifer to was the introduced parish for at a thewhole Sunday weekend Mass and gathering; of the tremendous support of the Catholic Society for Marriage

CouplesEducation intending (CSME) toand marry Centacare, are increasingly Brisbane. busy and often working away from home; with limited time to prepare

preparation,themselves adequatelyit is sometimes for abest life achieved of marriage. at the While local level it is anddesirable by people that coupleswho understand have a flexible the local choice circumstances of programs and for culture; as well as often knowing the couples themselves. Priests have a key role in such preparation, but a like-to- like ministry is proving every bit as important, and possibly even more meaningful. FrA Karelcuppa Duivenvoorden after [former Mass Administrator with parishioners of Tully and Silkwood Parishes]at Tully on Sunday With the addition of these two new recruit couples, it brings

the16 DecemberTully community. 2012 provided Together a briefwith respitetheir priest, to a busy,they formprofitable the parish’s and enjoyable Marriage weekend Preparation for twoTeam. couples Rick and in to five (5) the number of Marriage Facilitator couples in the Southern Deanery (with Jennifer having provided training the challenge to be trained as Marriage Facilitators in Otherto the otherparishes three across couples the in diocese Innisfail have in December their own 2010). local Kathy Chappel, and Steve and Gaby Shadforth accepted arrangements for preparation, while some utilise the facilities of FOCCUS training through Centacare, Cairns or a the parish. Under the expert guidance of Jennifer Mason the weekend FOCCUS training course and are undertaking different program through Natural Fertility Services. (Marriage Educator, Centacare, Brisbane) they completed As it came to pass: the history of the St Mary’s Churches of Port Douglas Written by Rev. Dr. Barry Craig

and families mentioned in the first part. It includes possibly the first published description of the early town, in 1879, by informationFr Julian Tenison extracted Woods, from friend the anddiary mentor of one ofthe St earlyMary parishof the Cross MacKillop. Likewise it made public for the first time information beyond the history of our buildings, the book will bepriests, a valuable Fr Joachim resource Guerrini, for everyone in1884. interested Including in sothe much history new of Port Douglas, and for family historians related to the pioneers.

businessmenIn brief, the who Catholic took historypart in that of Port foundation Douglas selected begins a with site forthe a town’schurch foundationthat same year. in June They 1877.built a The chapel-cum-house Irish Catholic

Port Douglas has had three churches named St Mary’s. Their there in 1878, but the steep climb to it prompted moving to a As it came to pass new site when it was time to build a church. The first St Mary’s Annettestories have Anich, now Sr been Pat O’Sheatold in fulland in Helen St Mary’s Whyte. of Port Researching Douglas: thosewas opened buildings in 1881, was used but it to and build the a house new presbytery were destroyed within by two the the“ book was a labour”, by Frof Barrylove undertaken Craig with theto celebrateassistance the of devastating cyclone on 16 March 1911. Timber salvaged from Parish’s history and to acknowledge the achievements of its when the completely new and much smaller second St Mary’s months. The church, however, was not replaced until 1914 Parish donated it to the Port Douglas Restoration Society who pioneers. It was prompted when it became clear that much of was built; it was closed as a Catholic church in 1988, and the what was being said of the first two churches, the second now Researchingknown as “St the Mary’s history by theanew Sea”, uncovered was mistaken. previously unknown movedThe it bookand renamed is available it St Mary’sin Port by Douglas the Sea at in the 1989. Court House Museum, the Whileaway Bookshop and Cafe, rediscovered the fascinating stories of the pioneers. This and for $18.70 from the Parish promptedphotos, such the as addition that of ofthe the first book’s St Mary’s second taken part onin the1888, people and [PO Box 116, Mossman 4873]

page 11 learnt from little ones Written by Irene Goodrich, Manager Catholic Early Learning and Care Essence of spirituality…….. day.For aHow mere fortunate four minutes they are.I had Our experienced young ones what do nota child need who to beis discoveringreminded that the the world world for is the indeed first timea miracle; experiences everything every is

can see why ‘He took the children into His arms and placed His created by our beloved God with precision and perfection. I

spirituality;hands on their we headshave much and blessed to learn them’ from our(Mark little 10:16 ones. NLT), for they celebrate and appreciate God daily. This is the essence of As early childhood educators, we recognise and embrace

responsibility to maintain this sense of wonder and awe. We spirituality in children. We firmly acknowledge that it is our the world around them. We allow them to splash in puddles, affirm their delights and nurture their curiosity and wonder of Prayer is a part of our daily rituals. We light a candle and give thanks to the Lord for our many blessings. faces.squelch in mud, and let the rain tickle their tiny little faces. We mimic their enthusiasm, reflecting this sense of wonder on our I simply could not look away. I was mesmerised, was this really hadhappening? stood still, Was the the birds moon stopped blackening chirping, the thesun? sky I found darkened, myself it we need to reignite within ourselves. We allow them to take our taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out. It was as if time handsIt is NOT and something lead us back we needto our to Creator. teach to For the theychildren, see with it is aclarity spirit was peaceful and surreal. How lucky I was to be experiencing who work with children. this phenomenon… a total eclipse of the sun. (Cairns November the wonder and awe, precision and perfection. Blessed are we 14, 2012) O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom has thou made them all: the earth is full of your riches. (Psalm 104:24) What I had experienced was wonder and awe, excitement, delight. In those moments I felt very close to God the creator. Proudly Serving Queensland Since 1884

