DUNKELD NEWS Diocesan Newsletter of the Bishop of No. 16 June 2019 “The fire that destroys and burns can also heal...” Bishop Stephen’s Chrism Mass Homily - p6 Church moves to heal representation wrangle ast month’s decision by Perth “The recent vote in favour of the closure and Kinross Council to with- of a non-denominational primary school draw the voting rights of its was carried on the basis of a deciding vote Lreligious representatives who sit on from the representa- the Lifelong Learning Committee has tive. Therefore we believe there was a dis- served to focus attention on the im- proportionate response from the council portant role of all our Church Rep- on this issue and that there were better al- resentatives in the area of Catholic ternatives to resolve the issue.” Education. “We have a very distinctive and differ- The decision to ban the Church repre- ent role from the Church of Scotland as 20 sentatives from voting had put Perth and per cent of Scottish schools are Catholic. In Kinross out of step with all other authorities any case of proposed changes impacting on across the country. According to Scottish Catholic schools this would include a for- legislation, three religious representatives mal consultation with the Catholic Church. must be appointed to local authority edu- The church representative on the education My Dear People cation committees. The voting ban, taken at committee has an invaluable role in articu- a full Perth and Kinross Council meeting, lating the official response of the Catholic of the Diocese Church on these matters.” had come after its controversial decision to of Dunkeld The Rt. Rev. close a rural non-denominational primary, I thank you most sincerely for your which had been swung by the votes of other “Catholic schools were ‘transferred’ into kind wishes on my recent celebration religious representatives. state ownership in 1918 in the same Edu- of 40 years in the priesthood. I am so cation Act which established local educa- sorry the celebrations had to be delayed Mrs Margaret McFarlane is the Catholic tion authorities. With this Act came as- because of my leg and foot surgery. representative on Perth and Kinross’ Life- surances that the specific characteristics long Learning Committee - however she of the Catholic school would be protected I cannot thank enough the surgeon, was not at the meeting where the decision in legislation. One of the mechanisms for doctors, nurses and staff of Ninewells to close the school was taken because she monitoring the state’s ongoing commit- hospital for their kind and efficient care was unwell and, the Church says would ment to those assurances is the presence of and the staff of the diocesan office and the priests who supplied for me in my ab- not have voted on the measure in any case. a Catholic Church representative on every sence. Things are improving but I am told council where there are Catholic schools.” The row was involving representatives from it will be at least a year until I am fully other faiths. The council’s voting ban im- back to normal, but I thank the Good pacts on the traditional role of the Catholic “The educational approach within Cath- Lord for what I am able to do even now. Church which celebrated the special 100 olic schools is supported by a legislative year partnership between Church and State framework which governs both the approv- The delayed thanksgiving celebration with events across the whole of Scotland al of teaching staff and the content of re- of Mass for my jubilee is now on Thurs- during the past year. ligious and moral education programmes. day 20th June at 7pm in St Andrew’s Is is therefore right, just and proportionate Cathedral in . You are welcome. Barbara Coupar, director of the Scot- to have a representative voice on the edu- God bless you all. tish Catholic Education Service (SCES), cation committee to express the views of said, “Catholic representatives are only ap- the Catholic community and vote on mat- + Bishop Stephen Robson pointed to serve on councils where Catho- ters that will impact directly on Catholic lic schools are present and only required s c h o o l s .” “The outcome of the meeting was both to vote on matters which affect Catholic cordial and fruitful. Both parties are mov- schooling. There are four Catholic schools Following a meeting with the Coun- ing forwards to engage in a meaningful in Perth and Kinross - St John’s Academy, cil, called by the Church, to address their collaboration, working to strengthen our and St Stephen’s, St Dominic’s and Our La- voting ban, a church spokesperson for the mutual partnership in support of Catholic dy’s primary schools.” Bishop Stephen Robson said: Education.” INSIDE THIS ISSUE: News, views and coming events from around the diocese

