In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries MARCH 21, 2021 and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his TERHAD reverence. Although he was a son, he learned PP 8460/11/2012(030939) ISSN: 1394-3294 obedience through what he suffered. And Vol. 28 No. 10 being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him. FOR INTERNAL CIRCULATION ONLY THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY Hebr. 5:7-9 The Family Year begins today ATICAN: Marking the fifth towards the journey of faith by children and the anniversary of the Apostolic loneliness of adults in the face of the education- al challenges that arise as the family grows.” Exhortation Amoris Laetitia, “The timing and methods of pastoral care V need to be rethought today since many families a special Year dedicated to the family was launched on the Solemnity of St live in large cities and must handle work com- mitments of spouses and the school and extra- Joseph. curricular commitments of their children.” Cardinal Kevin J Farrell, Prefect of the Di- For Gambino, monthly videos produced by castery for the Laity, Family and Life, officially the Dicastery on the apostolic exhortation can announced the Year at a press conference held help intensely experience this year. They in- March 18 at the Vatican. clude a statement by the Pope and some testi- Pope Francis had already mentioned it last monies about aspects of Amoris Laetitia. December. The pontiff chose to dedicate the “Today we are going through a vocational year to St Joseph, Card Farrell said, since he emergency, not only vis-à-vis religious life, but was “spouse and father, so loved that he was also marriage. As we have said, choosing mar- chosen by God to look after the Holy Family.” riage is not like choosing a job: it is a vocation. The reason for the year is the desire to refo- This year, more than ever, we are all called to cus on Amoris Laetitia, which was “the result work to boost the family institution, not only in of a long synodal journey”. This is all the more the Church, but also in society.” important since the ongoing pandemic has During the press conference, a couple, Val- harshly affected family life in so many ways, entina and Leonardo Nepi, spoke about their while manifesting “his face as the ‘guardian of experience of maturing the marital vocation life”’ precisely through current problems. and their current experience as parents of a five- The year should be used to renew the pasto- year-old daughter, Ilaria. ral care of families, burdened by many difficul- Both pointed out that “when we were teenag- ties. “Let us think about accompanying couples The Holy Family. (Painting by Eva Campbell) ers, it was important to see young couples and and families in crisis, support those who have dinary pastoral care of parishes and dioceses.” explained. For this reason, it is necessary “to newlyweds freely devoting times to us young been left alone, the poor, broken down families. Professor Gabriella Gambino, undersecre- start from the foundations of faith in order to people, moved by a strong sense of Christian Many families must be helped to discover in tary of the Dicastery, attended the press confer- lead children and young people in the discovery community.” the sufferings of life the place of Christ’s pres- ence. She highlighted the urgent need to “boost of the beauty of a vocation, that of marriage.” For them too, it is urgent that the message ence and his merciful love”. the beauty of the sacrament of marriage and Gambino proposed a method, a form of pas- about married life as a vocation reach young At the same time, families must become the Christian families”, especially among young toral outreach that can be used right-away, one people. “The seeds of this proclamation are in “subject” of pastoral care. “Families are full of people and children. that is not compartmentalised so that faith can fact already laid in youth and it is important that potential and gifts for the whole of society and In our age, “when fragility is so widespread, be shared by children, parents and grandpar- the family outreach and youth pastoral outreach the Church, and therefore must be actively rec- there is a great desire for family, but so much ents. be closely connected.” — AsiaNews ognised and involved as protagonists of the or- fear in the face of the choice of marriage,” she “This could make up for the disenchantment  Turn to Page 8 for more Pope Francis invites priests to learn from St Joseph’s fatherhood VATICAN: Pope Francis has invited Catholic college. He also noted that the college’s patron “That community pre-exists him, has its own spect to it in a different position based on the priests to rediscover St. Joseph and learn from saint is St Joseph. So, he said, it seemed apt to history, made up of joys and wounds, of riches concrete needs of the moment: in front to open his fatherhood during the year dedicated to him. reflect on the saint on the eve of his solemnity in and small miseries, which cannot be ignored in the way, in the middle to encourage, back to Speaking to priests and seminarians on Thurs- a year dedicated to him. the name of personal pastoral ideas and plans gather the last ones,” he said. day, the Pope said: “I invite you to rediscover in “We can look to him, as ministers of Christ, that we cannot wait to apply,” Francis cautioned. “A priest is called to this in his relationship a particular way in prayer the figure and mission to draw some ideas relating to the identity of “This is a risk we can fall into. The new parish with the community entrusted to him.” of St Joseph, docile to the will of God, humble the pastor and the way of exercising paternity priest must first love the community, freely, only St. Joseph, the pope continued, safeguarded author of great deeds, obedient and creative towards those entrusted to us,” he said. because he was sent to it,” he advised. “And the fragility of the Child Jesus and his mother, servant.” Francis emphasised the welcoming father- slowly, by loving her, he will know her in depth looking “beyond his duties as a father of a fam- “It will do you good to place yourselves and hood of St Joseph, who set aside his own pro- and will be able to help set her on new paths.” ily and, preferring to believe in God more than your vocations under his mantle and learn from jects to love and welcome Mary and Jesus, “a Being a guardian is also an essential aspect of his own doubts, he offered himself to him as an him the art of fatherhood, which you will soon bride and a son very different from the vision St Joseph’s vocation, Pope Francis said, some- instrument for the realization of a greater plan, be called to exercise in the communities and in of family life that he could have desired but, for thing the foster father of Jesus does “with the in a service rendered in hiding, generous and the ministerial areas and services that will be this reason even more guarded and loved by interior freedom of the good and faithful serv- tireless, until the silent end of his life.” entrusted to you,” he said in a meeting with a him.” ant who desires only the good of the people en- Priests too must know how to dream for their delegation from Rome’s Belgian Pontifical Col- St Joseph can be a good teacher in the spir- trusted to him.” community, he said, and to be ready “to start lege March 18. itual life and discernment, he said, so that we Guarding, for St Joseph and every priest in- from the concrete history of people to promote Pope Francis met with a group of faculty and can learn to welcome what happens in our lives spired by him, means having a tender love for conversion and renewal in a missionary sense, students of the college to mark its 175th anni- without always trying to “grasp” and “possess” those entrusted to them and thinking of their and to make grow a community on the jour- versary. it. good and their happiness first, he said. ney, made up of disciples guided by the Spirit At the beginning of the audience, the Pope He gave the example of when a priest is as- “It is the attitude of the shepherd, who never and ‘compelled’ by the love of God.” — By remarked that St John Paul II had resided at the signed to a new parish. abandons his flock, but places himself with re- Hannah Brockhaus, CNA 2 Forum / Reflection HERALD March 21, 2021 When the love of money corrupts worship in spirit and truth e live in a world where almost every- was his Father’s house, and yet, true worship thing, it seems, has a price. Sunday Observer here had been corrupted and tainted by the love You can almost see dollar or ring- of money. This monetisation of worship was W By git signs hanging over priceless treasures of na- also extracting wealth from pilgrims, many of ture. Our ancient rainforests are clear-felled for Anil Netto them peasants from the countryside whom Je- timber money. Cranes and bulldozers trample sus had largely associated with. [email protected] over open green spaces, converting them into For Jesus, you either love God or love concrete jungles. Our hills are cut for construc- money. He overturned the tables of the money tion material, logging and high-end property denominations to small change, changing for- fund other needs of the empire. changers – those tables from which we derive development. Dredges extract precious sand eign currency, and even accepting deposits in This occasionally put them into conflict with the word for a modern-day bank. With this ac- from our seabed to be used for land reclama- exchange for interest. the high priests, who felt they were responsible tion, he disrupted the economic function of the tion, which destroys fishing waters. In effect, the Temple performed the role of for the temple funds. Temple ‘bank’ at its source. It was highly sym- All this in the name of money. a royal bank for Judea. It stored safe deposits Market forces were also creeping into the bolic. Enormous financial institutions facilitate – excess funds by the elite of the day – in the Temple itself. The high priest was responsible The Roman prefect and the Sanhedrin who much of this destruction and the “monetisa- vaults. It was the safest place for storing money. for the regulation of the city markets, as we saw themselves as custodians of the temple tion” of our lives, extending their tentacles all It also housed the debt records for the region. read in 2: Maccabees 3:4. This chapter also wealth and regulators of the city markets, could over the globe. Folks place their hard-earned Excess funds were probably loaned out as in shows us that the temple priests probably felt hardly have been amused. This was an inter- money as deposits but only reap a small return. a bank. Or they may have been invested into they had divine protection for their role as cus- ference which they could not tolerate. Not only But their money is used for loans to power un- commodities like wine and flour, to be sold to todians of the temple wealth and its key role in that, it was a challenge to their status as protec- sustainable economic activities, fuelling emis- pilgrims or others. regulating the local economy. tors and guardians of such enormous wealth. sions and climate change while earning large We know from 2 Maccabees 3:10-11 that the As decades passed, market forces crept into In our world today, enormous wealth has profits for these financial institutions. high priest had to explain to a royal emissary the Temple even more. The sacrifice of animals been concentrated in the hands of a small When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem ahead of that the funds in the temple were for widows fuelled the economy of Jerusalem, and made wealthy elite, facilitated by global financial in- Passover, he saw how the culture of money had and orphans. But another sum of four hundred traders and the elites who regulated the mar- stitutions at a time when many are struggling to taken root in the Temple. Money changers had talents of silver and two hundred of gold – kets wealthy. A few years before the Temple get by or are paid low wages. taken over the outer courts of the temple. probably worth a few million US dollars – be- was destroyed, the historian Josephus noted The love of money and the monetisation of Many of the large temples of the Middle East longed to wealthy VIPs. that 255,600 lambs were sacrificed at Passover. so many facets of life itself challenges us today. and the Mediterranean back then functioned Kings were not beyond seizing temple funds Some people were getting very rich from all Relentless commercialisation is creeping into as banks. The word bank itself comes from for their own use, and so too with the Roman this, at a time when 90 per cent of the popula- almost every facet of life, including politics. banque in Middle French and banca and banc prefects and procurators who succeeded King tion were peasants or destitute. Even places of worship, as well as educational in old Italian and German — which generally Herod after his son was removed from Judea. For eight decades, the Temple was in a con- and healthcare institutions originally set up for means table, bench or counter. The Roman prefects, who were ultimately stant state of rebuilding, expansion, renovatoin the lower-income groups, are not spared. We These tables, benches and kiosks were pre- responsible for the financial resources of the and maintenance. All this required thousands hear the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor. cisely what greeted Jesus when he entered the district, were not beyond raiding the Temple of workers, as well as purchasing officers and How should we respond? outer courts of the Temple in Jerusalem. coffers for themselves, dipping into the funds accountants. Reference: Judea (Neill Q Hamilton, Temple The money changers in these temples per- to finance mega-projects such as aqueducts and You can imagine the ambivalent feelings of Cleansing and Temple Bank, Journal of Bibli- formed a few main functions: converting large towers (as Pilate did), and even using them to Jesus when this scene confronted him. This cal Literature, December 1964) Fifth Sunday of Lent: The Hour Has Come would like to do something a bit different Having loved his own in the world, he loved Ithis week. Rather than develop a homily as them to the end.” such, I would like to lead you on a meditation Jesus concludes the Great Discourse of the Reflecting on our Sunday Readings upon one word, one concept which we find Last Supper by praying to his Father, “the hope for now the hour becomes the physical 5th Sunday of Lent in today’s Gospel. Today we come upon the hour has come, glorify your Son so that your joining the spiritual. word ‘hour’. I want to dwell on this with you Son may glorify you.” The hour of the Lord is real for us when we Readings: Jeremiah 31:31-34; in a meditative spirit. Obviously, when Jesus uses the word, come into the Church and meditate before Hebrews 5:7-9; To begin, we need a little background. We ‘hour’ he isn’t merely referring to the time of the Cross, or, to put it frankly, just look at it, Gospel: John 12:20-33 just heard the phrase, “The hour has come for day. No, he is speaking about a central mo- and then it hits us, “My God, Jesus, you did the Son of Man to be glorified.” The concept ment of human history. The hour is the mo- this for me? How much must you love me?” dreadful curse for my soul. of the hour has a deep theological meaning in ment that the world will be transformed. The hour of the Lord is real for us when we To God and to the Lamb, I will sing. To the entire Gospel of John. Actually, I found The hour is the point of human history when feel ourselves united to him on his cross, God and to the Lamb who is the great “I nineteen times in that Gospel where Jesus spiritual life will be restored. The hour is the drawn to him as the Gospel prophesied, and AM”, I will sing. uses the phrase, “The hour”. moment when death and evil will be defeated lifted up from the burdens of this life into the And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing We first come upon this concept at the by Love. The hour is the moment when the realm of the spiritual. on. And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing Wedding Feast of Cana when Jesus says to his mortal will receive immortality. When we celebrate a funeral, the priest joyfully. And through eternity, I’ll sing on. Mother, “Woman, what concern has this for Let’s begin our meditation: will often incense the body at the final com- Through the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, me? My hour has not yet come.” And Jesus said in today’s Gospel, “When I mendation as a sign of our prayers rising up his hour has become our hour, his death has Jesus tells the woman at the well that the am lifted up from the earth, I will draw every- to God for the deceased and as a sign that the become our life, our deaths have become his hour is coming when people will worship in one to myself.” body is holy, because God dwelt there. Dur- life, his love. In the Paradisio, the third book spirit and in truth. The power of the cross. ing the ritual, we sing the song of farewell. of Dante’s Divine Comedy, the poet speaks The second sign of the Messiah in the Gos- The power of the love of God. After incensing the body, I like to stand in about the whirl of love that is heaven as each pel of John emphasises the hour that a boy is The central moment of human history. front of the crucifix and wait for the last verse person unites his or her love to the Love of cured. The hour. to begin. These are the words of Job, “I know God, all becoming one in love yet each re- Jesus says that the hour is coming when the We Christians live in this moment, this that my Redeemer lives, the last day I shall maining an individual lover. dead will hear the voice of the Son of God. hour. Whether we stood at the foot of the rise again.” At that point, I incense the cross Death and Life are united. Sacrifice and Temple officials often tried to arrest Jesus, cross like Mary and John, or whether we as a sign that it is all one for us: the death of gift are merged. but they couldn’t because his hour had not yet were born two thousand years later, the hour Christ on the cross, the death of our loved Love Conquers All. come. is real to us. We are there. We are always be- ones, our deaths, the rising of Christ from the This is why we honour the cross. In today’s Gospel, Jesus announces that the fore the Lord on the cross. We kneel during dead, the rising of our loved one’s body and This is why we wear crosses around our hour is upon him. the Eucharistic Prayer of the Mass and pray soul, our longed for and hoped for union with necks. Today’s Gospel also contains the Johannine to the Father with the Lord as he offers his them and Him for all eternity. It is all one. This is why the purpose of our lives is to equivalent of the Agony in the Garden, during Body and Blood for us. Every Mass renews It is all the hour of the Lord. realize, to make real, the love of Christ in our which time Jesus says, “What should I say, the hour. In the middle of the nineteenth century, homes and in our lives. ‘Father save me from this hour?’ No, it is for We exalt when a baby, a child or an adult around the 1835, Alexander Means, medi- We have to allow Christ’s love to direct this reason that I have come to this hour.” is baptised because we have witnessed that tating on the cross, wrote the words to the our lives. John introduces the Passion of the Lord by person being directed into the hour, the hour hymn, What Wondrous Love is This: His hour is our hour. saying, “Jesus knew that his hour had come to where spiritual joins physical. We weep What wondrous love is this, O my soul, And his hour is upon us. — By Msgr depart from this world and go to the Father. when a loved one dies, but our faith is full of that caused the Lord of Bliss to bear this Joseph A Pellegrino HERALD March 21, 2021 Home / Pastoral 3

Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur Penang Diocese PKK/BDN/2021/03/083 COVID-19 positive case Notification and Updates at Assumption Church, PJ Dear Clergy, Religious, Heads of Easter Sunday ary 27 and will be ending on April The Archdiocese of Kuala Assumption Church on March Ministries and Lay Faithful,  April 8: Charis Malaysia Exco 24, 2021 with 83 participants, 30 Lumpur and the Archdiocesan 14, there is no need for you to Greetings of Joy, Mercy and meeting facilitators and a backup team. Crisis Management Task Force be tested unless you have been Hope!  April 15-17: College General Please remember them also with have been notified of a parish- contacted by the MOH. How- It is in solidarity with all of you (Bishop-Staff formation) me in prayer. ioner who attended the 11.30am ever, should you develop any and in solemn thanksgiving that I There are many ongoing online Mass at the Church of the As- symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g. greet you a Blessed Holy and Joy- Beyond the Diocese of Penang formation programmes under- sumption, Jalan Templer, on loss of sense of smell/taste, ful journey of Lent!  May 16 – June 5, 2022: Gold- taken by ministries in our diocese Sunday, March 14. The temper- respiratory difficulties, flu-like en Jubilee of the Federation of and parishes. Among others are ature recorded was normal at symptoms, fever), please call  Penang Diocesan Prison Min- the Asian Bishops’ Conference the Penang Diocesan New Evan- the time of entering the church the MOH Crisis Centre Hotline. istry (FABC), Journeying Together as gelisation Commission (PDNEC), and the parishioner was asymp- The interior of the church The second batch of 5,800 pieces Peoples of Asia the Penang Diocesan Youth Net- tomatic. In addition, all MKN has also been sanitised after the of herbal soap moulded by the work (PDYN) and many others. I SOP requirements were strictly Sunday Masses, in accordance Penang Diocesan Prison Ministry  October 2022 want to thank God for all of them complied with. with the SOP. faithsharers were handed to the A synodal Church: Pope Francis and for the various initiatives that The parishioner subsequently The Archdiocese of Kuala Tapah Prison officers on Janu- has called for a Synod of Bishops are ongoing. developed mild symptoms on Lumpur and all our parishes ary 26 at the Minor Basilica of St in Rome to delve deeper into the In a very special way, we thank Monday, March 15 and pro- would like to reaffirm our com- Anne, Bukit Mertajam. topic of A SYNODAL CHURCH. God for the safe travel of Pope ceeded to get tested. The result mitment to creating and main- Francis to Iraq and his return to of the COVID-19 test, which taining a safe environment  Caritas Penang Intercessions & Prayer of St Rome, as we continue to pray for was positive, was communi- for those returning to public All the parish ministries in the Di- Joseph unity and peace in all countries cated to the Church of the As- Masses by strictly complying ocese of Penang involved in social I invite you to pray with me for throughout the world that are sumption in the late evening of with the MKN SOP and the mission will now be consolidated the following intentions: struggling in these current diffi- March 16. The Church prompt- Archdiocesan Guidelines. Nev- under the same umbrella of Cari-  The Rite of Election took place cult times. ly notified the Archdiocese Cri- ertheless, we strongly urge the tas as one big social arm of the on February 20 and I am delighted sis Task Force. faithful who wish to physically Catholic Church. to inform you that 163 adult RCIA A prayer to St Joseph The case has been reported to attend Masses to continue to be candidates will be baptised to- Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, the Ministry of Health (MOH) vigilant by observing the three  Social Media Official Plat- gether with several other adults at Spouse of the and is currently under investi- W’s (wash and sanitise your forms Easter in our diocese. Please join Blessed Virgin Mary, gation. The Church will offer hands, wear a mask, watch your Aside from the official email and me in praying for them, every day To you God full cooperation to the authori- distance) and avoiding the three telecommunication means, the until their baptism. entrusted his only Son; ties and assist them with iden- C’s (close, confined and -con Diocese of Penang will also be in you Mary placed her trust; tifying close contacts, if neces- gested areas). reaching out through means of  Charis Malaysia (Catholic with you Christ became man. social media. Parishes and minis- Charismatic Malaysia) is con- sary. Issued on behalf of the Arch- Blessed Joseph, to us too, tries which wish to be connected ducting an online Life in the Please note that the MOH has diocesan Crisis Management show yourself a father through the official website may Spirit (LSS) seminar which be- established the criteria for iden- Task Force. and guide us in the path of life. send details and materials to me- gan on February 20 and will end tifying close contacts and only Obtain for us grace, mercy [email protected]. on March 25, 2021. On the feast close contacts will be contacted (Ms) Patricia Pereira and courage, and defend us of the Annunciation, 147 partici- for mandatory testing and given Communications and Media from every evil. Amen. a Home Surveillance Order for Relations Officer Important dates to highlight pants from all over Malaysia, to- quarantine. Archdiocese of Kuala and remember gether with 60 facilitators and a In view that all the SOPs were Lumpur April 2021 theme: Rise in Hope (2 backup team, are involved in this adhered to in this case, if you Cor. 4:13-15) effort. There is also an online LSS Bishop Sebastian Francis attended the 11.30am Mass in March 17, 2021  April 1-10: Holy Week and in Tamil which began on Febru- March 10, 2021

Diocese of Malacca Johore MJD News Update #32 Welcome to F12 MJD NEWS UPDATES Paul said in 2 Cor. 4:18: “So we fix our Pray for Malacca Johore Diocese’s Pas- #32 eyes not on what is seen, but on what is toral Journey to MJD50-PMPC2026 prepa- Greetings and Peace of the Lord Jesus unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but ration and the second 5-year pastoral plan. Christ be with you, dear People of God. what is unseen is eternal.” Pray for Malaysians to have an open mind, a teachable heart and a true God-spir- 1.0 A Thought for The Week: 2.0 Announcements for this Week: it to realise that ‘Allah’ is beyond politics, Once upon a time, a loaf of bread fell 2.1 Coming up next, related to the Holy man-made laws and threatening protesters. from a bakery truck and as it hit the ground Week are the Chrism Mass and the Sacred a crumb broke off. Three sparrows all eyed Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday and 2.4 What has the pandemic accomplished the crumb and swooped down to grab it the Easter Vigil) 2021. Online Masses will that policies and promotional drives could and began fighting over it. Eventually, one be provided for those discouraged from at- not? Before the pandemic, the attitude was of the sparrows succeeded in scooping up tending especially the 80 plus and the under “it can’t be changed”. The way we lived, the crumb in its beak and flew away with 12 years of age. worked, learned or did things could not d) Begin to be grateful. See the bless- it with the other two sparrows following be changed. But when we were hit by the ing in the midst of your grief. in hot pursuit. A frenzied aerial fracas took 2.2 The fines are now RM10,000 for not pandemic, people changed. They changed Paul in Rom. 8:37 said: But in all place until the crumb was completely con- adhering to the CMCO or RMCO SOPs. their ways, their habits, their lifestyles and these things we are more than con- sumed. The only thing these sparrows saw Be faithful to follow the three Ws, the size were doing what they thought they could querors through Him who loved us. was the crumb. None noticed the loaf still of the gatherings and time allocation. Only not do. The pandemic taught us that we can on the ground. on Holy Thursday and Easter Vigil, the change. No change. No progress. No fruits. Thank you for reading. Let us continue to Something to think about: deadline is 12.00 midnight. The latest up- build God’s Kingdom together. Another Are you wasting your life-energy squab- date made on March 16 reports that Johor 3.0 This Week’s Questions & Queries. week to journey with Jesus and travel with bling over trivialities, ignoring the true is still categorised as CMCO; and Melaka The Q asks: How to survive suffering Him on the Road to Jerusalem. Hear Him riches of life that surround you? continues as RMCO till March 31. and loss? say, ‘The hour has come’. God bless you. Are you majoring in minors, wasting We need RESILIENCE. There are four Take care. Be safe. time on non-essential issues while the cries 2.3 CONTINUE TO PRAY: Steps to becoming resilient: of the hurting and the neglected go unheed- Pray for a non-violent political solution, a) Learn to accept suffering as part ed? the release of elected leaders who were de- and parcel of living Are we fighting over rights and privileg- tained, and the return of the nation to demo- b) Begin to focus on what can be Bishop Bernard Paul es and miss out on the big cake before us cratic rule in Myanmar; changed and the positive outcome. March 19, 2021 that is able to provide for everyone’s needs Pray for conversion of hearts during this c) Ask if our response or reaction is but not everyone’s greed? Lent; helping me or harming me? Click here to watch the video 4 Home HERALD March 21, 2021 A lamp that shines upon the gloom in the prison SIBU: This is a testimony from a prison in- so patient with me during the past 28 years Prayer: mate on how God never abandoned him. when I was living as an exile. So many bad Heavenly Father, I praise you for “This Gospel reading has encouraged me things happened to me and I ended up in pris- your ultimate love for me even though to share my testimony and a little about my on. I am a sinful man. life. Jesus said in Matthew 9:12 - 13 that the “In prison, I spent most of my time reading Your love is mightier and higher healthy do not need a doctor but the sick. He the Bible. In the beginning, I read the Bible to than even the highest mountain. Be- had come not to call the righteous but sinners kill time as I was very bored. But surprisingly, cause of your love, you have chosen to repentance. I began to be very interested in it and began what the world considers foolish “My name is Jacob Aaron Tiang Lee Yee. I reading it with greater insight. to shame the wise, and the weak to am 50 years old. I was convicted of murder in “God never abandoned me. Indeed, he sent shame the strong. You have chosen the tragic family suicide pact that happened in a shepherd to me, my elder sister Lena. She the common and insignificant peo- Pulau Li Hua, Sibu in 2013. never gave up on me even though I have been ple to put down the mighty so that no “I was baptised at St Mary’s Church Sibu convicted as a murderer. The Bible I am read- mortals can boast before you. when I was sixteen years old (1986) and sub- ing is a gift from her and she gave me plenty I praise you Lord for you have been sequently received the Sacrament of Confir- of religious books and enlightened me on with me the past 28 years. You never mation the following year. I did not appreciate God’s salvation. gave up on me even though I was the importance of education and having failed “Then I realised that everything that had ashamed before you. Because of your my SPM exams miserably, I never bothered happened was in God’s hands. Everything de- merciful love, you sent Fr Ravi to to pursue any further studies. pends, not on what we humans want or do, but hear my confession and through the “I have to admit, shamefully, that I was a only on God’s mercy. In Exodus 33:19, God Sacrament of Reconciliation, you for- Christian in name only. I didn’t even know said to Moses “I will have mercy on whom I gave my sins and through the Eucha- what it meant to be baptised. To tell you the have mercy, and I will have compassion on rist, by the body and blood of Jesus, I truth, I didn’t know much about what was be- whom I have compassion.” St Paul in Gala- am redeemed and reunited with you. ing taught in the Baptism Class at SMK Sa- tians 1:15 said “But God in his grace chose Loving Father, continue to bless cred Heart. I was forced to attend the class by me before I was born, and called me to serve me with wisdom and knowledge to A drawing by Jacob Aaron Tiang. my English teacher, Bro Hillary from Scot- him.” In Deuteronomy 30:19, God declared understand your Word so that I can land, as I had been a naughty and rebellious be confirmed. There was no change in me af- “I call heaven and earth to witness against deliver your Word to save this cor- student. ter baptism and confirmation. I was still as bad you today that I have set before you, life and rupt world we live in. “But now, looking back, I realise that it is and naughty and rebellious as before and did death, blessings and curses. Choose life so Fill me with your Holy Spirit so because of the unlimited love of the living not realise that my bad attitude was making that you and your descendants may live”. In that with your guidance, my path will God and by his mercy that I became a Chris- me sinful and distant from God’s presence. Ecclesiastes 3:1, God said that for everything be light. tian through the sacraments, even though I did “But praise the Lord, the living God whose there is a season, and a time for every matter Amen. not know what it meant to be baptised and to love has no limits, no boundaries. He has been under heaven.” Jacob Aaron Tiang Lee Yee First scaled down diaconate ordination in Chrism Mass schedule Kota Kinabalu Archdiocese due to COVID-19 KUALA LUMPUR: The Chrism Mass KOTA KINABALU: Wilson Francis was holy orders. will be celebrated in cathedrals in dioceses ordained as a Deacon by Archbishop John “This is not the end. This is only the be- all over the world during Holy Week. The Wong in front of some 150 priests, reli- ginning,” he said after thanking all those Chrism Mass is a public celebration and dis- gious, guests and parishioners at the St involved in the ordination ceremony. play of the unity of the bishop to the priests Simon Catholic Church Likas, March 13. “There are still a lot of things that need of his diocese and the entire Church commu- Archbishop Wong said that if he re- to be done. I still have a long way to go. nity, as Members of the Body of Christ, to called correctly, it was the first ordination For that, I humbly ask for your support Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church. in the history of the archdiocese that had and prayers so that I can be a faithful It is one of the most holy and solemn Masses to be scaled down due to the COVID-19 minister in serving God and others.” celebrated all year because, in addition to the pandemic. At the end of the ceremony, the head of priests renewing their promises to the bishop, In view of the health protocols, the the Parish Pastoral Council chairperson, the three oils (Oil of the Sick, Oil of Cate- prelate in his brief speech congratulated Anne Wong, handed over a token of ap- chumens and Sacred Chrism) blessed by the Deacon Wilson “for his courage and gen- preciation to Deacon Wilson. bishop during the Mass play such an impor- erosity to come forward to ask to be or- Also present were Deacon Wilson’s tant role in the life of the Church. dained a deacon”. parents, Francis Binteh and Mariana Penang Diocese Archbishop John also thanked Wil- Gabpai, as well as siblings Joviania, March 23 – Minor Basilical of St Anne, Bukit son’s parents for their faith and support Lawrence, Flora and Eric. — By Audrey Mertajam at 8.00pm towards their newly-ordained son, adding J Ansibin, Catholic Sabah Deacon Wilson Francis that the blessing is shared by the family KL Archdiocese as well. March 24 – Church of St Thomas More, He also thanked the rector of the par- Subang at 6.00pm. ish, Fr Cosmas Lee, and the community, Sandakan Diocese for supporting Deacon Wilson during his March 24 – Cathedral of St Mary at 7.30pm pastoral immersion there. Kota Kinabalu Archdiocese “I’m sure Wilson has learnt a lot of pas- March 29 – Sacred Heart Cathedral at 7.30pm toral wisdom over the past year or so,” Malacca Johore Diocese he said, adding that the well-organised March 30 – Church of St Joseph, Plentong Diaconate Ordination held at the parish at 8.00pm would help to encourage more vocations among the young people. Kuching Archdiocese “In the course of all this, may the seeds March 30 – Cathedral of St Joseph of vocation fall onto some young men as (depending on the no of COVID cases) well as women in this parish.” Keningau Diocese Deacon Wilson, meanwhile, expressed March 30 – Cathedral of St Francis Xavier his heartfelt appreciation to God for His at 6.00pm grace. Miri Diocese “If it were not for His grace, I would March 31 (depending on the number of not be ordained here in St Simon Church COVID cases) Likas in this current pandemic,” Deacon Sibu Diocese Wilson said, also thanking the prelate for Deacon Wilson Francis prostrating before the altar as a sign of his total dependence on God. Depending on the number of COVID cases ordaining and accepting him to receive (St Simon Lika SOCCOM photo/Tracy Lim HERALD March 21, 2021 Home 5 Land for the new Church of St Jude in Rawang blessed RAWANG: Archbishop Ju- The current small church, built resource centre and landscaping. lian Leow and parish priest Fr in 1957 on a small piece of land Fr David has asked for prayers David Arulanatham blessed the on a hillock in Rawang town, is for divine providence, that God land for the new Church of St inadequate in terms of classrooms will provide the funds through his Jude on March 13. The site of the for catechism and a proper hall for people to make this new church a new church is less than three km functions. A bigger church with reality. from the current Church of St Jude proper facilities is needed to cater Those who wish to donate can Thaddeus. to the growing Catholic population contact the church office (during This marks an important chap- in Rawang and its vicinity. office hours), or make an online ter for the church. Finally, after so Once the developer has com- donation via the parish website ie. many years, they have concretely pleted the soil nailing, retaining www.stjuderawang.org. For fur- started the journey to building the wall and access road in about two ther information, please contact Church of St Jude at a new loca- to three months’ time, we will then stjudeschurch.rawang@gmail. Archbishop Julian Leow and Fr David Arulanatham officially launch the tion. start the construction of the church, com. land of the new Church. (photo/Ivan Kennedy) Blood donation and organ pledge Blood donation drive at Divine Mercy Church campaign attracts PENANG: On the Saturday morn- good response ing of March 13, the Church of KOTA KINABALU: The 86th at the same time, there were Divine Mercy (CDM) successfully blood donation drive campaign, insufficient medical staff avail- organised a blood donation and or- which was jointly organized able on hand and this slowed gan pledge drive in church. Even by Queen Elizabeth Hospital down the process. However, though the Penang state is still un- blood bank and Sacred Heart the enthusiastic blood donors der CMCO, a group of community- Charity Mar 14, coincided with did not mind the lengthy wait minded parishioners stepped for- the Recovery Movement Con- of more than an hour. ward to initiate this activity during trol Order for COVID-19. A total of 76 pints of plasma this time of Lent. This time round, the drive at- was successfully collected. The event was initiated by the tracted an unexpectedly large Among the registered donors, Ministry of the Poor (MOP) under number of donors, compared eight failed to donate that day. the leadership of Thomas Devass, to the previous campaign held May the Lord bless all the together with the close cooperation Blood donation drive at Faustina Hall on March 13, 2021. October last year. More than 70 hardworking staff and blood of the Parish Pastoral Council and donors came forward to regis- donors. May more people turn complete the required paper work. the BECs. ter that day. up for the next blood dona- The ground floor storeroom was This annual event was organized Due to a number of blood tion drive. — By Mark Chin, cleared to serve as the place for under the banner of the Kempan donation drives at other venues Catholic Sabah Derma Darah dan Organ in col- pre-screening. laboration with the Hospital Besar After the pre-screenings were Pulau Pinang. Nurses and a doctor complete, they were ushered into were among the 12 hospital staff Faustina Hall where they waited who arrived early on that morning for a blood sample to access their to set up their equipment and beds eligibility to donate blood. Out of for the event that started at 8.30 am. a total of 76 people who turned 20 volunteers from the three church up, only 69 were eligible to donate ministries set up registration coun- blood. Each donor waited patiently ters for the blood donation and or- for their turn. The event ended at gan pledge including waiting areas 2.00pm. with seats that were spaced in line In addition to the blood donors, with the SOPs for social distancing. seven individuals also stepped for- Fr Michael Raymond OFM Cap Given that the Penang state is ward to pledge their organs. Each presenting certificate of appreciation still under CMCO, there were hospital representative also re- to a hospital representative. many additional steps that had to ceived a certificate of appreciation expected about 40 donors and be taken to ensure full compliance from Fr Michael Raymond OFM. were pleasantly surprised by the with all the SOPs. These steps in- Cap, parish priest of CDM. Fr Mi- response. This event which was cluded body temperature and QR chael described the success of this planned only at the start of Lent, scanning at the entrance of the event as awesome and thanked all showed the CDM community spirit church. A waiting area was setup those involved at the Masses on the and awareness towards this life with adequate distancing in the weekend. saving initiative. — By Suresh Garden of Mercy for participants to The health authorities had only Chandra Blood donation in progress at Sacred Heart Parish Centre Mar 14 Parish offers opportunity for confession during pandemic KOTA KINABALU: The Lenten made available to parishioners priests available to hear confes- season, which started on Ash daily (Monday to Friday), from sions. Wednesday Feb 17, is a grace- Mar 10-24, spaced out by three Catholics believe that the act of filled period when we are remind- time slots: 8.30-9.30am; 10.30- confession is important because ed, through the Word of God, to 11.30am and 3.30-4.30pm. it allows them to put things right return to Him as He loves us and Entry passes may be obtained with God and to know that they is ever ready to forgive us. from the parish office or the coun- have been forgiven. They go to In spite of the pandemic, Sacred ter at the entrance of the church. confession to seek forgiveness Heart Cathedral parish is offering Following the strict observance of for the wrong (sin) in their lives to parishioners the opportunity to the SOP protocols, each time slot and to experience God’s