PAGE 3 PAGE 4 PAGE 26 PAGES 7-22 Priest’s Meet the New series: 16-page 90th mother 24 new The Pilgrim’s birthday turns 106 cardnals Trek 2010 supplement

October 27 to November 2, 2010 www.scross.co.za R5,50 (incl VAT RSA)

Reg No. 1920/002058/06 No 4699 SOUTHERN AFRICA’S NATIONAL CATHOLIC WEEKLY SINCE 1920 We are 90 N October 16, 1920, The Southern Cross published its debut edition, fea- Oturing a photo and message of Pope Benedict XV on the front-page. This week, one week short of our 4 700th edition, we look back at 90 years of The Southern Cross— and also to the future. Much has changed in the Church and the world since The Southern Cross first appeared. The newspaper has lived through economic crises, a world war, apartheid, and anti- Catholicism in . It has reported on eight popes, the first locally-born bishop and Vatican II. The Southern Cross evolved to reflect the Church of its times and adapted to keep up with technological advances. The Southern Cross has been an integral part of the life of the Church for almost a century, providing a home for the Body of Christ throughout our vast territory. It will doubtless continue that mission. Addressing Catholic communications specialists in earlier this month, Pope Benedict noted the importance of Catholics making use of the New Media, but also emphasised that the printed Catholic press—such as the newspaper you are hold- ing right now—remains essential for Church communities. Indirectly, Pope Benedict restates the call made by a succession of his predecessors: that every Catholic home should have a Catholic newspaper. The pontifical expectation has not been fully realised in South Africa, where the Catholic media is not found in every Catholic home. Nonetheless, The Southern The current staff of The Southern Cross on the steps of St Mary’s cathedral in Cape Town, near the newspaper’s offices. Standing (from left): Joan Cross celebrates its 90th anniversary in King, Pamela Davids (business manager), Elizabeth Hutton, Michael Shackleton (advisory editor), Claire Mathieson, Jean van der Westhuizen. robust health. At a time when newspapers Sitting: Avril Hanslo, Claire Allen, Desiree Chanquin, Nadine Christians and editor Günther Simmermacher. PHOTO: ROSS VAN DER PAS are struggling to survive, The Southern Cross has managed to hold its circulation steady. This achievement has been recognised by South Africa’s Marketing Mix magazine, which earlier this year named The Southern Cross as one of the top performing newspa- Congratulations! pers in the country. The credit for this is not due alone to the Archbishop James Patrick Green, Apostolic of Southern Africa is significant not so much staff of the newspaper, nor to the commit- : for the length of time it has survived, but for ted board of directors of the Catholic News- s the representative of His Holiness Pope the fact that it has served as an instrument of paper & Publishing Company Ltd, which ABenedict XVI, I am pleased to extend to hope for that community. publishes The Southern Cross. The achieve- you and your staff my sincere congratulations Recently Pope Benedict urged the Catholic ment also belongs to those people in the on the auspicious occasion of The Southern media to be at the service of hope for human- From left: Archbishop James Green, Cardinal parishes who distribute and promote The Cross’ 90th anniversary. ity. Catholic journalists and other media pro- , Archbishop Stephen Brislin Southern Cross—the parishioners who receive Since the founding of The Catholic News- fessionals are called to do this by reflecting the weekly parcels, the priests who mention paper and Publishing Company Ltd and the decisively and critically on current events in the newspaper in the notices at Mass, and the light of faith and truth, in particular their this effort to make The Southern Cross the those who ensure that their fellow Catholics printing of the first edition of The Southern paper that speaks for Catholics in Southern Cross, this Catholic newspaper has served the own faith in Jesus Christ. buy it, and to those who loyally buy and By carrying out this service of publishing Africa and indeed in the World read the newspaper. And the biggest credit, Church in Southern Africa with distinction. Our prayer is that the next ten years will Recently the Holy Father reminded us of news and views about the , of course, is due to Our Father, whose Holy The Southern Cross has built up the reputation see The Southern Cross continue to make its Spirit we feel present in our work every day. the important role the Catholic media has in illustrious contribution to the growth of the regard to humanity’s search for truth: “The of being a unique Catholic voice not only for The Southern Cross is South Africa’s only South Africans, but as one of Church as an instrument of hope which nationally distributed Christian weekly search for truth must be pursued by Catholic builds peace, justice, and reconciliation journalists with a passionate mind and heart, Catholic print voices. This is a legacy that we newspaper. It is a notable distinction that, are rightly proud of and upon which we must through the New Evangelisation to which we alone among the country’s denominations, but also with the professionalism of compe- are all called. tent staff who are equipped with adequate continue to build so that the voice of the Catholics manage to sustain a weekly news- and effective means.” Church can be heard clearly. paper—more so one that is financially Archbishop Stephen Brislin, Archbishop of entirely independent. As you now celebrate all the good moments It is gratifying to note initiatives which the Cape Town: In compiling this week’s special 16-page of the past, it is my fervent hope and prayer board of the Catholic Newspaper and Publish- supplement we were acutely aware that The that all at The Southern Cross will heed the ing Company have taken to ensure that The ONGRATULATIONS to the editor, board Southern Cross is up to the mark in regard to and staff of The Southern Cross on your Southern Cross is a community newspaper in words of the Holy Father, orient themselves to C the best sense of the word: we rely on Christ, “and keep burning the flame of hope the use of “New Media”, “smart technologies” 90th birthday. and “convergence”. We believe that by doing For a nonagenarian you are indeed full of friends and supporters to collaborate in the in the world and live worthily our today and social communications apostolate: our to build the future appropriately”. this, The Southern Cross is rising to the chal- life, energy and youthfulness. Your ability to lenge not only to maintain its current reader- adapt to the challenges of the computer age, friends and supporters, our generous Associ- Finally, in the name of the Holy Father, I ates, our advertisers, and those who con- willingly impart to you and all the staff of The ship, but also to broaden its readership to with your digital edition and e-newsletter, reflect the broader reality of the Catholic shows that you are going into the future with tribute towards the content. Southern Cross the Apostolic Blessing as a Naturally we review the long history of pledge of his affection and paternal care. Church in Southern Africa. confidence and determination. For this reason I earnestly urge all parish Over these 90 years The Southern Cross has the newspaper as well as look ahead to the priests and parishioners to do all they can to never missed the publication of a single issue future, and present the good wishes from Cardinal Wilfrid F Napier OFM, Archbishop increase subscriptions to The Southern Cross by and it is clear that you have no intention of advertisers whose kind support has made of Durban and spokesman for the Southern Africa at least 10%. However, for this to be achieved, letting it happen. I have no doubt that all the this special supplement possible. Catholic Bishops’ Conference: we Catholics will have to change the way we editors and staff who have gone before you We hope that our valued readers have HE 90th anniversary of The Southern Cross see The Southern Cross. We will need to do are rejoicing in heaven at this accomplish- enjoyed the company of The Southern Cross Tis a milestone for the Catholic Church in what we can to make it truly the Voice of ment. on their lives’ pilgrimage so far, and will Southern Africa. The Southern Cross’ history of Hope in Southern Africa. We are sure that the May you go from strength to strength and continue to do so in the future. dedicated service to the Catholic community Southern Cross board and staff will join us in reach an ever-increasing number of readers. Günther Simmermacher (Editor) 22 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 LOCAL

What’s new Send your news and photographs to: The Southern Cross, PO Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000. You can also with you? email [email protected] Why the strong rand hurts the weak

BY CLAIRE MATHIESON of the country’s high interest economists now believe it is in”. rate. Mr Brand said investors Fr Chatteris said the weak HE strong South African borrow yen, dollars and pounds dollar makes the rand strong, rand is bad news for the at almost 0%, then exchange which makes our exports more Teconomy and does not aid these borrowed funds for the expensive. Since the sale of raw the Church’s teachings which rand and place them on deposit materials such as platinum is call for greater equality between in South African banks at 6-7%. central to our economy, this is rich and poor, a Johannesburg- “These flows are recorded in bad for South African business. Priests of the diocese of Umzimkulu under the olive tree at the garden of based priest has said. the capital account, which is in The Jesuit asked the obvious Gethsemane. Jesuit Father Chris Chatteris surplus, offsetting the current question: what can a middle- said on his blog on the Jesuit account deficit and keeping our range economy like South Africa Institute South Africa website balance of payments on the do? “Not much except be Holy Land dream comes true ( www.jesuitinstitute.org. level,” he said. patient and remember that bub- za) that the situation was best “That is all well and fine, but bles burst. The rand will eventu- dream was made a reality, with 12 BY STAFF REPORTER expressed by Victorian historian, it means that the rand remains ally come down and give relief priests leaving for the Holy Land. Thomas Carlyle, who described stronger than it should be, plac- to exporters.” FTER a year of his episcopate Each parish contributed at least economics as “the dismal sci- ing our exporters at a significant Fr Chatteris said it was not all in the diocese of Umzimku- 50% of all the expenses for their lu, Bishop Stanislaw Dziuba ence”. “It affects us all”, Fr Chat- disadvantage in international bad news because during unsta- A own priest. The rest of the money teris said, “even that mysterious sent all the priests serving in his markets. And it also forces the ble financial times the markets came from the bishop’s fundrais- business of exchange rates.” South African Reserve Bank to always buy up gold, “a safe diocese to the Holy Land. ing efforts, which included Some time ago Bishop Dziuba Robert Brand, coordinator of keep interest rates higher than investment since time immemo- approaching benefactors and took two priests to attend a confer- research for the Centre for Eco- they should be, because reduc- rial”. This is good news for the friends, to cover the remaining ence organised by the initiators of nomics Journalism in Africa and ing interest rates would render local gold-mining industry. 50%. the Neocatechumenal Way. lecturer at Rhodes University, the carry trade less attractive, He said the Church’s view on The conference was held in In a joint thanks to Bishop Dzi- said the day-to-day fluctuations leading to an outflow of capital the situation was straight-for- Galilee at the the Domus Galilaeae uba, the priests of the diocese said: in the market are not as signifi- and strain on the balance of ward. Centre. The guide took the group “We came back renewed in spirit cant as those of the long-term. payments.” “Church teaching prefers of bishops and priests on a tour and vigour for our work. You have “Over the longer term, funda- Fr Chatteris said when eco- order to chaos and the common following the route of Jesus’ min- given us and the people we serve mental factors come into play, nomic times are tough, coun- good over the enrichment of istry in Galilee. the greatest gift that one would and what is happening to the tries try to keep their currencies individuals.” This would require It was during this time that give to someone. rand right now should be of weak to cheapen their exports wise regulation, and since the Bishop Dziuba decided it worth- “We also thank our parishioners concern to everyone watching on world markets. “Unfortunate- recession was in great part while to send all priests in his dio- for their love, loyalty, commit- our economy.” ly, if one large economy effec- caused by an “anarchic invest- cese to the Holy Land. ment and generous giving. We Mr Brand said the fundamen- tively devalues its currency, this ment-banking environment”, When Bishop Dziuba returned thank you dear parishioners for tal problem associated with the sets off an international chain much international sentiment from the Holy Land, he your prayers and the inspiration economic situation is that the reaction, a mutually damaging now favours levelling regula- announced his dream to send the that we continuously receive from country, on a whole, is living race to the bottom”. tions. priests to the Holy Land. Since it you. beyond its means. We are buy- Mr Brand said South Africa’s “The Church would therefore was during the Year for Priests, the “Finally, we would like to thank ing more overseas products than strong currency and high inter- argue for a fair global currency bishop asked all the parishes in his the friends of the diocese of Umz- we are earning from exports, but est rates place our manufactur- agreement, which can bring diocese to partner him in this ven- imkulu from all over the world. the rand does not currently ing and export sector at a disad- some stability and equity to the ture. Your support has contributed reflect this. vantage, “meaning our economy situation. She would want the With the help of the parish towards lifting up our souls and Furthermore, international is going to struggle to emerge ‘dismal science’ actually to be communities, Bishop Dziuba’s the life of the diocese as a whole.” investors are taking advantage from the recession that most ‘good news’ for the poor.”

FOR SALE: R1,35M “not a cent more, not a cent less!” Raising funds MICASA TOURS for burnt kids Spiritual Pilgrimage to Italy BY CLAIRE MATHIESON HE Phoenix Burns Project (PBP), a 05 – 16 June 2011 Catholic-based organisation dedicated to Visiting Rome, San Giovanni, Rotondo, Assisi, child burn survivors and the promotion of FAMILY PEACE AND TRANQUILITY IN THIS SPECIAL PRAYER INSTILLED HOME: ENTRANCE HALL, DINING, LIVING T burn prevention, is raising further awareness WITH OPEN FIREPLACE GIVES ONTO SUNDOWNER PATIO, RANCH EAT-IN KITCHEN WITH AMPLE CUP- Padua & Venice BOARDS, 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS PLUS STUDY, FAMILY BATHROOM GUEST LOO AND EN-SUITE SHOWER ALL Highlight: Feast Of Saint Anthony. over the month of November—a time synony- RINGING WITH HAPPY LARGE FAMILY MEMORIES , fertile garden, all North-facing, sunny and light and easy walk to all mous with fires and fireworks—through an Fish Hoek schools and shops R16 995 (exclusive) event to be held in Cape Town. PBP president Dr Peter Martinez said the VIEW BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Tel: 012 342 0179 / 072 637 0508 (Michelle) event aims to create awareness around the pre- E-mail: [email protected] vention and treatment of burn victims and to Maggi-Mae 021 782 9263 or recruit new volunteers. 082 892 4502 anytime or Dr Martinez said burn injuries are the second- Vidas 082 823 6362 most common cause of mortality of children under the age of two years in South Africa. The Cape Town-based organisation currently runs a variety projects, including the Bear with Your Rehab programme, which encourages chil- dren to continue with crucial follow-up treat- PA TO THE ments. They do this by giving the patients a soft toy at each of their check-ups. This encourages PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL children to continue their consultations and helps with their reintegration into society. The project was established in 2006 and College is a Catholic co-educational independent school works closely with the burns unit of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital. Dr Martinez said the of 825 learners from Pre-Primary School - Grade 12. The school is situ- project is heavily involved in burn-prevention ated in Observatory, Johannesburg. It has a strong tradition of high education with children around the Western quality, values-based education which seeks to ensure its learners are Cape and said their long-term goal was to build a dedicated Burn Rehabilitation Centre. well prepared for the challenges they face in a changing world. A fundraising and awareness campaign will Applicants must have a personal assistant/secretarial qualification and be held on November 13 at the One & Only be highly skilled in Windows 2007. A minimum of 5 years experience Hotel’s ballroom at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Dr Jenny Edge, a general surgeon at in a secretarial position is also required. Experience of working in a Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, will be school will be an advantage. speaking about the origins and history of Guy Fawkes day, the excitement and also some of the Please email your application to [email protected] or fax it to dangers of fireworks. 011 648 5204. The function will include an auction, with Sacred Heart College reserves the right not to proceed with filling the objects including a rugby jersey signed by Stormers players up for grabs. Tickets for the post advertised. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you event cost R200 and funds raised will aid burn have not been contacted with regard to an interview by 5 November survivors. 2010, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful.  For more information contact Andiswa at 021 234 5678 or andiswa@catalystcommunica tions.co.za. Visit the PBP at www.pbp.org.za. LOCAL The Southern Cross, Ocotber 27 to November 2, 2010 33

Margherita Blaser of Clare- German Cultural Weeks mont, Cape Town, this month celebrated her 106th birth- day. Mrs Blaser, mother of Fr Emil Blaser OP, is an avid educate and entertain gardener having cross-polli- nated the yellow Clivia pic- BY CLAIRE MATHIESON work. South Africa, and that we still tured. She was overjoyed at Human rights was high on have a long way to go.” all the attention received. Mrs HE German Cultural the agenda over the course of Forthcoming events include Blaser was mentioned in Weeks currently being numerous newspaper articles the festivities. A public dia- an exhibition titled “The and radio broadcasts, with Theld in Cape Town have logue, “A New South African Human Abused” at the District seen a variety of festivities friends and family paying HIV/Aids Policy: Reason for Six Museum, photographic special tribute to the cente- ranging from music concerts Hope?” was held at Cape exhibitions at the Erdmann to debates and public discus- narian. Archbishop Stephen Town’s Centre for the Book. Contemporary Gallery, a the- Brislin of Cape Town and sion. Guest speakers included for- atre production, The Flying Western Cape premier Helen The celebrations are aimed mer deputy minister of Dutchman at Artscape Theatre Zille (pictured) paid a special at bringing the German com- defence and health, Nozizwe in November, as well as vari- visit to Mrs Blaser on her munity closer together and Madlala Routledge, who now ous other festivities to be held birthday. educating others on German leads the South African Secre- in and around the city until culture and its various facets tariat of the Coalition Against February. after 20 years of German unity Trafficking in Women and the According to the German and freedom in South Africa. Embrace Dignity Campaign. consul-general, Hans-Werner Fr Stefan Hippler, former Other speakers included Chris Bussmann, South Africa and chaplain to Cape Town’s Ger- Bate from the South African Germany have more in com- man-speaking Catholic com- Journal of Medicine, and Fr mon than people realise. munity, described the weeks as Hippler, the co-founder of the Mr Bussmann said: “Both a place of exchange of minds Aids project HOPE, a non-prof- nations have more in com- and hearts. it organisation providing out- mon: much was achieved but “Generally the German Cul- reach, education and coun- not all expectations materi- tural Weeks are intended to selling that focuses on alised. Therefore, some events bring German culture close to HIV/Aids and tuberculosis. of the 2010 German Cultural the hearts of South Africans,” Fr Hippler said one of the Weeks are meant to look back he said. most interesting aspects of the and to look forward together.” Festivities kicked off on debate was the issue of coun- Fr Hippler added: “It is so Germany’s national day, Octo- selling those diagnosed with important to be reminded of ber 11, at the City Hall where HIV. the injustice in our world and the Federal German Lawyers Another was how govern- of the burden, the cruelty, the Orchestra performed. ment is dealing with non-gov- suffering of people. Good Fri- Fr Hippler said the event ernmental organisaions that day happens every day in was a “good opportunity to are involved with HIV every country and we cannot connect with a lot of people, patients. close our eyes as Christians as fellow citizens, but also repre- “The audience should take long as one fellow man is not sentatives in politics and with them [the notion] that living in dignity and according churches”. He said it was a we are on the right path, but to the human rights”. place to mingle and to have ways away from achieving the  For more information visit side chats important for the ultimate goal: an HIV-free www.kapstadt.diplo.de. Spreading the word BY CLAIRE MATHIESON OR the past three years, the School of Evangelisation Fhas been responding active- ly to Pope John Paul II’s call to proclaim the Good News. The school, dedicated to Our Lady of the Visitation, has held courses across the Western Cape and hopes to grow through its forthcoming schools programme. Using the motto from Mark’s gospel, “Go out to the whole The School of Evangelisation in Cape Town held their most recent world; proclaim the Good course in Grassy Park, Cape Town. Pictured are the graduates. News!”, the school has offered various courses since 2007 with ing courses. Subsequently, More than 175 people in the the goal of creating disciples. groups in Athlone, Lentegeur, Western Cape have attended Barbara Ramsden, who spoke Grassy Park and Macassar have courses and have carried out FRANCISCAN NARDINI SISTERS on behalf of the Catholic graduated. the principal objective of the School of Evangelisation, said “Each group now works courses: “To form disciples who one of the most exciting things within their parish in close in turn will be able to form has been the growth of the association with their priests other disciples, working within school as “some of these ‘disci- and pastoral councils, introduc- their parishes in all aspects of ples’ will study further and in ing what they have learnt and ministry,” Ms Ramsden said. due course form other disciples undoubtedly, with the grace of The school will be launching within their parishes”. God, enriching the life of each a programme aimed at schools According to Ms Ramsden, to whom we are dedicated as a in 2011. eight parishioners from Dur- parish.”  For more information contact banville were the first to com- Similar schools exist in over Deacon Piet Philander at plete all four of the initial train- 60 other countries. 084 827 1634.