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CairnsEnterprise2013_134x190.indd 1 page 12 15/03/13 11:48 AM Strengthening Family life through friendship and faith The Catenian Association Written by Peter Cash The Catenian Association is an international brotherhood of practising Catholic laymen who meet socially, at least once a month, in local branches, known as Circles. There are

Australia, in NSW, ACT, Queensland, Victoria and WA. World- about 300 Circles around the world with more than 30 in supportwide membership they give to is overeach 10,500.other and Members their families, refer to which each isother based as ‘brother’.on the shared This reflectsvalues of the their strength Catholic of thebelief mutual and forpractice. those facing In an increasinglychallenges to secular their beliefs society, and the moral Association values inprovides their business, a sociable professional and supporting and family haven lives. (an oasisThrough of calm) their alsomembership, in their family Catenians as a husband are helped and to father; enjoy in and their fulfil chosen their professionvarious vocations or workplace; in life; within firstly the as wider baptised community Christians and andthe church. More information available at:- The Association is not a fund raising agent for the Catholic http://thecatenianassociation.org.au/ or Church, nor is it a Catholic action group. However, it is a group http://thecatenians.com of active Catholics. On an individual basis, Catenians take an active part in the life of their parishes and many play a leading role in their dioceses and Catholic lay organisations locally and nationally. The Association is non-political though Catenians are prominent in many aspects of public life and service. United by their Catholicism, members of the Association have

• a numberTo be of proudly objectives... Catholic and to spread their Faith by personal and collective example; • To provide benevolence of a spiritual, moral and financial Diocesan Resource Centre • Tonature provide to members support and to their the familiesClergy and who to find assist themselves young The Diocesan Resource Centre is located on the ground Catholicsin difficulty in orthe need; choice or pursuit of a career. Cairns. The centre houses a large specialist collection of floor of the Catholic Services Building, 130 Lake St to support faith formation for all ages. helpingThe Group people first instarted our Diocese in 2006 who and are was suffering established hardship. as the CityThe high quality reading, multimedia and e-book resources Catenianof Cairns CircleFamily in Fund 2008. was The set-up Circle to is activeprovide in helpa discreet for children way in Come in and browse the collection. New members are in our schools whose family may not be able to pay for certain most welcome and membership is free. items which they may need in their environment, i.e. school books, school trips, but not school fees. The Circle has also A courier service enables the return of resources via our Parish schools. occasions. made significant donations to Rosies Kitchen on various The centre is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm

Our current Circle President is local businessman Joe Vella [pictured] and the Cairns Circle meet on a monthly basis Circle,for a meeting take pride and in the dinner. bonding Joe isand also friendship the Maltese that has Consulate grown telephoneFriendly staff or email.are on hand to assist you find what you are betweenfor Queensland. them and The their Catenian families Brothers over the of years. the City of Cairns looking for, or requests for items can also be made via For more information please call Elaine or Fran on 40509723 or email [email protected] ‘strengthening life through friendship and faith.’ Our catalogue can be viewed online at The Catenian firmly believe in the Catenian ethos of www.ces.cmeweb.libcode.com.au

page 13 Feast of the Three Saints Procession Three Saints - Written by Alfio Borzi Secretary Feast of the Three Saints Inc.

The small community of Silkwood once again came alive to were answered. He vowed that he would provide for statues of the Three Saints to be sent from Sicily and instigate the celebration of the Feast in Silkwood. His intention was to tocries celebrate of “Viva the Sant. Feast Alfio” of theon SundayThree Saints. the 5th of May 2013,F whenaith model the and Silkwood Feast T onradition that which was, and still is, approximately 3,500 devotees descended upon the township were to be identical to, but on a smaller scale than, those that celebrated in his home town of St. Alfio, Sicily. The statues Held annually on the first Sunday in May, this year’s Feast from the wood of certain cherry trees that Rosario recalled marked the 63rd anniversary since it began. The Feast attracts grewwere nearheld hisin the father’s church property in St. Alfio. in that They town. were to be carved devotees from all parts of Queensland, interstate and Italy.