©2019 DIOCESE OF DUNKELD - SCOTTISH CHARITY NO. SC001810 : Rt Rev Stephen Robson Papal Award for St Joseph’s [email protected]

Vicars General: parishioner’s faithful service Very Rev. Mgr. Aldo Canon Angelosanto St Anne’s, 46 Corbie Drive, Carnoustie, DD7 7NU [email protected]

Very Rev. Kevin Canon Golden St Andrew’s Cathedral, 150 Nethergate, Dundee PH1 5PY Tel 01738 622241

Diocesan Centre Chancellor: Mr Malcolm Veal B.A. [email protected] Vice-Chancellor: Fr Michael Carrie Human Resources Manager Ms. Fiona Burnett, C.I.P.D. [email protected] Finance Administrator Miss Melissa Walton, A.C.C.A. [email protected] John McKay has been presented with the Benemerenti presentation to John McKay by Finance Administrator Assistant Papal Medal, Benemerenti, at a ceremony Bishop Stephen, with St Joseph’s parish priest, Miss Lily Haverman Fr Leszek Wiecaszek, S.A.C. (left), Deacon [email protected] in his home parish of St Joseph’s, Dundee. Director Although a native of the nearby Ss Peter Ron Wylie (right) and John’s wife, Irene. Very Rev. Kevin Canon Golden and Paul’s parish, he has spent most of 24-28 Lawside Road his adult life in the West End of the city. are in today. John played an important part Dundee, DD3 6XY Tel 01382 225453 John has been a parishioner of St Joseph’s, in making this happen.” Dundee, for many years and, through that Episcopal Vicars: time, he has committed himself to serving “John has fulfilled many roles in the par- Very Rev. Mark Cassidy the parish in many different ways. ish over the years. Some have been roles (Vocations) Immaculate Conception that parishioners are aware of, for example 41 High Street Making the presentation after Sunday as Master of Ceremonies at Mass up until Lochee, Dundee, DD2 3AP Mass, Bishop Stephen said, “John’s first last year, and also as a Eucharistic minister. Tel 01382 611282 love, of course, is his family, his wife Irene, Very Rev. Michael Freyne his sons Graham and Michael, their wives However he has also chaired the parish (Missions) and his five grandchildren. St Joseph’s council; organized rotas; he has been, and The Presbytery, St Bernadette’s comes a close second and John not only at- continues to be, the parish’s Safeguarding Baingle Brae, Tullibody. FK10 2SG tends the church, he has, in the past, helped Officer; and he has looked after the fabric Tel 01259 213274 to rebuild it. When St Joseph’s was being of the church, lovingly, for more years that Very Rev. James High renovated in the early 1980s, the parish was he would care to remember. (Laity and Lay Organisations) blessed with quite a number of ‘consult- 23 Market Street, ants’ and there was no shortage of advice St Joseph’s parish priest, Fr Leszek said Montrose. DD10 8NB Tel 01674 672208 to the parish priest. However John not only that John had, “Golden hands! Our parish advised but he was ‘hands on’, ‘walking the has benefitted greatly from these hands as Very Rev. Ronald McAinsh CSsR walk’ as they say today. The outcome of the John has quietly gone about tasks, great and (Religious) renovations is this beautiful church that we small, without fuss or attention.” St Mary’s, Hatton Road, Kinnoull, Perth. PH2 7BP Tel 01738 624075