Blessed Paul Joseph Nardini

For more information, contact the Vocation Team at P/Bag X9309 PO Box 194 PO Box 12 Vryheid 3100 Wasbank 2920 Nkandla 3855

Tel: 034 981 6158 034 651 1444 035 833 0033 Fax: 034 983 2012 034 651 1096 035 833 0317

E-mail E-mail: E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 44 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 INTERNATIONAL New saints ‘a shining example’ BY JOHN THAVIS difficult territory of rural Australia, ca behind the papal altar, and & CINDY WOODEN inspiring other women to join her many pilgrims carried their own in the country’s first community personal pictures of the saints. OPE Benedict proclaimed six of religious women. The others canonised were Ss new saints, including an Aus- Canadians cheered the canoni- Camilla Battista Varano (1458- Ptralian and a Canadian sation of André Bessette (1845- 1524), Stanislaw Soltys (1433-89), brother, calling them “shining 1937), a doorman known for his Giulia Salzano (1846-1929), and examples” of holiness and the devotional practices and his heal- Juana Cipitria Barriola (1845- power of prayer. ing touch. He became known as 1912). Thousands of pilgrims from the “Miracle Man of Montreal”. In his homily, the pope said the Australia applauded and waved The pope said St Bessette new saints exemplified the effec- their national flags after the pope tiveness of prayer as an expression pronounced the formula of canon- “showed boundless charity and of faith. isation in St Peter’s Square for did everything to soothe the “Sometimes we get tired of Mother Mary MacKillop, who edu- despair of those who confided in praying, we have the impression cated poor children in the Aus- him”. Although he had little tralian outback in the late 19th instruction, he “understood what that prayer is not very useful in century. She became the country’s was essential to the faith” and had life, that it is not terribly effective. first saint. an intense prayer life. So we are tempted to dedicate our- Tapestries showing Ss André Bessette, Mary MacKillop and Camilla Battista In his homily, Pope Benedict Relics of the six saints were selves to activity, to using all Varano hang from the façade of St Peter’s basilica. The three were among said St MacKillop (1842-1909) was brought to the altar during the human means to achieve our six new saints proclaimed by Pope Benedict. PHOTO: PAUL HARING, CNS a model of “zeal, perseverance and two-hour liturgy. Tapestry por- aims, and without turning to prayer” as she dedicated herself to traits of the newly canonised hung God.” The canonisation brought Parkinson’s disease 27 months was wrong, “but I know I’ve been the education of the poor in the from the façade of St Peter’s basili- some 8 000 Australian pilgrims to ago. healed”. Rome, where Australian Visiting her grave in Sydney in Diane Guillemette from Mon- flags waved in abundance 2008, “I prayed, ‘Lord, I’ve asked treal said that when her mother during the papal liturgy. Mary to pray with me. I’d love was 16 years old, “she had a prob- CONGREGATION Each of the thousands nothing more than to leave this lem with her ear and she went to of pilgrims who flocked to disease and the tremors buried in Br André [Bessette] and he healed OF St Peter’s Square had a spe- the soil with Mary, if it is your her”. cial reason for being there. will’. We had a 10-minute walk Ms Guillemette, a member of Ricky Peterson, a 50- back to the train and it was on the the Pilgrims of St Michael, a lay MARIANNHILL year-old American from train that I realised the tremor was missionary movement, said that Kansas City, credits the gone,” he said. for her, “Br André is an example of MISSIONARIES intercession of St MacKil- Mr Peterson said his doctor now patience, humility and love of lop with healing him of thinks the Parkinson’s diagnosis work”.—CNS Belgian archbishop: I didn’t say

Ora et Labora Aids is a divine punishment BY JONATHAN LUXMOORE Mr Mettepenningen said of inherent justice, not at all a The Congregation of the Missionaries of Mariannhill, CMM, sprung from Archbishop Léonard had been punishment—a bit like when, at the Trappist Monastery of Mariannhill founded by Abbot Francis Pfanner in SPOKESMAN for the concerned to highlight the risks the ecological level, we mistreat South Africa in 1882. We believe that: “Our missionary field is the King- archbishop of Mechelen- facing those with “multiple sex- the environment, it ends up dom of God and that has not boundaries!” Faithful to the example of Abbot ABrussels has defended the ual partners”, who should mistreating us in turn,” said the prelate’s comment about Aids, recognise Aids was a potential archbishop, who succeeded Car- Francis Pfanner, the Mariannhill Brothers and Priests try to be of service to after the archbishop was widely “consequence of their own dinal Godfried Danneels as the local church through pastoral, social and development works. We make criticised for describing the dis- behaviours”. head of the archdiocese in Janu- our contribution to the call for renewing, uplifting, developing and sustain- ease as “a sort of inherent jus- “The archbishop hasn’t sug- ary. tice”. ing the human spirit, as our response to the signs and needs of the time. In gested Aids as a whole is an “When one mistreats human “The problem here in Bel- inherent justice. He’s already love, perhaps it will finish by our missionary life of Prayer and Work (Ora et Labora), we try to effective- gium is that most people have clarified this carefully, so it’s taking its revenge, even without ly proclaim the Good News to all people, especially to the poor and needy, only read one passage from this hard to see what else he can there needing to be a transcen- so that there are “Better Fields, Better Houses, Better Hearts!” book, and not in the sense it do.” dental cause. Perhaps it’s a mat- was intended,” said Jürgen Met- In a 2006 book of interviews ter of some inherent justice— To know more about us contact: tepenningen, spokesman for with French journalists although where immediate Director of Vocations Archbishop André-Joseph Dominique Minten and Louis causes are concerned, it’s doc- PO Box 11363, Mariannhill, 3601 Léonard of Mechelen-Brussels. Mathoux, which was repub- tors who are best able to say “The whole discussion has lished in an updated Dutch edi- where this illness comes from or PO Box 85, Umtata, 5099 been around one sentence in a tion this month, Archbishop and how it’s transmitted.” book, when he was asked if Aids Léonard said Aids was a Some members of the Bel- was a punishment from God. He reminder that “mistreating the gian Parliament called the arch- replied that it wasn’t, but that it deep nature of human love bishop’s comment “stupid and could be a kind of inherent jus- always ends up spawning cata- discriminatory” and called on tice for some people—a conse- strophes at all levels”. other legislators to condemn quence of personal behaviour.” “I see in this epidemic a sort it.—CNS Pope: We need pastors BY JOHN THAVIS N a letter to the world’s seminarians, Pope Benedict said that in the face of widespread Ireligious indifference and the recent moral failings of clergy, the world needs priests and pastors who can serve God and bring God to others. The pope encouraged seminarians to over- come any doubts about the value of the priest- hood and priestly celibacy that may have been prompted by priests who “disfigured” their min- istry by sexually abusing children. The papal letter was an unexpected postscript to the Year for Priests, which ended in June. Today, the pope said, many people are no longer aware of God and instead seek escape in euphoria and violence. The priesthood is viewed as outmoded, yet priestly ministry is crucial in helping people see God’s presence in the world. As a result of all the abuse scandals, he said, “many people, perhaps even some of you, might ask whether it is good to become a priest; whether the choice of celibacy makes any sense as a truly human way of life. Yet even the most reprehensible abuse cannot discredit the priestly mission, which remains great and pure”. He expressed gratitude for the many exem- plary priests who demonstrate that ordained ministers can live a life of celibacy and give wit- ness to an “authentic, pure and mature humani- ty”. At the same time, he said that in the wake of sex abuse cases, the Church must be “all the For further info, contact: more watchful and attentive” in evaluating Vocations Director, St Norbert’s Priory vocations. PO Box 48106, Kommetjie, 7976 (Cape Town) Growth in human maturity was one of sever- OR Tel 021 783 1768 Fax 021 783 3742 al elements the pope underlined in priestly for- mation.—CNS INTERNATIONAL The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 55 24 new cardinals named; four from Africa

BY JOHN THAVIS have 62 of the 121 potential cardi- nal electors. OPE Benedict has named 24 Roman curia elector cardinals new cardinals, including four would number 37, about 30% of PAfricans. They will be formal- the total. ly installed at a special consistory The pope named four Africans at the Vatican on November 20. as cardinals, including Coptic The new cardinals come from Patriarch of 13 countries on five continents, Alexandria, , who has been and their number include ten Ital- in the spotlight recently as the Among the newly-named cardinals are (from left) Archbishops , , , Laurent ians. The pope named ten Roman recording secretary for the October Mosengwo, , Paolo Sardi, , and Patriarch Antonios Naguib. PHOTOS FROM CNS curia officials—a higher number Synod of Bishops for the Middle than expected—along with ten res- East. idential archbishops and four Also named were Congolese Council for Promoting Christian Archbishop José Manuel Estepa ian Archbishop Raymundo Dama- prelates over the age of 80. One Llaurens, 84, former military ordi- sceno Assis of Aparecida; Italian Archbishop Laurent Monsengwo Unity; Italian Archbishop Gian- unusual aspect of the pope’s list nary of Spain; German Mgr Walter Archbishop of Paler- Pasinya of Kinshasa, 71, a biblical franco Ravasi, prefect of the Pon- was that two of the residential Brandmüller, 81, retired president mo; Ecuadoran Archbishop Raúl scholar and activist in justice and tifical Council for Culture; US archbishops were retired. Archbishop Raymond Burke, of the Pontifical Committee for Eduardo Vela Chiriboga of Quito; peace issues; Guinean Archbishop The November ceremony will head of the Supreme Court of the Historical Sciences; and Italian German Archbishop Reinhard Robert Sarah, president of the mark the third time Pope Benedict Apostolic Signature; Italian Arch- Mgr Domenico Bartolucci, 93, Marx of Munich and Freising; Pontifical Council Cor Unum, 65; has created cardinals since his elec- bishop Fortunato Baldelli, head retired director of the Sistine Archbishop , and retired Zambian Archbishop tion in April 2005. After the con- of the , a Chapel Choir. archpriest of the basilica of St Medardo Joseph Mazombwe, 79, sistory, he will have appointed Vatican tribunal; Italian Archbish- The other cardinals-designate Paul’s Outside the Walls; and Ital- who has helped mediate political about 40% of the cardinals cur- op Velasio De Paolis, president of are US Archbishop Donald Wuerl ian Archbishop Paolo Sardi, pro- disputes in his country. rently under the age of 80 and the Prefecture for the Economic of Washington; Polish Archbishop patron of the Sovereign Military The pope named a single Asian, therefore eligible to vote in a con- Affairs of the , who was of Warsaw; Brazil- Order of Malta.—CNS a former collaborator in the clave to elect a new pope. recently named as an inter- Roman curia: Sri Lankan Archbish- The consistory will leave the im leader of the Legionaries op Pof Colom- with 203 of Christ while the order bo, 62. He was formerly a secretary members, a new record. Of those, undergoes a reorganisation. 121 will be under age 80, one of the Vatican’s worship congrega- tion. The pope named four car- more than a numerical limit of dinals who are over the age 120 that has often been waived. In addition to Cardinal-desig- Seven cardinals will turn 80 over nate Sarah, the curial officials of 80 and who were “distin- the next six months. named included Italian Archbish- guished for their generosity Pope Benedict’s latest appoint- op , prefect of the and dedication in service of ments left geographical balances Congregation for Saints’ Causes; the Church”. relatively unchanged among vot- Italian Archbishop Mauro Piacen- They are Italian Bishop ing members of the College of Car- za, prefect of the Congregation for Elio Sgreccia, 82, retired dinals, although it bolstered the Clergy; Swiss Archbishop Kurt president of the Pontifical European presence, which will Koch, president of the Pontifical Academy for Life; Spanish Anglican bishop ready to move BY SIMON CALDWELL ed requests for a means of group protect the rights of objectors. reception from disaffected Angli- They believe they can force the HE bishop who leads the can bishops around the world. Church of England to recognise largest Anglo-Catholic group The structures will resemble mili- the newly established Society of St Tin the Church of England tary dioceses and allow former Wilfrid and St Hilda as an Angli- said he plans to resign by the end Anglican communities to retain can equivalent of the Catholic of the year, become Catholic and their distinctive patrimony and ordinariate that would offset the join a personal ordinariate when practices, including married many possible defections to the it is established in England and priests. Catholic Church. Wales. Bishop Broadhurst decided to “I am not retiring, I am resign- The society will be nearly iden- enter the Catholic faith after the tical in structure to a Catholic ing,” Bishop John Broadhurst of General Synod of the Church of Fulham told a meeting of Forward ordinariate, having no women England voted in July to ordain priests or bishops, and its mem- in Faith, the traditionalist group women as bishops by 2014 with- bers will be served by their own of which he is chairman. out provisions to satisfy Anglicans Bishop Broadhurst told who objected. bishop rather than the local Catholic News Service that he was The bishop’s announcement diocesan bishop. “absolutely, absolutely” certain came two weeks after St Peter’s A spokesman for the Catholic that a personal ordinariate would parish in Folkestone, within the Bishops’ Conference of England soon come into existence in Eng- Anglican archdiocese of Canter- and Wales said that no timetable land, but did not know exactly bury, became the first to vote to had been agreed on for the estab- when. join a future ordinariate. lishment of an ordinariate. Pope Benedict established the Several Anglican organisations He said the bishops were await- mechanisms to create personal have reacted to mounting specu- ing confirmation from the Con- ordinariates last November lation of many more conversions gregation for the Doctrine of the through his apostolic constitution by announcing in a statement Faith that there was sufficient Anglicanorum coetibus (“Groups of that they can amend the church’s interest in the ordinariate before it Anglicans”) in response to repeat- legislation on women bishops to could be set up.—CNS 50 000 births at Bethlehem hospital BY JUDITH SUDILOVSKY OLY Family Hospital, situ- ated just a few hundred Hmetres from the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem, marked a milestone on October 18 with the birth of its 50 000th baby since opening in 1990. Hafsah Radaydiah, 19, a first- year student, gave birth to her first child, Aisha, after three hours in labour. She and her hus- band Isam, a 24-year-old labour- er, are from the West Bank vil- lage of Ebiedieh, just outside of Beit Sahour. The Catholic hospital, run by the Order of Malta, is also mark- ing the 20th anniversary of the partnership between the order Isam Radaydiah, 24, holds his newborn daughter, Aisha, while his wife and the Daughters of Charity. Hafsah, 19, rests after delivery at Holy Family Hospital in Bethlehem. “It is really something won- Aisha was the 50 000th baby born at the maternity hospital since its derful for her to have been the opening in 1990. Operated by the Order of Malta, the hospital is located 50 000th baby born here. This is within a few hundred metres from the traditional site of the birthplace of good luck for us,” said Mrs Jesus. PHOTO: DEBBIE HILL,CNS Radaydiah, a Muslim. Like many young Palestinian just wanted her daughter to be was pleased that the baby was a women, Mrs Radaydiah, the “raised in a good way”, to have a girl. youngest of eight children, said good education and to be happy. “Women are symbolic of the she intended to continue study- “When she finishes with the future, and here in this country ing to complete her degree. university, then I will let her we have to work a lot for the Though the birth brought marry,” said the new mother. women of Palestine to get their with it a bit of fanfare from the Dr Jacques Keutgen, general rights, including decent health hospital, Mrs Radaydiah said she manager of the hospital, said he care,” he said.—CNS 66 The Southern Cross, October 20 to October 26, 2010 LETTERS PAGE The editorial appears on page 1 this week The Editor reserves the right to shorten or edit published letters. Letters below 300 words receive preference. Pseudonyms are acceptable only under special LETTERS TO circumstances and at the Editor’s discretion. Name and address of the writer Precedent for lay involvement THE EDITOR must be supplied. No anonymous letter will be considered. T Mass in late September we the list of the Conference’s depart- disappointed. Having told us that Dominican Sisters. ment of the SACBC Foundation to received brochures advertising ments, offices and associate bodies “We ARE the Church”, why was it The value of the trust’s property concretise the notion that “You Athe newly-created SACBC gives us all an idea of the huge con- felt necessary to have only the five will certainly exceed R50 million ARE the Church” by inviting a few Foundation, asking us to contribute tribution the Church makes to archbishops as trustees? Surely this which the SACBC Foundation seeks suitably qualified laypeople and reli- to it either directly or in the form of wider society, especially in the was an ideal opportunity to recog- to raise. gious to join one or two of the arch- a bequest. social sphere. nise the responsibility, competence It is stipulated in the trust’s bishops as trustees. That this would I would like to thank the bish- The commitment that the foun- and right of laypeople in the tem- founding deed that at least half of have sent out an affirmatory and dation’s financial and narrative poral affairs of the Church? the trustees be laypeople. At the ops’ conference for this important constructive message of joint reports will be publicly accessible is There is a very clear local prece- moment, of the six trustees, only lay/clerical responsibility for the initiative. There is no doubt, as the also welcome; as is the statement dent for such lay involvement. In two are clergy; the others are a reli- brochure says, that we need to do that “You ARE the Church”, which the archdiocese of Cape Town a gious sister, who is also the chair- future of the local Church is self- more to support our local Church; is obviously aimed primarily at the Catholic Schools Trust has been person, and three laypeople with evident. we cannot expect to rely on “over- laity, who will contribute the great established to take over ownership expertise in education, finance and I assume that this possibility seas” funding forever. majority of the funds. of the schools currently owned by law. If a vote has to be taken, a sim- must have been discussed, and for The brochure outlines the great When I came to the last of the the archdiocese. In due course it ple majority suffices. some reason rejected. It would be variety of work undertaken by the “questions and answers” in the will also take ownership of some of It seems a pity that the opportu- interesting to know why. Church in so many fields. Reading brochure, though, I found myself the schools belonging to the Cabra nity was not taken at the establish- Mike Pothier, Cape Town

beeswax”. and your heart and you shall hear most leave the practice of their God and true man, and accepts Hangberg: the We know God is merciful, but he my footsteps of my Return. the fig faith. If the faith has been taught as him as his own Saviour, the salva- is also full of justice, justice must tree has ripened and soon you shall a series of facts, of do’s and don’ts, tion that is offered to the whole of other side? run its course with these priests eat its fruit.” as a sort of philosophy without mankind, will be of no avail to USUALLY look forward to read- before we dish out ladles of mercy I ask you: is this message irrele- stressing the person of Jesus as the him.” ing Mphuthumi Ntabeni's towards them. God has given us the vant? Is it contrary to revelation in centre of ourselves, as Lord and Sav- We need to introduce lapse Imonthly column, but he got it ability to discern good from evil Scripture? iour, in a relationship empowered Catholics to Jesus, before getting totally wrong regarding the unfortu- and we must used this for sound Stand by the Scriptures by all by the Holy Spirit, we are putting them back to Mass. nate situation in Hangberg (October judgment in these crimes. the cart before the horse. Scripture means including the part that says: John Lee, Cape Town 13). We are talking about 20 unoc- Romina Rubin, Pretoria. “A child of God listens to his voice.” reading, prayer, Mass and the sacra- cupied, illegal structures erected on Since God has expressly revealed his ments will then have no appeal at Being part of the the slopes of a heritage site and in Hearing God divine wish that we celebrate the all. the middle of a fire break. feast of his divine mercy on the Is it any wonder that worldwide, It is indeed sad that some of the T is a bold heart that will say to Sunday Mass attendance is said to Church Sunday after Easter, who are we UR church—the holy people were injured, but they were the Lord: “Do not speak!” It is a who claim to love and obey him, to be at an all time low of 2%? Only Catholic Church—is one of a far from “innocent bystanders”. Iperverse heart that says: “After gainsay him? Let us align ourselves about 10% of Catholics are effec- kind in the world. From afar There is photographic evidence of the revelation in the Scriptures, the with His wishes; He is our King after tively evangelised, that is, brought O those very same people hurling Lord is forbidden to speak,” and a all. into an effective relationship with it is surrounded in mystery. There is petrol bombs, broken bottles and foolish heart that says: “What He Wake up, soldier of Christ! Jesus Christ. The very term evange- only one way to understand and stones at Metro Police, some of has to say now is not important— I Gail Ramplen, Benoni lisation has, for us, a Protestant ring that is by looking at her from with- whom were also seriously injured. am not obliged to listen.” to it. in. We, as young people, should I was actually relieved when I If we obey the first command- The Church is highly institution- start learning about the Church and heard that the Catholic Church did ment, which is to love God with all alised, sacramental and hierarchical become involved in the daily life of not participate in this so-called our heart and strength, won’t we Show lapse in its structures. Absorbed in the the parish. It is important for us to “Peace March”. We cannot condone yearn with all our hearts to hear Catholics Jesus inner problems of the Church, and serve God by serving the Church. such illegal activities. what he says? Why do we think occasionally in issues of peace and Many of us, after our confirma- OME years ago, a close relative This poor community is being that the only one who speaks is justice, contemporary Catholics tion, have taken time out and think of mine, after attending a funer- used by organisations with their Satan and fear to hear any message have relatively little interest in we can return to the Church when al, decided to start attending own agendas who have no inten- that claims to come from God? S spreading the faith. “Mission” was we are much older. We tend to Why do we give all the power to Sunday Mass again, after being a tion of assisting this community. primarily in bringing Protestants to make God our last priority and put There is also a section of criminal Satan? lapse Catholic for over 30 years. Per- see truths of the claims of the We say we are traditionalist and haps the thought of his own death the pleasures of the modern world activity within this community. Catholic Church. Catholics were to first. This is not the way to go. Let Teresa Omodeo, Cape Town stick to the Scriptures, but have we put the fear of God in him—not a show Protestants that Christ had understood them? Isn’t the second bad thing. I was naturally over- us learn about the Church now and founded a hierarchical Church. The make ourselves available to the place in the Kingdom, after that of joyed. focus was more on authority than Our common sense many groups within our spiritual the Apostles, given to the prophets? But I was saddened when recent- on content. N “Open Door”, October 1, I was So why do we keep “killing” God’s ly he stopped attening Mass saying The more evangelical focus in family, for example, to youth extremely disappointed by messengers/prophets? Most proba- that he got “nothing out of Mass” the post-conciliar writings of the groups, teaching catechism, and so IMichael Shackleton’s “Just over- bly because we give the power to and told his priest in confession popes is one of the most surprising forth. look, forgive and don’t judge” Satan and are comfortable with the that he could think of nothing to and important developements in To all the young people out response to parishioners regarding deceptions—fearing perhaps that confess. He was active as a reader the Catholic Church since Vatican there who are already taking part, the abuse of minors by priests. God will give us a message that and helped with the decoration of II. we say a big thank you. Each one of (“Open Door”, October1). He com- won’t suit us! What about the gifts the sanctuary among other things. We cannot stress the following us is personally known and loved pletely demolished the weapons of the Holy Spirit? Don’t we believe He told me he had no prayer life words enough: they were written by by God as members in Christ and with which we have to use our in them anymore? What will we at all, had forgotten how to pray, Pope Leo the Great, 5th century we must return this love by serving common sense in such matters. respond to God when he asks: but kept Rosary beads next to his Doctor of the Church: “Unless a the Church. Forgiveness is a basic tenet of “Why wouldn’t you listen?” bed. Whenever I spoke to him man believes in Jesus Christ, true So let us go out there and show Christianity, but we know there is a Hear this from the revelations to directly about the Lord and whether others that there is life and vitality difference between those who suffer the Vassula Ryden: “....I, your he had a relationship with Jesus in the Church. Let’s make a differ- Opinions expressed in The Southern for doing good and those who suf- Christ, come to ravish your heart Christ, he would angrily reply with ence for we are the future of the fer through their sinful choices. Cross, especially in Letters to the Editor, with my Song of Love and delight the words “To change the subject, Church. There is light in the In Matthew 18:15, Jesus tells us my heart; do not say: I sought him, ...” Any mention of the Lord do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or staff of the newspaper, or of the Church, be part of it. Make it shine “If your brother does something but I did not find him; I called to seemed to embarrass him. Catholic hierarchy. The letters page in par- ever brighter until Christ comes wrong...and refuses to listen, treat him, but he did not answer; I wait- When we Catholics encounter a ticular is a forum in which readers may again. him as an outcast.” We are also ed for him, but he did not come; loved one who no longer attends exchange opinions on matters of debate. exhorted to always be on the look- seek me beloved ones in simplicity Mass, most of us will try our best to Letters must not be understood to neces- Boshom Mpetsheni and Oupa out for our enemy, the devil, not of heart and you will find me; call get the person back to Mass. I see sarily reflect the teachings, disciplines or Matseke, St Kitzo Seminary, just to adopt an attitude of “see no me from the core of your heart and now that the lack of being effective- policies of the Church accurately. Johannesburg evil, hear no evil, mind your own I shall answer you, open your ears ly evangelised is the reason why More on page 27 Matron/Administrator URSULINE SISTERS OF THE ROMAN UNION HOLY SITES TRAVEL needed at “LEAD A NEW LIFE” HOLY LAND PILGRIMAGES St Anne's Home for Aged Women MARCH 2011 “WHEREVER THEY ARE, THEY SHOULD SEEK TO Live-in position in Edenvale, SPREAD PEACE AND CONCORD.” ST BERNADETTE’S Johannesburg. FROM THE SECOND COUNCIL OF ST ANGELA MERICI. LENTEN JOURNEY Nursing qualifications essential. with Fr. Gregory Mitchell Administration Skills an advantage. Please phone Audrey Henry on Call Elna at 082 975-0034, E-Mail: 011 618-1533 (CWL Head Office) [email protected], www.holysites.co.za or on 082 331 7274