healing avail themselves of the grace of will only accommodate a maxi- through forgiveness. Confession Confession as a concrete way to mum of 200 people. The “pan- also permits reconciliation with celebrate the Paschal Mystery of elled confessional” will be sani- the Church, which is wounded Easter with renewed hearts. tised after each use by a penitent. by the sins people commit. — By Sacrament of reconciliation in Sacred Heart Cathedral. The individual confessions are At any one slot, there will be four Catherine Wan, Catholic Sabah 6 Asia HERALD March 21, 2021 Vietnamese nuns help lepers displaced by seaside project DA NANG: Dang Van Loc, whose toes and from their ancestors for a living. Last year’s fingers are deformed by leprosy, warmly wel- floods washed away all their crops. The man, comed four visiting nuns to his ramshackle who has deformed hands, said they live on do- house in the remote town of Hoai Nhon in Vi- nations from benefactors. etnam’s Binh Dinh province. He said Sr Loi gave them 5 million dong to Loc, 76, asked them about other patients cultivate crops and plans to raise funds to help with whom he had stayed for decades at the him repair his shabby house built 65 years ago. old Hoa Van leprosarium in the coastal city of Anna Nguyen Thi My Dung, who was Da Nang. among 24 students whose parents used to “This is the first time I have met with the live in the leprosarium, said they were given nuns since I left the leprosarium 10 years ago,” monthly scholarships by the nuns while they said Loc, who lives alone and grows crops for were studying in Da Nang. a living. Dung said they experienced discrimination The slightly built patient lacks food after from many local people, although they are free he had 400 kilogrammes of rice and cassava of the preventable disease. damaged in severe floods last year. The nuns “We built good relationships with our neigh- consoled him and offered him tea, cakes, a tra- Sr Mary Nguyen Thi Loi talks with Dang Van Loc outside his house in Binh Dinh province on bours by introducing them to the nuns who ditional conical hat and money. March 2, 2021. (UCA News photo) later offered their children scholarships,” she Loc was among seven lepers and their fami- can missionaries who were former members years old and he was abandoned by his father said. lies whom the nuns from Da Nang visited on of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. They after he was infected with Hansen’s disease Dung, 28, who teaches at a nursery school in March 2-3. left Vietnam due to health problems in 1974. when he was 17. At that time, leprosy was still Binh Dinh province, said she joined a group of Daughters of Our Lady of the Visitation Si After 1975, when the Vietnam War ended, feared as a highly contagious and devastating volunteers led by Saint Paul de Chartres sisters Mary Nguyen Thi Loi, head of the convent in patients grew crops, caught fish and collected disease. in 2017 and looks after people with HIV/Aids Da Nang, said their first visits aim at maintain- vegetables and fruits from the forest for a liv- His wife, also a leper, died in the leprosarium at their homes in Qui Nhon. They hold work- ing contact with those patients and looking at ing. They lived in poverty and were abandoned in 1979, leaving him without a child. shops at local schools and parishes to reduce their situation in order to find ways to support as they had no means of transport to other plac- Sr Loi said those lepers who have no jobs discrimination against lepers, tubercolosis pa- them. es. have sold their houses and moved to other tients and people with HIV. Sr Loi said the patients are among 362 lepers After scouts in the neighbouring city of Hue places. She said on Saturdays they offer roses, milk and their relatives who were forced out of the cleared a winding cliff path on the mountain “We lose their contact because they are il- and fruits to some 40 poor patients at a local remote leprosarium surrounded by mountains from the national road to the leprosarium in literate and have no mobile phones,” she said. public hospital. and the sea in 2012, when Da Nang authorities 1980, some nuns from Da Nang started to visit “Now we work with 23 families with 100 lep- Dung told Sr Loi that she is happy to be bap- planned to build seaside resorts on the site and and work with the lepers. ers and their relatives in Da Nang and Thua tized on the coming Easter Vigil and will marry surrounding areas. Sr Loi said that at that time priests were Thien Hue, Quang Nam and Quang Ngai a Catholic who is also a teacher. They plan to The resort project worth US$130 million has banned from offering pastoral care to the lep- provinces.” get married on May 6 at Nhon Binh church. not been carried out so far due to disputes over rosarium, which was home to 100 Catholics. The nuns provide money, clothes, food, Sr Loi said one college graduate works with compensation between people in the surround- The nuns pretended to be ordinary people and medicine and scholarships for lepers in Da the nuns to take care of patients and another ing area and investors. administered Holy Communion and offered Nang and Thua Thien Hue every two or three joined the congregation. Most of the lepers and their families were clothes, food, medicine and other basic sup- months since they live near their convents. “We try to console them and share some- moved to houses provided by the local gov- plies to them on a regular basis. They also visit and offer consolation to the be- thing useful with lepers and their families in ernment in Lien Chieu district, while three pa- Loc, who had to live on the streets for years reaved. There is no leprosarium in those areas. order to reduce their physical and mental suf- tients were taken to hospital for treatment and before he was sent to the church-run lepro- Le Van Minh said his family were given 40 ferings because they are our brothers and sis- 10 families including Loi’s, returned to their sarium in 1968, said nuns used to sing songs million dong (US$1,740) by the government ters,” the nun said. home provinces, according to state media. to entertain lepers. He helped the nuns with and moved to his home province of Quang Sr Loi said their ministries are funded by The leprosarium was established with 40 lep- humanitarian aid to the leprosarium and took Nam in 2012. Friends of Lepers in Vietnam, a US-based non- ers in 1968 and named Hy Lac Vien or Happy them to visit patients’ homes. Minh, 71, said they raise poultry and grow profit organisation which supports lepers in the Haven by Gordon Smith and his wife, Ameri- He said his mother died when he was six rice on a 2,500-square-metre farm inherited country. — ucanews.com Vietnamese Catholics show Pope Francis appoints new Nuncio to India and Nepal deep devotion to St Joseph NEW DELHI: Pope Francis has appointed HO CHI MINH: Every night, thousands of Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli as the new Apos- Catholics in formal clothes, candles in hand, tolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. march in processions following pictures of St Archbishop Girelli, 67, was previously papal Joseph decorated with flowers to their homes. nuncio to Israel and Cyprus and apostolic del- Men bear pictures on colourful wooden bases egate to Jerusalem and Palestine. on their shoulders. The appointment of the Italian archbishop At each house, they recite the Hail Mary 10 was announced on March 13. He succeeds times, say St Joseph prayers, listen to Bible Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro, a fellow readings, reflect on Pope Francis’ apostolic Italian, who was transferred to Brazil. letter Patris Corde (With a father’s heart), Archbishop Girelli was born on March 13, sing hymns and pray for their ancestors and 1953, in Predore, Bergamom in the Lombardy relatives. The prayer sessions last about half region of northern Italy. He was ordained a an hour. People clean their houses and make priest on June 17, 1978, for the Diocese of Ber- Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli God’s altars beautiful to welcome St Joseph’s gamo. He holds a doctorate in theology and a Oct 10, 2006, in addition to his duties as nuncio devotees. master’s degree in canon law. to Indonesia. On Jan 13, 2011, he was appoint- Fr Dominic Tran Cong Hien, parish priest He entered the diplomatic service of the ed nuncio to Singapore, apostolic delegate to of Vo Dong in Vietnam’s Dong Nai province, Holy See on July 13, 1987, and worked in pa- Malaysia and Brunei, and non-residential pon- said the parish, which has 7,000 members in pal diplomatic missions in Cameroon, New tifical representative for Vietnam. 38 groups to comply with coronavirus meas- Zealand and in the section for general affairs of He was also appointed nuncio to the Asso- ures, started to hold daily devotions to the the Secretariat of State. He then held the rank ciation of Southeast Asian Nations on June 18, foster father of Jesus on Feb 24, when he of counsellor in the apostolic nunciature in the 2011. launched the St Joseph devotion programme St Joseph devotees pray at the Shrine of St Joseph in Ho Chi Minh City on March 10, United States. On Sept 13, 2017, he was appointed nuncio by blessing 38 pictures of the saint. 2021. (UCA News photo) Pope Benedict XVI appointed him nuncio to to Israel and apostolic delegate to Jerusalem Fr Hien, who has served the parish since Indonesia on April 13, 2006, and titular arch- and Palestine, and two days later he was ap- 2012, said the inter-family prayer sessions virtues in the Year of St Joseph so that they bishop of Capreae. He was ordained a bishop pointed nuncio to Cyprus. Aside from Italian, “aim at encouraging local families to devote may become homes of Divine Mercy.” — on June 2006 by Cardinal Angelo Sodano. he also speaks English and French. — By themselves to the saint and follow his moral ucanews.com He was appointed nuncio to Timor-Leste on Bijay Kumar Minj, ucanews.com HERALD March 21, 2021 World 7 Filipinos give environmental twist to 500th anniversary MANILA: Catholics planted 500 to be responsible and to be good “Protecting the environment is trees on the island of Homonhon in stewards of God’s creation. While part of the Christian message. We’ve Samar province to commemorate we plant to remember our Catholic had mining operations here since the the 500th anniversary of the arrival roots, we also plant to remember 1990s. Now it is time to give back to of Christianity in the Philippines. that we are stewards of God’s crea- our beloved island what it deserves Portuguese explorer Ferdinand tion,” said Fr Christian Ofilan, of — a greener environment,” said Magellan landed on the shores of Borongan Diocese, at the event. Loren Arevalo, a participant in the Homonhon on March 17, 1521, to More than 500 local people helped tree planting. gather food while on a Spanish ex- plant the trees together with the Pol- Arevalo thanked Borongan Dio- pedition that saw one of his vessels ish chargé d’affaires to the Philip- cese for taking a role in rehabilitat- become the first to circumnavigate pines, Karoslaw Szczepankiewicz. ing the environment on the island. the world. Fr Ofilan said they chose to plant Carl Bordeos, the curator of a lo- The Spaniard, together with sev- trees because of a lack of them on cal museum, described Homonhon eral friars, was met by a local chief- the island due to mining activities. as “hallowed ground” that has been Catholics on Homonhon island take part in a procession of the Blessed tain called Rajah Culambu, who lat- “Homonhon is rich in minerals desecrated by mining corporations. Sacrament to commemorate the arrival of Magellan and his expedition on the er guided them to Cebu on April 7. like chromite, nickel and iron ore, “The island was once a sacred island in 1521. (UCA News photos) The tree planting on March 15, which is why we have mining ac- place to our ancestors. But Homon- “paradise” and revive its ancient why we need to plant trees,” Bor- along with a procession of the Bless- tivities here. Sadly, we have forgot- hon today is being killed at a fast springs. deos said. ed Sacrament, commemorated the ten to take care of the environment,” rate by mining companies 500 years “When the Spaniards came, they “We need to preserve this his- event when Magellan and his com- he added. after Magellan’s historic landing,” stayed on the island for eight days toric island and source of pride of panions landed on Philippine soil. Catholics on the island said they said Bordeos on social media. because of our clear, cold and po- the Philippines and our Catholic “Through this [tree planting], we had an obligation to protect the envi- He said it was not too late for table water that came from our faith.” — By Joseph Peter Calleja, encourage and remind Christians ronment from abuse and degradation. people to try and save Magellan’s springs. Now they’re gone. That’s ucanews.com Cardinal Tagle praises ‘caring’ Filipino overseas workers VATICAN: Filipino Cardinal Luis Because of COVID-19 restric- called to make an act of selfless love Antonio Tagle has praised his coun- tions, fewer than 200 representatives that “offers itself, gives itself, ex- trymen and women for enduring the of the city’s Filipino community pends itself” to others. “sorrow of separation” to care for could attend the Mass at the Altar of “That is the power of love: it shat- their families. the Chair in St Peter’s Basilica. ters the shell of selfishness, breaks Commemorating the 500th anni- In his homily, Pope Francis re- our carefully constructed security versary of the arrival of Christianity flected on the Sunday Gospel read- zones, tears down walls and over- in the Philippines on March 14, he ing from St John in which Jesus tells comes fears, so as to give freely of told the Pope that the Christian faith Nicodemus that “God so loved the itself,” the Pope said. “That is what is a source of strength and comfort world that he gave his only-begotten loves does: it gives itself.” for countless Filipino men and wom- son.” Pope Francis encouraged Filipino en who work abroad to support their Christ’s words, he said, “help us Catholics to continue being wit- families. Members of the Philippine community arrive to take part in the Pope’s Mass to see the true face of God” who “al- nesses of the Gospel joy and thanked According to a survey conducted to mark 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines on March 14 at St Peter’s ways looked at us with love, and for them for “the joy you bring to the by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Basilica in the Vatican. (UCA News photo/Tiziana Fabi) the sake of love, came among us in whole world and to our Christian 2.2 million Filipino citizens worked said that in the absence of their fami- since the arrival of Christianity in the the flesh of His Son.” communities.” overseas and sent an estimated 211.9 lies, Filipino migrants find solace in Southeast Asian country five centu- “If hearing the Gospel and practic- The message of God’s love, he billion pesos (US$4.4 billion) to their their local parishes which they see as ries ago, Pope Francis said. ing our faith do not enlarge our hearts added, “cries out to be expressed families in 2019. a “second home.” He told members of Rome’s Fili- and make us grasp the immensity of in love” and is at the heart of the “We have left our families, not to “When there is no one to talk with, pino community that evangelical God’s love — maybe because we Church’s mission “to care for those abandon them but to care for them we pour out our hearts to Jesus in the zeal is a “part of your genes, a bless- prefer a glum, sorrowful and self- who are hurting and living on the and their future. For love of them, Blessed Sacrament and ponder his ed ‘infectiousness’ that I urge you to absorbed religiosity — then this is a fringes of life.” we endure the sorrow of separation,” word,” he said. “We take care of the preserve.” sign that we need to stop and listen “The Church is called not to said Cardinal Tagle, president of children under our charge as our own “I have often said that here in once more to the preaching of the judge but to welcome; not to make Caritas Internationalis and prefect of children, and the elderly as our own Rome, Filipino women are ‘smug- Good News,” the Pope said. “God demands but to sow seeds; not to the Congregation for the Evangelisa- parents.” glers’ of faith! Because wherever loves you so much that he gave you condemn, but to bring Christ who is tion of Peoples. The joy of the Gospel has been an they go to work, they sow the faith,” his entire life.” our salvation,” the Pope said. — By Holding back tears, the cardinal integral part of the Filipino identity he said. Christians, he added, are also Junno Arocho Esteves, CNS Putin’s health worsens, Naval’nyj surviving in the concentration camp MOSCOW: There are increasing claim that these circumstances are Together with neurological weak- ment on any guinea pig, even creat- Enhanced Control Sector A! I must reports of the worsening neurologi- becoming increasingly frequent and, nesses, these instincts are typical of ing “mutants”, in order to achieve the admit that the Russian prison system cal condition of Russian President sometimes, Putin remains disorient- the excess of staying in power, which goal. has managed to amaze me. I did not Vladimir Putin. ed even for an entire hour. On March lead to the illusion of one’s “super While Putin seeks eternal life, his imagine that it would be possible to The reports came just one day after 8, Putin reportedly alarmed his clos- humanity” or almost divinity. enemy Naval’ny is grappling with organize an authentic concentration a message was released by his main est aides by starting a spontaneous If Putin’s Belarusian friend, Alek- the problem of survival. After days camp just 100 km from Moscow”. opponent, Alexei Naval’nyj, who and rambling speech for over a quar- sandr Lukashenko, reacts to his cri- in which no one was sure where he Naval’nyj claims that he has nei- declared himself “amazed that there ter of an hour, of which he would sis of power in hysterical-aggressive was, the opponent managed to send ther suffered nor witnessed any vio- is a real concentration camp 100 km later not remember anything. form, Putin would be assuming a a message through his lawyers from lence, although various signs show from Moscow”. The Russian president is expected “paranoid-mystical” condition, seek- Pokrov’s “Colony No 2”, on the bor- that it was not lacking before his ar- Putin has been suffering from at- to undergo extensive medical tests ing immortality through religious, der between Moscow and Vladimir rival, “looking at the terrified poses tention and memory loss for some shortly. But in the meantime, con- superstitious and scientific ways at provinces. of the condemned, who are afraid to time, as is evident from many reports cerns are growing that a crippled and the same time. The text begins with a “Kantian” raise their eyes and look around”. in which he appears on television or unpredictable leader could remain It is no coincidence that the presi- reminder: “Three things never cease Now, however, everyone turns to on video. The 68-year-old “tsar” for- at the head of one of the major nu- dent is personally following an ambi- to amaze me: the starry sky above us, him with respect and even sympa- gets or increasingly confuses, the in- clear powers. The situation is similar tious genetic research project, having the categorical imperative within us thy, so much so that Naval’nyj calls tended use of objects, touches them to that already experienced by the it financed by the oligarchs closest and the amazing sensation of when the place of detention “our friendly and turns them over in his hands: USSR in the last years of Brezhnev to him. The project is entrusted to you pass the palm of your hand over lager”, to the point that it is forbidden sticks, notebooks, statuettes and and his immediate successors. the direction of Putin’s daughter your shaved head” (the message was to use vulgar expressions. “Can you much more without knowing what to Other rumours from the Krem- Maria Vorontsova, at the Kurchatov posted with an old photo of him with imagine a prison without swearing? do with them, as an analysis by spro- lin claim that Putin is looking for Institute, and aims to find solutions a shaved head). ... I feel like I’m inside Orwell’s 1984 tyv.info also shows. the elixir of eternal life, in the form for extending human life, with the The message is addressed to the novel!” — By Vladimir Rozanskij, Internal voices in the Kremlin of miraculous pills that extend life. permission to carry out any experi- whole world: “Hello everyone from AsiaNews 8 World HERALD March 21, 2021 Blessings are for marriage, but Church’s pastoral life is for all VATICAN; The Church’s pastoral marriage, it speaks about sacramen- riage (i.e., outside the indissoluble press conference. life is open to all people, but bless- tal marriage. It doesn’t speak about union of a man and a woman open “It is therefore very opportune to ings are reserved for couples who are civil unions,” he said. “Blessing is in itself to the transmission of life), dedicate an entire pastoral year to the married according to Catholic teach- something that is a sacramental, that as is the case of the unions between Christian family, because present- ing, Cardinal Kevin Farrell said. is related to the sacrament of mar- persons of the same sex.” ing God’s plan for the family to the “It is essential and very important riage.” Cardinal Farrell’s comment on the world is a source of joy and hope; that we always open our arms to re- “That does not mean that only document occurred