Very Rev. Steven Canon Mulholland Clergy changes in Dunkeld Diocese (Ecumenism and Interfaith Relationships) St John the Baptist’s, 20 Melville Street, Perth. PH1 5PY In May 2019, Bishop Stephen Robson Episcopal Vicar for Vocations. Their new Tel 01738 622241 announced the following clerical changes ministries will begin as from the beginning in Dunkeld Diocese: Fr Michael Carrie, of the new term of school and university in Very Rev. Mgr. Basil Canon O’Sullivan JCL parish priest of Our Lady of Victories and the middle of August. (Clergy) St Patrick’s Dundee and Vice Chancellor of St Clare’s, Claredon Place, Dunblane. FK15 9HB the Diocese is also to be School Chaplain to Deacon Arthur Grant has been ap- Tel 01786 822146 St John’s High School, Dundee. Fr Michael pointed as Parish Deacon to the parish of is stepping down from his role a Director of St Thomas’, Arbroath. Deacon Ron Wylie Very Rev. Thomas Canon Shields Vocations for the diocese. who is currently Parish Deacon at St Jo- (Education) seph’s Wilkie’s Lane is also to assist Fr Nin- The Presbytery, St Fillan’s Ford Road, , PH7 3HN In his place, Fr Mark Cassidy, who is Par- ian Doohan in his work as Catholic Chap- Tel 01764 653269 ish Priest of St Mary’s Lochee, is to become lain to the Ninewells Hospital Group. page 2 Elaine Harrison writes Mgr Hugh Francis McInally, RIP HUGH FRANCIS MCINALLY was born into a devout Dundee family, the only son of William and Isabella McI- nally. The couple also had two daughters, Anne and Wyn. Educated by the Sisters of Mercy at Lawside Primary and Lawside Academy, on leaving school Hugh was an Articled Clerk to CI Dunbar, becoming a member of the Institute of Chartered Ac- countants Scotland in 1956.

That year also saw him begin his National Service, serving two years in the RAF. Hugh had thoughts of Priesthood, but he recalled that his mother suggested he might finish his accountancy studies before embarking on another course.

He duly did, but he pursued his vocation on demob from the RAF and went to Paris to study at St Sulpice. He was ordained to Photo- Andrew Mitchell the Priesthood by Bishop William Andrew Hart in 1963. He then spent five years as Charles Farquhar, of the Farquhar-McI- talents, in the service of the people of God. Curate at St Columba’s in the Kirkton area nally Fund which sent disabled pilgrims to A popular figure with his fellow priests, he of Dundee, followed by four years as Curate Lourdes every year. was a most compassionate and caring shep- in St Patrick’s in the city. herd of his flock. I personally owe him a As well as leaving a host of memories huge debt of gratitude for all he did for our His first appointment as Parish Priest was and stories, of which parishioners past and Diocese during my time as Bishop.” to St Fergus in 1972, where he served for present still speak, he left the parish of Ss nine years. At that time, the new housing Leonard & Fergus a lasting legacy in the Mgr Hugh loved to travel and he visited scheme of Ardler was springing up, and shape of a set of beautiful stained glass all five Continents, mostly in the company to accommodate a burgeoning Catholic windows. of his great friends, the Ruddy family. When population, St Fergus was linked to the new his mobility deteriorated, he still went on parish of St Leonard’s, becoming Ss Leon- His young Deacon in his last year at Ss holiday with them, Jim Ruddy pushing him ard & Fergus, the biggest parish in the city. Leonard & Fergus, 1990, was Kevin Golden, everywhere in a wheelchair. Knowing of his Such were the numbers wishing to attend who was due to be ordained to the Priest- restricted mobility, many were surprised Midnight Mass, tickets had to be issued as hood later that year. Now a Canon and Ad- to hear Mgr Hugh proclaim that he “had it was always standing room only. Father ministrator of St Andrew’s Cathedral, it was done the Camino”, the pilgrimage walk to Hugh was also a very popular Chaplain to Canon Golden who celebrated Mgr Hugh’s Santiago de Compostela, only to reveal, to three schools, and a great champion of the Requiem Mass in the cathedral. That year much laughter, especially his own, that it youth in the parish. He established youth he was appointed parish priest of St Mary’s had been in a luxury coach! groups, altar server groups, Brownie and Forebank and St Patrick’s in Dundee, a post Girl Guide packs and choirs. he held until 2007. In 1990, he was also ap- After retiring in 2007, he took up resi- pointed a Monsignor and Vicar General of dence in his “monastic cell”, a little cottage As a reward for the dedicated service of the Diocese. These churches, too, benefited in the hills. He loved living there, his altar boys, he took them one year on a from his generous refurbishment. enjoying the beauty of the landscape in the trip to Iona. As they approached the sacred changing seasons. Although retired, this isle, Father Hugh decided it would be an He was Chairman of the Catholic Na- most gifted preacher was still in demand to idea if they all took off their shoes and ap- tional Mutual Ltd for 10 years, with respon- deliver eulogies at the funerals of friends, proached the island barefoot, as Columba sibility for the insurance of all cathedrals, a task he undertook with characteristic wit would have done. He deemed it good for churches and church properties through- and generosity. His health deteriorated in their souls if not their soles! out Scotland, England and Wales. recent months, but with the help and sup- port of the Ruddy family, he was able to Father Hugh was an enthusiastic pastor His Bishop for 34 years, Bishop Vincent fulfil his wish to remain in his beloved cot- and he never had any trouble getting adult Logan, recalls that Mgr Hugh gave gener- tage until the end. It was there, on March volunteers and leaders to help him in the ously and unfailingly, of his not inconsider- 30th, that he died peacefully. Mgr Hugh is parish. Summer Fayres were legendary at able talents to the Diocese, and the Church survived by his sisters, Anne, who lives in Ss Leonard & Fergus, with thousands of nationally, in the many roles, he was asked Stratford upon Avon, Wyn of Monifieth, pounds being raised for good causes locally, to fulfil. Bishop Logan, now Bishop Emeri- his nephews Hugh and Ian, and nieces Ve- nationally and internationally. He was also tus of Dunkeld, says, “Hugh was a most ronica and Kathleen. co-founder, along with Dundee councillor generous man, both with his time and his Requiescat in Pace page 3 Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But The perfumed presence of the Risen Christ! if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Mark 11:25 “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may Faith, Fish and Charcoal forgive you your sins.” Luke 6:37 “…Forgive, and you