“ALWAYS LET YOUR PRINCIPAL CB INDUSTRIAL AND RECOURSE BE TOGETHER AT THE FEET OF JESUS CHRIST AND... JESUS CHRIST FASTENER SUPPLIERS WILL BE IN YOUR MIDST.” FROM THE Engineering Supplies, Power Tools, LAST LEGACY OF ST ANGELA MERICI. Hardware, Lifting Equipment, Bolts, Nuts, all types of Fasteners in MS/SS/HDG Contact Mervyn Francis, 082 353 5591 Crn Wright & Davies St, Sidwell, Port Elizabeth E-mail: [email protected] For more information: Tel: 041 453 7536 The Vocations Promoter Tel: 011 706 3520 PO Box 235 www.ursulines.org.za Fax: 041 453 6022 RANT-EN-DAL, 1751 Fax: 011 953 3406 [email protected] The Church and us: then and now 1837, but it wasn’t until 1925 that Much has changed since The the first South African-born bishop Southern Cross was first pub- was consecrated. The Kimberley- born Bishop David O’Leary headed lished on October 16, 1920. what is now known as the archdio- CLAIRE MATHISON looks at cese of Johannesburg. the Church and society then Not only were the clergy for- eign, but the liturgy was also dis- and now. tinctly foreign. Going to Church in 1920—and for the next 50 INETY years ago there were years—was a time when Mass was no computers, antibiotics, “said” (and not celebrated) in Nmicrowave ovens or aerosol Latin by a priest whose back was Above: The Southern Cross is sprays. Most people in this coun- turned to the people, when only promoted during Press Sunday in try did not have the vote (not an epistle was read from the New 1928 in Durban. even women), purchases were Testament prior to the Gospel, and Below: Reflection on the May 1929 made with pounds and tickeys, fasting began at midnight the Eucharistic Congress in Durban. and Afrikaans was not yet an offi- evening before receiving Commu- cial language. World War I had nion whilst kneeling. While many ended just two years earlier, and liturgical traditions continue, the the Boer War was still fresh in the Second Vatican Council’s Constitu- population’s memory tion on the Sacred Liturgy intends A bound volume for 1939 lies open in The Southern Cross’ library which Even the country as we know it for the Mass to be “full, conscious includes every issue published since the newspaper first appared on October today did not exist. In 1920, the and active participation” by the 16, 1920. The opened edition announces the appointment of Bishop Colbert as Union of South Africa, just ten congregation. new prefect apostolic for the Eastern Cape vicariate. years old, was a very different Today, the Catholic Church in PHOTO: CLAIRE MATHIESON place. Both country and Church South Africa is led by the Southern have seen many changes in the African Catholic Bishops’ Confer- Dr Joy Brain, South Africa’s thought of interreligious activities cerns as mining magnate De Beers nine decades that followed—and ence (SACBC) whose 30 bishops The Southern Cross kept up with leading Church historian, told The and there was less “religious indif- had retrenched many workers in serve a population of 3,1 million Southern Cross that the biggest ference among young people”. the area. both. Catholics in a country of nearly 50 When The Southern Cross first change between the Church now Today, by contrast, there is far Even the regular “The Catholic million people. and then was the attitude of greater anti-religious sentiment, Mother and her Home” column appeared, Jan Smuts was prime In 1920 foreign missionaries minister, the country was divided Catholics in the Union. Today, she more interreligious work and soft- compassionately noted in Novem- were prominent in Africa; today noted, Catholics are represented in er Catholic pride. ber of that year: “There is no into just four provinces and was the continent represents the made up of 67% black, 21% white, all facets of South African life. Dr Brain said the Catholic pop- doubt that life today is far more largest area of growth for the “There were not very many ulation of 1920 was supportive of difficult for the housewife and 9% coloured and 3% Asian people. Church. Today, Africa exports mis- Bishops John Rooney, Hugh Mac- Catholics and there was a good missions but was not wealthy. mother than before.” Modern sionaries to Europe. deal of anti-Catholic prejudice so They were loyal to the Church, readers may echo the sentiment, Sherry, Charles Cox OMI and According to David Barrett’s Henri DeLalle OMI presided over that in effect it was a ‘fortress but did not experience much albeit for different reasons (wash- “Annual Statistical Table on Global church’, in that Catholics were growth. ing clothes certainly has become a vicariates—proper dioceses were Mission”, there were 8,7 million not established until 1951—and close together, firmly loyal to the Much as the facts and figures much simpler task since then). African Christians in 1900; there Church and always on the defen- may have changed, some basic In 1920 the Jesuit Fathers pope was Benedict XV. are 389 million African Christians The majority of clergy were mis- sive.” themes covered by the Catholic opened a mission station in Port today. Nearly half of those are It was in that atmosphere that media have remained constant. Alfred in the Eastern Cape, sionaries, many of them from Catholic. In South Africa there are France and Ireland. the bishops in 1919 decided to Early editions of The Southern Catholics in Port Elizabeth con- more than 3 million Catholics, launch a popular Catholic weekly Cross report on the concern of gratulated new mayor Mr W F Sav- The Catholic roots in South with the archdiocese of Johannes- Africa go back to the late 15th cen- newspaper for the Catholics of the local Catholics shown for the age, the English Catholic Social burg representing the biggest Union. political upheaval in Ireland, Guild issued an appeal for arbitra- tury, when Portuguese explorer Catholic community, with nearly Bartholomew Diaz rounded the debate on the use of money to tion in response to the coal crisis, 900 000. In 1910, South African Cape of Good Hope, planting he late Archbishop Dennis Hur- build new facilities, and the need and the newest churches in Cape Catholics numbered 92 840. crosses along his journey. He Tley of Durban remembered how for Catholics—at least those who Town were those of the Holy Cross According to the SACBC web- arranged for the first ever Mass in sensitive to criticism Catholics were enfranchised—to exercise Sisters. It was a time when the site, the Southern African Catholic South Africa, near modern-day were and how strongly the Church their right to vote in the forthcom- South African Air Force was estab- Church has shown “remarkable” Port Elizabeth, in 1488. was defended against Protestants. ing elections. lished, the League of Nations’ The first bishop in South Africa signs of growth throughout the One of the events that would help One 1920 article reminds read- Treaty of Versailles went into was the Dominican Raymond Grif- 20th century. “Long seen as a for- define growing Catholic pride in ers of the importance of a Catholic effect, Prohibition began in the fith in Cape Town (which is still eign church, it has now gained South Africa was the Eucharistic education, saying parents were United States, and Finland became regarded as the mother church of influence in all sectors of society,” Congress of 1929 in Durban, which “bound in conscience to send their independent. not only South Africa, but also it said. A total of 6,6% of South he remembered well participating children to Catholic schools”. At The Southern Cross has witnessed Australia and New Zealand), in Africans are Catholic, and 80% of in as a 13-year-old. the same time, the diocese of Kim- many these changes, and has its members are black. Dr Brain said there was no berley was having financial con- adapted with them.

St Mary’s Cathedral, Cape Town, BACK congratulates The Southern Cross COPIES on 90 years of bringing the good To order back news to Christ’s faithful. copies of this May God reward all who have supplement, please contact endeavoured to spread the truth and Avril Hanslo at challenges of the Gospel in (021) 465 5007 or Southern Africa e-mail subscriptions @scross.co.za

Or save it digitally Nazareth House on your computer Durban congratulates by subscribing to The Southern Cross for The Southern 90 years of service to Cross’ the Catholic community DIGITAL EDITION of Southern Africa. We thank you for the many www.scross.co.za/ years of producing a subscribe/ quality newspaper which keeps us informed of our faith and events in the The Church and wider community. Southern Cross 88 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION Looking back: One letter short of heresy GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER were not a perfect match. In was a happy one. December 1994, Noel phoned to Editing any religious publication has worked for The Southern offer me a job on The Southern is an exercise in tapdancing with Cross since January 1995, and Cross, which I accepted. stilts on dental floss in the midst of Fr Bernard left soon after I start- a tornado. This is especially so in a became its editor in 2001. Here ed, to be replaced by Michael newspaper that covers a hierarchi- he looks back at some events Shackleton. Mike and I had an cal church populated by people instant rapport. He appreciated my with widely divergent perspectives in his time with the newspaper. journalistic instincts, mentored me and opinions, and even visions as especially in the ways of the to what their church actually is. HINGS might have turned Church, and gave me much cre- Older readers will remember in out quite differently—I ative freedom. It was a good time particular one regular and very pro- Talmost did not work for The to begin jazzing things up. ductive contributor to the letters Southern Cross. Noel Bruyns also became a close page of The Southern Cross (and to In 1994, after I was interviewed friend. He left The Southern Cross the correspondence columns of the by the editor, the late Fr Bernard half a year after I started, but con- Cape Town dailies, usually on Connor OP, and business manager tinued to contribute to the newspa- Catholic matters). I do not think I Noel Bruyns (who also died far too per—through news reports, a am misrepresenting the late Mr VG young), I was notified that my monthly column on the Internet Davies when I call him a Catholic application had been unsuccessful. and a youth page—until his of conservative leanings. Later I was told that the decisive untimely death in December 2004. I have been told that Mr Davies difference between myself and the Noel was a full-blooded journal- was not at all charmed by my successful applicant was a matter of ist. In that regard, I must mention appointment as editor of The South- R300; the gap in our respective some of the fine journalists I have ern Cross—much as I might not salary expectations. There might had the privilege of working with Günther Simmermacher in April 2005 as the studio guest during e.tv’s live have been terribly impressed had have been more to it, but that was during my time at The Southern transmission of Pope John Paul II’s funeral, hosted by Debra Patta (with an Mr Davies been appointed in my the official logic. Cross. Michail Rassool, now with opened edition of The Southern Cross’ special memorial edition for the pope stead. I do remember, however, that Fr Catholic Welfare & Development, in front of her). Nonetheless, on occasions when Connor was less than intoxicated consistently reflected his deep love he phoned me, our conversation with dazzled exhilaration when I for the Church in his prolific writ- would be very polite. One day, not King SJ, whose reflections on the line would not have withstood the- suggested that The Southern Cross ings over nine years. Gene Donnel- long after I had become editor, Mr was a “staid” newspaper which I ly, who retired this year after 41 Sunday readings have appeared ological scrutiny. Davies telephoned in regard to a would like to help jazz up (or years of service, was a meticulous every week for 18 years. A few weeks later, I was able to change or other in a letter which words to that effect). sub-editor of the old school. return the favour by correcting an he had submitted. As he concluded As an intellectual and academic, Elizabeth Ellis and Terri Dunbar- nd, of course, there was Noel; a advertisement which Noel had the call, he said something quite Fr Connor’s vision for his newspa- Curran were very much of the Atruly gifted all-rounder. Soon made up, apparently for a Divine unexpected: “Mr Simmermacher, I per did not incorporate crazy younger school, but both were very after I started, just as we were going Percy Pilgrimage. “Different audi- really enjoy reading The Southern notions of jazzing things up. He competent and wonderful col- to send the latest issue to the print- ence, I think,” I told him. Cross these days.” later said that he did not care leagues. Terri is now an arts and er, he looked over my shoulder The commission of typographi- In my almost 16 years at this about circulation, only about dis- entertainment journalist with a while I was finishing off a page I cal heresy narrowly dodged, the newspaper, I have received many seminating the content. It’s safe to Cape Town daily; Elizabeth now had been sub-editing, the chil- board of directors evidently regard- kind comments about my work say that this is not the average works in England. dren’s section. He spotted an error ed me a suitable successor to (and that of my colleagues), some newspaper editor’s default posi- I also think of some of the great in a headline that was supposed to Michael Shackleton as editor. from unexpected and even emi- tion. columnists I have worked with, read, innocuously enough, “Jesus is And so, in February 2001, I took nent quarters. But given the source, As it turned out, the successful especially Owen Williams, at my friend”. He pointed out that over a most daunting task. Readers I believe that Mr Davies’ was the applicant (now a senior journalist whose funeral I was honoured to the headline’s noun was missing will have to decide for themselves greatest compliment I have yet herself) and The Southern Cross deliver the eulogy, and Fr Nicholas the letter R. The erroneous head- whether that decision a decade ago received.

The Catholic Order of the Knights of da Gama

The Supreme Knight and Board of Directors of The Catholic Order of the Knights of da Gama congratulate the board, editor and staff of THE SOUTHERN CROSS on the newspaper’s proud achievement in reaching the milestone of 90 years of publication. Ad multos annos! Cell: 082 855 1146 or Fax (013) 656 5885 Email: [email protected] Website: kdg.co.za

THE IRISH SOUTH AFRICAN ASSOCIATION

Congratulates the management and staff of The South- ern Cross on reaching this 90th year milestone

An Irish Blessing: May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, And rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

www.ireland.co.za Phone : Cape Town chapter 021 713 0154 Gauteng chapter 082 555 3939 Email: Cape Town chapter: [email protected] Gauteng chapter: [email protected] JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 99

Looking back: Advertising through the decades

1920s1920s 1930s1930s 1940s1940s

1950s1950s 1960s1960s

1970s1970s 1980s1980s 1990s1990s 2000s2000s 1010 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION A brief history of The Southern Cross assisted by Mr A Donovan, the edi- ficult task, so eager was the rush to GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER tor of the Cape newspaper who secure the long-wished for issue”. had been present at the Old The cathedral’s allocation of 800 looks at the events that have Hibernian breakfast. copies was quickly sold out. shaped The Southern Cross Fr Kelly also arrived at the name South Africa in 1920 was still for the new paper. He liked the relatively hostile territory for over the past 90 years. cleverly punned name of an Angli- Catholics. So in an editorial, Fr can publication he had received Kelly exhorted Catholics not to be HE seeds for a new Catholic once in 1892: The Southern Cross. afraid or ashamed of being seen newspaper were planted over Until it was ascertained that the reading their newspaper in public. breakfast after a Mass for the Anglican Southern Cross was indeed “South African Protestants will T defunct, the newspaper was going respect you South African Association of Old Hibernians in St Michael’s church in Rondebosch, to bear the unhappily strident Catholics all the more for being Cape Town, on March 17, 1917. moniker “The Crusader”. proud of your faith and showing your pride in it,” he wrote. An eminent priest of the vicari- A star is born ate of Natal, Fr L Sormany OMI, Within a few weeks, circulation With a name, structure and communicated to his host, Fr had risen to 6 000, with the enthu- business plan in place, the James Kelly, the need for a popular siastic help of the Society of St Catholic Newspaper & Publishing Catholic weekly newspaper. Fr Vincent de Paul and the Children Company Ltd was floated with a Kelly had no background in jour- of Mary. Still, the newspaper lost capital of £1500, divided into nalism, but was greatly excited by money, necessitating a price These are the participants at the 1919 meeting of bishops and others in shares of £1 each which were sold the idea. The two priests and a few increase in January 1921. The first Durban that committed the local Church to launch a national Catholic weekly. to laity, parishes and religious con- other clerics proceeded to animate annual general meeting, held on In the front are (from left): Mgr Frederick Kolbe, Mgr Kelly of East London, gregations throughout the Union. the idea among the laity and bish- January 22, 1921, found the com- Bishop MacSherry, Bishop Delalle, Bishop Cenez of Basutoland, Mgr Of these shares, 500 were allotted ops. pany in a precarious state of finan- Lanslots OSB of Northern Transvaal, Fr James Kelly (who would become the to the bishops as founders, 750 South Africa’s widely dispersed cial affairs, even as hearty congrat- first editor). In the back row are Oblate Fathers O’Donnell OMI (second from were offered to the public, and 250 bishops, not yet organised into a ulations had been received from left) and Sormany (fourth from left). Fr O’Donnell promoted The Southern were held in reserve with first conference, had the rare opportu- all over the union. Cross while Fr Sormany first raised the idea of a Catholic weekly. option reserved for the bishops. nity to meet in 1919, on the occa- The same year, the newspaper The first board of directors com- sion of the 25th anniversary cele- moved from Rondebosch to prised John McDonald (distiller) as vance Act. Having secured an indi- brations of the priestly ordination Progress Lane, off Strand Street. Its 1930s: Cutting back chairman, Philip Doherty (timber cation that the company would of Natal’s Bishop Henri Delalle new postal address, PO Box 2372, By 1933, the Great Depression merchant), Charles Tayler (retired not face any legal action, it contin- OMI in Durban. has remained unchanged since. In also affected The Southern Cross. In sea captain), WB Eigermann (man- ued to break the Sunday law. A meeting of the bishops at 1927 operations moved to the a gesture of concern for the staff, it ager), WJ Egan (Canadian govern- That way, readers continued to Cathedral House in Durban, Catholic Institute at 11 Hope was agreed in November that year ment trade commissioner), JF enjoy the content which the chair- chaired by Bishop Hugh MacSher- Street, where the newspaper stayed to reduce the cut in salaries from Hartnady (solicitor) and Joseph man of the board at the 1925 AGM ry of the Eastern Cape vicariate until 1959. It has since resided in 10% to 5%. Muller (optician). Mr Doherty died praised fulsomely: “I do not think and with Fr James Kelly and Mgr Plein Street, Roeland Street and in The declining circulation was before the first edition appeared, any Catholic journal in the Frederick Kolbe in attendance, the Cape Town chancery, and the largest in the newspaper’s 13- to be replaced by John Devitt, who world…has such a galaxy of famous resolved that the national Catholic since 1993 in Tuin Plein, near the year history, even if other publica- later served as chairman. The com- writers and contributors writing for weekly should be founded by the cathedral. tions were suffering much worse pany’s first secretary was GW it practically every week.” bishops, and be published by a The paper’s first year was contractions. It would prove diffi- Peart, who would also chair the Among that galaxy was Mgr limited company. marked by editorial acrimony, cult to recapture readers lost dur- board for many years. Frederick Kolbe, the intellectual The meeting suggested that the especially between Mr Donovan ing the hard years of 1930-34, After months of promotion— giant of the local Church who had new venture should be edited by a and Fr Kelly. Forced to choose because they had dropped out of especially by Durban’s Fr O’Don- been present at the bishops’ meet- layman, but Bishop MacSherry between the journalist and the the habit of buying The Southern nell OMI, who tirelessly toured the ing that decided to launch a interjected that he had had “expe- priest, the board decided that Mr Cross, as chairman GW Peart noted country to create enthusiasm for Catholic weekly. rience of lay editors who fiercely Donovan’s role was essential, and in 1935. the new Southern Cross—the news- Mgr Kolbe wrote many articles attacked their priests and bishops Fr Kelly was asked to resign. Mr Economic conditions notwith- paper hit the churches on Sunday, of consummate erudition, but he even on political grounds”, the Donovan, however, also had dis- standing, in 1933 the company October 17, 1920 (a day after the evidently had much greater fun minutes record. Bishop MacSher- putes with acting editor Fr John started to sell books, with a vol- cover date), with a circulation of running the Children’s Corner, a ry’s proposal that a professional Morris. The priest offered to resign; ume of Mgr Kolbe’s poetry among 3 500 and cover price of 3d. section dominated by affectionate journalist be appointed to assist in the event, Mr Donovan resigned the best-sellers. Out of that The excitement was great. Out- chumminess and in-jokes in which the priest editor was accepted. in January 1922. endeavour grew the Catholic side Durban’s Emmanuel cathe- all correspondents were given That editor would be Fr Kelly— The newspaper faced a bizarre Bookshop, which the Catholic dral, a report noted, “the young nicknames. Among these were the and so it happened that the news- problem in 1923: it was advised by Newspaper & Publishing Company men who had volunteered for the children of a lighthouse keeper in paper would be based in Cape an advocate that selling The South- owned until it was sold to the work of distributing the copies of Natal. Mgr Kolbe—the local Town, initially at Fr Kelly’s Ronde- ern Cross at Mass on Sunday was Schoenstatt Institute in 1982. the new Catholic weekly had a dif- Church’s giant of the first half of bosch presbytery. He was to be illegal under the Sabbath Obser- Those were the days when a the 20th century—called one of trip overseas was still a big event. them Robin, who as Archbishop So when Mgr John Colgan, who would become the had succeeded Fr Morris as editor local Church’s giant of the second in 1931, attended the 1936 Inter- half of the 20th century. national Congress of Catholic Other popular columns would Journalists in Rome, he applied for be launched over the years. Mary six months leave. Fr Gavan Duffy HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH Singleton’s Home Circle was wild- SJ stood in for him, though the ly popular in the 1930s and ‘40s, newspaper’s content was mostly MATROOSFONTEIN while from the 1950s on, the vari- run by the managing editor, Mr ous columns by Mgr Desmond M J Rowntree. Two years later, Fr became a fixture. In the 1970s and Louis Stubbs substituted for Fr Our congratulations to The Southern Cross ‘80s, Luky Whittle and The Colgan—in 1948 he became edi- Scrivener enjoyed a long run. Per- tor. for their successful 90 years of spreading haps the most popular column in The Southern Cross was not the the post-war era was written from only Catholic newspaper in South the Catholic ethos openly and fearlessly. 1983 to 2007 by the cultured Africa at the time. The Catholic Owen Williams, doyen of South Times was published in Johannes- African art critics and committed burg. That newspaper was at the We wish you many more! francophile. centre of some rancour when a dis- In September 1925, The Southern affected advertising agent started Cross celebrated the installation of to sell adverts for the Catholic the first South African-born bish- Times by creating an impression From Fr Baijn Mundactal MSFS, the PPC and parishioners of the op, David O’Leary OMI, as vicar that it had replaced The Southern Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Matroosfontein, Cape Town apostolic of the Transvaal vicariate Cross. A stern exchange of letters by dedicating an entire edition to resolved that problem. that event. Continued opposite