during an online that’s really good news!" he said. ceive and to accompany all people those who are married in the Church press conference for the launch of Farrell added that the “Amoris in their different stages of life and in receive the benefits of the pastoral the “Amoris Laetitia Family” Year, Laetitia Family” year is “a precious their different life situations,” he said care of the Church,” he added. being organised by his dicastery. opportunity” to mature the fruits of at the end of an online press confer- The Irish-American cardinal and He noted that when Pope Francis’ the apostolic exhortation and the ence March 18. former bishop of Dallas said that 2016 apostolic exhortation Amoris 2014 and 2015 synods on the family The prefect of the Vatican’s Laity, sometimes there are situations in laetitia speaks about marriage, it also -- “not only in the various ecclesial Family, and Life dicastery answered which people are not able to partici- means a sacramental marriage ac- contexts, but in the families them- a question about the Congregation pate fully in the life of the Church, Cardinal Kevin Farrell cording to Church teaching. selves.” for the Doctrine of the Faith’s March but that does not mean they cannot will live in accord with the Church’s Pope Francis announced late last “We know well that Pope Francis 15 document stating that same-sex be accompanied by priests and lay teaching.” year that the fifth anniversary of the exhorts us to a pastoral renewal,” he unions cannot be given blessings in people in parishes. Farrell emphasised that no one signing of Amoris Laetitia on March said. “And this also applies to the the Catholic Church. He mentioned that there are ec- should be excluded from the “pasto- 19, 2016 would open a year dedicat- pastoral care of the family.” In his response, Farrell underlined clesial movements and groups in ral care and love of the Church.” ed to the document and to families. The year will include various pas- that the Church’s pastoral life is for the Church which serve people with The CDF’s ruling about blessings “It should be noted that the ap- toral initiatives, starting with an on- everyone, but he said the distinction same-sex attraction, just like there of same-sex unions by the Catholic ostolic exhortation Amoris Laeti- line meeting March 19 titled “Our between sacramental marriage and are pastoral opportunities for peo- Church explained that “it is not licit tia opens with these words: ‘The Daily Love.” other kinds of unions or partnerships ple who are divorced and remarried, to impart a blessing on relationships, Christian announcement concern- It will also include a video mes- is important. and whom the Church accompanies or partnerships, even stable, that in- ing the family is truly good news’”, sage from Pope Francis. — By “When the Church speaks about “with the hope that one day they volve sexual activity outside of mar- Farrell said in remarks during the Hannah Brockhaus, CNA Church ‘exults with joy’ at With new president, JPII Year Amoris Laetitia Family Institute should be renamed VATICAN; “The Year Amoris La- etitia Family’ has truly made the ‘Amoris Laetitia Institute’ Church exult with joy,” says Ga- ROME: A French professor has sug- anthropology and theology, in light briella Gambino, under-secretary gested that under its new leader, the of the philosophical ideas expressed of the Dicastery for Laity, Family John Paul II Pontifical Theological in the Polish pope’s work “Love and and Life. Institute for Marriage and Fam- Responsibility,” and his teaching cy- Speaking at a press confer- ily Sciences in Rome should be cle known as the “Theology of the ence introducing the initiative, Dr renamed the “Amoris Laetitia Insti- Body.” Gambino, a wife and mother of tute.” Pope Francis reestablished the in- five, said the Year “is an occasion In an article published March 16 stitute in 2017, broadening its focus to give a boost to pastoral ministry by noted Vaticanist Sandro Magister from theology to include “family for the family, seeking to renew in his blog “Settimo Cielo”, Thibaud sciences.” means and strategies, and perhaps Collin, a professor of philosophy at In his article, Collin argued that even some of the goals of pastoral Year Amoris Laetitia Family - 2021-2022 the Collège Stanislas de Paris, la- Bordeyne’s appointment confirmed planning.” formators, that is, those who train which we dedicate ourselves as a mented the appointment of Msgr a “paradigm shift,” with Pope Paul Dr Gambino’s presentation future ministers. family, and not only on a personal Philippe Bordeyne as the institute’s VI’s 1968 encyclical Humanae Vi- highlighted the efforts of the Di- Finally, a married couple, Val- level.” new president. tae no longer serving as the insti- castery to provide pastoral tools entina and Leonardo, expressed The hope, they said, “is that we “In short, the appointment as man- tute’s “touchstone.” for families, parishes, and dio- their hopes for the Year “Amoris families can feel committed to ager of a figure like Philippe - Bor Collin cited a 2015 essay by Bor- ceses, in order to support their Laetitia Family.” They said they contributing to evangelisation and deyne confirms that the John Paul deyne which argued that “it would ministries. are looking forward to “living allow ourselves to be generously II Institute, in full haemorrhage of be reasonable to leave the discern- Also present at the press con- out” their relationship of belong- involved in the Christian procla- students, should for the sake of in- ment on birth control methods to the ference was the prefect of the Di- ing to the Church “with a renewed mation.” tellectual honesty, change its name. wisdom of couples.” castery, Cardinal Kevin Farrell. spirit” in a period characterised by Several initiatives being pro- It could be called, for example, the “In this perspective, the Church He emphasised that “it belongs to the COVID-19 health emergency, moted by the Dicastery were an- Amoris Laetitia Institute,” he wrote. could admit a plurality of paths for the Church’s mission to always be but also marked by concrete pros- nounced at the press conference. Bordeyne, rector of the Institut responding to the general call to a herald of the good news of the pects for improvement of the situ- Beginning on Monday, a series of Catholique de Paris since 2011, maintain the openness of sexuality Gospel.” ation. ten videos will be launched on so- was confirmed as the institute’s new to transcendence and to the gift of Recalling the words quoted by “It is in this horizon of hope,” cial media, with families sharing president with a rescript dated Feb life,” Bordeyne wrote. Pope Francis at the beginning of they said, “that we welcome Pope their experiences, and Pope Fran- 22 by Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi He continued: “The way of natu- Amoris Laetitia – “The Christian Francis’ invitation to live the con- cis responding to the issues they and Archbishop Vincenzo Zani, re- ral methods that involves continence proclamation on the family is good tents of Amoris Laetitia in all their raise. The videos are intended as spectively the prefect and secretary and chastity could be recommended news indeed” – Cardinal Farrell richness.” a form of dialogue. of the Vatican Congregation for as an evangelical counsel, practiced said, “It is more appropriate than Valentina and Leonardo spoke “Our Dicastery will take a Catholic Education. He will official- by Christian couples or not, that ever, therefore, to dedicate an en- about the daily experience of diligent part in disseminating ly start his mandate in September. requires self-control and periodic tire pastoral year to the Christian family life, emphasising the im- some pastoral tools for families, The 61-year-old French theolo- abstinence. The other way, whose family, because presenting God’s portance of “simple words and parishes, and dioceses,” said Dr gian succeeds Msgr Pierangelo Seq- moral legitimacy could be admitted, plan for the family to the world is gestures, which … spring from Gambino. In addition to material ueri, 75, who has reached the end of with the choice entrusted to the wis- a source of joy and hope. It is truly deep attitudes of openness, re- produced by the Dicastery, she his five-year mandate. dom of the spouses, would consist in good news!” spect, patience, trust, sharing and said “most of the resources will Under Sequeri, the institution was using non-abortive methods of con- The Cardinal outlined three par- forgiveness.” They noted, too, the come from the dioceses, move- upgraded to a pontifical theological traception.” ticular aspects of the pastoral re- importance, during a time of so- ments, and family associations, institute but it was the focus of con- As president, Bordeyne faces the newal called for by Pope Francis: cial distancing, of finding creative which, under our impetus and in troversy after the curriculum was immediate challenge of completing greater collaboration; a change of ways to reach out to other fami- a spirit of authentic communion, changed and theologians regarded the institute’s overhaul, as expressed mentality that would allow us to lies. are working hard to implement all as more faithful to the teachings of in Pope Francis’ apostolic letter dat- see the family as protagonists, and “The Year will also be a good that they already do well, and to St John Paul II were dismissed. ed Sept 8, 2017. He must also seek not simply as objects, of pastoral time to become aware of our ec- take new initiatives.” — Vatican The institute was founded in 1981 to reverse a downward trend in stu- ministry; and the formation of clesial mission,” they said, “to News as a centre for the study of Christian dent enrolment. — CNA HERALD March 21, 2021 World 9 Vatican calls time on priests celebrating Mass alone in basilica VATICAN: The Vatican is putting at the same altar. manifest it and have effects upon an end to the practice of priests A letter dated March 12 and ini- it; but they concern the individual going into St Peter’s Basilica ear- tialed by Archbishop Edgar Peña members of the church in different ly every morning to celebrate their Parra, the Vatican substitute sec- ways, according to their differing own Mass at a side altar with just retary for general affairs, said that rank, office, and actual participa- an altar server. beginning March 22 “individual tion. Concelebrated Masses still are celebrations (of the Mass) (in the “It is to be stressed that when- permitted, as are Masses in the basilica) are suppressed.” ever rites, according to their spe- chapels in the grotto of the basil- Early Masses will be concel- cific nature, make provision for ica for pilgrim groups that arrive ebrated in the basilica each day at communal celebration involving with a priest or bishop. 7.00am in the Chapel of the Choir, the presence and active participa- The Code of Canon Law allows at 7.30am at the Altar of the Chair, tion of the faithful, this way of cel- priests to concelebrate and says, at 8.00am in the Chapel of the ebrating them is to be preferred, “They are completely free to cel- Choir and at 9.00am at the Altar so far as possible, to a celebra- ebrate the Eucharist individually, of the Chair, the letter said. The tion that is individual and quasi- but not while a concelebration is concelebrated liturgies will have People attend a Pope’s Mass to mark 500 years of Christianity in the private,” the Vatican II document taking place in the same church or lectors and cantors, which is pre- Philippines on March 14 at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. (UCA News continued. photo/Tiziana Fabi) oratory.” ferred by liturgical norms. In late February, Pope Francis Every day in St Peter’s Basilica, Masses are also celebrated at the Clementine Chapel in the grot- Sacred Constitution on the Liturgy accepted the resignation of Cardi- between 7.00am and 9.00am, sev- 8.30am in the Chapel of the Bless- to under the basilica at 7.00am, said, “Liturgical services are not nal Angelo Comastri as archpriest eral priests can be found at differ- ed Sacrament and at 10.00am, 7.30am, 8.00am and 9.00am, the private functions, but are celebra- of St Peter’s Basilica and his vicar ent altars celebrating a Mass with- 11.00am, noon and 5.00pm at the letter said. Because concelebra- tions of the church, which is the for Vatican City State. The new out a congregation. Because there Altar of St. Joseph. tion is not foreseen by the rite, that ‘sacrament of unity,’ namely, the archpriest, Cardinal Mauro Gam- is no preaching or singing without Priests who want to celebrate the means that only four priests can holy people united and ordered betti was named to succeed him, a congregation, the Masses usu- Mass according to the “extraordi- celebrate the old Mass each day in under their bishops. Therefore, but had not taken office as of mid- ally last less than 20 minutes and nary form,” sometimes referred to the basilica. liturgical services pertain to the March. — By Cindy Wooden, then another priest may celebrate as the Tridentine rite, may do so in The Second Vatican Council’s whole body of the church; they CNS Before naming Cardinal Sarah’s replacement, Pope Francis wants an outside review of the congregation for worship VATICAN: Before Pope Francis March 12 that there would be a tation. Rather it is more in the na- bration, including by overseeing names a new prefect for the Con- “canonical visitation” carried out ture of the consultations a dioc- the approval of the translations gregation for Divine Worship and by Bishop Claudio Maniago of esan bishop would have with his of liturgical books and texts. the Sacraments, he has asked that Castellaneta, president of the Ital- vicar general and others when he In the draft of the new con- an outside expert consult with the ian Bishops’ Conference’s litur- is appointing a new parish priest. stitution for the Roman Curia, office’s staff and review its pro- gical commission and a member In such an instance, the idea is to sent to bishops for comment in cedures. of the Congregation for Divine get to know the needs of the par- 2019, that task remains, but is The Pope in late February ac- Worship and the Sacraments. ish, the actual situation, as well introduced by a sentence saying, cepted the resignation of Guin- In response to questions from as having an eye to its future di- “The dicastery is dedicated in ean Cardinal Robert Sarah, who Catholic News Service, Archbish- rection.” the first place to promoting the reached the normal retirement op Arthur Roche, who has served The congregation is charged sacred liturgy according to the age of 75 last June. The cardinal as secretary of the congregation with promoting the celebration renewal desired by the Second had been prefect since 2014. since 2012, had an assistant reply of the Mass and the sacraments Vatican Council.” — By Cindy A French website reported Cardinal Robert Sarah that “this is not a canonical visi- and fostering their correct cele- Wooden, CNS Fears of ‘digital dictatorship’ as Myanmar needs our prayers and robust action by world leaders Myanmar deploys AI NAYPYITAW: March 14 was the Dr Sasa, the international envoy of NAYPYITAW: Protesters in My- Global Day of Prayer for Myanmar the body of elected members of par- anmar fear they are being tracked — or Burma, as many in the democ- liament in Myanmar, known as the with Chinese facial recognition racy movement and the ethnic na- Committee Representing Pyidaung- technology, as spiraling violence tionalities still prefer. su Hluttaw (CRPH). and street surveillance spark fears This is an annual event initiated Pastor Roy Chan, founder of Hong of a “digital dictatorship” to re- 25 years ago by David Eubank, an Kong’s Good Neighbour North Dis- place ousted leader Aung San Suu American evangelical missionary, trict Church, who assisted many of Kyi. human rights activist and humanitar- Hong Kong’s protesters in 2019, led Human rights groups say the ian relief worker who founded and a prayer, illustrating the growing soli- use of artificial intelligence (AI) leads the Free Burma Rangers. In darity between the two movements. to check on citizens’ movements 1996, he met Aung San Suu Kyi in In his powerful video message, poses a “serious threat” to their Yangon, and she told him that she Cardinal Bo says that the Feb 1 coup liberty. reads the Bible regularly and that her and the ensuing crackdown have More than 200 people have been favorite verse is John 8:3: “You will plunged Myanmar into “yet another killed since Nobel peace laureate People flash a three-finger salute as they take part in an anti-coup night protest know the truth and the truth will set chapter of darkness, bloodshed and at Hledan junction in Yangon, Myanmar, March 14, 2021. (LiCas News photo) Suu Kyi was overthrown in a Feb. you free.” She asked him to pray for repression.” A “decade of reform and 1 coup, triggering mass protests Human Rights Watch has ex- home, for example,” Win Pe Mya- the country. A quarter of a century opening,” albeit one which included that security forces have struggled pressed its “heightened concern” ing, a protester in Yangon, told the on, those words — and that call for “many challenges and storm clouds,” to suppress with increasingly vio- over cameras armed with AI tech- Thomson Reuters Foundation. prayer for Myanmar — have never has been replaced by a return to “the lent tactics. nology that can scan faces and ve- “We believe the police and the been more needed. nightmare of military repression, Security forces have focused hicle license plates in public plac- military are using the system to The international human rights brutality, violence and dictatorship.” on stamping out dissent in cities es, and alert authorities to those on track demonstrations and protests. organisation CSW hosted an online Cardinal Bo praises “the amaz- including the capital Naypyitaw, a wanted list. It’s like a digital dictatorship — prayer event at which the speakers ing courage, commitment and crea- Yangon and Mandalay, where hun- “Even before the protests, the the regime is using technology to were Myanmar’s Cardinal Charles tivity of our people, demonstrat- dreds of CCTV cameras had been CCTVs were a concern for us, so track and arrest citizens, and that’s Bo, British Catholic parliamentarian ing throughout the country in their installed as part of a drive to im- we would try and avoid them — dangerous,” he said. — Thomson Lord Alton and his fellow legislator thousands for many days.” — By prove governance and curb crime. by taking different routes to go Reuters Foundation, LiCas News Baroness Cox, David Eubank, and Benedict Rogers, ucanews.com 10 Editorial HERALD March 21, 2021 HERALD The Church’s demagogues: March 21, 2021 The Pope in Iraq: Starting over from Abraham to recognise one can synodality rebalance another as brothers raqi Christians had been waiting for the Pope for twenty-two Iyears. It was in 1999 when St John Paul II planned a short the charismatic celebrities? but significant pilgrimage to Ur of the Chaldees, the first stage of the Jubilee journey to the places of salvation. He wanted to ope Francis’ push for Synodality abuse of children, women and vulnerable Vatican as reliably obedient and indiffer- start with Abraham, the common father recognised by Jews, inside the Church coincides chron- adults. The well-known MeToo move- ent to the theological and ecclesial issues Christians and Muslims. Many advised the elderly Polish pon- Pologically with the rise of populist ment is one result of this. As we begin to raised by progressive lay Catholics. All tiff against making a journey which could have run the risk of leaders and the crisis of democracy on more carefully appraise the complicated this has had costs. Francis’ recovery of strengthening Saddam Hussein, who was still in power after the the outside. Synodality, therefore, has an contribution made by new ecclesial lay synodality is also a way to warn against first Gulf War. Pope John Paul II went forward, despite attempts ad extra dimension. It is an ecclesial re- movements, the Church is already reel- the dangers of charismatic personalities to dissuade him, particularly by the United States. But at the end sponse to populist leaders who “hijack” ing from the scandals caused by charis- in the Catholic Church. of the day, that whirlwind trip of an exclusively religious nature religion by sowing division and exploit- matic leaders – some long deceased, oth- Countermeasures against the dangers did not take place, due to the opposition of the Iraqi president. ing the anger of those who feel excluded, ers still living. of charismatic leadership in Francis’ In 1999, the country was already on its knees because of the as Vatican Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle synodality are a warning against both bloody war with Iran (1980-1988) and the international sanc- noted recently. Of course, Synodality has Importance of synodal Church liberal-progressive and conservative Ca- tions that followed the invasion of Kuwait and the first Gulf War. specificad intra dimensions, too. This is one of the reasons why the Pope’s tholicism’s enchantment with charism, The number of Christians in Iraq at the time was more than three In an interesting article published a push for a synodal Church is so impor- which often has become uncritical ac- times higher than it is today. John Paul II’s missed trip remained few months ago in Vida Nueva, Spanish tant. Francis is demonstrating, once ceptance of the role of the leader. The old an open wound. The Polish Pope raised his voice against the Jesuit Alejandro Labajos pointed out that, again, that he believes history is truly a “extra Ecclesiam, nulla