The organising association (Feast of the Three Saints immigrants of the day with the much needed opportunity to Incorporated) was honoured this year to have Father Marcello notIn fulfillingonly practice his vow,and give Rosario witness provided to their the faith, many but Sicilianto also Zappala from Sicily officiating. Mass was celebrated at St come together in friendship and fellowship in a social setting entertainment,John the Evangelist’s devotees Church took in part Italian in ata solemn10.00am procession by Father away from the daily rigors of work and making a living and life throughZappala. the After streets enjoying of Silkwood, a lunch ledof traditional by the Statues Italian of the food Three and for themselves in a new country. Rosario’s legacy has not only by another celebration of Mass which included the blessing is one of the biggest and most successful religious events andSaints veneration (Saints Alfio, of the Filadelfo relics of theand Three Cirino). Saints. This Devotees was followed were survived over the last 63 years, it has thrived. The Feast today generations the faith, tradition and culture of those early immigrants.in Australia, thereby preserving through the subsequent then treated to more Italian music, singing and dancing before enjoying a finale of fireworks at 7.00pm to ensure they left The organising association is grateful for the assistance and with spirits soaring and hearts full of joy.

The very first Feast of the Three Saints to be held in Australia co-operation its receives from Mr Andrew Maley (Principal) was in Silkwood in 1950 when a local immigrant, Mr Rosario inand staging the staff the andFeast. students of St John’s School Silkwood, the Tornabene, fulfilled a personal vow made to the Saints after school’s P & F Association and the Parish of St John’s Silkwood his prayers for intercession (that his gravely ill wife and newborn daughter survive a difficult and complicated birth)page 14 National Pastoral Planners Network Conference 2013 Written by Chrystopher Spicer

Panel Session including Fr Richard Lennan, Bishop Eugene Hurley [left of photo] and Delegatesdelegates also fromtook Adelaide, part Newin workshops Zealand and ACBC that Pastoral included Research Officemuch vigorous discussion about topics such as pastoral planning and From 28-31 May, the National Pastoral Planners Network implementation, developing models of pastoral leadership, Conference 2013 was held at Mantra Legends Hotel on the Gold Hunt,Coast, theattended two delegates by over 65 from delegates our Diocese. from across Australia and Church Life Survey. They then experienced a shared context New Zealand. Amongst them were Cathy Spencer and Janice ofthe a Yearparish of pastoral Faith and plan Evangelisation through a visit and to usingthe local the parish National of Surfers Paradise where they were able to look at the potential messageThe theme was for supported the Conference by addresses was “One from in ArchbishopBaptism: Sharing Mark cultural sensitivities on pastoral planning. the Responsibility flowing from Christ’s Mission, “ and this effects and influences such as tourism, ethnic diversity and

Life,Coleridge who talked of Brisbane about the and state also of from the Church Bishop in Eugene Australia Hurley, and thenChairman led a ofdiscussion the Australian that considered Bishops Commission the voices thatfor Pastoralneed to “It was a wonderful opportunity to meet with others who are be heard in Australia and New Zealand. bothin similar similar work and areas,” different.” Cathy and Janice commented on their return, “and to share experiences with them about challenges

College, provided theological background and frameworks further information on this Conference and aspects of Pastoral andFr Richard how to Lennan, apply thoseProfessor principles of Systematic to the Theologydelegate’s of pastoral Boston PlanningIf you or your Parish Pastoral Council are interested in any contexts. He encouraged the conference to consider the importance of lay leadership, being mission focused and Please contact: Janice Hunt [email protected] or Cathy Spencer [email protected] affirming the concept of co-responsibility as expressed in the VaticanYear 11 documents. 7 into Secondary -

Written by Alison Foster Assistant to the Principal [Administration] St Mary’s Catholic College Preparations are well underway, at St Mary’s Catholic A series of bulletin inserts will be circulated to Catholic primary schools over the coming months to inform primary stage, planning for the redevelopment of teaching and students and their parents of the preparations being made at preparationlearningCollege, forareas the andtransition the expansion of Year 7 ofinto the secondary.is curriculum underway At thisare at St Mary’s priorities, along with strategies for ensuring that the newest facilities, developing a suitable curriculum and offering a members of our community will be made to feel welcome. rangeSt Mary’s of extra-curricular in terms of welcoming and co-curricular Year 7 students, activities. providing

To facilitate a smooth transition and to reassure students and St Mary’s also continues its program of welcoming primary their families, St Mary’s is optimising links with its primary feeder schools. school students for “a day at St Mary’s”, with Years 5 and 6 secondarystudents from school St Joseph’scampus. School and Year 7 students from St Gerard Majella School visiting this term to experience the

page 15 Mini Vinnies Atherton - Students making a difference! The little school of St Josephs, Atherton, certainly has a BIG heart Written by Madonna Lawrence Year One Teacher St Joseph’s Primary School hampers of chocolate for prizes, kindly donated by the very

supportive families of the St Joseph’s community.