Tony Wyllie & Co. CONGRATULATIONS Catholic Funeral Home Congratulations ON 90 YEARS Congratulations onon youryour 9090 yearsyears

OF PUBLICATION 469 Voortrekker Rd, Maitland • Tel: 021 593 8820 48 Main Rd, Muizenberg • Tel: 021 788 3728 Church of the Immaculate Conception Visit us on the Web at Rosebank, Johannesburg www.scross.co.za JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1111

When chairman Mr Peart trav- our ’, specifically the Sisters of stad: “Did you really expect any- had failed to report on the deten- ment). In the late 1980s, it faced elled to Johannesburg in 1937, he Nazareth. The Southern Cross never thing else?” tion and reportedly “rough inter- much bigger decisions. In 1987, was told that leading Catholics was banned in South Africa, Between 1953 and 1963, circu- rogation” of three priests—Frs the board of directors approved there felt that The Southern Cross though some issues were banned in lation had increased by 57%. In Michael Mkhize, Remigius the purchase of a “telecommunica- was hostile to their region, and in Ian Smith’s Rhodesia in the 1970s. 1956 it stood at 15 000, in 1964 at Makobane and Patrick Mvemve tion computer” for processing particular to the Catholic Times. Soon after Fr Stubbs became 18 500. That was, of course, in the (now bishop of Klerksdorp). international wire stories via the The upshot was that the company editor in 1948—a position he midst of Vatican II. From here on In an editorial, Mgr de Beer Post Office’s Saponet service—a should acquire the Catholic Times would hold until 1972—managing in circulation started to drop, as it wrote that the report was sup- forerunner of e-mail. A year later, to turn it into a national newspa- editor Mr Rowntree left. He had did at many other newspapers. In pressed at the request of Archbish- managing editor Gene Donnelly per. The chairman of the Johan- not been on excellent terms with 1970 it was still around 16 000, op Joseph Fitzgerald on the mooted the notion of switching to nesburg paper, Mr A W Clare, visit- several directors, who took the two years later 14 000, and in 1974 grounds that publicity could create a new-fangled “Desk Top Publish- ed Cape Town to discuss the mat- opportunity of Mr Rowntree’s it had decreased to 12 600. By the further problems for the priests, ing” system. ter, but the company never heard departure to raise the notion of mid-1990s, circulation dipped to who had been warned by the secu- Over the next few years, money from him on the subject again. employing a layman as editor, below 10 000 for the first time rity police not to mention their was invested into “the study of So the idea died, as eventually with a priest appointed to vet the since the war. For the past decade detention to anybody (an instruc- programmes and purchase of hard would the Catholic Times—but not newspaper every week. The pro- or so it has stood steadily at above tion they had rightly ignored). drive equipment, suitable disks before the scheme was revisited in posal was not carried, but the next 11 000. Embarrassingly for The Southern and ‘mouse’”. 1958 when Archbishop Owen managing editor was given greater Cross, the secular press did cover In 1991 Mr Donnelly moved to McCann of Cape Town asked The scope than his predecessor. 1980s: Political years the story. implement the Apple Macintosh Southern Cross to take over its pub- Advertising has always been a Whether or not public percep- system. The same year, veteran lication. This time, the board 1950s: Glory years thorny terrain in terms of what is tions of The Southern Cross were journalist Sydney Duval in a report rejected the idea because of finan- Andrew Murray, appointed in acceptable. Alcohol ads were com- fair, it would take a long time for the bishops’ conference backed cial implications. late 1950, and Fr Stubbs would mon in the 1920s and ‘30s before before the newspaper regained the that idea, and proceeded to initiate steer The Southern Cross through a they declined. In November 1989, trust of Justice and Peace activists. financing from the German fund- 1940s: The war years golden age that would see dramat- the board was faced with a query ing agency Missio Aachen. Before becoming a bishop, Fr ic changes in the Church before from the bishops’ conference as to 1990s: A new era The same report also urged a McCann had been The Southern Mr Murray’s departure in 1969. whether liquor ads would be In the interim, the board of reorganisation of staffing struc- Cross’ editor, from 1941-48. He Working conditions were not accepted. The minutes reflect, with directors had seen a gradual pass- tures. Subsequently, Dominican would return for a second stint ideal. Because Fr Stubbs’ was work- some humour, that the newspaper ing of the torch. On June 15, 1979, Father Bernard Connor was from 1986-91. The Southern Cross is ing only part-time, Mr Murray would “take some advertisements chairman Jean Pothier died sud- appointed editor, succeeding Car- therefore the only newspaper ever often had to put together the without making a big splash of denly. He had served on the board dinal McCann, whose supposed to have been edited by a future entire newspaper on his own, as this innovation”. for nearly 33 years, and 24 of these caretaker stint had lasted from and an existing cardinal. had his predecessor. In the mid- Greater consternation greeted as director. He was followed by 1986-91. Noel Bruyns, a journalist The Second World War had 1950s, he finally received an assis- an advertisement for hand-guns in William Houghton, who steered and former youth columnist for been raging for two years when Fr tant—of all people Mr Rowntree, 1963. In the 1970s, ads for govern- The Southern Cross through the tur- The Southern Cross, became busi- McCann succeeded Mgr Colgan. who would remain with the news- ment bonds caused protests from bulent ‘80s before his death in ness manager. When the war broke out, the paper until 1965, accumulating Catholic anti-apartheid groups, as 1990, also while still in office. Fr Connor’s appointment was newspaper anticipated a 30% almost four decades of service. His did in 1989 an election ad for a John Robertson, son of the for- preceded by renewed discussion decline in advertising, with Lever record would be broken by Mr National Party candidate. mer chairman JB, then became about the employment of a lay Brothers and Woolworths among Murray’s eventual successor, Gene In the 1970s and ‘80s repeated chairman for the next 17 years. editor (there were voices suggest- the first to suspend their contracts. Donnelly, who worked for 41 years debate concerned moving The The same year, Mr Pothier’s son ing Mr Bruyns, who had previous- There was enough reserve of paper for The Southern Cross, until his Southern Cross’ offices to the Rand. Bernard joined the board. The sec- ly worked for the bishops’ confer- to continue production for a few retirement this year. The bishops voted down such a ond incarnation of a ence), and the debate resumed months, but an extra stockpile of The Southern Cross had provided proposal in 1970, by 26 votes to Robertson/Pothier tandem helped when Fr Connor announced his 10 tonnes was ordered immediate- one bishop for the Church already, one, with five abstentions. Ten shape The Southern Cross signifi- resignation in late 1994, effective ly from Sweden. its ex-editor Archbishop McCann. years later, the National Pastoral cantly. Both retired soon after one as of March 31, 1995. In the end, The Southern Cross In 1951 another former Southern Council made the same call, also another in 2006/07, when Chris Some directors felt that it was had to cut pages and occasionally Cross staffer, Mgr Hugh Boyle, asking that the content of the Moerdyk, a columnist for the important that a priest be editor, change its format to adapt to became the bishop of Port Eliza- newspaper, edited since 1974 by newspaper for several years before with journalistic background sec- paper availability, but throughout beth (and in 1954, bishop of Mgr Donald de Beer, reflect “the he joined the board, was elected ondary. Others—led Mr Robertson the six years of war, it appeared Johannesburg). On a smaller scale, aspirations of the majority”. chairman. Mr Pothier still serves and Mr Pothier—felt the editor every week—as it has done, with- in 1947 The Southern Cross Politics was a running theme in The Southern Cross as manager of could be a journalist layperson out fail, for 90 years. employed 18-year-old bookkeeper the 1980s. While some readers the Associates’ Campaign and as with a “church feel”. In the end, The war affected circulation. In William D’Arcy. He later worked demanded to know from the edi- “circulation troubleshooter”. the appointment of Michael 1941, Mr Peart in his annual for the Catholic Bookshop before tor why his newspaper lacked loy- Much changed over the years in Shackleton in 1995 satisfied both report attributed the first decline becoming a priest. And in 1960, alty to the nation (read apartheid), the way the board of the Catholic points of view: he had been a in circulation since 1936 to “so Southern Cross shorthand typist others saw The Southern Cross as a Newspaper & Publishing Company priest, but had also performed ad many of our Catholic young men Celeste Santos left the company’s representative of middle-class lib- runs The Southern Cross’ affairs. In hoc work for The Southern Cross. having answered their country’s employ to become a Dominican eralism. 1952, the company still debated It would be six years before a call to arms”. One of these nun. In 1980, Boksburg parish can- the acquisition of a hatstand (the layman—your present correspon- Catholic men was board member On August 28, 1952, the board celled its weekly order of 130 board, the reader will be relieved dent—was appointed to the edi- JB Robertson, a former cricket of directors elected Mr Drew, who copies because The Southern Cross to learn, authorised the procure- tor’s chair. Springbok and future chairman. had served on it since 1920, for a Mr Peart, a lieutenant and second stint as chairman. Three father of three priests, also was days later, he died. In his place, Mr periodically absent on military J G Coates was elected for a fourth duty and resigned as chairman in term as chairman, soon to be suc- September 1942, having been asso- ceeded by Jean Pothier, who would ciated with The Southern Cross hold that position for the next since its beginning. He was suc- quarter of a century. ceeded by Mr AT Drew, who in The 1950s was a time of healthy turn was replaced by Gerald circulation, no doubt helped by McLoughlin in 1944. Mr Peart died such exciting events as the Marian suddenly in 1946, shortly after Congress of 1950, and the estab- returning from Sunday Mass. The lishment of the hierarchy the fol- same year, Mr Robertson became lowing year. To mark the latter, a chairman, and future chairman series of daily editions was pub- Jean Pothier joined the board. lished under the banner The South- Politically, The Southern Cross ern Cross Daily. It was the first was unequivocally on the side of instance of a South African reli- www.pbp.org.za the Allies. However, it had strong gious publication bringing out a sympathies for the fascist regimes daily edition. of Portugal’s António de Oliveira The Second Vatican Council Salazar, whom Mgr Colgan energised the Church around the thought to be “one of the greatest world. The Southern Cross had a Christian statesmen in the world particularly well-placed correspon- today”, while in 1943 Fr McCann dent from the Council: Archbish- Marist Brothers expressed his admiration for both op Denis Hurley, who contributed 14 Tuin Plein Salazar and Spain’s dictator Gener- anonymously. PO Box 379, al Franco. It was a heady time, and this 8000 Cape Town Province of Southern Africa A bizarre furore erupted in was reflected in The Southern Cross. Tel(021) 465-5904 December 1943 when the Protes- When Pope Paul VI issued his Fax (021) 461-0785 tant Association of South Africa encyclical Humanae vitae in 1968, custserv@[email protected] congratulate threatened to apply to the govern- the newspaper carried the reaction ment to ban The Southern Cross if of the region’s leading bishops, congratulates the government did not repeal its which can be paraphrased thus: The Southern Cross ban on the association’s book The Bishop Boyle: “The pope is The Southern Cross Roman Catholic System, a bigoted 100% right!” Cardinal McCann: tract originally published by one “The pope has spoken, we must on 90 years on its William Hammond in 1890. The now follow.” Archbishop Hurley: Southern Cross described the re-pub- “I am distraught by the encycli- of publication 90th Anniversary lished book as “a filthy attack on cal.” Bishop van Velsen of Kroon- 1212 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION Looking back: Life with The Southern Cross

carded with other old newspapers. responsible for distributing it. As MICHAEL SHACKLETON’s It had to be burned. soon as I espied the weekly copy relationship with The Southern I guess I was influenced by this, of The Southern Cross there, I even if unwittingly, although I would extract it from its paper Cross goes back to his child- knew better than to consider the sheath and make sure I digested hood. Today he is still involved Catholic newspaper as more than most of its contents before I put mere newsprint. I got a copy of everything back in position as if with the newspaper. the latest Southern Cross every nothing had been disturbed. week, long after I left home. Fr Louis Stubbs was editing The When it was announced that Southern Cross when in the 1960s Y mother taught me at a Pope Pius XII had approved the he invited me to join his “editori- very young age that when establishment of the South al team”, that is, to provide him a priest blessed items such M African hierarchy in April 1951, with constructive comments and as rosary beads or prayer books, they immediately became holy The Southern Cross became the first to write editorials from time to objects. From that moment they religious newspaper in the country time. The others on the team were to be used only in the service to be published daily during the were Mgr Con Lynch and Fr J of God and not of the world. week-long celebration. McMorrow. When these holy objects broke I volunteered to go out on to I loved doing this. I felt I was or became tattered or out of date, the streets and sell copies to any- now in a world of journalism. See- they were never to be thrown into one who would buy it. I was ing my enthusiasm, Fr Stubbs the rubbish bin as if they were delighted when most people coached me in the correct way to part of the household refuse. unquestioningly paid up, proof-read and how to apply the Because they were blessed objects although most of my sales took system of conventional marks to they had to be burned either in place at a celebratory pageant at indicate corrections to be made to the fireplace or in a make-shift Cape Town’s Rosebank Show the proofs. He even instructed me incinerator somewhere else. Grounds, attended by a good few in the history of printing presses, Years later and to my surprise, I thousand Catholics. confusing me with facts about the Michael Shackleton with a cake presented to him by staff member Terri found out that my mother treated In 1955 I became a student for handpress, the drum, the flat-bed the priesthood at St John Vianney cylinder and rotary press. Dunbar-Curran at his retirement as editor-in-chief of The Southern Cross at old copies of The Southern Cross in the end of January 2001. exactly the same way. For her, the seminary in Pretoria. I swiftly Fr Stubbs had the gift of the Catholic newspaper she bought twigged that the daily postal deliv- gab and the gift of being able to every week at Sunday Mass, was ery was deposited on a table write prolifically at a moment’s not a secular publication but a beneath the main staircase, wait- notice. His editorials and long- the Week” kept readers well up to conservative. It was losing reader- religious one. It could not be dis- ing to be collected by the student running column called “Topics of date about the happenings of the ship and, I thought, not in touch times. with the everyday person in the When he went on long leave pew. Gradually I began to intro- overseas for three months, Fr duce some improvements, not all Stubbs asked me to take over as as successful as I might have temporary editor. With the help wished, but I felt I was on the STAR OF THE of Gene Donnelly, who has only right track. lately retired after 41 years with When I decided to retire from SEA SCHOOL this newspaper, I learnt many of my post in 2000, Günther Sim- the tricks of the trade. Having mermacher was appointed in my already been an experienced jour- place. The son of a newspaper nalist in the realm of the main- editor himself, he had already CONGRATULATIONS stream press, Gene made me established himself with us as a aware of the importance of dead- competent managing editor and on your lines and potential problem resourceful writer. As editor he has areas. made remarkable improvements 90th ANNIVERSARY His contemporary, Andrew to the paper’s appeal and reader- from Murray, was the managing editor ship, positioning it firmly in the and he also advised me and fos- melting pot of the 21st century. STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL tered my desire to know more As this publication goes into its Best wishes on your 90th This unique school offers a high about producing a newspaper. In 91st year of uninterrupted pro- standard of academic and creative 1969 he left to spend his time as duction, I am proud to be associat- an artist, creating delightful pic- ed with it still as advisory editor celeb ration fr om all at education with great emphasis on the tures in the genre known as naive and columnist. I hope and pray well-being and happiness of the whole painting. His portraits of cats that present readers will keep us the Catholic Institute child. have become collectors’ items. going and encourage others to Pre-School to Std 7 In 1995 I was invited to take find in our pages nourishment for over from Fr Bernard Connor OP the faith and a stimulus to our of Education. co-educational as editor. At that time The South- enthusiasm to keep that faith ern Cross had become far too active every day. Enquiries The Principal Y our reco rd in Catho lic Star of the Sea School 74 Main Road publishing remains St James, 7945 Tel (021) 788 5910 undisputed. Fax: (021) 788 6398