salus” became second Western military expedition to the country, the lightning according to the Congregation for Insti- magistra vitae– a teacher of life. He’s a something like “extra charisma, nulla war of 2003 which ended with the overthrow of Saddam’s gov- tutes of Consecrated Life and Societies Jesuit whose real genius lies in spiritual salus” – there is no salvation outside of a ernment. At the recent March 16 Angelus he said: “I would like of Apostolic Life, four per cent of these direction. And in light of the last few Church of creative, intentional communi- to remind the member countries of the United Nations, and es- religious communities had undergone an decades, he’s aware of the risks that the ties led by charismatic personalities. pecially those who make up the Security Council, that the use of apostolic visitation (basically a Vatican Church runs when it blindly follows the Of course, the modern papacy has, force represents the last recourse, after having exhausted every investigation). charismatic leadership of individuals. itself, morphed into a charismatic role. other peaceful solution, in keeping with the well-known princi- Such visitations are conducted to look In his pontificate, Francis has repeat- Francis has not rejected an interpre- ples of the UN Charter.” Then, in the post-Angelus, he pleaded: into reports of abuse or serious problems edly warned all new ecclesial communi- tation of the papal office as based on “I belong to that generation that lived through World War II and, with faith and discipline. Seduction, spir- ties and movements to avoid the risks of personal charisma, but he is providing thanks be to God, survived it. I have the duty to say to all young itualisation and blind obedience are how sectarianism and to respect the personal essential countermeasures against the people, to those who are younger than I, who have not had this Labajos summarised the root problem of and spiritual freedom of its members. dangers of charismatic leadership. Syno- experience: ‘No more war’ as Paul VI said during his first visit the abuse of power in Catholic communi- He issued a motu proprio last Novem- dality makes it possible to rebalance the to the United Nations. We must do everything possible.” ties in three points. ber called Authenticum charismatis that voice of the Church’s clerical members In 2014, the country saw the rise of the so-called Islamic State, First, such abuse usually involves se- amends canon law (no. 579) and requires with the voice of lay people. ductive charismatic personalities, often bishops to get authorisation from the However, it’s not just about the laity proclaimed by ISIS. Devastation, persecution and violence con- marked today by a strong media profile. Holy See before they approve a new reli- in general, but the type of laity. It’s about tinued, with regional and international powers fighting on Iraqi Second, it entails the use of spiritual- gious institute at the diocesan level. limiting the voice of lay people who have soil, with the multiplication of out-of-control militias. The de- ised language that, on many occasions, New movements no longer have a blank disproportionate influence (for example, fenceless population, divided by ethnic and religious allegianc- is capable of creating ambiguous percep- check. in Catholic media) because of their finan- es, is paying the price, at a high cost in human lives. Looking at tions of reality and justifying evil by re- The action Francis has taken during his cial resources and political connections. the Iraqi situation, one can see for oneself the concreteness and sorting to words such as dedication, gift eight years as pope in terms of the rela- It’s about giving a greater voice to the realism of the words that Francis wanted to hammer home in his of oneself, sacrifice, community, mission tionship between institution and charism members of the people of God to balance latest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti: and so forth. signals an undeniable change. It is a shift those who might be called “Church ce- “We can no longer think of war as a solution, because its And third, it almost always capitalises from the way John Paul II and Benedict lebrities” — both lay and clerical — who risks will probably always be greater than its supposed on the bond of obedience. The abuse of XVI dealt with the new ecclesial com- can leverage their popularity in the eccle- benefits. In view of this, it is very difficult nowadays to -in power is not found only in long-estab- munities. sial community at both the micro and the voke the rational criteria elaborated in earlier centuries to lished religious orders and institutes. Under these popes, such communities macro level. speak of the possibility of a “just war”. Never again war!... It is also present in the new ecclesial were above scrutiny and were untouch- Synodality is also a product of a new Every war leaves our world worse than it was before. War movements and Catholic communities able as long as they were willing to sub- awareness in the Catholic Church that is a failure of politics and of humanity, a shameful capitula- founded and led by seductive charismatic mit to the pope and present themselves charisms can easily be transformed into tion, a stinging defeat before the forces of evil.” personalities. as a Catholic solution to the problem of abusive power in ecclesial communi- Hundreds of thousands of Christians during these years have Such personalities often attract mem- secularisation. ties or demagoguery in the Church. We been forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge abroad. In a bers through spiritual seduction. In the Not anymore. Francis is quietly imple- have seen this in the last few years with land of the earliest evangelisation, whose ancient Church has its worst cases, this fosters blind loyalty and menting a critical reassessment of the ec- the new phenomenon of new Catholic origins dating back to the apostolic preaching, Christians today total surrender to the will of the leader. clesiology of the “creative minorities” in censors and cyber-militias active in the rejoiced at Francis’ visit as a breath of fresh air. It’s especially operative in communities a way that echoes Paul VI, who was more media and social media. The modern For this reason, despite the risks linked to the pandemic and where institutional systems aimed at pre- aware of the risks of sectarianism in these definition of “charismatic leadership” in security, despite the recent attacks, Francis kept this appoint- venting such spiritual seduction are ab- movements. politics is attributed to the early 20th cen- ment, determined not to disappoint all the Iraqis who awaited sent or frowned upon by the members of The “ecclesiology of the people”, tury social scientist Max Weber, who was him. The heart of the first international trip, after fifteen months those communities. which Francis espouses, is critical of all suspicious of the tendency of charisma to of forced suspension due to the consequences of COVID-19, The wave of revelations of abuse and elitism in the Church. That includes the become Caesarism. was the meeting in Ur, in the city from which the patriarch misconduct of different kinds (including elitism of charismatic leaders. It is indis- A century after Weber’s death in 1920, Abraham departed. It was an opportunity to pray together with sexual) in lay-led ecclesial communities putable that the blank check John Paul perhaps we, in the Catholic Church are believers of other religious faiths, especially Muslims, to redis- is one of the new elements of the latest II and Benedict XVI gave to the new beginning to take that lesson seriously. cover the motives for coexistence among brothers and sisters, phase (since 2017-2018) in the history of Catholic movements also corresponded It’s indisputable that all forms of eccle- and to rebuild a social fabric that goes beyond factions and eth- the Catholic Church’s abuse crisis. to a pushback against the synodal move- sial leadership are always inculturated. nic groups. From Iraq, he delivered a message to the Middle It’s no longer just found in clerical ments that had been typical of many local Modern mass media and social media East and to the whole world that we are all brothers and sisters institutes. And not all abusive power is Churches in the early decades following have portrayed charismatic leadership in – Fratelli Tutti! linked to clericalism Now we are discov- the Second Vatican Council (1962-65). the Church more in the Weberian sense Pope John Paul II’s unfulfilled dream was fulfilled by Pope ering abuse in movements that are not Especially in the 1980s and 1990s, the of flattery and demagoguery than in Francis. — By Andrea Tornielli, Vatican News identified with a clericalist, anti-modern Vatican used the new Catholic move- the sense of charism as “a gift of God’s ideology. ments to counter what were perceived as grace”, as described by St Paul in his let- HERALD — The Catholic Weekly It is also present in Catholic socie- progressive extremes in the post-Vatican ters. Jointly published by the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, ties open to the modern world such as II period. In the throes of the sex abuse crisis, Diocese of Malacca Johore, Diocese of Schoenstatt, the Focolare Movement, These new movements also embodied the Catholic Church has woken up to the Penang and Diocese of Keningau and L’Arche. Other recent cases have a turn against the more democratic cul- possible dangers of charismatic power emerged that have revealed the trou- ture and synodal systems of governance in ecclesial communities. But the rip- Editor: Fr Lawrence Andrew, SJ HERALD, 5, Jalan Robertson, 50150, KL bling past of certain Catholic charismatic of the “old” lay Catholic associations ple effects of our reflection on this crisis Tel: 03-20268290/20268291; leaders, such as Fr Jean-François Six in (such as Catholic Action). go way beyond the problem of abuse. Online: www.heraldmalaysia.com. France. There has been a growing aware- These movements, founded and led — By Massimo Faggioli, LCI (https:// E-mail: [email protected] ness of the scope and seriousness of the by charismatic persons, were seen by the international.la-croix.com/ HERALD March 21, 2021 Focus 11 Our very human and evangelical Pope t is probably hard for many Cath- seemingly through a sudden inspira- seems, few cardinals expected him olics to remember what a state tion he had when Brazilian Cardinal to do. And it is clear that many cler- Iof disarray the Church was in Claudio Hummes told him, immedi- ics — from young priests in the latest — especially at the Vatican — back ately as the election was concluded, ordination class to elder prelates in on March 13, 2013 when an Italo- not to forget the poor. the upper echelons of the hierarchy Argentine Jesuit named Jorge Mario Perhaps the fact that Hummes is a — are not happy with this Pope’s ef- Bergoglio stepped out on the central Franciscan friar also prompted Ber- forts to bring about “a poor Church balcony of St Peter’s Basilica as the goglio to make the association with for the poor”. They are alarmed that newly-elected pope. Francis of Assisi. No matter what the he prefers a Church that stumbles Most people probably only re- full reason, the first pope ever to call along asking new questions and en- member the cheers of euphoria when himself Francis has shown over the gaging in dialogue with those who it was announced that this 76-year- past eight years that taking this name are on the margins, rather than one old man who was the new Bishop of was indeed a programmatic choice. which has all the answers and pon- Rome had taken the name Francis, Even at 84, slowed by the “baggage” tificates to those who are expected to something none of his 265 predeces- of increased physical limitations that just follow the well-established rules. sors over the course of more than come with age, the Pope continues to Francis’ critics are also troubled by 2,000 years had ever done. chide the Church, like an Old Testa- his willingness to meet other reli- Perhaps those other popes never ment prophet, to leave the comfort gious leaders, even those who are not dared to take this name because of its and false security of its anachronistic Christians, not in order to defend the immediate association with arguably structures and ways of doing things. Catholic Church’s claim that it is the history’s most beloved and radical Like a teacher in a high school class- “true” faith, but to show in a disarm- saint, the Poor Man of Assisi. room, he has used the pedagogy of ing way that even if we have differ- Maybe they thought it was un- repetition to slowly convey his sim- ent creeds we are still brothers and fitting for the Supreme Pontiff to ple yet radical programme of chang- sisters, all children of the One God. Pope Francis kisses the feet of prisoners during the Mass for Holy Thursday choose a name that conjured up a ing the mentality or ethos within the at Regina Coeli prison, March 29, 2018. (Vatican Media) romanticised and idealistic vision of Church. He has tried to liberate Cath- Global friendship and ternative to an “economy that kills”. one should expect from a pope. a Church that is poor, weak and vul- olics from the clericalists and elitists world peace He has been one the most credible Rather, it is goodness and kindness nerable, utterly simple and danger- who don’t want anything significant The Pope’s tireless efforts to pro- leaders on the global stage, to cham- and abiding faith. And one should ously free; one that constantly seems to change that might loosen their mote global friendship and peace in a pion the rights and dignity of the rightly expect the pope to show what at risk of being unmoored from the control or lessen their influence over spirit of brother- and sisterhood, or a poor and forgotten, such as refugees it means to be a disciple of Jesus — centuries-old behemoth that is the in- the direction of the Church. spirit of fraternity and sorority, are his and immigrants. And he has called how to “love God with all your heart, stitutional Church of Rome. unique contribution to a world that his fellow (Catholic) Christians to with all your soul, with all your mind It is said that Bergoglio thought The reform of the papacy and teeters dangerously on the brink of engage more deeply with the evan- and with all your strength... and your he probably would have called him- the “poor Church for the poor” self-destruction due to unhealthy na- gelical essentials of their faith, rather neighbour as yourself”. In all this, self John XXIV had he been elected A number of the cardinals who were tionalism, selfishness, greed, mistrust than obsess with man-made rules. Francis has been a compelling exam- at the 2005 conclave that produced, at the 2013 conclave have said they of those who are different and a be- The Pope is not perfect. For as ple and source of encouragement for instead, Benedict XVI. And maybe were looking for a pope who would lief that it is legitimate to conquer or many forward-thinking, bold and so many. He’s shown us how we can John was the name he was pondering clean up the financial mess and- al annihilate those perceived as a threat. prophetic decisions he has made, he’s really live the joy of the Gospel. when the votes were being tallied and leged corruption in the Vatican that Pope Francis has done much in also disappointed us at times for not His pontificate has been a gift to it became apparent that he would be had come to be a huge embarrass- the past eight years to help make our being bold or prophetic enough. He’s the Church and to the world. May elected this time. ment for the Church and a hindrance Church and world more welcoming, done things that have upset and con- we be worthy heirs of the legacy that, to its global mission. But Francis has compassionate and peaceful. He’s founded people all across the broad hopefully, he will continue to forge in A name that was a done much more than seek to reform raised issues like the urgent need to spectrum of what is legitimately the months and years to come. — By programmatic choice the finances; he has been reform- “care for our common home” and the Catholic. Robert Mickens, LCI (https://inter- But he chose Francis instead. It was ing the papacy. That is something, it necessity to come up with a viable al- But perfection is not something national.la-croix.com/) The hope of Iraq in the smile of a little girl or us it was like waking up just metres from those greeting the seek to overcome hatred and who will “Ffrom a nightmare, we could not Pope with small flags and banners, not accept becoming a repository of believe our eyes, the country really unauthorised persons were held with terror and fundamentalism. The Pope can get back on its feet.” These sim- hands behind their backs. In Bagh- has brought a new ferment, in a real- ple words summarise the hope of an dad, Nassirya, Ur, Mosul, Qaraqosh ity accustomed to being depicted with entire people, the Iraqi people, who and Erbil, yellow and white Vatican dark and deadly colours. In Baghdad, embraced the Pope from March 5 to flags were flown along walls topped where walls and armoured perimeters 8. The image of this trip is captured with barbed wire. protect the faithful in churches and in a snapshot in Mosul, the former In 2020, Iraq suffered approxi- mosques, semi-inhabited buildings capital of the so-called Islamic State, mately 1400 terrorist attacks; jobs are alternate with festively lit squares and where the rubble is riddled with thou- hard to find, and economic difficulties very poor neighbourhoods, where ar- sands of bullet holes; where seeing are a dramatic reality. But this is not chitecture shows the discontinuity of churches, houses, mosques destroyed the only reality in the country, even if styles and the signs of fighting. and disfigured, one touches the- vio this is the prevailing narrative — and Pope Francis remembered the mar- lence of the fighting and the fury of often the only one. That narrative has tyrs, and, condemning all forms of man who destroys, tramples on and no time for those who help others, for fundamentalism, embraced the Chris- annihilates his brother. those who are committed to a reality tian community and all those who In that context, where horror of sharing and reconstruction. have suffered and continue to suffer. seemed to prevail, the Pope was In Mosul, against a backdrop of rubble, a little girl looks at a soldier and The Pope’s journey has shed a dif- Despite the pandemic, entire families greeted by the singing of children smiles as he lifts her up (Fotografico Vatican Media) ferent light on the country, and for gathered behind the cordons and sepa- waving olive branches. Others, not only the rubble of what used to be historic on account of the welcome the first time in decades, Iraq - isbe rations formed by armoured vehicles, far from that encounter, were play- houses. Their eyes met despite those he received. But above all, it was a ing spoken of in positive terms: of in order to see, if only for a moment, ing on a dirt road; asphalt remained dark lenses, the man stroked the little historic journey on account of the welcome, of prospects, of the future. “the man of peace” who came from only in the central streets. A little girl girl on the head and lifted her up. She light of goodness and redemption he Christians and Muslims shared with afar. In Ur of the Chaldeans, where of four or five, dressed in a pink floral bursts into a smile, which he instantly brought to a place devastated by war, Pope Francis not only their sufferings, the eagerly anticipated inter-religious onesie and a pair of slippers, broke reciprocates. In that image we can see marked by violence and persecution but also their faith, their strength, their meeting was held, the desert wind away from her group of compan- the whole present and future of Iraq. perpetrated by ISIS, and now expe- determination to remain, to put back blew through protective nets placed ions and walked backwards. Uncon- It was a memorable trip for Pope riencing the scourges of poverty and on its feet a land that in the past was along the route from the airport of sciously she stopped at the feet of a Francis, the first pope to set foot in the COVID-19 pandemic. the cradle of ancient civilisations and Nassirya. Here, where tradition places soldier. She looks at him, running her the land of Abraham. He encouraged What is particularly striking for an example of peaceful coexistence. the home of Abraham, with one of the eyes over his entire figure, from his and confirmed in the faith the Chris- someone visiting Iraq is the militari- Everyone listened to what they called largest Ziggurats in the world forming head to his feet. tian community, which together with sation: everywhere there were men “the great words” pronounced by a a backdrop, the stars of the sky were The soldier — with the explosives Muslims and minorities such as the in war gear, with thick bulletproof wise man. seen in broad daylight, the firmament on his waist, the helmet, the glasses to Yazidis had experienced unspeak- vests, belts with hand grenades, hel- Christians found themselves in that the Pope indicated as a compass, protect himself from the sun — bends able suffering. It was a historic jour- mets with precision visors, and heavy prayer with the Successor of Peter, be- to walk on earth, to build paths of en- his neck and meets the gaze of the lit- ney, bridging the gap with the Shiites weapons; along the road, tanks, ar- coming a light for the whole world. A counter, dialogue and peace. — By tle girl, her face dirty with earth like after the efforts made with regard moured cars, dozens