They followed this success with a Green Day to honour St Patrick,to dress preparingup in green green for a fruit gold juice coin icydonation. cups, green This pattywas a cakes huge and green jelly cups to sell, and inviting the rest of the school

success, motivating the children to organise a PJs for Poverty day,gold tocoin. be All held monies later inraised June. will This go eventdirectly will to seethe theSt Vincent school communityde Paul Society’s wear Winter their pyjamas Appeal, tohelping school to in provide exchange clothing, for a blankets etc to the community.

Every meeting is abuzz with thoughts and ideas to raise funds while providing fun activities for the school which encourage This year, classroom teacher and Mini Vinnies coordinator, maximum participation. the school’s Mini Vinnies group. All of these children are Next year the group hope to extend their work into the area of Madonnapassionate Lawrenceabout upholding has signed the uplong 35 held new ideals members of the to pastoral care also, fostering positive relationships within the St Vincent de Paul Society, helping people in their local school, and also within the wider community. Rosa Montegrande addressing the Catholic Women’s Breakfast community, and offering support to people who may be less fortunate than themselves. An immensely dedicated little This amazing group of children are so generous, thoughtful, and hard working. They are the community workers of the future, sharing their heart and spirit for the good and well bunch,activities. the Mini Vinnies members from Years 5 – 7, has so being of others. These young people are making a positive far raised in excess of $1000 this year, through fundraising hey are making a difference!

contribution, and… The children hosted a Monster Easter raffle with 12 lovely Celebrating Life Giving Thanks

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page 16 Catholic Women’s Breakfast Walking in Faith Written by Elizabeth Hoare April. Seventy women from across the diocese attended this guestbreakfast speaker and were at the inspired Catholic with Women’s Rosa’s life Breakfast story - a onstory 20th of pain, brokenness and tragedy, yet a story of blessing, victory

overRosa evillaunched and the her saving book, power ‘Come, and My love Child, of ToJesus. Me’, a collection

of poems about her journey of faith giving glory to God for bringingthe worldwide her through ‘Mothers the Prayers’ difficult timesministry, in herbecoming life. After the theAustralian death coordinator. of her son, Small Bernard, groups Rosa of wasmothers introduced gather to pray for their children and surrender them into the hands of

and purpose for their lives. Jesus,Each ladywho attendingloves them the more breakfast than they received do and a whofridge has magnet a plan

Everythingprepared by that Rosa God expressing allows to thehappen quote today from is Romans for my good! 8:28: ‘In all things God works for the good of those who love Him!’

The following were some comments from ladies who attended

Rosa Montegrande addressing the Catholic Women’s Breakfast ‘This was a rare time for me to be fed both physically and Spiritually’.the breakfast: Rosa’s talk held many pearls of wisdom to reflect on “Eye has not seen nor ear heard, neither has it entered and hold on to – especially in those hard times we all face.’ LB into the heart of man the things God has prepared for those who love Him. We live our lives with this hope.” All ladies of the Diocese are warmly invited to attend future

These were the opening words of Rosa Montegrande, Catholic Women’s Breakfasts and are encouraged to invite a friend. Watch your Parish Bulletins for details! “St Augustine’s College-a high achieving College built on traditional values” Written by Czek Kersevani Head of Development & Communication St Augustine’s College enhance not only the student but the wider community.

St Augustine’s College was founded in 1930. It is one of A mark of any successful school is the way, in its continual girlsthe oldestattend CatholicSt Monica’s day/boarding College during Colleges the day. in the Students Cairns search to seek out the best in educational innovation, is canarea. be Boarding full-time at or the weekly college boarders. caters for The boys college and girls.attempts The that it can let go of outmoded ways without compromising core values that have come out of wisdom and experience. meet the needs and particular situations of each. The St Augustine’s is a College moving within contemporary boardersto work withcome families from the in Port responsive Douglas-Mossman and flexible area, ways the to society but embedded in strong beliefs and practices that encourage all students to engage their world in informed, Nhulunbuy and Alyangula. Atherton Tablelands, Cape York, Torres Strait, Innisfail-Tully, Discover ‘Saints’ and a College can be found that is at once Forcreative, more responsible information and phone just ways. The Principal’s Secretary on dynamic yet rich in tradition. Caring yet challenging, broad

campus that prioritises students’ needs in a holistic sense. 0740529120 or visit www.sac.qld.edu.au Studentsin its offerings matter yetat Saints specialist and inevery its expertise.best effort It is is directed a busy at achieving the highest outcomes. A diverse curriculum ensures opportunities for success in academic, cultural, sporting and spiritual arenas.