St Augustine’s Catholic Cathedral The Parish priest and 2 Prospect Hill — Port Elizabeth Parishoners of The Immaculate Conception parish in Westonaria congratulate the Southern Cross on the 90th anniversary of publication. Congratulations on reaching this wonderful milestone. May you keep up the spirit May you be blessed with many of Information, Education more years of success. and Entertainment as part With sincere good wishes Mon- of your ministry. signor Brendan Deenihan and Parishioners at Rev. Fr. Ekpenyong Gabriel, C.S.Sp. St Augustine’s Cathedral, on behalf of the parish Port Elizabeth JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1313 Readers have safeguarded ST FRANCIS HOSPICE 25 PO R T E L I Z A B E T H YEARS The Southern Cross Eastern Cape OF When in 2002 The Southern Cross appealed CARING to readers to help safeguard its future and to fulfil its social communications mandate, the response was overwhelming. BERNARD Congratulates The Southern Cross on 90 years of POTHIER pays tribute to The Southern sterling service. Well done & good luck! Cross’ Associates. * Hospice offers Holistic Palliative Care support for short life expectancy HIV, AIDS, Cancer & Motor Neurone Disease patients and their families and S far as we know, The Southern Cross is the * is the accredited Centre of Palliative Learning for the Eastern Cape, provid- sole surviving religious weekly in this coun- ing training for professional nurses, health workers & community volunteers. Atry which is not subsidised. For 90 years it (Fully accredited by COHSASA and Hospice Palliative Care Association of SA) has stood on its own two feet, through thick and thin, never failing to produce an issue every week. But sometimes the going gets really tough, as Associates Campaign brochure 2009 was the case in 2002 when we had to face severe Contact us for further information at financial challenges, notably the need to replace our aged computers without which a modern 041 360 7070 / 041 360 1279 (fax) newspaper cannot be produced, and also the ing down, dailies are becoming weeklies and com- Email: [email protected] Web: www.stfrancishospice.za.org replenishment of our reserves which were not at mentators are predicting the end of printed news- all adequate. papers as we know them. Those with the neces- Our editor, Günther Simmermacher, was aware sary resources are “going digital”, as The Southern that the Jesuits in the United States managed to Cross has done—in a process partly funded by the keep their magazine, America, going with the Associates Campaign. More and more readers are enthusiastic help of regular donors who associated finding their news and commentaries on their themselves with the aims of the paper. computer screens. Fr Anthony Egan, a South African Jesuit, was While our circulation remains steady, promis- then based in the US and he greatly assisted us by ing a long life to our print version, we must never- providing information and literature on America’s theless cater for the increasing numbers of peo- Springfield Convent School annual Associates Campaign. In April 2002 we ple—especially among the youth and middle- approached our readers for help. aged—who prefer the digital way. since 1871 The response was immediate and most gener- Our weekly free e-newsletter has just celebrated ous. Individuals, including a number of bishops, its first birthday. It contains material which does and parishes came forward to help. There were not appear in The Southern Cross and has been well many anonymous contributions including one for received. The digital version of our paper, on the R15 000. And, touchingly, an inmate of a prison other hand, contains every word and picture of Congratulations to The Southern Cross on your filled out the brochure’s form and sent us R2,50. the usual print issue but appears on screens Each year our Associates supported our throughout the country and abroad earlier in the renewed appeals so that we were able to supply week and more cheaply. magnificent milestone and contribution. We are free copies in suitable numbers to all our seminar- But these developments come at a considerable ies and to many prison chaplains. price. Eventually, when the number of subscribers blessed and honoured to have walked alongside As Pope Benedict XVI has said: “Chaplains and to the newsletter reaches an attractive figure, their collaborators are called to be heralds of advertisers will come aboard, but until then the you every step of your 90 years! God’s infinite compassion and forgiveness.” Our heavy costs involved in setting up and maintain- Associates are as much collaborators in this work ing these digital ventures have to be borne. of mercy and restoration as those lay people who This is another challenge which has to be met visit prisoners and give them copies of The South- and overcome, as were so many others in the ern Cross and other Catholic literature. ninety years of our paper’s history. Several recent In this way they help to meet the great desire popes as well as our bishops have repeatedly among prisoners to obtain spiritual reading matter emphasised the importance of the Catholic media and, in addition, prisoners are assured that they in promoting the Church’s evangelical mission. Tel: (021) 797 6169 Our Associates and other donors—some anony- have not been completely forgotten by the out- Fax: (021) 762 7930 mous—have done wonders with the generosity of side world. www.springfieldconvent.co.za their response to our previous appeals. It is a source of great encouragement to learn It is our hope and prayer that once again how prisoners are inspired to turn their lives they—and many others among our readers—will around by having access to Catholic reading join in promoting the apostolic work of The South- material such as The Southern Cross. In one ern Cross. instances, a prisoner credited his conversion to the Catholic faith to The Southern Cross.  Bernard Pothier manages The Southern Cross’ At present a tremendous and rapid change is Associates Campaign. To find out more about the taking place in the newspaper world. In general, Associates Campaign, please visit www.scross.co.za/ circulation figures are dropping alarmingly. In the associates-campaign, or e-mail admin@scross. US and elsewhere long-established papers are clos- co.za, or phone 021 465 5007

Sincere Congratulations for an excellent service over 90 years — Fr Ralph de Hahn

PO Box 11095, Mariannhill 3624

Tel: 031 700 2155 Fax: 031 700 2738 e-mail: [email protected]

congratulates The Southern Cross on its 90th birthday – ninety years young, and going from strength-to-strength.

Thanks to all who make our Catholic newspaper happen every week! 1414 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION A journey through the decades 1920s 1930s

The Southern Cross in the 1930s featured news from around the Union (as it was then) and from around the world. The July 16,1930 front-page (right) features photos from Rietpoort as well as a Catholic procession in Manchester.

Much of the news in the 1930s concerned the Great Depression, the communist threat and the rise of Nazism in Germany. But the decade was not without the strange and endearing. Above is a photo of a Trappist monk with a calf, and below a story about a couple of American nuns who were trained in case of a nuclear attack.

October 16 1920: the first issue of The Southern Cross is published. Pope Benedict XV, featured on the front-page, gave the newspaper a papal blessing. Inside, an article discusses the struggle between rich and poor—a topic still on our editorial agenda to this day. The long-awaited first issue is a quick seller, and within two weeks, the newspa- per reaches a healthy circulation of 6 000.

Loreto Convent School Skinner Street, Pretoria 1940s Congratulates The Southern Cross on its 90th anniversary. As a Catholic School, striving to keep the light of Christ burning brightly, we are glad to have recourse to the articles and editorial comments available in The Southern Cross and feel sure that all our learners draw benefit from this inspiration.

Holy Redeemer Parish Quigney, East London Congratulates The Southern Cross on attaining 90 years of publishing The outbreak of World War II in Thank you for giving us all the Catholic news 1939 posed a challenge to The over all the years and keep up the good work Southern Cross: because of shortages. Paper and ink as Best wishes from: well as ordinary resources nec- Fr Robert Kamangu, The Parish Pastoral essary to run a business had to Council and all our parishioners be rationed, and distribution was also affected. Still, the newspaper appeared every week. The range and tone of www.littleeden.org.za the articles from this period reflect the great shadow cast by the war. The dropping of the atomic bombs over Hiroshima Care of Persons with Intellectual Disability and Nagasaki were con- Congratulations on 90 demned, while the end of the war in Europe was noted with wonderful years of spreading the gratitude to God (left). Good News. May God bless you! Right: A priest leads a bride The Children, Board of Governors, and bridegroom through the the remains of his church Management and Staff of which was bombed in LITTLE EDEN London. JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1515

In 1951, the Southern African hierarchy was established, Geoffrey Jacobs worked with the founding of the bish- for two months as an ops conference and the eleva- intern for The Southern tion of vicariates to dioceses. Cross. He spent most of his 1950s The To mark the occasion, 1960s time in the Archive library Southern Cross published daily assembling research for for a few days to cover the occa- this spread. sion. The big story in Layout by Claire Allen the 1960s was the Second Vatican Council (1962- 65). While there was mostly great enthusiasm for the Council’s wide-reaching changes, some Catholics reacted negatively.

Apartheid was at its strongest in the 1960s, with South African-born crick- eter Basil D’Oliveira, a Catholic, at the centre of the looming interna- tional sporting The 1970s were dominated by boycott. rising opposition to apartheid and the Rhodesian war.Arch- bishop Denis Hurley is featured (right) at a Mass for people who died in detention. 1980s In 1978, cardinals had to vote twice for a new pope after the brief pontificate of Pope John Paul I. 1970s1970s The 1980s were dominated by Pope John Paul II, who was featured almost every week. In May 1981 he survived an assassination attempt in St Peter’s Square.

Pope John Paul’s close friend Mother Teresa The 1990s were dominated visited South Africa in 1988, and had some by South Africa’s transition special words for local Catholics. from apartheid to democracy. In September 1995, Pope John Paul II visited South Africa to introduce his exhor- When in April 2005 Pope tation on the first African John Paul II died,The South- Synod. He celebrated a papal ern Cross published a spe- Mass in Johannesburg. cial stand-alone memorial issue. Two years earlier, we marked the 25th anniversary of John Paul’s pontifical election with a special supplement.

The liturgical changes that will be implemented in 2011 1990s were first reported on in The Southern Cross in 2000. During the Jubilee Year in 2000, all front-pages fea- tured the Jubilee logo. 2000s

Peter Leahy The family of the Apostleship of the Sea late Peter Leahy, one of the founding shareholders of The Southern Cross, congratulate them The Rector, Chaplains and Lay on their 90th anniversary. people congratulates Burke Leahy The Southern Cross on their Ludwig McEvoy 90th Anniversary. The Cabra Dominican Sisters Families congratulate The Southern Cross on 90 years of publishing service to For more information contact The National Director, Tel/Fax 031 463 3212, the Church. May God continue to bless your 082 953 2145, [email protected], PO Box 10543, Marine Parade, mission Durban 4056 1616 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION

Luky Whittle, pictured with her family, was the author of the “Coffee Break” column that ran from the 1970s. This photo was printed in The Southern Cross in June that year. Looking back: Moments in history and an almost lawsuit BY LUKY WHITTLE attack from within the Sunday paper threatened to Catholic Church and without a sue the stalwart little cash- FEEL like a shepherd in a scapegoat of the icy blast strapped Southern Cross. crib scene, taken out of the which followed the opening of The apology printed in Icupboard once a year and the Church’s window by Pope response was such a master- rubbed with a soft cloth in the John XXIII. piece of perfunctoriness that it hope he makes it to one more It delighted me to see how a made me suspect Mgr De Beer Christmas, all because I was convert could love and honour secretly sided with me. It is too invited to produce my reminis- every facet of a Church, which, late to ask him, for he is dead, cences for the newspaper’s even then, appeared to bore or like so many other Southern 90th anniversary. irritate so many cradle Cross editors, writers and con- One morning in December Catholics. tributors to the letters column, 1966, I saw an article in The The managing editor, inter alia, Cardinal McCann, Southern Cross by a lady who Eugene Donnelly, retired from Archbishop Hurley, Mgr Hat- deplored the fact that some The Southern Cross only this ton, Fr Stubbs, the Scrivener, mothers fought with their chil- year. Noel Bruyns, Owen Williams dren at Mass when the little Until his last shift—he was and VG Davies. dears only wanted to explore 80 years old—he cycled to the These days I have discov- and, I suppose, pull the laces station from home and walked ered the delights of the Letters from the shoes of the pious. to the office. to the Editor page. There is no I replied in an article titled In a Sunday newspaper, an deadline and you write only “Raising three children by trial interview with an anonymous when you have something to and error”. It was published, Catholic priest, the pope was say—not just to say some- and some years later, I ended blamed for the imposition of thing—anything! up writing a weekly column the vow of celibacy on candi- In conclusion, before they called “Coffee Break”. dates for the priesthood. wrap me up in newspaper and My editor was Mgr Donald I wrote: “If this priest exists, put me back into the box in de Beer, a convert and canon I’d like to say: ‘Come out, the cupboard until the year lawyer with a strong personali- come out, wherever you are.’” 2020 when the paper turns 100 ty, who sometimes wiped the Eugene phoned and said: “I and I 80, if we both survive floor with me. read your story while on holi- that long, I would like to wish Nevertheless, I appreciated day and was afraid we’d hear The Southern Cross and all who him because he was a staunch more about this. You never call sail in her a very happy 90th apologist at a time when Pope the other guy a liar.” anniversary. Paul VI was coming under He was correct. The huge Keep the faith!

Congratulations Congratulations on your 90th to The Anniversary of Southern Cross Publication on 90 years of service to the church of “A person is of more South Africa. value than the whole world.” - St Mary Euphrasia Thank you!

Good Shepherd Missionary Sisters of the Sisters Provincialate Assumption, Highlands North JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1717 On pilgrimage with The Southern Cross

All of these mishaps rallied the Since the Jubilee Year 2000, troops. Pilgrimage 2000’s Martha The Southern Cross has Black Eye, as she was to be headlined eight pilgrmages, known, was indefatigable and Fr King was carried and lifted and six of them to the Holy Land. helped along until the inflamma- GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER tion subsided. A generous pilgrim helped the two pickpocketed looks back. ladies with essential supplies and spending money. The fainting Y now, about 260 people pilgrim was fussed over by our have gone on eight pilgrim- group while bed-bound, and peo- Bages headlined by The South- ple took turns to wheel around ern Cross, covering the Holy Land, the lady who had injured her leg. Egypt, Jordan, Greece, Turkey, Joanne Jacobs with her “miracle This, too, is part of the great Italy, France and Germany. baby” Saffron and Fr Michael collective dynamic: the group These pilgrimages have been Hagan in 2002. itself is one of the graces of a pil- directed by Fr Nicholas King SJ, Fr grimage. Emil Blaser OP, Fr Michael Hagan And there have been many Isch, Mgr Clifford Stokes and, last thorns ceases to be just an art- graces obtained on Southern Cross month, Bishop Zithulele Patrick work. And such experience may pilgrimages, many more, I’m Mvemve of Klerksdorp. be replicated in different ways at sure, than I know of. One I do It has been my pleasure and any number of sites. know of came from a trip I was not part of, the Youth Pilgrimage The 2000 pilgrimage to the Holy Land and , led by Fr Nicholas King SJ, in privilege to accompany five of The group dynamic is impor- of July 2000, led by Fr Michael Jaffa. It was the first of eight pilgrimages to be headlined by The Southern Cross. these pilgrimages—and to write tant in the ways in which pil- about all of them in serialised grims share their intense experi- Hagan, then and now the nation- form. ences, even if these are not al youth chaplain. My five pilgrimages to the always articulated. In the group was a couple, Holy Land are small fry in com- Part of that sharing includes Joanne and Eldridge Jacobs, who parison to the numbers recorded shaking loose the pilgrim dust at had tried to conceive a child, but by some people I have met. I met the end of the day, and simply without success. In light of a par- one of these people during my socalise. One makes friends: some ticular medical history, they had first visit to the Holy Land, at an of these friendships will soon fade practically given up. Still, during international conference in Feb- away, some will last for a while, an emotional wedding vows ruary 1999. I asked the man, a and some will remain forever. renewal ceremony in Cana they Baptist minister from the United asked for the group’s prayer that States, who said he had been to lmost every pilgrimage they, like St Anne, may conceive the Holy Land more than a hun- Aincludes some misfortune. On a child (though there was no dred times, whether he doesn’t the first evening of my first pil- expectation of an immaculate get bored with it all. He laughed grimage, in the Holy Year 2000, conception). at the question, as if it was the one member of our group fell The alert reader (or the keen craziest thing he had ever heard, and, having received medical reader of photo captions) has before explaining that to him, attention, spent the rest of the already guessed the outcome: the every trip is different. tour with a big black eye, while following year, Joanne gave birth I can see his point. A pilgrim- the spiritual director, Fr Nicholas to a beautiful daughter, Saffron. age is more than just a visit to a King, could not walk easily for It is tempting to relate that bunch of holy sites. The dead two days due to an inflamed beautiful story to a pilgrimage as stones are given life by the people knee. a life-giving event, which in with whom the pilgrim travels, A year later, on a pilgrimage many ways it is, as a transforma- and the context of one’s life at that started just a few days after tive experience. that moment. Different spiritual 9/11 (causing one concerned pil- That transformation is a process, of course. It continues In July 2000, The Southern Cross hosted a youth pilgrimage to the Holy Land and directors and tour guides will grim to cancel), two elderly ladies Cairo, led by Fr Michael Hagan. influence the experience of a were pickpocketed in Jerusalem long after the pilgrim holy site, and so does the group and relieved of all their spending has returned home. For many, dynamic. The prayer of one per- money. Before that, their luggage that transformation continues for son in the group can have a had not accompanied them on the remainder of their lives—per- transforming effect. the flight to Jordan (through haps every time they hear of a In Jerusalem’s astonishing their own fault). It caught up place or event in Scripture which church of All Nations, the crown with them after a cross-border takes them back to the over- of thorns that frames the rock in taxi ride only halfway through whelming time of information the garden of Gethsemane on the pilgrimage. overload in the Holy Land, or which Jesus prayed and suffered In 2005 a pilgrim gave us a every time they see a photo from, before his arrest may be just a mighty fright by fainting (ironi- say, Rome that reminds them of poignant artwork. But one pil- cally falling down at the site of the fruits they reaped as pilgrims. grim’s prayer can create a power- the Ascension), and a year later, a  Günther Simmermacher’s latest ful transformative connection pilgrim badly cut her leg when series, on The Southern Cross’ pil- with another pilgrim’s experi- slipping on metal steps, and after grimage to the Holy Land and Ober- ences, illuminating the meaning hospitalisation had to use a ammergau in September, begins this of Christ’s despair. The crown of wheelchair. week on page 26.

St Dominic’s Assumption Convent Parish, Boksburg warmly congratulates The Southern Cross Congratulations on 90 years of service to the on their 90th Catholic Community of “It is only through the The 2006 group (left), led by Fr Emil Blaser, visited the Holy Land, Rome (with a anniversary practice of virtue that papal audience) and Assisi, while the 2010 group (right), led by Bishop Zithulele South Africa respect and honour Mvemve, toured the Holy Land and saw the Oberammergau Passion Play. may be gained” www.assumptionconvent.co.za

The 2005 pilgrimage, led by Mgr Clifford Stokes, covered the Holy Land and Cairo. 1818 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION Parish of month:Through the years

BY CLAIRE MATHIESON itzburg. Some parishes, such as reasons for wanting to promote the EING chosen as the “Parish of Wentworth, Durban, Kempton Park newspaper, but all have seen the the Month increased” is a in Johannesburg and Richard’s Bay difference it makes to sales when Brecognition of a parish’s orders in KwaZulu-Natal, have held the they do so. of The Southern Cross. The almost six distinction more than once. “I don’t think it’s possible to years of the feature have shown that St Charles Lwanga in overstate how important it is when these parishes which actively pro- Soshanguve, Pretoria archdiocese, parishioners and priests promote mote The Southern Cross all run a was Parish of the Month in August and actively sell The Southern Cross.” wide range of projects. of 2008. Its pastor, Fr Mathibela Mr Simmermacher said. “Just a “The idea to introduce the Parish Sebothoma, said one of the reasons word at Mass by the priest about a of the Month was inspired by the his parish encourages sales of The couple of interesting articles in that Southern Cross is the role it plays in activities of Matroosfontein parish week’s issue, and somebody stand- the lives of people who are in the Cape Flats, where lots of peo- ing in the doorway making The approaching spiritual direction. Southern Cross visible makes a huge ple are involved in selling and pro- “The Southern Cross helps people to moting The Southern Cross. We see God in their daily lives.” difference.” thought that people like them, Oblate Father Allan Moss of St The Parish of the Month is whom we don’t even know, should Mary’s in Pietermaritzburg told The among the newspaper’s most popu- be honoured in some way,” said Southern Cross in May 2009 that the lar features, Mr Simmermacher said. Southern Cross editor Günther Sim- Catholic Church is far more than And, of course, the members of a mermacher. Matroosfontein itself just a local church, and the newspa- featured parish enjoy it most of all. became Parish of the Month in per broadens one’s horizons accord- “From what I’ve heard, there is 2007. ingly. “The Southern Cross enables always tremendous excitement In 2009, Durban was represented Catholics to get a wider view that when a parish is featured, and Christ the King parish in Wentworth, Durban, was the first by three successive Parishes of the we are a bigger Church,” Fr Moss feedback suggests that readers Parish of Month featured in December 2004. The parish made the list again in 2010. In the beginning Parishes of the 1st Month: Durban North, Queens- explained. enjoy the feature as well,” Mr month were covered on the local news pages in short arti- burgh and St Mary’s in Pietermar- Parishes may have had different Simmermacher said. cles. It soon commanded its own popular feature page.