of pick-up trucks people grounded in reality, marked by Massimiliano Menichetti, Vatican the rest of her body. Behind them, to the Sunnis in Abu Dhabi. It was with machine guns. Along the streets, stories of unspeakable suffering, who News 12 Varia HERALD March 21, 2021 An unlikely affinity ne of Dorothy Day’s fa- ese’s spirituality because she under- disarming warmth and sensitivity. thinking this blood was falling on the vourite saints was Therese stood it beyond its popular miscon- Her family and everyone around her ground without anyone's hastening Oof Lisieux, Therese Martin, ception. Among all known saints, considered her special and precious. to gather it up. I was resolved to re- the saint we call “the Little Flower”. Therese of Lisieux stands out both She was much loved; but this did not main in spirit at the foot of the Cross At first glance, this might look like as one of the most popular saints of make for a spoilt child. We can never and to receive its dew. … I don't want a strange affinity. Dorothy Day all time and as one of the most mis- be spoiled by being loved too much, this precious blood to be lost. I shall was the ultimate activist for justice, understood saints of all time, and only by being loved badly. Her fam- spend my life gathering it up for the protesting in the streets, being ar- her popularity is part of the prob- ily loved her purely, and the result good of souls. rested, going to prison and starting lem. Popular devotion has encrusted was a young woman who opened From this, we see that her “little a community and a newspaper, the her person and spirituality in an her heart and person to the world in way” is not about privatized piety, Catholic Worker, in service of the over-simplistic piety that generally an exceptional way. but about noticing and responding poor. Therese of Lisieux was a con- serves to hide her real depth. Ther- Moreover, as she matured, she to the pain and tears of our world. templative nun, hidden away in an ese termed her spirituality “the little began to notice something. She no- Metaphorically, it is about noticing obscure convent in a small town in way”. Popular piety, for the most Fr Ron Rolheiser ticed how when she was a child, her and “gathering up” the blood that is France. Indeed, during her whole part, thinks of her “little way” as a every tear was noticed, valued, and dripping from the suffering face of life, except for one brief trip to visit spirituality that invites us to live qui- Therese of Lisieux had a very honoured, but that this was not the Christ which this face is presently to Rome with her family and parish, et, humble, simple, anonymous lives complex childhood. On the one case for many other people. She rec- suffering in our world in the faces of she never left her small town and, wherein we do everything, espe- hand, her life was touched by deep ognised that countless people suffer the poor, the faces of those who are at her death, was probably known cially the small humble tasks asked sadness, not least the death of her heartbreaks and injustices, endure bleeding and shedding tears because by fewer than two hundred people. of us, with fidelity and graciousness, mother when Therese was four years abuse, are humiliated, live in shame, of heartbreak, injustice, poverty, lack Moreover, in her writings, one finds unassuming, childlike, grateful to old, and several bouts of clinical and shed tears that no one notices of love and lack of being deemed precious little that might be consid- God just to be of service. While there depression from which she nearly and no one cares about. Their pain is precious. ered explicitly prophetic in terms of is a lot of truth in that understanding, died. She did not have an easy not seen, not honoured, not valued. Dorothy Day walked the streets of social justice. She wrote as a mystic, it misses some of the depth of Ther- walk through childhood. On the From this insight, she articulated this the poor, noticing their blood, dry- with a focus on the interior life and ese’s person and spirituality. other hand, she had an exception- ground metaphor that undergirds her ing their tears, trying in her own way on our personal intimacy with Jesus. To understand Therese’s “little ally graced childhood. She grew up “little way”. to gather them up. Therese did the Not exactly the stuff of protests in way” and its connection with justice in family of saints who loved her Her words: One Sunday, look- same thing mystically, deep inside the streets. So why did Dorothy Day, for the poor, we need to understand deeply and honoured (and often ing at a picture of Our Lord on the the body of Christ. It is no surprise whose life looks so different, have an certain things in her life that helped photographed) her every joy and Cross, I was struck by the blood that Dorothy Day took her as her pa- affinity for this young recluse? constellate the vision that lay behind pain. She was also a beautiful young flowing from one of his divine hands. tron saint. — By Fr Ron Rolheiser, Dorothy Day was drawn to Ther- her “little way”. girl, attractive and graced with a I felt a pang of great sorrow when all rights reserved DOCUMENT Responsum of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith to a dubium regarding the blessing of the unions of persons of the same sex TO THE QUESTION PROPOSED: through the Church’s intercession. by the Church. reminder of the truth of the liturgi- to bless each of His pilgrim children Does the Church have the power to By them men are disposed to re- For this reason, it is not licit to cal rite and of the very nature of the in this world, because for Him “we give the blessing to unions of per- ceive the chief effect of the sacra- impart a blessing on relationships, sacramentals, as the Church under- are more important to God than all sons of the same sex? ments, and various occasions of life or partnerships, even stable, that in- stands them. of the sins that we can commit”[12]. are sanctified”[3]. The Catechism of volve sexual activity outside of mar- The Christian community and its But He does not and cannot bless RESPONSE: Negative. the Catholic Church specifies, then, riage (i.e., outside the indissoluble Pastors are called to welcome with sin: He blesses sinful man, so that He that “sacramentals do not confer the union of a man and a woman open respect and sensitivity persons with may recognise that he is part of His Explanatory Note grace of the Holy Spirit in the way in itself to the transmission of life), homosexual inclinations, and will plan of love and allow himself to be In some ecclesial contexts, plans and that the sacraments do, but by the as is the case of unions between per- know how to find the most appro- changed by Him. He in fact “takes us proposals for blessings of unions of Church’s prayer, they prepare us to sons of the same sex[6]. The pres- priate ways, consistent with Church as we are, but never leaves us as we persons of the same sex are being receive grace and dispose us to coop- ence in such relationships of positive teaching, to proclaim to them the are”[13]. advanced. Such projects are not in- erate with it” (#1670). elements, which are in themselves Gospel in its fullness. At the same For the above mentioned reasons, frequently motivated by a sincere Blessings belong to the category to be valued and appreciated, can- time, they should recognize the gen- the Church does not have, and can- desire to welcome and accompany of the sacramentals, whereby the not justify these relationships and uine nearness of the Church – which not have, the power to bless unions homosexual persons, to whom are Church “calls us to praise God, en- render them legitimate objects of an prays for them, accompanies them of persons of the same sex in the proposed paths of growth in faith, courages us to implore his protection, ecclesial blessing, since the positive and shares their journey of Christian sense intended above. “so that those who manifest a ho- and exhorts us to seek his mercy by elements exist within the context of faith[9] – and receive the teachings The Sovereign Pontiff Francis, mosexual orientation can receive the our holiness of life”[4]. In addition, a union not ordered to the Creator’s with sincere openness. at the Audience granted to the un- assistance they need to understand they “have been established as a kind plan. The answer to the proposed du- dersigned Secretary of this Con- and fully carry out God’s will in their of imitation of the sacraments, bless- Furthermore, since blessings on bium does not preclude the blessings gregation, was informed and gave lives”[1]. ings are signs above all of spiritual persons are in relationship with the given to individual persons with ho- his assent to the publication of the On such paths, listening to the effects that are achieved through the sacraments, the blessing of homo- mosexual inclinations[10], who man- above-mentioned Responsum ad du- word of God, prayer, participation in Church’s intercession”[5]. sexual unions cannot be considered ifest the will to live in fidelity to the bium, with the annexed Explanatory ecclesial liturgical actions and the ex- Consequently, in order to con- licit. This is because they would con- revealed plans of God as proposed Note. ercise of charity can play an impor- form with the nature of sacramen- stitute a certain imitation or analogue by Church teaching. Rather, it de- tant role in sustaining the commit- tals, when a blessing is invoked of the nuptial blessing[7] invoked on clares illicit any form of blessing that Rome, from the Offices of the Con- ment to read one's own history and on particular human relationships, the man and woman united in the tends to acknowledge their unions as gregation for the Doctrine of the to adhere with freedom and responsi- in addition to the right intention of sacrament of Matrimony, while in such. In this case, in fact, the bless- Faith, bility to one's baptismal call, because those who participate, it is necessary fact “there are absolutely no grounds ing would manifest not the intention February 22, 2021, “God loves every person and the that what is blessed be objectively for considering homosexual unions to entrust such individual persons to Feast of the Chair of St Peter, Apos- Church does the same”[2], rejecting and positively ordered to receive to be in any way similar or even re- the protection and help of God, in the tle. all unjust discrimination. and express grace, according to the motely analogous to God’s plan for sense mentioned above, but to ap- Among the liturgical actions of the designs of God inscribed in crea- marriage and family”[8]. prove and encourage a choice and a Luis F. Card. Ladaria, S.I. Church, the sacramentals have a sin- tion, and fully revealed by Christ the The declaration of the unlawful- way of life that cannot be recognised Prefect gular importance: “These are sacred Lord. Therefore, only those realities ness of blessings of unions between as objectively ordered to the revealed signs that resemble the sacraments: which are in themselves ordered to persons of the same sex is not there- plans of God[11]. a Giacomo Morandi they signify effects, particularly of serve those ends are congruent with fore, and is not intended to be, a form At the same time, the Church re- Archbishop tit. of Cerveteri a spiritual kind, which are obtained the essence of the blessing imparted of unjust discrimination, but rather a calls that God Himself never ceases Secretary [1] FRANCIS, Apostolic Exhorta- [4] RITUALE ROMANUM ex De- [7] In fact, the nuptial blessing re- THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH, DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH, Let- tion Amoris laetitia, 250. creto Sacrosancti Oecumenici fers back to the creation account, in Letter Homosexualitatis problema ter Homosexualitatis problema On [2] SYNOD OF BISHOPS, Final Concilii Vaticani II instauratum which God's blessing on man and On the Pastoral Care of Homosex- the Pastoral Care of Homosexual Document of the XV Ordinary Gen- auctoritate Ioannis Pauli PP. Il woman is related to their fruitful un- ual Persons, 15. Persons, 7. eral Assembly, 150. promulgatum, De bendictionibus, ion (cf. Gen 1:28) and their comple- [10] De benedictionibus in fact pre- [12] FRANCIS, General Audience [3] SECOND VATICAN ECU- Praenotanda Generalia, n.9. mentarity (cf. Gen 2:18-24). sents an extended list of situations of December 2, 2020, Catechesis on MENICAL COUNCIL, Constitu- [5] Ibidem, n. 10. [8] FRANCIS, Apostolic Exhorta- for which to invoke the blessing of Prayer, the blessing. tion on the Sacred Liturgy Sacro- [6] Catechism of the Catholic tion Amoris Laetitia, 251. the Lord. [13] Ibidem. sanctum Concilium, 60. Church, 2357. [9] Cf. CONGREGATION FOR [11] CONGREGATION FOR THE HERALD March 21, 2021 13 The eight most-defining images from eight years of Pope Francis ight years ago, Pope Francis emerged on the balcony of St. Pe- 1. Pope Francis greets the world for the first time as pope ter’s Square for the first time, clad not in the red ermine cape and new red loafers prepared for the next pope, but in a simple oing into the 2013 conclave, “You know that it was the duty E few people considered Car- of the conclave to give Rome a white cassock and his old black orthopedic shoes. G His simple apparel set the tone for what would become a whirlwind dinal Jorge Bergoglio a front- Bishop. It seems that my brother papacy including 52 papal trips, six major documents, three synods runner — least of all the cardi- Cardinals have gone to the ends and thousands of speeches and homilies aimed at shifting the church nal-archbishop of Buenos Aires of the earth to get one, but here toward simplicity, collegiality and care for the poor and outcast. himself. we are!” Before giving his bless- While much ink has been spilled by Vatican watchers interpreting When Francis emerged on the ing, he asked for the crowd to how the pope’s writings and structural changes will shape the church balcony of St Peter’s Basilica for pause and pray for him for a mo- for years to come, Pope Francis’ gestures may do even more to define the first time as pope, he “just ment first. A hush descended. his legacy. stood there in silence, immobile,” O’Connell wrote that there was Long after “Amoris Laetitia” and “Laudato Si’” have faded into his- wrote America’s Vatican corre- something new in the Roman air tory, people will remember the images of this South American pope spondent Gerard O’Connell. that night: an anticipation that warmly embracing a man covered in tumors, falling to the ground to “He seemed stunned by the sea the first non-European pope in kiss the feet of formerly warring African leaders or praying alone in of humanity that stretched out in 1,200 years, the first Jesuit pope the rain in St. Peter’s Square at the height of the coronavirus pandemic. the darkness before him across and the first to take the name of This is a pope who lives the phrase often attributed to his namesake, the square, right down the Via St Francis might, as he told the St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, della Conciliazione reaching to- cardinals in their pre-conclave Pope Francis appears for the first time use words.” ward Castel Sant’Angelo.” meeting, open the windows of a on the central balcony of St Peter’s In honor of eight years of Pope Francis, here are the top eight images He greeted the crowds as his dusty church to let the Holy Spir- Basilica at the Vatican March 13, 2013. from his pontificate. “brothers and sisters” and said: it blow in. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) Washing the feet of prisoners, women and Muslims on Pope Francis embraces a man 2. 3. Holy Thursday with a severe skin condition ust after his election, the new pope inicio Riva was used to peo- Jcaught the world’s attention when Vple being afraid of him. He he held a small Holy Thursday liturgy had learned to stifle his anger at a youth detention centre. Breaking when people harassed him for his with tradition, the Pope washed the feet skin condition: His face and body of 12 young inmates including, for the are covered in severe tumours first time, two girls: one Christian and that often bleed through his shirt, one Muslim. Three years later, he would his aunt said. So he was shocked change the text of the Roman Missal to when Pope Francis approached officially include women in the foot- him without hesitation at a public washing rite, a move that faced resist- audience in November 2013, em- ance within the Vatican. bracing him and letting him bury Every year since, the pope has washed his head in the Pope’s chest. the feet of women, minorities and those Pope Francis washes the foot of a prison inmate during the Holy Thursday “When he came close to us, I on the margins of society, like the elder- Mass of the Lord’s Supper at Rome’s Casal del Marmo prison for minors thought he would give me his hand ly, at his Holy Thursday liturgies. March 28, 2013. (CNS photo/L’Osservatore Romano via Reuters) [to kiss],” said Mr Riva’s aunt, Caterina Lotto. “Instead he went Pope Francis embraces Vinicio Riva, 53, Ecumenical Patriarch A beam of light hits Pope Francis’ straight to Vinicio and embraced during his general audience in St Peter’s 5. him tightly. I thought he wouldn’t Square at the Vatican Nov 6, 2013. Riva, 4. Bartholomew kisses cross on his return flight from Dublin give him back to me, he held him who is afflicted with neurofibromatosis, Pope Francis’ head ope Francis’ trip to Ireland was so tightly. We didn’t speak. We said receiving the pope’s embrace was expected to be his most challeng- said nothing, but he looked at me like being in paradise. (CNS photo/ uring his papal trip to Istanbul, P Claudio Peri, EPA) ing yet. The thrill of his first years as as if he was digging deep inside, a Pope Francis asked Ecumeni- D Pope had worn off, and the Ameri- beautiful look that I would never the “Francis effect” that touched cal Patriarch Bartholomew, the can church was embroiled in what have expected.” the hearts of the world early in the spiritual leader of Eastern Ortho- has since been called its “summer of The image went viral, part of Francis papacy. dox Christians, to bless him and shame”: the second wave of sexual “the church of Rome.” When he abuse revelations brought about by Kissing the feet of formerly warring South bowed for the blessing, the patri- the Pennsylvania Grand Jury report, 6. arch kissed him gently on the head. which recounted in detail 70 years Sudanese leaders The two men have a warm re- of abuse allegations, and revelations uring an unusual An- lationship, often kissing one an- that the influential Cardinal Theo- glican- and Catholic- other on the cheek and embracing D dore McCarrick had abused minors sponsored retreat for formerly when they meet. Achieving unity and seminarians. warring South Sudanese lead- between the Eastern and West- A shaft of light illuminates Pope The Irish church, once culturally ers, Pope Francis shocked the ern churches, which have been in Francis as he responds to a question dominant, had lost thousands of ad- nation’s president and four schism since the Middle Ages, is from reporter Anna Matranga of herents after sexual abuse revelations CBS News aboard his flight from of its five vice presidents by one of Pope Francis’ major goals. began there in the 1990s. Dublin to Rome Aug 26. (CNS photo/ spontaneously bowing to kiss During the night of the Pope’s two- Paul Haring) their feet as he begged them day trip, former papal ambassador to cis declined to comment on the letter. to work together for peace. the United States Archbishop Carlo When CBS News reporter Anna Ma- The vice presidents represent Maria Viganò released a bombshell tranga asked Pope Francis about dur- different factions that had letter alleging that members of the ing a press conference on his return formerly been at war but had Roman hierarchy had turned a blind flight to Rome from Dublin, the pope agreed to share power in an eye to former Cardinal McCarrick’s said, “I read the statement this morn- effort to make peace in the abuse. The letter called on Pope ing and, sincerely, I must say this to country. Francis to resign, in a move which you and anyone interested: Read that As South Sudanese Bishop Vatican reporter Christopher Lamb statement attentively and make your Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala told America, the Pope’s gesture South Sudan Vice President Rebecca called a “half-cocked coup against own judgment.... I think the state- Nyandeng De Mabior reacts as Pope Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew his papacy.” Viganò’s claims against ment speaks for itself, and you have was “seen as nothing less than Francis kneels to kiss her feet April 11, of Constantinople kisses Pope Francis the pope were debunked by the press a sufficient journalistic ability to a miracle, nothing less than 2019, at the conclusion of a two-day retreat as they embrace during an ecumenical God’s intervention,” by mem- at the Vatican for the African nation’s prayer service in the patriarchal and, after more than two years, the reach a conclusion.” As he gave the Vatican. answer, a ray of light settled on the bers of a culture that prizes political leaders. (CNS photo/Vatican Media Church of St George in Istanbul Nov deference to one’s elders. via Reuters) 29, 2014. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) In the moment, though, Pope Fran- Pope’s cross and fisherman’s ring.  