Four words Strong minds, gentle hearts is the College’s

cultural and experience would recount that students are alltheme the better for 2013. for it. Schools ‘Saints’ likeaims ‘Saints’ to give areyoung often people counter the capacity to develop strong minds while also nurturing their Liam Spannenburg, Jason Nguyen, Jordan Brodie, and Michael Martin compassion and gentle hearts as a gift which will ultimately perform at the Principal’s Assembly

page 17 Legacy of a Maltese Migrant Written by Catherine Smith-Henrichs Granddaughter of Paul Zammit Amidst the momentum of routine life we sometimes forget that history secured the opportunities for our future. The history of one such man belongs to Maltese migrant Paul Zammit, who and imparted a lasting but relatively unmeasured legacy. against significant odds made his home in North Queensland Paul Zammit was not a prominent identity and did not hold labelled an alien immigrant, yet in time he earned the notable reputationpublic office. as aHe hard-working was a British and subject respected who businessmanwas illiterate with and entrepreneurial vision, who prevailed over great adversities through sheer determination and his strong belief in God. to work double shifts in the Chillagoe smelters and cut cane Arriving in Sydney on 4 April 1912, he travelled north on foot before saving enough to settle at Bartle Frere. As a pioneer of QueenslandBartle Frere, which he felled allowed by hand him to 300 employ acres Europeans of virgin rainforestand assist themand by to the settle 1930s in Australia. owned the Paul largest and hissugarcane wife Pauline farm insuffered North years of serious privation as foreigners, yet their commitment to become Australian was genuine and he remained resolute in his motivation to succeed and help others.

He was the first person in Queensland to receive the Pope whichPius XII opened Benemerenti debt free Medal due in to January his generosity. 1948 for He distinguished was a well- knownservice member after building of the Cairns the Church Holy Name of St Society Paul at and Bartle his strong Frere spiritual devotion was matched by regular and generous donations to the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Roman Catholic Trust Corporation, the Sisters of Mercy and priests in the

Cairns diocese including the financial sponsorship for Fr John familyCamilleri’s and his seminarian service to studies. others. In this way Paul’s steadfast devotion to God was readily evident in his approach to life, As the father of ten children, the Zammit family’s talented patriotic funds across the Far North, and they hosted visiting USAmusicians and Australian were noted Army forshow high-quality bands in the concerts ballroom to of raisetheir he invested in real estate and extended his interests into home Floriana on the Cairns Esplanade. Beyond farming aviatorgoldmining Tommy in the McDonald. late 1940s, flying the bounty out from the Batavia Gold Fields with the help of his friend and notable Regrettably, the tangible remains of his labours are few. The however its bell was mounted at the entrance to St Monica’s Church of St Paul was destroyed in 1986 by Cyclone Winifred, nowCathedral resides in in 2012 the State and acknowledgesLibrary of Queensland, £6000.00 and bequeathed Floriana hasfrom been his estate listed to on the the parish Queensland in 1959. TheHeritage Benemerenti Register. Medal The

Continental Hotel he constructed in 1956 currently operates as the Global Backpackers - Cairns Waterfront. exemplifylocal businesses their grandfather’sowned by Eddie vision Hayes to (Framederive Ozindustrious Images), In terms of cultural and social heritage however, his legacy has andLaurie successful Ernst (Gift ventures. Engraving), All thisand Mikefor a Brophy future (Eyedentity)founded on endured through the wide-ranging talents of 38 grandchildren whoand subsequentremained and generations built new inlives Australia here in and Australia. across Similarly, the USA. His legacy is also reflected in the European migrant families the spiritual journey and accomplishments from one man’s momentous struggle 100 years ago. page 18 Festivities at Feast of St Rita’s Dinner Dance The Saint of Lost and Impossible Causes – St Rita Written by Marylou Catalano

Sunday of May. Saint Rita’s Feast is celebrated in the town of Babinda, on the last Rita was born in the year 1381 in the village of Roccaporena, near Cascia, Italy . Her parents, considered her birth a very special gift from God, for Rita was born to them as they were already advancing in age. As a young girl Rita dreamed of one day joining the Augustinian Nuns in Cascia. However, she had been promised in marriage, according to the custom of the day. Rita accepted her parents’ decision, resolved to see this as God’s will for her.

Rita and her husband had twin boys and subsequently both her husband and sons died. After facing much adversity and turmoil she was finally accepted and joined the Augustinian Nuns of Saint Mary Magdalene Monastery. Over the next forty years she gave herself wholeheartedly to prayer and works of charity, striving especially to preserve peace and harmony among the citizens of Cascia.

Some few months before her death, when asked whether she had any special desires, Rita asked only that a rose from the garden of her parents’ home be brought to her. It was a small favor to ask, but quite an impossible one to grant in the month of January! Amazingly there was a single brightly-colored blossom on the bush where Rita said it would be. Rita became the Saint of the rose, and became the advocate of all those whose requests seem impossible.