Parish of the year is listed with the name of the church, area and diocese

St Margaret’s, Diepkloof, Johan- Johannesburg 2004 2006 2007 2008 nesburg Ss Mary & Anne, Mariannridge, Christ the King, Wentworth, Dur- Church of Resurrection, Our Lady of Dolours, Car- St Joseph’s, Goodwood, Cape Holy Trinity, Karasburg, Namibia Mariannhill ban Bryanston, Johannesburg letonville, Johannesburg Town Regina Pacis, Ladysmith, Dundee Immaculate Conception, Rose- Blessed Sacrement, Germiston, 2009 2010 2005 St Charles,Victory Park, Johan- bank, Johannesburg Malvern East, Johannesburg nesburg Holy Redeemer, Bergvliet, Cape Our Lady Help of Christians, St Matthew’s, Vryburg, Kimberley St Thomas, Lenasia, Johannes- Ss Simon & Jude, Simons Town, Our Lady of Loreto,Kempton Park, Town Lansdowne, Cape Town Our Lady of Fatima, Durban burg Cape Town St Catherine, Kleinvlei, Cape Ss Lambert, Martin & Nicholas, North, Durban Christ The King, Wentworth, Dur- Johannesburg Regina Mundi, Soweto, Johan- Town Benoni North, Daveyton, Johan- St Catherine’s Bellair, Queens- ban Ss Peter & Paul, George, Oudt- nesburg St Francis, Richards Bay, Eshowe nesburg burgh, Durban St Patrick’s, Mowbray, Cape shoorn Good Shepherd, Phoenix, Durban St Phillip Benezi, Meyerton, St Joseph the Worker, Chatty, St Mary's, Pietermaritzburg, Dur- Town St Kevin, (Gelvindale), Port Eliza- St Timothy, Tafelsig, Cape Town Johannesburg Port Elizabeth ban Ascension Southridge Park, St Jude, Vredenburg, Cape Town beth Good Shepherd, Pretoria North, St Phillip’s, Strandfontein, Cape Corpus Christi, Humewood, Port Mthatha St Dominic, Hilcrest, Durban St Francis Xavier, Bluff, Durban Pretoria Town Elizabeth St Michael’s, Potchefstroom San Francesco, Emerald Hill, Port St Thomas, Mossel Bay, Oudt- Queen of Peace, Grassy Park, St Charles Lwanga, St Josephine, Queenstown, Corpus Christi, Wynberg, Cape Elizabeth shoorn Cape Town (Soshanguve),Rosslyn, Pretoria Sacred Heart Cathedral, Pretoria Town St Anne, Atteridgeville, Pretoria St Anne’s, Steenberg, Cape Town Our Lady of Loreto, Kempton St Henry, Mmabatho, Kimberly St Augustine Parish, Upington, St Francis, Richards Bay, Eshowe St Anthony, Coronationville, St Joseph's, Primrose, Johannes- Park, Johannesburg Holy Trinity Parish, Braamfontein, Kimberly-Upington St Francis of Assisi, Standerton, Johannesburg burg Holy Trinity, Matroosfontein, Cape Town Johannesburg St John Bosco, Robertsham, Dundee JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1919 Bryanston: Where The Southern Cross sells best

ber 1998, with the old building up parcels for needy pensioners in being converted into a church hall, Soweto and other areas”. The church of the Resurrection which sees various functions, Giving starts at the end of in Bryanston sells the highest groups’ gatherings and meetings. November as a Christmas tree is number of Southern Cross Today Fr Michael Fitzpatrick placed outside the church with chil- oversees the vibrant parish which dren’s gender and age tags pinned copies each week and has last year celebrated 99 baptisms, 58 to it, Ms De Villiers said. “Parish- been featured in the paper’s confirmations and 75 First Holy ioners are invited to take tags, buy Parish of the Month. Reporter Communions. gifts and return them for distribu- Family is key to this burgeoning tion to needy children for Christ- CLAIRE MATHIESON delves community. Fr Fitzpatrick said the mas.” into the history of the church. number of families in the parish She said the project has run for a continues to grow each year, and number of years with great success the liturgy in the parish is “alive through the hundreds of gifts O parish in South Africa sells and well, with ever-increasing donated. more copies of The Southern parishioner participation in church Interest in the Church has also Cross every week than the activities”. increased among the youth due to N Mrs Behrendt explained that the church of the Resurrection in regular youth Masses held at the Bryanston, Johannesburg. parish has active groups including parish. The parish now hopes to Of course, Bryanston has been the Knights of da Gama, Catholic have international representation the Parish of the Month—which is Women’s League, a youth group, by sending a number of young peo- chosen on basis of increased orders Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults ple to World Youth Day in Madrid, convert classes, Alpha, faith-sharing of the newspaper—in March 2006. Spain, next year. Three dedicated sellers, Edwin Owell, Andy McNally and Steve Cullerton, groups, Bible study groups, both Established on Easter Sunday in It is not by chance that have been responsible for encouraging sales of The Southern Cross, helping junior and senior catechism classes 1967 at the Brescia House Convent Bryanston is the parish with the Bryanston become the biggest seller of the newspaper in South Africa. chapel, Bryanston parish grew at a as well as St Anne’s, St Cecilia’s and Sacred Heart sodalities. There are highest sales of The Southern Cross. rapid rate due to the enormous Mrs Behrendt explained parish- development of the suburbs and also two choirs: the Youth Choir and the Sunday Mass Choir. ioners are always reminded to buy complexes in the area. Today the their Southern Cross, and Fr Fitz- parish has some 2 600 registered The many families that make up patrick specifically recommends it. families. the relatively young parish have “We also distribute it to the parish- Parish secretary Dru Behrendt also become known for their big said the first parish priest was the hearts. ioners on our home visiting list,” late Fr Ronan Byrne CP. “Our St Vincent de Paul Society she added. “Initially, there was no accom- supports several families and is very Deacon Alex Niven said there modation, so parishioners Jim and active and hands on in assisting the was an active drive to sell the news- Pat Maddison hosted Fr Ronan. He needy in our area, which includes paper on Sunday mornings, with later moved closer to the church site the neighbouring Diepsloot,” Mrs three parishioners dedicated to the and was accommodated by Carl and Behrendt said. effort. Deidre Pingle. Mrs Pingle became As the festive season approaches, Fr Fitzpatrick said the parish’s the first parish secretary while Mr the parish will be involved in bring- journey had been a long road so far Pingle studied and was ordained as ing Christmas cheer to the commu- that has truly been blessed. one of the first married deacons in nity with special Masses and parties “With His grace, we continue to the diocese of Johannesburg.” for the elderly. grow and prosper as a strong com- By the late 1990s the parish had Parishioner Kathy De Villiers said munity that serves others in mean- grown in excess of 1 500 members one of the highlights of the year is ingful spiritual and life-fulfilling One of the most important features of Resurrection parish is the Garden of and a new church was commis- the annual craft market where ways. May we continue to do so for Remembrance where families remember those who helped build the relative- sioned and consecrated in Septem- funds raised will be “used to make years and generations to come.” ly young church community. The garden is home to a 500 year old olive tree. JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 1919 Bryanston: Where The Southern Cross sells best

ber 1998, with the old building up parcels for needy pensioners in being converted into a church hall, Soweto and other areas”. The church of the Resurrection which sees various functions, Giving starts at the end of in Bryanston sells the highest groups’ gatherings and meetings. November as a Christmas tree is number of Southern Cross Today Fr Michael Fitzpatrick placed outside the church with chil- oversees the vibrant parish which dren’s gender and age tags pinned copies each week and has last year celebrated 99 baptisms, 58 to it, Ms De Villiers said. “Parish- been featured in the paper’s confirmations and 75 First Holy ioners are invited to take tags, buy Parish of the Month. Reporter Communions. gifts and return them for distribu- Family is key to this burgeoning tion to needy children for Christ- CLAIRE MATHIESON delves community. Fr Fitzpatrick said the mas.” into the history of the church. number of families in the parish She said the project has run for a continues to grow each year, and number of years with great success the liturgy in the parish is “alive through the hundreds of gifts O parish in South Africa sells and well, with ever-increasing donated. more copies of The Southern parishioner participation in church Interest in the Church has also Cross every week than the activities”. increased among the youth due to N Mrs Behrendt explained that the church of the Resurrection in regular youth Masses held at the Bryanston, Johannesburg. parish has active groups including parish. The parish now hopes to Of course, Bryanston has been the Knights of da Gama, Catholic have international representation the Parish of the Month—which is Women’s League, a youth group, by sending a number of young peo- chosen on basis of increased orders Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults ple to World Youth Day in Madrid, convert classes, Alpha, faith-sharing of the newspaper—in March 2006. Spain, next year. Three dedicated sellers, Edwin Owell, Andy McNally and Steve Cullerton, groups, Bible study groups, both Established on Easter Sunday in It is not by chance that have been responsible for encouraging sales of The Southern Cross, helping junior and senior catechism classes 1967 at the Brescia House Convent Bryanston is the parish with the Bryanston become the biggest seller of the newspaper in South Africa. chapel, Bryanston parish grew at a as well as St Anne’s, St Cecilia’s and Sacred Heart sodalities. There are highest sales of The Southern Cross. rapid rate due to the enormous Mrs Behrendt explained parish- development of the suburbs and also two choirs: the Youth Choir and the Sunday Mass Choir. ioners are always reminded to buy complexes in the area. Today the their Southern Cross, and Fr Fitz- parish has some 2 600 registered The many families that make up patrick specifically recommends it. families. the relatively young parish have “We also distribute it to the parish- Parish secretary Dru Behrendt also become known for their big said the first parish priest was the hearts. ioners on our home visiting list,” late Fr Ronan Byrne CP. “Our St Vincent de Paul Society she added. “Initially, there was no accom- supports several families and is very Deacon Alex Niven said there modation, so parishioners Jim and active and hands on in assisting the was an active drive to sell the news- Pat Maddison hosted Fr Ronan. He needy in our area, which includes paper on Sunday mornings, with later moved closer to the church site the neighbouring Diepsloot,” Mrs three parishioners dedicated to the and was accommodated by Carl and Behrendt said. effort. Deidre Pingle. Mrs Pingle became As the festive season approaches, Fr Fitzpatrick said the parish’s the first parish secretary while Mr the parish will be involved in bring- journey had been a long road so far Pingle studied and was ordained as ing Christmas cheer to the commu- that has truly been blessed. one of the first married deacons in nity with special Masses and parties “With His grace, we continue to the diocese of Johannesburg.” for the elderly. grow and prosper as a strong com- By the late 1990s the parish had Parishioner Kathy De Villiers said munity that serves others in mean- grown in excess of 1 500 members one of the highlights of the year is ingful spiritual and life-fulfilling One of the most important features of Resurrection parish is the Garden of and a new church was commis- the annual craft market where ways. May we continue to do so for Remembrance where families remember those who helped build the relative- sioned and consecrated in Septem- funds raised will be “used to make years and generations to come.” ly young church community. The garden is home to a 500 year old olive tree. JUBILEE EDITION The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 2121 Nun keeps Catholic history alive without any training, but the One of Sr Bell’s favourite areas work was “quite straight forward”. of the densely populated archive Schoenstatt Sister Sheila Bell Some of the archivist’s duties are the marriage records. Holding knows her Catholic history. include filing all correspondence a book labelled “1823-1860”, she Being the chancellor and from the archdiocese, including explained how marriages in the copies of all the archbishop’s let- Church were documented first archivist at the Cape Town ters, and assisting families in through “banns”—the process of chancery, Sr Bell makes sure researching their family trees. notifying others of your intention that history is anything but a “Family trees can be very diffi- to marry—and then through the cult and extremely time consum- official recording of one’s mar- memory. CLAIRE MATHIESON ing, but I quite enjoy it—especial- riage. “These records hold great spoke to her. ly finding interesting stories in all detail. It’s interesting to see how the old records.” different things were done all Families are not the only par- those years ago.” ties interested in the archive, Sr She then showed off the bap- VERY archdiocese in South Bell said. Many students, acade- tismal register. “It’s amazing how Africa has an archive. All mics and researchers visit the the ink survives”, she noted as she communication to and from E archive. A neat guestbook lists the showed the intricate, handwritten the chancery is kept here and visitors from around the records of the archdiocese’s looked after by individuals who province—all grateful for the well events. meticulously care for Church doc- organised archive. The archives are filled with uments new and old, collect print- Sr Bell is quick not to take the documents dating back more than ed media such as The Southern credit for the archive’s filing sys- 200 years. Sr Sheila Bell looks after the archives housed in the chancery of the archdio- Cross, and assist the public in tem; she just “keeps it all up to Further duties include keeping cese of Cape Town. PHOTOS: CLAIRE MATHIESON enquiries. They create a rich date”. track of the priests in the diocese. resource of history for the Church in South Africa. When a priest dies, Sr Bell collects Month” feature. She also likes the One of these people is Schoen- all the information on the priest “Church Chuckle”, but believes statt Sister Sheila Bell, chancellor and prepares it for the parish. she has heard them all already. for the archdiocese of Cape Town When international priests arrive The newspapers have been col- and archivist for the past two in the country, Sr Bell organises lected by the archdiocese since the decades. their work permits, liaising first issue, and new editions are Sr Bell came to Cape Town between the Department of Home added to the archive weekly. from Johannesburg in 1960 where Affairs and the Southern African “People don’t think of history she took her vows as a Schoenstatt Catholic Bishops’ Conference to much today,” Sr Bell said, “but it’s Sister. Two years later, she was ensure the priest will not be a important. It’s amazing how appointed typist to Archbishop financial burden to the country. much we can learn just by looking Owen McCann, who soon became Another important duty is at our past.” a cardinal. At the time of the car- keeping an archive of Church Sr Bell continues the work of dinal’s retirement as archbishop of media. Bound in heavy leather the original archivists, who began Cape Town, Sr Bell worked in books, 90 years of The Southern the job of compiling records more archdiocesan administration. Car- Cross occupy several shelves in the than 200 years ago, when in 1804 dinal McCann’s successor, Arch- strong room. a strong room was built to house bishop Stephen Naidoo, asked her “It’s a good newspaper. Every Cape Town’s Catholic documents. to help in the archive. Catholic should have one,” said Sr The nun describes her job as “I never thought I’d end up Bell. “keeping everything that goes in working as an archivist, but its She enjoys learning about the and out of the Church”, but interesting work,” she said. The archives date back to the Bishop Patrick Griffith, who was Cape Town’s different parochial communities she does more than that—Sr Bell Sr Bell moved into the role first bishop in 1837. in the monthly “Parish of the keeps history. 2222 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 JUBILEE EDITION The future of The Southern Cross

BY CAROLINE McGRATH Southern Cross as playing a key Mr Twomey said payment role in communicating with options were being made simpler. HE Southern Cross is facing Catholics in Southern Africa. And “This digital version will make a enormous challenges and we know that while our newspa- wonderful Christmas present for Twill need all of its wits per reaches more than 44 000 friends and family of South about it if it wants to celebrate its Catholics a week, this is really African Catholics, no matter centenary in ten years time. not good enough when one con- where they are in the world.” So said Chris Moerdyk, chair- siders that there are roughly 5 man of the board of the Catholic million Catholics in the region.” nother new service The South- Newspaper & Publishing Compa- He appealed to parish priests Aern Cross web platform is ny Ltd., which publishes The to actively promote The Southern offering will help Catholic parish- Southern Cross. He said it was a Cross, for example by highlight- es, religious orders, schools, “miracle” that the newspaper had ing a few stories of interest at the NGOs and other institutions as not only managed to survive 90 end of Mass. Mr Moerdyk said well as businesses get their mes- years, but has done so without that experience has shown that sage out. missing a single issue. this is the best marketing the “The ‘Press Offices’ on our The newspaper had survived a newspaper can get. website will give them an effec- world war, depressions and suc- Günther Simmermacher, edi- tive way of reaching out to their cessive recessions, as well as 40 tor of The Southern Cross, agreed stakeholders, supporters and ben- years of the apartheid govern- that circulation should be higher, eficiaries, through The Southern ment’s media regulations and but thought that the newspaper Cross website and e-newsletter.” opposition to English language had hit a ceiling in terms of cir- Mr Moerdyk urged readers and religious media. culation growth. supporters of The Southern Cross The Southern Cross now faces “I think for almost every news- to promote these initiatives to even greater challenges, said Mr paper today, the goal is to hold friends and family—particularly Moerdyk, one of South Africa’s circulation steady,” Mr Simmer- to “get them to sign up for the e- leading marketing analysts. macher said. “So far we have suc- newsletter and recommend the Prime among these is the sheer ceeded in doing that—no doubt digital subscriptions to friends cost of printing newspapers today also because of the efforts by peo- and family abroad”. as well as the even higher cost of The Southern Cross in its digital format, which launched at Easter this year. All of these new initiatives can ple in parishes who promote The Subscribers receive a link to the latest edition on Wednesday mornings, and posting them to subscribers and be viewed and accessed on Southern Cross.” enjoy access to back issues. The digital option is one of various ways in which delivering in bulk to parishes, he Mr Simmermacher said that The Southern Cross is using the opportunities presented by modern media. www.scross.co.za. said, adding that this is not just a the steady circulation figures Mr Moerdyk said that the local problem, but a global phe- were particularly satisfying in newspaper’s next step in utilising nomenon. light of the newspaper’s tradi- that for two reasons. Firstly, our per’s website had been signifi- the opportunities of the New “The board is painfully aware tionally older readership. “I’m mandate is to get the Catholic cantly revamped and that the Media will concern cellphone of the fact that in spite of being not sure that our readership is communication to the Catholic weekly electronic newsletter— technology. among the tiny handful of news- generally as old as popular imagi- community. The primary tool for which features material not Mr Simmermacher said that papers in South Africa to have nation has it, but we seem to be that is the printed newspaper, found in the newspaper—had feedback and experience has maintained their circulation and able to replace those readers who but we must also try and reach reached almost 1 000 subscribers. shown that young Catholics are revenue, costs are rising at such die or otherwise fall off with new those who don’t use newspapers. “As this subscriber number very keen on The Southern Cross, an alarming rate that the business ones; else our circulation would “Secondly, The Southern Cross grows it will become more and but aren’t always in the habit of model involving just a newspaper be decreasing.” is published independently, and more of interest to our advertisers buying the printed newspaper. “It’s not true that young people is nowhere near sustainable.” therefore doesn’t get nor ask for because it will give them signifi- don’t read anymore,” he said. He said that a “courageous” he Southern Cross editor subsidies from the Church. We cant added value and alternative decision was taken by the board a acknowledged that many are self-sustainable, and we must “They just read differently from T channels,” said Mr Twomey. those generations that grew up few years ago to implement a young people simply don’t read take steps to ensure that we con- He added that “even more more sustainable business model newspapers, and the board of the tinue to be able to publish.” without cellphones and the Inter- exciting” was the launch of The net. As Catholic media, we must which would also serve to reach newspaper has taken action to Mr Moerdyk said The Southern Southern Cross’ digital edition ear- more and more Catholics. reach the youth and all users of offer those who won’t read the Cross had launched several new lier this year. “Our bishops have quite right- the New Media where they are. initiates which were slowly newspaper alternative ways of “The digital edition is exactly ly identified media such as The “It’s absolutely necessary to do beginning to gather accessing information. That’s how the same as the printed version momentum as alternative we evangelise: by speaking to peo- and available on subscription. It revenue sources. ple where they are.” Southern Cross webmas- can be accessed on the date of He added: “And like it was in ter and marketing advisor publication every week and the past, so it must be in the Sean Twomey said that in viewed very easily on home com- future: The Southern Cross in the the past year the newspa- puters, laptops and mobile forefront of Catholic media in devices such as iPads.” Southern Africa.”