Continued on Pg 14 14 HERALD March 21, 2021 A Ramadan Letter to my Muslim Sisters and Brothers Dear Muslim sisters and brothers, Assalam Aleikum! The way Muslim brothers and sisters In the month of April this year celebrate the month of we will celebrate the advent of the Ramadan helps me grow month of Ramadan. I consciously use the word ‘celebrate’, because in God-consciousness as I have personally experienced and a Christian. seen Muslim friends — sisters and brothers — really looking forward to little children also raise their hands the fasting month of Ramadan. in prayer. How wonderful it was Let me begin with an anecdote that this grandfather was teaching, from my days in Aligarh. On the day through his own example, these two A file photo of Fr Victor Edwin SJ with his students visiting Muslim places in India. before the advent of the month of little children to recognise a sign of Ramadan in the year 2003, a Muslim God! Even these little children were Muslim friends and their deep faith while standing. He would not show dained by God in the Quran. journalist friend of mine, Shafi, and I aware of God! I felt very happy for in God and their commitment to any signs of tiredness on account At the same time, I also want to went for an evening stroll. There was that. God. For me, this is a very beautiful of fasting. He would be fully ready share with you some anxiety that I a lot of expectation in the air. There Dear friends, the Holy Quran says experience. What you have said is to spend enough time, especially have experienced on occasion. A few were people in the streets and on that fasting is prescribed for you. from the heart of your experience. It with me, to explain things. And he friends have a slightly narrow way of rooftops trying to spot the crescent It is a means for developing God- inspires me to become God-oriented would never make any reference to seeing religion. For instance, in some moon, waiting for the announcement consciousness. This is something in my own life. It is an invitation to his tiredness or about the time the Muslim-majority countries, there of the commencement of the month very attractive for me. The month lead a life that is based on God-con- fast would end. On some occasions may be some unreasonable restric- of Ramadan. The thought came to of Ramadan is about focussing on sciousness. I would say to him, ‘You must be tions on people of other faiths during my mind how intently these people God-consciousness. To experience a As a Christian, something else tired, Sir’, but he would reply, ‘Vic- the month of Ramadan. And so on. were looking forward to seeing a deep experience of God-conscious- strikes me very much. The Bible tor, it is important that I should ex- But I feel such things have nothing to sign of God — the crescent moon. ness, fasting, prayer and charity are says, in the Gospel of Matthew plain things to you.’ do with Islam, for the Quran (2:256) It was really beautiful! I felt very a means. They help us in awareness (6:17-18): How beautiful is the message of says, ‘There shall be no compulsion happy for that great awareness — of the presence of God in the world. “But when you fast, put oil on the Gospel (referred to above) in a in religion’. In line with this, one looking for a sign of God in Nature. So, God-consciousness is some- your head and wash your face, so way it comes to me through the life could say that pressurising others is God is the Creator of all things, thing that the Muslim tradition that it will not be obvious to others of a Muslim! I was able to see the not in the spirit of Islam. and, in the words of Gerard Manley teaches me, including through the that you are fasting, but only to your meaning and depth of those Bible Dear sisters and brothers, I pray Hopkins, a Jesuit poet, “The world is significance of the month of Rama- Father, who is unseen; and your Fa- verses through my Muslim profes- with you, as a Christian brother, that charged with the grandeur of God”. dan in the lives of Muslims. The ther, who sees what is done in secret, sor. This was something really amaz- this month of Ramadan be a bless- God’s signs are everywhere. One way Muslim brothers and sisters cel- will reward you.” ing, a beautiful experience for me. ing for all of us who desire to grow needs to pay attention to them to re- ebrate the month of Ramadan helps Dear friends, many years ago, I While I was a teacher at St Jo- in God-consciousness, all of us who alise their significance. me grow in God-consciousness as a was a student at the Department of seph’s School in Baramulla, there thirst for God in their lives. May all I heard an announcement saying Christian. Islamic Studies at the Aligarh Mus- would be young Muslim boys telling of us put our heart and soul, hands that the crescent moon had been Dear sisters and brothers, as a stu- lim University. There was a profes- me, ‘Father, this year I am going to and feet, together and worship the sighted. Shafi and I looked in the dent of Christian-Muslim relations, I sor in the Department who was a start fasting!’. They would say this One God according to our faith tra- direction of the moon. An elderly have asked a number of Muslim sis- wonderful teacher and a very pious with great joy. We think fasting must ditions. And together, as brothers and gentleman was before us. Two little ters and brothers, ‘Why do you fast?’ person. During the month of Rama- be something very tiring, very diffi- sisters, may we all spread peace, joy children — a boy and a girl — were Many of you have said that fasting dan, I would notice that he would be cult. But never in my experience did and harmony. holding his hands. They were per- is for purification, fasting is to please extra careful to look fresh, with oiled I find my Muslim friends say that Ameen! Amen! haps his grandchildren. The gentle- God, fasting is an act of obedience to and neatly-combed hair and well- fasting in the month of Ramadan is May God bless us all. man raised his hands in prayer. He God. Everything that you have said ironed clothes. In the other months, difficult. They have always looked Khuda Hafiz, said something, facing the crescent I know you are saying from your he would sit and teach, while in the forward to the month with joy. This Your brother, moon. I was moved to see the two own experience, because I know my month of Ramadan he would teach joy is on account of fasting being or- Fr Joseph Victor Edwin SJ

 Continued from Pg 13 ... Pope’s recent meeting with the Grand Ayatollah Pope Francis prays in St Peter’s Square 8. Meeting Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani 7. for an end to the coronavirus pandemic ope Francis declared in the Pfirst month of his pontificate t the height of Italy’s first wave of that he hoped to build stronger Athe coronavirus pandemic, Pope relationships between Christians Francis gave an extraordinary urbi et and Muslims, a commitment he orbi (“to the city and the world”) bless- has followed up on by visiting ing usually reserved for Easter, Christ- several Muslim-majority coun- mas and the election of a new pope. tries and signing a milestone The stark service, held in an empty, document with Sunni Grand rain-soaked St Peter’s Square, was Imam Ahmad al-Tayyeb, which broadcast to millions of people around would serve as the inspiration the world who were isolated for fear of for the Pope’s recent encyclical, the pandemic. Reflecting on the Gospel Fratelli Tutti. story of the disciples weathering a storm This year, he has focused on while Jesus is asleep in their boat, he making inroads with Shia Mus- said, “We have realised that we are in Pope Francis holds the monstrance as lims, meeting with the revered the same boat, all of us fragile and diso- he delivers his extraordinary blessing cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. riented, but at the same time important “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) The ayatollah has not received Pope Francis with the Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Al-Husayni Al-Sistani and needed, all of us called to row to- during a prayer service in the portico of guests publicly or been photo- during a courtesy visit in Najaf, Iraq, March 6, 2021. (Vatican Media) gether, each of us in need of comforting St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican March graphed in a decade, but he met street art of the Pope and the prayer. A Shia poet wrote that the the other.” 27, 2020. (CNS photo/Vatican Media) with Pope Francis in his home ayatollah appeared on walls baba of Christianity and the baba The stark service, held in an empty, monstrance from St Peter’s Basilica into last week, greeting him warmly around Najaf, the Islamic holy of Islam would embrace, playing rain-soaked St Peter’s Square, was the square, hoisting it above his head and speaking with him for almost city where the two leaders met. on the similarities between the broadcast to millions of people around with great effort, buffeted by the wind an hour. The meeting, experts One image called the encounter words for “papa” and “pope” in the world who were isolated for fear of and rain, as the church bells and am- said, sent a message of peace a meeting of the church bells and many languages. — By Colleen the pandemic. bulance sirens echoed through Rome’s across the Muslim world. the minarets, the towers from Dulle, America After the reflection, the Pope carried a empty streets. In advance of the meeting, which Muslims are called to (https://www.americamagazine.org/) HERALD March 21, 2021 Children 15 LittleLittle CCatholicsatholics’ CCornerorner

Can you spot all EIGHT differences Let's Colour And I, when I am lifted between these pictures? up[a] from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32)

The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. (John 12:23)

St Joseph, pray for us! WORLD ANGEL VOICE JUDGEMENT DIE HEAVEN FATHER DRAW TIME MYSELF GLORIFY EARTH HEARD LIFTED PRINCE THUNDER CROWD

Dear children, sins so that we could join Him in and when I am lifted up, I will when we trust in Him, we receive His heavenly kingdom. draw everyone to Myself." The Bi- the right to become children of When I was a kid, I liked to play Even so, because Jesus knew He ble tells us that He told them that God. with magnets. The magnet has would soon be crucified, He said so they would know how He was Even after we become God's great power and will draw many to his followers, "I am very trou- going to die. children, we still sin, and that’s objects to itself. It reminds me of bled...What should I do? Should I The drawing power of a magnet is not pleasing to Him. something that Jesus taught about pray to the Father and ask Him to very strong, but it’s nothing com- But that doesn’t mean He will Himself. save me?” pared to the drawing power of Je- stop loving us. He has the power The people who were following How do you think you’d answer sus. When we see His great love, to draw us back to Himself. There Jesus thought Jesus had come to Him? we’re drawn to Him. is no power stronger than the love set up an earthly kingdom. But Je- Jesus told the people, “No, this He willingly died on the Cross of Jesus. sus came to earth to die for our is the very reason that I came, to pay the price for our sins, and Aunty Eliz HERALD

Social BEC Communication (1976) (1996)

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

Family (1996) Youth (1986) YOUTH YOUTHMarch 21, 2021 The MCYMC Family meets for the first time in 2021 UALA LUMPUR: Mem- to others by more than merely utilitar- bers of the Malaysian ian and practical bonds, to be united in such a way as to feel that our life is a bit KCatholic Youth Ministers’ more human. To create a home is to let Committee (MCYMC) met as a prophecy take flesh and make our hours family (virtually of course...) for and days less cold, less indifferent and the first time in 2021 to touch base anonymous. It is to create bonds by sim- ple, everyday acts that all of us can per- and share on the various initiatives form. A home, as we all know, demands taking place all around the coun- that everyone work together. No one can try. be indifferent or stand apart, since each The meeting was held on March 2 via is a stone needed to build the home.” Zoom and was attended by youth and campus (Christus Vivit, 217) ministers from the arch/dioceses in Malaysia Archbishop Simon Poh expressed his grat- (Keningau, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, itude that even in this time, we are still able Kuching, Malacca Johore, Miri, Penang, to continue ministering to young people. He Sandakan and Sibu). The Bishop in-charge is encouraged by the fact that through this of the Episcopal Commission for Youth & platform, we are able to enrich the work of Campus Ministry of Malaysia, Archbishop others by sharing the many discoveries and Simon Poh, was also in attendance. creative ways used to engage as well as Inspired by Pope Francis’ call to work and reach out to the young people we care for. He journey together, appreciating the rich va- prayed that opportunities for young people riety, gratefully accepting the contributions to encounter Christ in the sacraments will be of the various members of our committee, more and more available as churches all over these sharings were a time of learning and the country open in stages. The sharings highlighted the various discernment as youth ministers where we Youth and campus ministers gather via Zoom. rediscovered together, the many joys, hopes, events and programmes taking place in the challenges and opportunities concerning the various (arch)dioceses. If you’re curious and commissions, apostolates and ministries. tion below). Better still, follow them on the young people we care for. eager to know more about these impactful We invite young people who are starting various social media platforms to discover “In a word, to create a home is to create programmes, or maybe you are wondering new semesters on campus, or moving to a the many initiatives you may be inspired a family. It is to learn to feel connected how you can contribute to these various ini- new place for work, to contact your nearest with and can be part of. — By Jacinta tiatives, do contact the various youth offices, youth office/commission (see the informa- Fernandez (ASAYO youth minister)

PENANG KOTA KINABALU KUALA LUMPUR Penang Diocesan Youth KUCHING Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu ASAYO KL (Archdiocesan Single Network pdynpenang Archdiocesan Youth Commission Kuching Archdiocesan Adults & Youth Office) Youth Commission https://www.pdynpenang.com archkk_campusministry | AsayoKualaLumpur National Coordinating asayo_kl Office KENINGAU MIRI kchyouthcom Diocese of Keningau Youth & Kuching Archdiocesan & Campus Ministry Office Diocese of Miri Youth Campus MALACCA JOHORE Ministry Office Youth Commission Kekitaanfm Kuching Campus Ministry komisibeliakeuskupankeningau http://dioceseofmiri.blogspot.com/ Malacca Johore Diocese kchcampusmin Young People Network mjdypn SANDAKAN SIBU mjdypn @mjcc2020 Diocese of Sandakan Youth Commission Sibu Diocese Youth Apostolate Temasyabeliakeuskupan2019 sibudiocesanyouthapostolate HERALD March 21, 2021 Youth 17 Catholic Climate Covenant Little Green of Hope launches youth Lenten Project (Fifth week) SIBU: This week’s theme for Lent is Sympathy under the Little Green of Hope – Lenten Project of the Sibu Diocesan Youth Apostolate (SiDYA). Let’s take this time of ‘waiting’ to renew our mobilisation initiative life through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Follow our instagram www.instagram.com/ sibudiocesanyouthapostolate/ for more updates. Catholic Climate Convent Care for Creation, Care for the Poor

WASHINGTON: The Catholic Climate Covenant launched a new initiative that looks to mobilise young Catholics to spur greater action on climate change in the church and around the country. More than 70 people, predominantly young adults, joined an online event Feb 23 to learn more about the youth-oriented program. Anna Robertson, the group’s new direc- A screenshot from the online event presented by Catholic Climate Covenant, with Anna tor of youth and young adult mobilisation, Robertson, the group’s new director of youth and young adult mobilisation said its goal is “to inspire and empower version that Pope Francis has championed, enormity of the challenge — as well as meaningful action” among young people by learning about church teachings on care frustrations with the seemingly slow pace in the church, within their parishes and for creation and growing in their under- of action, in their parishes and in society at dioceses, as well as in the wider national standing of ecospirituality. large. public square. One participant said the church has to “This is a new initiative, and we at the To encourage young Catholics move past a dichotomy that seems to say Covenant really desire that it is shaped to move toward the personal Catholics can focus on spirituality or jus- by the people who are in this room right ecological conversion that Pope tice, but not both. Another wanted to be Daily Opening Prayer now and other young folks in the Catholic a part of a wider, holistic pro-life move- sphere throughout the country,” she said. Francis has championed, by ment that incorporates protecting the en- Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit The mobilisation effort will focus on learning about church teachings vironment and ending racism. One young Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, four main areas: advocacy, community re- on care for creation and woman said she has fears about having that my thoughts may all be Holy, silience, education and ecological spiritual- growing in their understanding children with a climate crisis hanging over Act in me, O Holy Spirit, ity. the planet. that my work, too, maybe Holy. The 29-year-old Robertson, a former of ecospirituality. Throughout the evening session, the Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, campus minister at Seattle University, said The four focus areas will guide the pro- young Catholics expressed particular inter- that I may love but what is Holy . the goal is to create a community where gramme, but the hope is that young Catho- est in advocacy, asking for ways to bring Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, young people can share ideas and work lics will mold it to support what they want their concerns to elected representatives, to defend all that is Holy. together on ways to take steps on climate to do to further environmental stewardship. suggestions for making environmental is- Guard me, then, Holy Spirit, change in their own regions, as well as Participants in the online webinar shared sues nonpartisan, and guidance on mov- to join larger collaborative efforts. It also their concerns about climate change — its ing their parishes’ work on justice beyond that I always maybe Holy. seeks to encourage young Catholics to health impacts, threats to food security, supplying and volunteering at local food Amen. move toward the personal ecological con- how it’s become a polarised issue and the banks. — By Brian Roewe, NCR (Prayer of St Augustine of Hippo) Youth’s tiny house atop rickshaw stuns billionaire businessman NAMMAKAL, India: A young architect While Prabhu first finished his project, The 24-year-old Prabhu shocked every- from Tamil Nadu built a portable home on which was in 2020, the impressive design one by building a portable house with space top of an auto rickshaw, probably first of its found its way on the Internet, making the for a bedroom, kitchen, living space, toilet, kind in India. With the tiny movable house, man a trending topic on social media. “I bathtub and a workplace with a 250-litre N G Arun Prabhu wanted to spread aware- never imagined for Mr. Mahindra to ap- water tank for water on top of an auto rick- ness about small-scale engineering and rea- preciate my project like this. I look forward shaw, giving the country probably its first sonable housing. to what else comes my way,” Prabhu told tiny movable house. And guess what? He And his innovation has found a fan in Times Now after the business tycoon tweet- built the house, called ‘Solo 0.1’ in a pock- none other than billionaire businessman ed about him. et-friendly budget of 100,000 rupees. Anand Mahindra. It was on February 27 that a the post about Stunned Prabhu says that he didn’t even Prabhu’s innovation found its way to Mahi- have time to process it all or even inform his ndra, who admired the young man’s skills family. The young engineer said that he was and applauded his creative outlook. Not traveling and so had no time to check social only that, but the billionaire also showed media. But it was later in the day when he keen interest in getting in touch with Prab- got the news. “Around mid-afternoon when hu. “Apparently Arun did this to demon- an old friend, frantically called asking for strate the power of small spaces,” Mahindra my email address and said that he is sharing N. G Arun Prabhu with his Solo 0.1 (portable said in a tweet. it with Anand Mahindra,” Prabhu said. house atop a rickshow). The Mahindra Group chairman also Prabhu comes from a modest household in a very bad state and mostly lack basic ne- wondered if Prabhu would be interested in in Tamil Nadu’s Nammakal. He finished cessities and with gypsies, who are travel- designing one for a Bolero pickup. “Can B.Arc from Chennai before starting his own ling all their life, they too are deprived of someone connect us?” he further wrote. The architecture firm in Bengaluru, with just 5 basic necessities. I wanted to make some- 65-year-old businessman is a known ad- people. The 24-year-old has one main goal: thing that would take the least amount of mirer of talented, hardworking people with to spread the awareness about compact space, is habitable, and can be travelled in.” a knack for creativity and has never shied space being fit