As part of the celebrations for the Feast of St Rita, on Saturday

St Rita’s Banner Celebrations culminated with St Rita’s Feast being celebrated ofthe devotion 18th of Mayand faiththe Inaugural in our patron Feast Saintof Saint Rita, Rita people Dinner travelled Dance fromwas held far andin the near Babinda to share Memorial a memorable Hall. Celebrating night together. many yearsSaint Rita’s banner stood pride of place adorned with candles as a on Sunday the 26th May 2013, in the parish church St Rita’s reminder that nothing is impossible with Faith. Committee Catholic Church Babinda. The day commenced at 2pm with Mass members worked extremely hard and the hall looked incredible. Scalibiriancelebrated priestby parish from priest down Frsouth. Bill Grundy,Following Bishop Mass, Jamestraditionally Foley, dressedFr Neil Muir, children, Fr Kerry visiting Crowley, clergy, Fr theMichael statue Bonner of St andRita, a devoted visiting meal was prepared by Nellie and Sam Pappalardo. The night’s It’s amazing what a little love and dedication can do. A delicious followers and the Cairns Brass Band led a procession through entertainment was supplied by Fortunato from Brisbane. The gathered for food, festivities, music and time shared together. good conversation and fellowship. the streets in Babinda. Returning to St Rita’s school grounds all night ended just before midnight after a great night of dancing,

tributeA spectacular to St Rita. fireworks display at 7pm by Ian Reidel of the Brisbane based Fireworks Company ended another wonderful

page 19 Gulf Savannah Parish: Facing many challenges Written by Deacon Peter de Haas

Henry Kidd being confirmed by Part of the happy gathering in Croydon for the Confirmations. Bishop James Foley on 21st May 2013 in Croydon. Also confirmed that evening was Jacinta Yore. Deacon Peter de Haas assisted.

this Parish, distributed Christmas Hampers in Dec and then

For many in the vast Gulf Savannah Parish, 2013 is proving the Society’s State Disaster Fund for graziers. graziersto be a very are difficultnow facing and droughtchallenging conditions year. Following with no onfeed from or managed a number of significant disaster relief grants from disastrous wildfires over much of this region late last year, those not in the cattle industry to comprehend and it may have willwater take for several their cattle.years for Beef the pricesindustry have to recover. ‘fallen through the Nevertheless, the scale of what is happening is difficult for floor’ as many properties seek to destock and some say that it significant impact on the small towns that dot this vast Parish. visit to this Parish, it is very apparent that they are doing Fr2013 Hilary will Flynn, be a very based hard in yearRavenshoe, for this is part the of Parish our Diocese. Priest of the everythingBut in speaking they can, to both some individually graziers during and collectively, our most to recent keep going. Regularly, people whose own circumstances seem very undertakes pastoral work throughout the entire area. Deacon PeterGulf Savannah de Haas Parish.together Sr with Irene his Harrison, wife Angela, based Pastoral in Chillagoe Care Associate with the Diocese of Cairns, and their daughter Alicia dire, say: “Oh, but there are those worse off than me.” support. The Parish includes the townships of Chillagoe, Mt feeling.It can’t beThat easy most to keepdo, in going, fact, keep to stay going hopeful is a wonderful under the (all based in Ravenshoe) also provide spiritual and pastoral testamentincredible to emotional that ‘spirit and of the financial outback’ pressure that has that been many evident are Downs.Surprise, Most Georgetown, communities Forsayth, would be Einesleigh, lucky to celebrate Georgetown, Mass hardships with determination and with hope that, eventually, Croydon, Normanton, Karumba, Burketown and Gregory theyfor sowill long: come individualsout on the other and side. families facing danger and Nevertheless,3-4 times per year,faith others remains do withstrong a lot in less. many Parishioners who always look forward to any opportunity to celebrate the important that others rally round to help in practical ways. OurInevitably, Diocese though has done there soare through dark days direct and this and is very when generous it is very group gathers every Sunday morning when there is no Priest orSacraments Deacon present together. for In a Normanton,lay-led Liturgy for example,of the Word a faithful with Communion. This is an inspirational and exciting development parishesfinancial gaveassistance very generously from the Disaster to the special Relief collectionsFund to the under eight in recent years! properties most affected by the fires. In addition, several the 2012 Christmas Appeal to raise just under $5000. Only fundsrecently, are grants being totallingheld in reserve$3000 were but willmade be from allocated this Appeal in the signsThe Gulfof hope Savannah for the future. Parish…facing many challenges and to three stations experiencing great hardship. (The remaining needing your prayerful and practical support…but also with

Also,months the ahead.) Society of St Vincent de Paul, through its newly established St Cecilia Conference, which is associated with

page 20 Denis Nuwagaba, Peter McAuliffe, Jessica Lehnhoff, Carly Forsyth, Aimee Hanratty. NET- A Ministry of Hope, living and working together as a team Written by Carly Forsyth