Little Company of Mary Sisters

Congratulations on your wonderful achievement and for the spiritual knowledge which has touched so many people both Catholic and non-Catholic. May God continue to bless and guide you in this ministry

Little Company of Mary Sisters Pretoria - Port Elizabeth - Zimbabwe PERSPECTIVES The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 2323

Michael Shackleton Catherine de Valence Priests must open eyes answers your question

Point of OST of the Church’s activi- Open Reflection ties are done through the Chileya Moba CSSp Door Mparishes. It is important therefore to look at the relationship Point of between priests and the laity—the Growth by suffering People of God. Debate Those thousand The laity and ordained ministers are equal members of the Church by they can be proud. and mourning virtue of baptism (Eph 4:4-16). The pre-judgment years Societies today have highly edu- documents of the Second Vatican cated people. An uninformed leader, I have friends who devoutly believe that T is difficult to counsel and comfort Council and Pope John Paul II’s especially if he is a priest, is a disaster Christ will reign on earth for a thousand someone who has endured the loss of a encyclical letter Christifidelis laici loved one when we ourselves have never and a shame. Intelligence is a spiritu- years and after that time has elapsed, he I encourage the laity to assume active al discipline; a powerful pastoral tool. will carry out the Last Judgment. I know been in their shoes, but when we have expe- roles in the Church and to collabo- We may not like it, but the era of the Church rejects this doctrine, but I need rienced it we can have compassion for them rate fully with ordained members. purely sacrament-oriented priests is some help to understand where and why it and walk alongside them in their loss. Anything that may hinder their long gone. Likewise, seminaries that originated. We cannot take their pain away or expect mutual collaboration should be IB them to just get over it as if their bereave- float on the sea of dogmas and sacra- addressed instantly. ments are retrogressive. There is a ES, the Church has never accepted this ment never happened, but we can give them This could apply to instances such need for contemporary courses in teaching but it became a matter of hope that eventually in time, this pain will as the accusation made by several leadership, communications and debate in the early centuries. This arose heal, through the healing touch of God. African lay leaders and consecrated Y human development. particularly from Revelation 20:1-6, which God weeps with us, for he knows what it nuns of being marginalised by Parish ministry is essentially about describes how Christ will return to earth and is like to lose a child. Jesus weeps with us, priests, as reported in The Southern facilitating the connection of people reign here for one thousand years together for he knows what it felt like when his Cross of September 1-7. with God, with one another and with with those who were loyal to him. friend Lazarus died away (he wept with his Formation for the priesthood takes the environment. Jesus Christ needed The substance of this text, like so much of friends Mary and Martha). a long period; at least eight years. no diploma in communications to Revelation, was disclosed to the author There is nothing wrong in expressing our This shows the seriousness of the know how to mix feelings and through visions during a period of fierce per- sadness and tears. Faith is not about sup- ministerial priesthood in the thoughts. He embodied communica- secution. The message was that all earthly pressing our emotions, but allowing God Catholic Church. The period presup- tion skills in his personality; attract- powers would eventually collapse and give peace and love to comfort us during our poses that the future pastors would ed discipleship, captured the audi- way to the glory of the triumphant Christ, times of grief, through the love and comfort appropriate values and a character ence and won many converts. Parish but the author, fearing the vigilant Roman of others. proper to their ministry. priests who communicate and con- persecutors, took care not to say this explicit- At the time of loss, we might fail to see However, the recent revelations nect well with parishioners are ful- ly. He used lots of symbols and allegorical ref- how God has spared a loved one from pain about priests’ misconduct have filled men of God. erences that Rome’s spies would not instantly and suffering. We might fail to see how in shocked the Catholic family and recognise as proper to the Christian faith but our vulnerable state, many have been drawn beyond. This has definitely strained arish priests who have understood to compassion and softening of hearts with the relationship between the laity which must have had meaning for his read- their calling have the power to us. We might fail to see how many lives have and priests. Placed on the spot, P ers, giving them hope. change deserts into the ocean. They been touched and changed by the eulogy, priests nowadays have to be very vig- Many early Christian theologians failed to have eyes that see and ears that hear. and how it has brought a community and ilant regarding their conduct. see the allegorical nature of Revelation. They They respond to the local needs family members closer together in pray. We Despite shortcomings, the took 20:1-6 and the rest of the book literally. swiftly. might fail to see how God has been there all Catholic family has always been in For them, Christ would return to reign for along, making something positive out of a But in this broken society, many one thousand years. By the 4th century their solidarity with priests. But Catholics priests are still idle, disorganised and negative situation. When we start to under- long to see more priests who uphold viewpoint faded away to nothing as influen- stand this, our healing process can start tak- uncreative. They are preoccupied tial Christian scholars realised that the book their integrity. There is no time for with the litany of demands and ing place, in the grace and love of God. petty excuses if priests are to restore of Revelation was a piece of apocalyptic writ- We can draw comfort that our loved ones unceasing complaints. ing, loaded with symbols and imagery, such their lost glory. I call on such brother priests to are with God, and allow our loss to prepare Parish priests are spiritual leaders, as numbers, animals, heavenly bodies and us better, spiritually, to meet our Father and wake up and help the people to feel colours. Interpreting these has been a peren- canonically entrusted with the noble Jesus Christ and to be proudly loved ones. We can draw comfort in know- work of leading the people. By virtue nial challenge. The thousand-year reign of ing that this parting is not good bye, but au Catholic. Over time, visionary and Christ could symbolise the period from the of their office, they must possess zealous priests can motivate and edu- revoir—“to see you again”. qualities of the Good Shepherd (Jn birth of the Church to the end of time. It is in our time of sufferings that we are cate people. The Catechism (1038) says the resurrection 10:3-14). The critical shortage of Parishes should care and collabo- drawn closer to God, that we rely and priests notwithstanding, those who of the dead will precede the Last Judgment depend on him. It is during those times that rate well with their priests. The after which the just and unjust will receive lack basic leadership qualities should unbearable struggles many parish his love is poured more fully into our hearts, not run parishes. their eternal sentence. In Matthew 25, Christ and that we experience his strength in our priests go through—in the name of warns that he will return to earth in his glory time of weakness and need. It is in our Jesus and on the pretext of poverty, to judge all nations. This presupposes the res- poverty that we experience his providence ome appointments are tantamount sacrifice and service—should be urrection of the dead. All who have accepted the most. I am thankful for my times of suf- Sto taking the People of God for ended. A virtue that causes pain and his grace will be judged favourably and enter ferings, because they have enabled me to granted. St Paul knew what it takes to suffocates relationship is not a his kingdom. Those who have resisted it will grow spiritually. be a spiritual leader when he advised virtue. be condemned to dwell with the devil. Sometimes we might question why God Timothy (1 Tim 4:12-16). Many At the same time, irresponsible The Church’s faith is that Christ will come allows sufferings, and turn away from him; priests meet St Paul’s expectations, parishes do not deserve priests until back to this world only once, that is for the but if we try and accept our sufferings and but others regrettably neglect their they change their attitude. For Last Judgment and the triumph of the king- turn to God, we will experience his peace. gifts and become ineffective, includ- parishes to function properly, parish- dom of God, and not to reign for a thousand Faith is embraced by thanking God in ing in their homilies. ioners should equally meet the gen- years before or after that dramatic event. uine demands of their priests. good times and in bad, for faith believes in Sometimes it seems as if the The meeting point should be things not yet seen. Being thankful for suf- Catholic Church is a farm on which sought and treasured always with  Send your queries to Open Door, Box 2372, Cape fering acknowledges that through God nice fruits are produced, but due to total docility to the Holy Spirit, to Town, 8000; or e-mail: [email protected]; or fax growth can emerge from a bad experience, gross negligence, Protestants harvest the greater Glory of God. (021) 465 3850. Anonymity can be preserved by arrange- even if we cannot see it at the time. and eat these fruits. Poor or unedu-  ment, but questions must be signed, and may be edited Suffering is the key to the Kingdom of cated parishioners also deserve com- Fr Moba ministers in the diocese of for clarity. Only published questions will be answered. God; the way to “the way, the truth and the mitted and attractive priests of whom Dundee. life”; the necessity for self-awareness, of our weaknesses and limitation; the acknowl- edgement of our sins and our need for repentance; our step towards acceptance and Be a light to others non-judgmental approach to others, because of the growth in the knowledge of our own AAllll SSoouullss DDaayy imperfections; the opening of our vulnera- Servants of the Holy Childhood of Jesus. bility to others, which increases our humili- ty, and brings out their merciful compassion Tuesday, 2 November 2010 through Christ; embracing our experiences as learning tools and; our liberation from His Grace, Archbishop Emeritus Lawrence Henry, will celebrate false self, to finding true self in Christ; a time of experiencing God’s providence, pro- Holy Mass for the Souls in Purgatory at 10:00 a.m. tection, salvation and strength, understand- on Tuesday, 2 November 2010 in the All Souls Chapel, ing, knowledge, joy, peace and love in spite of everything; what enables our detachment Woltemade Cemetery, Maitland, Gate 1. from this world, to be united in eternal, internal intimacy with God; the stepping stone to a New Life in Christ, a life of holi- Please make every effort ness and wholeness through the presence of to attend this Mass. God within us; the foundation of the merci- ful, compassionate God who uses our suffer- For further information contact ings to free us and others; a time where our Colette Thomas faith is strengthened in God’s faithfulness to 083 412 4936 or 021 531 0550 us through his help in times of sufferings, through the love of others. And suffering is a time when our love for others is most tested, and God’s uncondi- tional love is felt in and through us the most. In the Spirit of God Incarnate, we follow the way of the Gospel. We have dedicated ourselves to the service of disadvantaged women and on DStv audio children and to the education of the young. channel 170 St. Jude Society Is God calling you to be a witness to the Light that is Jesus? P.O.Box 22230 If so, please contact: Sr Gregoria, P. Bag 553, 7974 FISH HOEK Eshowe 3815. Tel: 076 3492752 also streamed on www.radioveritas.co.za 2424 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 Advertisement FOCUS The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 2525 Priests were joyful as they awaited execution by Nazis

The execution of three Catholic priests who will be beatified next June and a Lutheran pas- tor by the Nazis in the German town of Lübeck offers much ecumenical symbolism. GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER reports.

S the Nazi executioner (From left) Frs Johannes Prassek, Hermann Lange, Eduard Müller and Pas- beheaded the three Catholic tor Karl Friedrich Stellbrink, who were executed together on November 10, priests and Lutheran pastor 1943, for opposition to the Nazi regime. Collectively, they are known as the A Martyrs of Lübeck, after the northern German city in which they were active. one after another, in a rhythm of three minutes, their blood flowed together, creating a powerful sym- bol for ecumenism in northern articles on the lives and deaths of Lutheran pastor and the Catholic Germany. the four martyrs. priests was unusual for its time, On June 25, 2011, the three “The martyrs have a great sig- when German clerics tended to Catholic martyrs of Lübeck—Frs nificance for the city,” Fr Mecklen- keep confessional boundaries in Johannes Prassek, Eduard Müller feld told The Southern Cross. “They both social and pastoral domains. and Hermann Lange—will be beati- have become ‘shining towers’ in Pope Benedict, a German from fied in the historic city’s Herz Jesu the city of Lübeck”, whose skyline the other side of the country, (Sacred Heart) church, a stone’s is famous for its seven gothic recognised the significance of that throw away from the cathedral of church spires. friendship. In an address to the their Lutheran counterpart, Rev The martyrs are well known German ambassador to the Vatican Karl Friedrich Stellbrink, who will even outside church circles, and on September 13, he said: “The The Herz Jesu (Sacred Heart) Catholic church in Lübeck, where the three be honoured in a special way that four suburban streets are named documented friendship between executed priests were based. Their will take place outside the day. Beatification is the final step after them, the priest said. these four clerics while they were 19th-century church. On the left is the gothic Lutheran cathedral. The building before canonisation to the saint- in jail represents an impressive wit- seen to the right of the cathedral is the old arsenal, which during the Third hood. he notion of beatifying the ness to ecumenical prayer and suf- Reich served as the local headquarters of the secret state police, the The four were executed in Ham- Tthree Catholics when their fering which in many places flow- Gestapo. PHOTO:GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER burg just after 18:00 on November Lutheran companion cannot be ered among Christians of different 10, 1943—first Fr Müller, then Fr honoured in the same way has denominations during the dark Lange, Fr Prassek and finally Rev given rise to some controversy. Rev days of national socialism. We may in contact with the younger priests he ministered. Though regarded as Stellbrink—having been found Heinz Russmann, a Lutheran pas- regard these witnesses as shining at Herz Jesu, who had been res- mostly apolitical—he never guilty of disseminating anti-Nazi tor in Lübeck, wrote in an article lights on our common ecumenical olutely opposed to the regime. preached publicly against material (such as the homilies of that the beatification would repre- path.” He was the first Protestant cleric Nazism—he acknowledged Hitler’s the regime’s great Catholic foe, sent a painful division that would Fr Lange’s writings bear out the to be executed in Germany. Unlike ideology as irreconcilable with Cardinal Clemens von Galen of be harmful to ecumenism. pope’s sentiment. In July 1943 he his Catholic friends, he received no Christianity, and refused to collab- Either all four should be beati- wrote in a letter: “The suffering Münster) and other “treasonous” support from his church, which orate with the Hitler Youth which fied, or none, Rev Russmann said. borne in common over the last activities. rehabilitated him only 50 years had courted him. His view is shared by the conser- years has brought the two Christ- Although they were just four of later, noting its “pain and shame” Fr Lange, 31, was the parochial vative local politician Hans-Lothar ian churches closer to one anoth- more than 1600 victims of political at the disgraceful treatment of the vicar, with the responsibility of Fauth, a Catholic gastronomer who er. The shared imprisonment of executions that year, their case heroic pastor. providing pastoral care to the has said that all four have long been the Catholic and the Evangelical drew the particular attention of Fr Prassek, 32, regularly youth and men of the parish. A Adolf Hitler and propaganda minis- publicly acclaimed as saints, regard- clergy is a symbol of this commu- preached against Nazism, and min- less of denomination, and therefore nity of suffering, but also of recon- reform-minded Catholic, he was ter Joseph Goebbels. Hitler report- istered illegally to forced labourers perhaps the most politically active edly intervened personally in the require no official recognition. ciliation.” from Poland, even learning Polish among the four. He distributed case of the four clerics, formulating Fr Mecklenfeld said his parish Nowhere else in Germany did for that purpose. Just two weeks pamphlets and, among those the charges and instructing prose- had always been sensitive about officials of the country’s two largest before his arrest on May 18, 1942, whom he trusted, accused Ger- cutors on their strategy. maintaining the martyrs’ unitive churches share in so strong a wit- Fr Prassek was honoured for his many of war crimes. He even told a After the four were sentenced to integrity. “A leading parishioner, ness as they did in Lübeck. courage in rescuing people during soldier that a true Christian could death on June 23, 1943, in what the late Adolf Ehrtmann—who However, Fr Mecklenfeld point- the carpet bomb attack on not really fight on the German side amounted to a farce trial, Goebbels knew the four and was among the ed out that the four martyrs need Lübeck—the first on any German wrote in his diary: “I urge that the 18 laypeople arrested at the same not be idealised: “They were not city—on Palm Sunday 1942. in the war. Fr Lange’s residence death sentences will in fact be car- time as the clerics—said on his goody-two-shoes or superheroes, Like his companions, he expect- had already been raided by the ried out.” An appeal for clemency deathbed: ‘Never say three; always but they are worthy of veneration.” ed to be executed after their arrest. Gestapo a year before his arrest. by the Catholic bishop of say four.’” On the day of the court’s judgment The martyrs of Lübeck are not Osnabrück, Hermann Berning, was Ecumenical relations in Lübeck ndeed, Pastor Stellbrink, 49 when he wrote: “God be praised, today I the only clerical victims of Nazism rejected. are marked by the shared martyr- Ihe died, has been described as a was sentenced to death.” Later, to be beatified. Fr Franz Mecklenfeld, current dom. Apart from many personal prickly character who initially was physically broken after more than In September, Fr Gerhard parish priest of Herz Jesu church, relationships, there is close cooper- an eager supporter of the Nazi a year of torture and other hard- Hirschfelder was beatified in Mün- said that the announcement of the ation between the parish churches party. The veteran of World War I ships in jail, he joyfully looked for- ster, and the beatification of Fr beatification was received with of the martyrs as well as between soon became disillusioned with ward to his execution: “To be Georg Häfner of Würzburg is “immense joy” by his parishioners. the Herz Jesu and Lutheran Cathe- Nazism, especially its anti-clerical- allowed to die fully conscious and planned for May 2011. It is also being followed “with dral parishes. For example, Fr Meck- ism, and began to criticise it. He quietly prepared is the most beauti- Organisers of Lübeck’s June great interest in the city of lenfeld said, many Lutheran pastors was expelled from the party in ful thing of all.” beatification expect 6 000 to wit- Lübeck”, traditionally a Lutheran and parishioners attend the annual 1937 for refusing to denounce his Fr Müller, also 32 and a priest ness the ceremony outside the Herz stronghold. For example, in Sep- memorial service on November 10 friendship with Jews. for just three years when he was Jesu church. The day before, a ser- tember the local daily Lübecker in the Herz Jesu church. In 1941 he met Fr Prassek at a executed, was a quiet man popular vice will be held in Rev Stellbrink’s Nachrichten published a series of The friendship between the funeral and increasingly engaged among the local youth, to whom parish’s Luther church. KRUGER PARK VIVA SAFARIS (Member of SATSA) SCHEDULED DAILY SAFARIS TO KRUGER PARK Fly-in and overland tours. See www.vivasafaris.com

Viva Safaris is engaged with 4 projects aimed at the upliftment Tony Wyllie & Co. of the Acornhoek community, Catholic Funeral Home including the COMBONI Personal and Dignified 24-hour service MISSIONARIES’ OUTSTATION 469 Voortrekker Rd, Maitland Tel: Father Xico with partially 021 593 8820 www.volunteersafaris.co.za completed church building 48 Main Rd, Muizenberg 082 450 9930 Trevor Tel: 021 788 3728 Reservations: Member of the NFDA 082 444 7654 Piero 082 506 9641 Anthony 2626 The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 TRAVEL Starting a pilgrimage where salvation began

OMETIMES the requirements those of the first church to be built in a pilgrimage itinerary—dic- Günther Simmermacher on the site in 427. That structure Stated by geography and dead- was destroyed, probably during lines for booked Masses—produce The Pilgrim’s the Persian sack of 617, when all happy coincidences. So it was with but one church in the Holy Land The Southern Cross’ Passion Pilgrim- Trek were burnt down (the only one age in September, which brought spared was the church of the together 45 people from all over Nativity in Bethlehem). The Cru- South Africa to breathe where church from the 18th century. saders rebuilt the church, but that Jesus breathed. It is that church which Mark was destroyed by the Saracens in The pilgrimage began with a Twain visited during his pilgrim- 1187. Mass in the magnificent church of age in 1867. In his splendid and What we do know is that the the Annunciation in Nazareth. In very funny travelogue Innocents grotto was venerated as the spot of his homily, our spiritual director, Abroad (which I used as my travel the Annunciation at least as early Bishop Zithulele Mvemve of companion this year), he wrote: as the early 5th century. Klerksdorp, reminded the group “We went down a flight of fifteen that it was here where the story of steps below the ground level, and n Mary’s time, there was only salvation began, by way of young stood in a small chapel tricked out Ione source of water in the little Mary’s submission to God’s will with tapestry hangings, silver hamlet of Nazareth. Located 400m that she bear the Messiah: “Let it lamps, and oil paintings. A spot from Mary’s grotto, the village’s be done to me according to your marked by a cross, in the marble women would come to the well word.” floor, under the altar, was exhibit- several times a day to draw water There is no better place for kick- ed as the place made forever holy for various household purposes. If ing off a pilgrimage than right at by the feet of the Virgin when she necessary, they would take their the beginning. And our pilgrimage stood up to receive the message of little children with them, or send The remnants of an ancient church surround Mary’s grotto in the church of would end in Oberammergau, Ger- the angel. So simple, so unpre- them to fetch water. the Annunciation in Nazareth—the place where the salvation story began. many, with the climax of the tending a locality, to be the scene Today the spot is commemorat- PHOTOS:GÜNTHER SIMMERMACHER Nazarene’s incarnation: his Resur- of so mighty an event!” ed by the Greek Orthodox St rection, as performed in the vil- Behind the modern church’s Gabriel’s church, in the crypt of ancient Cana is not definitively lacks tact (and to modern ears lage’s famous Passion Play. altar is the grotto in which the which one can still draw water known. However, evidence of an sounds a little chauvinistic). The church of the Annuncia- Word became Flesh. It is from the well, albeit through a early Christian synagogue, which Still, Jesus turned 600 litres of tion is a modern structure, com- enveloped by the remnants of standard tap. was unearthed when the Francis- water into finest wine—though pleted in 1969. It replaced an older ancient church walls, presumably The Greek Orthodox believe cans built their present church the sickly-sweet stuff that is sold as that the first Annunciation there a hundred years ago, as well Cana wine today would not merit attempt took place here, based on as the remains of a basilica and inclusion in the John Platter Wine the apocryphal protoevangelium domestic dwellings serve as a good Guide—using six huge stone water of James. According to that signpost, as do ancient pilgrim jars used for ritual cleansing. account, the Archangel Gabriel texts. Of course, all turned out well: first appeared to Mary as she But, as Holy Land pilgrims are Jesus’ friends realised just what fetched water at the well. Not sur- well counselled, it is not really kind of person they were follow- prisingly, the teenage girl was material where exactly the events ing, and the party doubtless went frightened by the apparition and they are following took place, but on merrily. ran home, where Gabriel took what happened. At Cana it is now traditional for advantage of the more discreet and And what happened at Cana pilgrim couples to renew their safe surroundings to persuade was momentous. A wedding took wedding vows. For some couples Mary to bear the Redeemer of the place, perhaps involving a close in our group, this was of particular world. relative or friend of Mary’s. Jesus significance. Wayne and Anneline When our very tired group—by and his pals—whom we later meet Lawrence of East London had then most of us had been in tran- again as his disciples—are there come on the pilgrimage with the sit for more than 24 hours—visited too. Perhaps they gatecrashed the specific purpose of marking their Mary’s Well, a wedding party wedding reception, which might 25th wedding anniversary earlier began congregating outside St explain why the wine ran out, and this year; while Peter and Jeanne Gabriel’s church to celebrate a why an embarrassed Mary put her Anderson of Pinetown celebrated young couple’s nuptials. In the son on the spot so publicly. their wedding anniversary the fol- fortuitous ways of the unexpected, We can only imagine her lowing day, and Francis and Mar- it set the scene for our next desti- courage to do that. Here she made garet Hlobo’s theirs in Jerusalem. nation: Cana, where Jesus per- public what must have been a Meanwhile, those of us not formed his first public miracle at closely guarded secret: her blessed to travel with spouses the wedding feast. Yeshua’s powers to perform mira- remembered their loved ones at Four of the seven couples that renewed their wedding vows at Cana: (from The little town of Cana is just cles. John’s gospel reveals that her home. left) Lucy and Mark Wilson, Margaret and Francis Hlobo, Marilyn and Colin around the corner from Nazareth. son was none to pleased; if he ren-  This is the first part of Günther Francis, and Lawrence and Joan Felix. Although the actual site of the ders Jesus’ response faithfully, it Simmermacher’s weekly series on the VALLEY VIEW TRAVEL REMEMBERING NEW FOR 2011• ALL WELCOME! 3 September to 13 September OUR DEAD CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE KING “It is a holy and wholesome thought to 50th ANNIVERSARY PILGRIMAGE pray for the dead, that they may be Celebrate with them by visiting Holy Land Christian sites — Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Sea of Galilee, Capernaum, to loosed from their sins” (II Macc XII,46) name but a few, and Old Cairo where the Holy Family hid from Herod’s soldiers, Mt Sinai, St Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt Holy Mass will be celebrated on the first Organised and led by Rev Shaun Mary Cost: R19 795 Sunday of each month in the All Souls’ Tel: (031) 266 7702 Fax: (031) 266 8982 chapel, Maitland, Cape Town at 2:30pm Email: [email protected] for all souls in purgatory and for all those A list of current pilgrimages can be viewed by clicking on buried in the Woltemade cemetery. the Valley View Travel icon at www.catholic-friends.com For further information, please contact St Jude Society, Box 22230, Fish Hoek, 7975 Telephone (021)552 3850