for living. The reason behind choosing a rickshaw away from using the power of social media “The idea of Solo 0.1 roots from the con- to build a tiny house over was its pocket A portable house with space for a bedroom, to promote such people. dition of slums in our country and from friendly element, since it’s a lot cheaper kitchen, living space, toilet, bathtub and a Soon after Mahindra’s tweet, social me- the nomadic tribes and gypsies. I wanted than cars, Prabhu explained. — Matters workplace with a 250-litre water tank for water dia got to work to track down the young to make something that would be apt for India on top of an auto rickshaw architect and oh, the Interne won yet again. both,” he further said, adding, “Slums are Source: m.economictimes.com 18 HERALD March 7, 2021 For more enquiries, please contact: Email: [email protected] Myanmar military under fire from memoriam Tel: 03-2026 8290 / 03-2026 8291 international Catholic groups NAYPYITAW: International Catholic or- ganisations are condemning the actions of the Myanmar military, which has continued to crack down on protesters since its Feb 1 coup. SIGNIS, Pax Christi International and the Focolare movement released a joint state- ment that voiced solidarity with Myanmar’s citizens. In Seoul, South Korea, Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung wrote to Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, and ex- pressed concern about the ruthless military actions. By March 15, Myanmar’s military had killed more than 125 protesters, according 2nd Anniversary to the Yangon-based rights group Assis- How lovely is your In Loving Memory of tance Association for Political Prisoners. dwelling place, O Lord The three Catholic organisations said in The mother of Khant Nyar Hein reacts next to his body at his funeral in Yangon on March of hosts! My soul a joint statement March 15 that they had 16 after the first-year medical student was shot dead during a crackdown by security forces longs, indeed it faints heard the message of the people of My- on protesters. (UCA News photo) for the courts of the anmar stating that “this coup is essentially Lord my heart and my tions and other human rights organisations their aspiration for democracy, and I truly flesh sing for joy to the about overthrowing them, their will.” calling for the release of Aung San Suu hope that they will get it back very soon,” living God. “We deplore the extreme authoritarian- Kyi and other detained Myanmar officials he wrote. “Please know that all the clergy, ism that saw fit to trample on the nation’s Even a sparrow finds a and leaders. They asked the military to stop religious and faithful of the Archdiocese of home, and the swallow constitution, which in fact permitted limited using violence and arbitrarily detaining Seoul are sincerely praying for true democ- a nest for herself, democracy while maintaining much of the peaceful protesters and journalists. They racy to be restored in the country.” where she may lay her armed forces’ power,” said the joint state- called for justice and accountability for the Cardinal Yeom asked for Mary’s inter- young, at your altars, ment. atrocities committed against the Rohingya cession for all the people of Myanmar. O Lord of hosts, my “It is ultimately not about removing po- people and other ethnic minorities, as well Christine Schraner Burgener, the UN King and my God. Yvonne Yeoh Siew Lay litical opponents or restoring public order. It as prevention of such crimes and abuses in special envoy on Myanmar, condemned the Happy are those who Born: 07-09-1959 undoes years of patient work for the funda- the future. continued bloodshed as the military defied live in your house, Departed: 22-03-2019 mental rights of citizens and crushes tenu- Cardinal Yeom told Cardinal Bo that he international calls, including from the UN ever singing your praise. Deeply missed and ous dreams of a free, democratic country,” was joining hands with the people of My- Security Council, for restraint, dialogue and forever cherished by the statement said. anmar. full respect for human rights and fundamen- Psalm 84: 1-4 Joseph, Michael and The three groups joined the United Na- “I strongly support the Myanmarese and tal freedoms. — ucanews.com Marie Ong. HERALD March 21, 2021 Saints of the Week & Short Readings 19 Annunciation of the Lord Daily Short he Solemnity of the Annunciation cele- Reading Tbrates the coming of the Angel Gabriel to Sunday, March 21 the Virgin Mary to announce to her the special (Leviticus 23:4-7) mission God had chosen for her in being the These are the Lord’s solemn fes- mother of His only son. tivals, the sacred assemblies to We are continually reminded of the impor- which you are to summon the sons tance of this feast to our salvation in various de- of Israel on the appointed day. The votional prayers. Two examples that highlight fourteenth day of the first month, be- the importance of this feast are the joyful mys- tween the two evenings, is the Pass- teries of the Rosary and the Angelus. over of the Lord; and the fifteenth The feast of the Annunciation began to be day of the same month is the feast of Unleavened Bread for the Lord. celebrated on this day (March 25) during the For seven days you shall eat bread fourth and fifth centuries, soon after the date without leaven. On the first day you for celebrating Christmas was universalised are to hold a sacred assembly; you throughout the Church. This feast celebrates the must do no heavy work. Incarnation of the Second Person of the Trin- ity and the salvation of all mankind. This point Monday, March 22 (Jeremiah 11:19-20) of our salvation was deeply discussed by many of the Church fathers, to explain it to the faith- I was like a trustful lamb being led ful and to show the deep love God has for us. to the slaughter-house, not know- Some of the Church fathers who wrote on this ing the schemes they were plotting Feastday: March 25 against me, ‘Let us destroy the tree were St Athanasius, St Gregory of Nyssa and St in its strength, let us cut him off from Augustine. Mary becomes the eminent figure she is only is the human being who best, after Jesus, exem- the land of the living, so that his Mary had an important role to play in God’s by God’s grace. She is the empty space where plifies the possibilities of human existence. She name may be quickly forgotten!’ But plan. From all eternity, God destined her to be God could act. Everything she is she owes to received into her lowliness the infinite love of you, Lord of Hosts, who pronounce the mother of Jesus and closely related to him the Trinity. God. She shows how an ordinary human being a just sentence, who probe the loins in the creation and redemption of the world. We Mary is the virgin-mother who fulfils Isaiah can reflect God in the ordinary circumstances of and heart, let me see the venge- could say that God’s decrees of creation and 7:14 in a way that Isaiah could not have imag- life. She exemplifies what the Church and every ance you will take on them, for I have committed my cause to you. redemption are joined in the decree of Incarna- ined. She is united with her Son in carrying out member of the Church is meant to become. She tion. Because Mary is God’s instrument in the the will of God (Psalm 40:8-9; Hebrews 10:7-9; is the ultimate product of the creative and re- Tuesday, March 23 Incarnation, she has a role to play with Jesus Luke 1:38). demptive power of God. She manifests what (Zechariah 12:10-11) in creation and redemption. It is a God-given Together with Jesus, the privileged and graced the Incarnation is meant to accomplish for all of Over the House of David and the role. It is God’s grace from beginning to end. Mary is the link between heaven and earth. She us. — CNA/Franciscan Media citizens of Jerusalem I will pour out a spirit of kindness and prayer. They will look on the one whom they have pierced; they will mourn for him as St Turibius de Mogrovejo for an only son, and weep for him atholics in Latin America and through- Lima, Peru. as people weep for a first-born child. When that day comes, there will be out the world will celebrate the life and The new archbishop undertook to travel great mourning in Judah. ministry of St Turibius of Mogrovejo throughout the rugged and mountainous dio- C Wednesday, March 24 on March 23. The 16th century bishop upheld cese, where he observed many of the worst ef- the rights of Peru's indigenous peoples, and fects of colonialism – both upon the enslaved (1 Kings 8:51-53) became one of the first canonised saints of the and oppressed natives, and on many of the Lord, we are your people and your Americas. colonists who seemed to have lost their souls heritage. Be always watchful for Turibius was born in Spain during 1538, to in the pursuit of wealth. the entreaty of your servant and of a noble family in the kingdom of Leon. He He responded with constant prayer and pen- your people Israel, and listen to us frequently prayed, fasted and gave to the poor, ance, as he travelled throughout his territory whenever we call to you. For it was even as a child, and eventually developed the administering the sacraments, teaching the you who set us apart from all the peoples of the earth to be your own daily habit of praying the Rosary along with Catholic faith, and establishing schools, semi- heritage. the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary. naries and hospitals. He went on to study law at the University To the indigenous Peruvians, the archbishop Thursday, March 25 of Salamanca and eventually served as a judge was a herald of the Gospel who held their lives (Hebrews 2 : 9b-10) for five years in the territory of Granada. His as more precious than their country’s supplies We see in Jesus one who is now judicial wisdom and diligence drew the atten- of gold and silver. But to the many colonists crowned with glory and splendour tion of King Philip II, who wanted Turibius – whose behaviour showed no sign of their because he submitted to death; by who was still a layman – to be consecrated as a Catholic origins, he was a prophetic scourge – Feastday: March 23 God’s grace he had to experience missionary archbishop for the Spanish colony whose efforts to awaken the public conscience Patron Saint of: death for all mankind. As it was his of Peru. earned him rebukes and opposition.  Peru  Native rights purpose to bring a great many of his   sons into glory, it was appropriate Turibius became greatly dismayed, protest- Turibius ultimately managed to make three Lima Scouts that God, for whom everything ex- ing to the king and Church authorities that he visitations of his diocese, under rugged and  Latin American  Valladolid ists and through whom everything was not even a priest and could not possibly dangerous conditions, which occupied about bishops exists, should make perfect through accept the charge. In a series of letters, he half of his 25 years as Archbishop of Lima. He suffering, the leader who would take pleaded that he was not personally capable of united the Peruvian Church at an administra- and decreed that his possessions should be dis- them to their salvation. serving as the Archbishop of Lima – nor, he re- tive level by holding several local councils of tributed to the poor. St Turibius died on March 23, and his body was found to be incorrupt the Friday, March 26 minded them, did canon law permit a layman its clergy, but was also known to spend days (Isaiah 52: 13-15) to become an archbishop. travelling to reach a single individual with the next year. He was declared a saint in 1726 and Eventually, however, he had little choice but message of Christ. is now regarded as the patron of native peo- See, my servant will proper, he shall to comply. He was consecrated as a bishop in The archbishop became seriously ill in ples’ rights and Latin American bishops. — be lifted up, exalted, rise to great CNA heights. As the crowds were ap- 1581, at the age of 43, and immediately left for 1606. He sensed that his death was imminent, palled on seeing him — so disfig- ured did he look that he seemed no longer human — so will the crowds be astonished at him and kings St Margaret of Clitherow stand speechless before him; for they shall see something never told t Margaret of Clitherow was born in priests in her home. Eventually, Margaret and witness something never heard SMiddleton, England around the year was turned in to the sheriff and tried for before. 1555 to a protestant family. Margaret was the crime of harbouring Catholic priests. known throughout the town for her wit While Margaret was on trial, many ef- Saturday, March 27 and good looks and in 1571 she married forts were made to encourage her to deny (Isaiah 65:1b-3a) John Clitherow. Together they had two the Catholic faith, but she held on firmly. I said, I am here, to a nation that children. Finally, Margaret was condemned to be did not invoke my name. Each day I Several years after her marriage to John, pressed to death upon sharp rocks. She stretched out my hand to rebellious Margaret was introduced to the Catholic was executed on March 25, 1586. people that went by evil ways, fol- lowing their own whims, a people faith and converted. She was a zealous Pope Paul VI canonised Margaret in who provoked me to my face inces- defender of Catholicism and hid fugitive 1970. — CNA santly. Enagelisation: Sacrament of Reconciliation Let us pray that we may experience the sacrament of reconciliation with renewed depth, to taste the infinite mercy of God.

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THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY March 21, 2021 Pope says he, too, kneels on Myanmar streets, begging for end to violence VATICAN: As security forces in testers and of her extending her arms condemned the continued bloodshed Myanmar increased their crackdown begging police not to shoot or hurt as the military defied international on civilians, with disappearances, anyone. calls, including from the UN Secu- detentions and the killing of peace- “I, too, kneel on the streets of My- rity Council, for restraint, dialogue ful protesters, Pope Francis appealed anmar and say, ‘Stop the violence’,” and full respect for human rights and for an end to violence and the start of Pope Francis said. “I, too, spread fundamental freedoms. dialogue. wide my arms and say, ‘Make way “The ongoing brutality, includ- “Once again, and with much sor- for dialogue.'” ing against medical personnel, and row, I feel compelled to mention the Bloodshed “resolves nothing,” he destruction of public infrastructure, tragic situation in Myanmar, where said, repeating his call for dialogue severely undermines any prospects so many people, especially young to begin. for peace and stability,” she said in people, are losing their lives for of- The United Nations, human rights a statement March 14. “The interna- fering hope to their country,” the groups, bishops and Catholic organi- tional community, including regional Pope said at the end of his weekly zations have condemned the actions actors, must come together in soli- general audience March 17. of the Myanmar military, which has darity with the people of Myanmar Without mentioning her name, continued to crack down on protest- Fr Celso Ba Shwe approaches dozens of security personnel before they and their democratic aspirations.” the Pope recalled the iconic gestures ers since its Feb 1 coup. dispersed protesters in Loikaw, capital of Kayah state, on March 9, 2021. She said she had heard from con- of Sr Ann Nu Thawng, who made According to the UN Human (UCA News photo/Aung Nge Philip) tacts in Myanmar of the heartbreak- headlines when photographs were Rights office, as of March 16, at least more than 2,100 civilians have been Prisoners. ing accounts of killings, mistreat- published of her kneeling before po- 138 people, including children, had detained, according to the agency, Christine Schraner Burgener, the ment of demonstrators and torture of lice seeking to shield peaceful pro- been killed since the coup began, and Assistance Association for Political UN special envoy on Myanmar, prisoners. — By Carol Glatz, CNS Apostolic Nuncio presents his Women theologians credentials to the Agong appointed to senior roles KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di- Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah in Rome and Maynooth Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah LONDON: Two women have been International College of Trainers. Dr Shah received the credentials of 10 appointed to senior Church roles Rogers brings international and ecu- foreign envoys to Malaysia at the this month. Dr Jessie Rogers is to menical experience to her new role. Istana Negara March 18. become the first The first woman to become secre- Also present at the ceremony woman and tary of the Pontifical Biblical Com- was Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku lay Dean of mission, Sr Nuria Calduch-Benages Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah the Faculty of teaches Old Testament at the Pontif- Iskandariah. Theology at the ical Gregorian University in Rome Foreign Ministry deputy secre- Pontifical Uni- and is a renowned expert on Sacred tary-general (Bilateral Affairs) Da- versity, May- Scripture. Hailing from Barcelona, tuk Amran Mohamed Zin was also nooth, while Dr Jessie Rogers Spain, Sr Nuria Calduch-Benages present. Spanish biblical is a member of the Congregation of The envoys were Ouyang Yujing scholar, Sr Nuria Calduch-Benages, Missionary Daughters of the Holy (China); David Evan Malcomson The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa will be the first woman secretary Family of Nazareth. She also took (South Africa); Viengsavanh Sipra- Billah Shah receives credential from Holy See - Vatican City State envoy to of the Pon- part in the work of the Study Com- seuth (Laos); Archbishop Wojciech Malaysia Archbishop Wojciech Zaluski (right) at the Istana Negara March tifical Biblical mission on the Diaconate of Women Zaluski (Holy See - Vatican City 18, 2021. (fotoBERNAMA (2021) COPYRIGHT RESERVED) Commission in (2016-2019). On March 9, Pope State); Chainarong Keratiyutwong a priest for the Diocese of Lomza. Viengsavanh, on the other hand, Rome. Francis appointed her secretary of (Thailand); Prof Dr Senaid Memic On July 1 of that same year he has served as director general of Dr Rogers, the Pontifical Biblical Commission, (Bosnia Herzegovina); Herman joined the diplomatic service of the the Inspection Department of the originally South the Vatican office of which she has Pule Diamonds (Namibia); Ab- Holy See after attending the Pon- Ministry of Foreign Affairs. African, under- been a member since 2014. She was doulaye Barro (Senegal); Brian D. tifical Ecclesiastical Academy in Meanwhile, Chainarong was took her gradu- recently reappointed for another Mcfeeters (USA) and Florentino Rome, graduating with a Diploma former ambassador attached to the ate studies at Sr Nuria five-year term, which will last until Batista Gonzalez (Cuba). in Diplomatic Science and a Doc- office of the Permanent Secretary, the University Calduch-Benages 2025. Pope Francis appointed Arch- torate in Canon Law. He has served Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while of Stellenbosch Among other positions, she is a bishop Zaluski as the Apostolic successfully in the Apostolic Nun- Memic has served as mayor of and came to Ireland in 2007 to teach guest professor at the Pontifical Bib- Nuncio for Malaysia and East Ti- ciatures of Burundi, Malta, Alba- Illidza, Sarajevo. in Mary Immaculate College before lical Institute in Rome, an assiduous mor and Apostolic Delegate to Bru- nia, Zambia, Sri Lanka, Georgia, Diamonds was deputy head of joining the Faculty of Theology at collaborator of the Catholic Biblical nei Darussalam on Sept 28, 2020. Ukraine, the Philippines, and Gua- mission and counsellor in Beijing, St Patrick’s College in 2014. As a Federation, a prominent member of Archbishop Zaluski will be the temala. China, while Barro was the deputy Scripture scholar specialising in the specialised journals, serving on the second person to head the Apos- The 60-year old Archbishop is permanent representative of the Old Testament, her academic work scientific committee of the journal tolic Nunciature in Malaysia. fluent in Polish, English, French, Republic of Senegal to the United focuses on biblical wisdom litera- History of Women (University of The Apostolic Nunciature is the Spanish, Italian and Russian. Nations, New York. ture. In recent years, it has broad- Florence) and collaborating on the diplomatic mission of the Holy See Ouyang has served as director Mcfeeters has served as deputy ened to include spirituality and a series “Tesis y Monografías” pub- to Malaysia, and is equivalent to an of the Bureau of Maritime Rights chief of mission, at the US Em- focus on the theology of childhood. lished by Verbo Divino (Estella). In embassy. and Interests and the Office of the bassy, Baghdad, Iraq, while Gon- Dr Rogers is a member of the Irish 2008 she participated as an expert in Wojciech Zaluski was born on Foreign Affairs Commission of the zalez was a specialist with the rank Biblical Association, the South Afri- the General Assembly of the Synod April 5, 1960, in Zaluski-Lipnie CPC Central Committee, while of ambassador in the United States can Society for Near Eastern Stud- of Bishops focusing on “The Word wo, in the centre east of Poland. Malcomson was chief director of Division, Ministry of Foreign Af- ies, the European Society for Catho- of God in the Life and Mission of On June 1, 1985, he was ordained the Regional Organisation Desk. fairs, Cuba. — Bernama/Agencies lic Theology and the Godly Play the Church.” — ICN