On the morning of Sunday 17 February, I arrived in Sydney with Heis invaluable made us, knowsand not us, taken and forloves granted. us so much What that a gift, He that came God down has afive small young part people of the to vision begin ourfor yearyouth as ministry the National undertaken Evangelisation by the fromasked Heaven us to bring to live to amongst young people us His children,the Good and News died that on asthe Father Cross Team (NET) for the Sydney Archdiocese. We are here to implement people in schools, parishes and universities in order to bring to Catholic Youth Services (CYS) office. We seek to engage young so that we might live forever with Him in joy beyond imagination. into their hearts, and to enter into the life of His Church. We are in this way. athem peer-to-peer Christ’s message ministry, of whereby love, to encourage as young peoplethem to ourselves, receive Jesus our I encourage all young people to give a year of their lives to Jesus For a stress free bookkeeping experience as team members, and then our relationships with the young ministry is built on relationship – starting with our relationships for payment or personal gain, but freely give this year to Christ as ourpeople tiny we contribution encounter. Itto is the a ministry mission of self-givingHis Church. - we do not work

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MAREEBA 4092 1800 Parish Centre Fundraiser Raffle BYRNES ST. made its church building available for the celebration of the liturgyFor quite by St some Clare’s months Anglican the Parish St Francis of the XavierTorres Strait. parish This has DATE EVENT PLACE SOUTHERN DEANERY community was part of the Traditional Anglican Church until Catholic Women’s Mass & St Clare’s Tully TULLY Luncheon 14th of August School Fete St Clare’s Primary hisjust congregationrecently. On April are 26,now Father a Catholic Gordon community Barnier was not ordained within School Tully oura Catholic Cairns priest Diocese by Bishopbut within James the Foley. Personal Father Ordinariate Barnier and of 14th September St Clare’s Church Tully 23rd October Feast of St Gerard Majella which encompasses communities of the Anglican tradition whoOur Ladyhave ofentered the Southern into the Cross, full communionan Australia-wide of the “Diocese” Catholic INNISFAIL Anniversary June Marist Brothers 75th Innisfail Church while retaining much of their heritage. Other such St Vincent de Paul Fashion Catholic communities who are members of the Ordinariate are 20th July Catholic Debutante Ball CounselInnisfail College 28th July Mary’s Place Good NORTHERN DEANERY Parade & Brunch hisin Brisbane congregation, and Perth, and wish under them the every leadership blessing and and guidance success. of Mossman Monsignor Harry Entwistle. We welcome Father Barnier and MOSSMAN & PORT DOUGLAS July – September TBA Confirmation

Parish Centre a reality, and together with donations received, THURSDAY ISLAND Sacred Heart Parish Fete theFund amount raising continues continues to to makegrow. the Some new very St Francis hard work Xavier’s by July – September TBA Confirmation tireless workers is much appreciated and the efforts made 25th October Thursday Island will ensure the success of our goal. The main thrust at present WEIPA July – September TBA Confirmation

GORDONVALEOctober Rosary Way is the “Win a Tinnie” raffle of a Quintrex boat, Redco trailer, 16th July Confirmation Gordonvale Yamaha outboard motor, with accessories and on-road costs Gordonvale supportincluded. us Valuedwhen you at see approximately our friendly $11 ticket 000, sellers the at prize various will December Earlvillle EARLVILLE commercialbe drawn at locationsSt Francis aroundXavier’s the Church city, onand August help our18. PleaseParish Parish Christmas Breakfast achieve what promises to be a much-used and integral part of Christmas Fair Holy Cross Parish our Parish life. NORTHERN BEACHES CATHEDRALOct – Dec TBA West Cairns and the Parish community are prayerfully supporting 26th July SynodConfirmation Venue to be advised July – September SynodConfirmation VenueNorthern to be Beaches advised theConfirmation candidates preparation as they embark classes on havethis next now stage commenced, of their 16th of August T19thERM of OctoberDATES 2013 relationship with God and his people. Term 3 Monday 8th July – Friday 20th September Term 4 Tuesday 8th October – Friday 6th December

page 22 Vocational Education and Training, encouraging and skilling students now and into the future Written by Sue MacMaster Education Officer – VET Catholic Education Services, Diocese of Cairns

Good Counsel College and Radiant Life College (independent) in facilitiesInnisfail, hasSt Stephen’s taken place Catholic over Collegethe last intwo Mareeba years and and continues Mount St Bernard’s College in Herberton. Building and equipping these

Thisinto 2013.is an exciting time for secondary schools in the Cairns Diocese as the students are able to access industry standard facilities, gain employability skills and knowledge pertaining to a wide range of trades and industries within their school setting. Through the work of the Vocational Education and

industries are developed and often school based traineeships orTraining apprenticeships (VET) Coordinators are offered into thethe schools,students. linksA school with based local traineeship or apprenticeship is a combination of work, training and school study that can provide a career pathway opportunity to a student whilst they complete their schooling. The liaison between schools and industries is vital and through opportunities such as work placement and work experience the students learn about the world of work and the local industries can feedback into the schools their particular needs. Senior school students are often offered part-time work or career pathways from these experiences.