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JHI House Office Block; 3rd Floor; Cnr. Baker & Hours: Mon-Fri: Tel: 011 880 5243; 011 788 7866; 011 788 6128 Cradock Avenues; ROSEBANK; Johannesburg 11h00-16h00; Sat: 11h00-13h30 Fax: 011 880 1238 E-mail: [email protected] The Southern Cross, October 27 to November 2, 2010 2727 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR and these became much worse can you do something for me?” Classified Advertising Pain in the neck due to the fact that I was sitting Within the remaining two N September, Norman Servais awkwardly while watching the blocks to my house, the pain Births • First Communion • Confirmation • Engagement/Marriage • Wedding anniver- of Metonoia Ministries showed film. I am also inclined to be a lightened remarkably and I burst sary • Ordination jubilee • Congratulations • Deaths • In memoriam • Thanks • Prayers • Ithe concluding film in the sceptic concerning instant cures out laughing, telling myself that Accommodation • Holiday accommodation • Personal • Services • Employment • Prop- series he had presented at St of anything and, with due respect this is what comes of making erty • Others Paul’s church in Somerset West. I to the people concerned, usually jokes with saints, and straight dismiss claims of this sort. Please include payment (R1,05c a word) with small advertisements for promptest publication. watched the film called The Saint away felt another twinge in my Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000. Tel 021 465 5007 Fax 021 465 3850 of Biscay about the life of a Span- Driving home after the film, neck. I hastily apologised to the all I could think about was a cup e-mail: [email protected] ish priest, Fr Aloysius Ellacuria. good priest and by the time I got of hot tea and one of the extra home, the pain had completely We were given instances of his stong pain relief pills I keep for miraculous and immediate cures gone. I humbly retract my doubts such emergencies. As I drove up DIAMOND Peninsula: Beautiful November, December and of various people who had the hill near my home, I jokingly and thank the good father. homes to buy or rent. January, the students’ approached him. For three or said: “Well Fr Ellacuria, if you I went on to have the cup of WEDDING Maggi-Mae 082 892 4502. rooms are available for four days that week, I had severe could do such wonders for those tea, but not the pain pill. ANNIVERSARY Colliers International False holiday guests. We offer Bay Tel: 021 782 9263, pains in my neck and shoulders people who we have just seen, Carmen Smith, Cape Town self-catering accommoda- CAVAVAGH—Bryan and [email protected] tion, parking in secure Estelle married on October 2, 1950 by Rev Father premises. Short walks to Mass readings for the week HOLIDAY shops, transport etc. Con- COMMUNITY CALENDAR Sundays year C, weekdays cycle 2 Angus Mackinnon OMI at ACCOMMODATION St. Mary’s in Pietermar- tact Jock 021 685 7370, Sun October 24, 30th Sunday of the Year: itzburg. AZARS B&B: Olde fax 021 686 2342 or 082 BETHLEHEM: Sir 35:12-14,16-18; Ps 34:2-3,17-19,23; 2 Tm 4:6- worlde charm in Kalk 308 0080 or kolbe. Bay’s quaint fishing vil- [email protected]  Shrine of Our Lady of Bethlehem at Tsheseng, Maluti moun- 8,16-18 ; Lk 18:9-14 IN MEMORIAM Mon October 25, feria: lage. Luxury double en- MARIANELLA Guest tains; Thursdays 09:30, Mass, then exposition of the Blessed suite/privatelounge/entra Sacrament.  058 721 0532 Eph 4:32-5, 8; Ps 1:1-4,6; Lk 13:10-17 FIGAJI—Doris. Passed House, Simon’s Town: away November 1, 2009. nce,DSTV/tea/coffee. CAPE TOWN: Tue October 26, feria: Serviced three a times “Come experience the Will always be lovingly peace and beauty of God  Eph 5:21-33; Ps 128:1-5; Lk 13:18-21 week. Minutes from Holy Redeemer, Bergvliet, Padre Pio Prayer group, Novem- remembered by her family, with us.” Fully equipped ber 21 15:30. Wed October 27, feria: metrorail. Enjoy break- friends and the Parish- with amazing sea views.  Adoration Chapel, Corpus Christi Church, Wynberg: Mon- Eph 6:1-9; Ps 145:10-14; Lk 13:22-30 ioners of Holy Family and fast at different restau- rants every day (included Secure parking, ideal for Thurs 6am to 12pm; Fri-Sun 6am to 8pm. Adorers welcome Thur October 28, Ss Simon & Jude: Our Lady of Fatima Parish. rest and relaxation. Spe-  021-761 3337 Rest in peace. in tariff). Holy Mass Sat- Eph 2:19-22; Ps 19:2-5; Lk 6:12-19 urdays/Sundays with- cial rates for pensioners  Good Shepherd, Bothasig. Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration in Fri October 29, feria: OLSEN—William (Bill) My in walking distance. and clergy. Tel: Malcolm our chapel. All hours. All welcome. Phil 1:1-11; Ps 111:1-6; Lk 14:1-6 husband who passed Tel/Fax 021 788 2031, Salida 082 784 5675 or JOHANNESBURG: Sat October 30, St Marcellus: away October 20, 1996. 082 573 1251.grizell@iaf [email protected]  First Friday Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 10:30. First Those who die in grace go rica.com Phil 1:18-26; Ps 42:2-3,5; Lk 14:1,7-11 no further from us than PENNINGTON—South Saturday: Devotions: Our Lady’s Cenacle, Adoration of the CAPE TOWN: Ambler’s Sun October 31, 31th Sunday of the Year: God and God is very near. Coast: Fully equipped self Blessed Sacrament and Rosary, 15:00–16:00. Special devotion Rest—holiday or business Wis 11:22-12,2; Ps 145:1-2,8-11,13-14; 2 Thes 1:11- Those who knew him, catering units, from 2 to 10 to Our Blessed Lady for her priests. Our Lady of the Angels, accommodation in the 2,2 Lk 19:1-10 please remember him in sleeper, with lovely sea Little Eden, Edenvale,  011 609 7246 heart of the Constantia your prayers. His loving views. Just cross the road  First Saturday of each month rosary prayed 10:30-12:00 out- winelands. Fully equipped wife Elaine (Charnie). and you are on the beach. side Marie Stopes abortion clinic, Peter Place, Bryanston. self-catering open plan unit Contact Maria on 082 800  Joan Beyrooti, 011 782 4331 PAULSE—Mary. Our mom with secure parking 3626 or email joemari and granny passed away (sleeps 2). R250pp per  Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament: first Friday of the Thoughts for the [email protected] for on 28.10.2008. The ache night sharing. Contact Bar- month at 09:20 followed by Holy Mass at 10:30. Holy Hour: more information. first Saturday of each month at 15:00. At Our Lady of the Week on the Family in our hearts will ease one bara 021 712 6177 or Angels, Little Eden, Edenvale. Tel: 011 609 7246. day but missing you will 082 407 0856 www.capes SEA POINT: Double room, FAMILY CALENDAR own bathroom in heart of KIMBERLEY: never go away. Sorely tay.co.za/amblersrest 2010 FAMILY THEME: missed by Jenni and this prestigious suburb,  St Boniface High School celebrates its 60th anniversary in CAPE TOWN: Vi Holiday “Families Play the Game.” Catherine. Villa. Fully equipped self- near all amenities. Tel: 082 2011. The St Boniface Past Student’s Union is currently 660 1200. OCTOBER: ONE FOR ALL AND ALL FOR ONE catering, two bedroom preparing to celebrate this event. Past students are requested PERSONAL to contact the Union’s PRO and chairman of the board of 31st 31st Sunday of the Year C. Jesus in our family apartment (sleeps SOUTH COAST: Three governors, Mr Mosalashuping Morundi  073 768 3653 or Midst. Part of the mission of Jesus was to seek out ABORTION WARNING: 4) in Strandfontein, with bedroom house, Marine at [email protected] for further information. the sinners and bring them to God. Zaccheus was a ‘The Pill’ can abort, parking, at R400 per night. Drive, Uvongo. Tel: Do- Contact Paul tel/fax +27 21 PRETORIA: tax collector and because he worked for the Romans undetected, soon after nald on 031 465 5651 or was considered a sinner. He made a special effort to conception (a medical 393 2503, cell 083 073 989 1074.  First Saturday: Devotion to Divine Mercy. St Martin de Por- see Jesus by climbing a tree and Jesus rewarded him fact). See website: 553 9856, e-mail: vivil STELLENBOSCH: Five res, Sunnyside, 16:30.  Shirley-Anne 012 361 4545 by coming to his house. No matter who we are, www.humanlife.org/abor [email protected] To place your event, call Claire Allen on 021 465 5007, or Jesus will come to our house too and help us to tion_does_the_pill.php simple private suites look at our lives. Are we really united, “all for one CAPE WEST COAST (2 beds, fridge, micro- e-mail [email protected] Yzerfontein: Emmaus on and one for all?” Think about this and share some wave). Countryside vine- Sea B&B and self-catering. examples in your own family. THANKS yard/forest/mountain Holy Mass celebrated walks; beach 20-minute THANKS to the Sacred every Sunday at 6pm. Tel: Heart, St Jude and Our 022 451 2650. drive. Affordable. Christian Lady for prayers Brothers Tel: 021 880 UPHOLSTERER FISH HOEK: Self-catering 0242.  answered. Alix. accommodation, sleeps 4. J.M.J HOT POT PAINT More than 50 years of THANKSGIVING to Our Secure parking. Tel: 021 UMHLANGA ROCKS: experience guarantees Lord Jesus Christ for 785 1247. Fully equipped self-cater- you satisfaction. prayers answered and for ing 3 bedroom, 2 bath AND HARDWARE FISH HOEK: Self-catering room house, sleeps 6, sea Ph 021 6371938 the intercession of St Rita, holiday accommodation view, 200 metres from our advocate in difficult sit- from budget to luxury. after hours 021 7012692. beach, DStv. Tel: Holiday (PTY) LTD uations. Irene. Pensioners rate.Tel/fax: 021 785 2364, alisona@ Division, 031 561 5838,holi [email protected] 46, 12th Street, Springs, 1559 EMPLOYMENT xsinet.co.za WANTED GORDON’S BAY: Beau Tel: (011) 362 3071, (011) 362 4682/3, (011) 8121655/6/7 tiful en-suite rooms UNISA student (very reli- available at reasonable able) looking for a part- rates. Magnificent views, BRANCHES: time job in order for me to breakfast on request. Tel: cover my study fees. I’m 082 774 7140. E-mail: Springs (011) 362 3071 willing to do baby-sitting, PO Box 2372, CAPE TOWN, 8000 [email protected] Tel: (021) 465 5007 Fax: (021) 465 3850 house-keeping, admin www.scross.co.za Vereeniging (016) 427 5525 work, assist in French, KNYSNA: Self-catering garden apartment for two Editor: Günther Simmermacher To advertise sewing (curtain, cushion, ([email protected]) in Old Belvidere with won- Alberton (011) 907 8676 soft furnishing). Contact Advisory Editor: me on 072 900 3102/ 021 derful lagoon views. Tel: Michael Shackleton Benoni (011) 422 2331 in this space 979 4552 or Email: nlydi 044 387 1052. Editorial staff: [email protected] KOLBE HOUSE is the Claire Mathieson Heidelberg (016) 349 5886 call Catholic Centre and resi- ([email protected]) dence for the University of Nadine Christians ACCOMMODATION ([email protected]) Boksburg (011) 892 5186 Cape Town. Beautiful Elizabeth OFFERED Claire Allen estate in Rondebosch near ([email protected]) Randburg (011) 678 2436 CAPE TOWN, Cape the university. From mid Manager: Pamela Davids Hutton ([email protected]) Lephalale (Ellisras) Advertising: Elizabeth Hutton Kolping ([email protected]) Mike or Annette (014) 763 3147 021 465 Guest House Subscriptions: Avril Hanslo ([email protected]) & Conference facility Dispatch: Joan King STOCKISTS OF: Paint, Hardware, Geysers, Roll-up 5007 for Situated in a tranquil garden in the centre of Dur- ([email protected]) banville, Cape Town, with pool and braai facilities, Accounts: Desirée Chanquin garage doors, Sink tops, Bosch Power Tools. we offer both tastefully decorated B&B and S/C ([email protected]) sizes and as well as a full English breakfast and dinner by Published independently by the arrangement. 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Solemnity of All Saints (November 7) Readings: Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14; Psalm 24: 1-6; 1 John 3:1-3; Matthew 5:1-12 A God who never forgets EXT Sunday we in this country cele- We should also, however, notice what they loveliest of Matthew’s five long collections brate the feast of All Saints; in a are wearing, “garments washed white in of Jesus’ teaching. Listen to it carefully, sense this is our feast, if we get it N the blood of the Lamb”. This is a reminder and hear in it not only Matthew's portrait right, but we have to recall what it is really Fr Nicholas King SJ that the cross is a grim reality for Jesus’ of Jesus, but also the picture of all the about. The message is that God is in followers; but it is not the end of the story. saints whom you have known, flawed as charge, and that we are created to be with Scriptural The psalm cheerfully proclaims a simi- they may have been. Sit among the crowd God, and (audaciously enough) to be like Reflections lar message: “The earth, and everything in on that mountain, and listen to the pro- God. This God invites us creatures, flawed it, belongs to the Lord, the world and its found sanity in the list of those people to as we are, to recognise the Creator, and so inhabitants.” It is essential that creatures whom Jesus offers his congratulations”. discover who we are. recognise their Creator, and act according- It may seem odd to us that he succes- The first reading is from the Book of ly. So the singer asks the important ques- sively pronounces happy the “poor in spir- Revelation, which is written for Christians tion: “Who can go up the Lord’s moun- it”, “those who are mourning”, “the gen- who thought that everything had gone are of immense importance in the Book of tain?”, and gives the answer: it is those tle”, “those who hunger and thirst for jus- wrong, and that Roman persecution meant Revelation, so we listen attentively as we with “clean hands and a pure heart” (does tice”, “the merciful”, “the pure in heart”, that God had forgotten them. To encour- learn that 144 000 represent the People of that ring a bell in this country today?), “the peace-makers” and “those persecuted age them, the elder John offers a vision of God (and that means “a lot”, and must not and those who “seek the face of the God of for righteousness” along with an extra an “angel”, who is, of course, God’s mes- be taken as an upper limit), followed by Jacob”. dose of congratulations for all those who senger, and therefore intended to inspire “an uncountable crowd”, from every The second reading comes at the mat- are “persecuted” and “slandered”. It confidence, coming “from the sunrise”, he “nation and tribe and people and lan- ter from another angle. What saints need sounds absurd, but just sit with the list for direction from which the People of God guage”—so it is a vision of the Church is “knowledge” and “love” (these words are a while and you will see that there is a real entered the Promised Land; and to guaran- Catholic—singing to God. When God is each mentioned three times in a very short profundity about it. tee that the angel is the “real thing”, we being worshipped in this way, then cre- reading); and if we get that right, then we Our task is not to magnify ourselves, are given the added detail that he carries ation is in good shape. are children of God and (audaciously but to recognise that God is in charge and “the seal of the Living God”, so we listen That is our task, that is what we are enough) shall become “like God”. That is has created us for him. Once we have man- with relief as he gives instructions to halt made for; and that is what the saints what we shall be celebrating next Sunday. aged that, then we have solved the prob- the destruction of the earth. whom we recall today managed to get The gospel is the electrifying opening lem of holiness, and can join in celebrat- Then comes a number; now numbers right, and are doing now, on our behalf. of the Sermon on the Mount, the first and ing this great feast as our own.

Southern Crossword #416 Strange chance encounters

NE of my favourite dinner table came a shambling figure whose body conversation pieces is about language I recognised immediately Ochance encounters. from my school days a dozen years ear- I find it fascinating that no matter Chris Moerdyk lier. how far from home one travels, some- It was a fellow called John how one always manages to bump into The Last Spottswood with whom I was on nod- a complete stranger with a common Word ding terms at school. connection. As we passed each other he said “Hi I was reading a wonderful book Chris”, and I replied “Hi John”, and written by a fellow parishioner, David with neither of us breaking our pace Brokensha. Its called Brokie’s Way, the the US to see what things were like we passed on into the mist—just as we memoirs of a remarkable man—a there. They booked into a B&B in a lit- would have done at school a dozen young soldier in World War 2, prison- tle town and then called in at a laun- times a week. er of war, student at three universities, dromat to get their week’s washing And only a short while ago, soon colonial administrator, founder of a done. after my family arrived in Simon's public policy-oriented NGO and pro- Being a sociable fellow, Pat started fessor of anthropology. talking to one of the locals who asked Town in Cape Town, we invited our It is also the love story of David and him where he was from. When Pat said neighbours and fellow parishioners, David and Dorina Shaw, to dinner. his life companion of 50 years, Bernard Australia, his new-found friend said he ACROSS DOWN Riley, who worked together in Africa, didn’t know anyone from Australia, As we sat having some pre-dinner 1. Reveal the bride (6) 1. Improvement after the United States and Britain for nearly but he had a neighbour who had an drinks, the grandfather clock I had 4. Holy River of the Hin- being down (6) 50 years. accent just like Pat’s. inherited from my parents, started dus (6) 2. Invitations to the reli- What interested me in particular Turned out the neighbour was a chiming. David almost dropped his 9. Murder by laughter? gious life? (8,5) was the chapter in which David was woman who had left Pretoria to settle drink in surprise. (6,2,5) 3. Means of entry from describing life as a POW in Italy, and in the US years ago, and her family “I know that clock,” he said with 10. Moved in a circle (7) the sea (5) how his path crossed with another, had owned the house that Pat and a considerable conviction. I said he 11. Collections of church 5. Forcibly seizes and Arthur Winter. Literally ships that few friends had rented when they were couldn’t possibly know it because we law (5) runs (7) passed in the night. at the University of Pretoria. 12. Lesson you get from 6. Bags in radical shape: had only just met them. decent story? (5) you'll find one in Rome I was reading the book at the same The room that Pat had in that house It then turned out that when my 14. Son of Abraham (5) (5,8) time we were entertaining a visitor was the room in which this woman father took long leave in 1955 and we 18. He deputises for the 7. Rift in the faith (6) from Britain. His name was Arthur had lived for all of her school years. kids were all shipped out to relatives, doctor (5) 8. The student may do it Winter and indeed, he remembered They had dozens of acquaintances in Dorena’s family offered to look after 19. Home for the dying in here (5) David very well. The two of them common. my parents’ home. (7) 13. Looked at with plea- made contact again after nearly 60 I remember too, in about 1972, That was at a time when David was 21. South Africa’s papal sure (7) years. while I was on a visit to my brother in courting Dorina and he said he never elector (7,6) 15. River like a blossom? A few weeks later, a school friend of Paris, I was walking down the Rue du forgot that clock which kept remind- 22. Desire to dwell (6) (6) 23. Franciscan brothers 16. Kind of doubtful mine, Pat Webb, who now lives in Aus- Seine early one winter’s morning, long ing him every quarter of an hour that tralia, phoned me to say that he and (6) character in sunless place before the sidewalks markets or bistros he would soon have to leave the love his wife had just returned from a trip had opened. (5) of his life and go home. to Canada where on a whim they As I strolled towards the river, out 17. One of four suits (6) decide to pop across the border into of the mist along this deserted street David and Dorina are still happily 20. Step on the flight (5) married and when you visit their home in Simon’s Town you will not be sur- CONRAD prised to see that there are absolutely no grandfather clocks around. SOLUTIONS TO #415. ACROSS: 5 Dock, 7 Popemobile, 8 Yeti, 10 Frippery, 11 Purist, 12 Apathy, 14 Tether, 16 Sinbad, 17 Ciborium, 19 And when I worked at The Star Soda, 21 Ineligible, 22 Flat. DOWN: 1 Spry, 2 Devilish, 3 Soffit, 4 Silica, newspaper in the 1980s and was intro- 5 Deep, 6 Churchyard, 9 Ecumenical, 13 Agnostic, 15 Raises, 16 Sum- duced to Peter Sullivan, who eventual- mit, 18 Obit, 20 Area. ly became editor, I found out that this complete stranger and I were actually related. Hopefully, in telling these few sto- CHURCH CHUCKLE ries of chance encounters and long lost friends, I will have got you thinking FTER being knocked down by a bus, Paddy lies about all the chance encounters you dying in one of the streets in Dublin. A priest arrives and when administering the last rites, he have had. A asks Paddy: “Do you renounce the devil and all his evil Call it fate, call it coincidence, call works?” Paddy looks up and says: “Father, this is not the it what you will—it is absolutely fasci- time to make enemies.” nating and happens to everyone. I believe it is one of God’s favourite Send us your favourite Catholic joke, preferably clean and brief, to The Southern Cross, hobbies. Church Chuckle, PO Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000.