Schools certainly have changed in the last few decades and the DATE EVENT PLACE SOUTHERN DEANERY current and future generations continue to grow. Catholic Women’s Mass & St Clare’s Tully opportunities in Vocational Education and Training (VET) for the TULLY Luncheon 14th of August School Fete St Clare’s Primary School Tully 14th September St Clare’s Church Tully

23rd October Feast of St Gerard Majella

INNISFAIL Anniversary June Marist Brothers 75th Innisfail St Vincent de Paul Fashion The opportunities in secondary schools today are certainly 20th July Catholic Debutante Ball CounselInnisfail College 28th July Mary’s Place Good different to what many of us experienced as students!! As part NORTHERN DEANERY Parade & Brunch of the senior schooling program students are able to undertake

Mossman MOSSMAN & PORT DOUGLAS on skills and knowledge in a diverse range of industries. July – September TBA Confirmation ParticipatingVocational Education in VET courses and Trainingallows students (VET) to courses explore that potential focus

THURSDAY ISLAND Sacred Heart Parish Fete career pathways whilst they are still at school. VET participation July – September TBA Confirmation also supports young people’s transition to employment and 25th October Thursday Island higher education pathways. The VET courses are developed by WEIPA industry and are competency based which means a standard July – September TBA Confirmation must be met rather than a grade given on performance. The

GORDONVALEOctober Rosary Way 16th July Confirmation Gordonvale Gordonvale benefit of undertaking a VET course is that as well as contributing December Earlvillle EARLVILLE to the Senior Certificate of Education, the student can receive Parish Christmas Breakfast a nationally recognised qualification or credit towards the Christmas Fair Holy Cross Parish Tradequalification Training whilst Centres they arefunded still at by school. the Commonwealth have NORTHERN BEACHES CATHEDRALOct – Dec TBA provided many schools with industry standard resources and West Cairns

26th July Confirmation senior education. These Trade Training Centres can exist in a Synod Venue to be advised facilities to undertake qualifications whilst also completing their July – September SynodConfirmation VenueNorthern to be Beaches advised single school, such as at St Andrews Catholic College Redlynch, or 16th of August 19th of October TERM DATES 2013 Catholic Vocational Trade Training Centre cluster was successful inwithin their the application Diocese of for Cairns funding. cluster The of clusterschools. of In schools 2010 the includes Cairns Term 3 Monday 8th July – Friday 20th September St Mary’s Catholic College and St Augustine’s College in Cairns, Term 4 Tuesday 8th October – Friday 6th December

page 23 Scherger Immigration Detention Centre St Joseph’s Weipa Story Written by Kath Newman Weipa Parish Pastoral Leader

Scherger Immigration Detention Centre is located on part of the Scherger Royal Australian Air Force Bare Base about poor37kms condition, from Weipa, particularly along the during Peninsula the wet Development season. Road to Coen. 20kms of the road is unsealed and sometimes in very

The Centre opened in late 2010 for unaccompanied adult male Parishioners Grace, Kath and Chris prepare to travel to Scherger. Liturgyasylum ofseekers. the Word By Marchwith Communion 2011 Sri Lankan service Catholics in a canvas started tent, atto Scherger, arrive. A on small the groupSaturday of before St Joseph’s Palm parishionersSunday. There held were a Father back to Weipa afterwards. Fr Manuvel celebrated Mass in Tamil and sometimes the men sang Tamil hymns. Late in Sunday a commitment was made to go out weekly. 27 Sri Lankan Tamils present. After a further service on Easter 2011, arrangements were made for the Centre bus to bring with the men it was decided that one of the detainees would some of the men to St Joseph’s for the Sunday Mass or service. An official interpreter was provided, but after discussion Every second week the bus brought between 8 and 16 men the service would be in English with the Liturgy of the Word in accompanied by 4 or 5 security people. bothtranslate, English services and Tamil. would The be heldparishioners at 11am tookon a refreshmentsSaturday and which were shared with the men after the service. St Joseph’s parishioners are now in the third year of weekly andvisits worship. to Scherger The Catholic Immigration refugees Detentionare from Sri Centre. Lanka Theand services are held in a room specifically for Christian prayer Liturgy of the Word with Communion services. Fr Manuvel visitAs Fr the Kumaradhas men at Scherger. Manuvel Fr was Manuvel stationed was inable Cairns, to converse Bishop continuesVietnam and to travelbetween to Weipa60 and at 70 least men once attend a month. the Masses The menand James asked if he would come to Weipa once a month and are respectful, friendly and very appreciative our visits. St Saturday mornings and spent the mornings with the men. with them in Tamil. He caught the Scherger bus at 8am on pray alongside these men. Joseph parishioners are pleased to have the opportunity to The parishioners travelled out for Mass at 11am and brought