Mary Magdalene, we are told in the Gos- “Peace be with you” a grace that we repeat by Mary O’Duffin - pel of John, arrives after the Sabbath has often in our liturgical celebrations. He Dunkeld’s Pastoral ended with costly ointment to anoint the then shares the forgiving breath of God and Education Development Officer body of Jesus. She finds the tomb empty commissions the disciples to minister the and is distraught. She sees who she thinks forgiveness of God to others and vanishes After a late Spring and a glorious East- is the Gardener. The Risen Jesus speaks her from their sight. His presence remains in er weekend we pause and reflect on our name and immediately she recognises him the gathering of two or three people in his personal journeys. Many of us will have and tries to cling to him. name and in the ministry of reconciliation looked to prayer in these last weeks. I and forgiveness. know many engaged in the Lenten Re- We all understand this reaction – so of- treat provided by the Ignatian Spiritu- ten we cling to what we love and forget that One disciple, Thomas, was absent and on ality Centre, online or in booklet form, we were called to reach out to others and his return hears the account of his friends some gathering for weekly faith sharing; share the good news of our Faith. Mary is but is stubbornly unconvinced. Unless he journeying together with Jesus. told to tell the disciples that The Lord is puts his hands into wounds of Christ and risen indeed, and she hurries to Galilee. touched his side, he will not believe that Je- In our personal lives it may not have tak- For this reason, Mary Magdalene is known sus has risen from the dead. en a meditation of the Stations of the Cross as the first person to witness to the Lord’s to be able to sorrow with Christ in His sor- resurrection. We are all Thomas. We all long for proof row, although our Faith Tradition provided and certainty before we take the risk of this prayer experience to help us draw close How are we called to share our Faith faith in our own hearts, much less shar- to The Lord in Lent. in the Risen Jesus? Where are our Gali- ing faith with others. How patient Jesus is lees? Perhaps, Arbroath, Perth, Pitlochry, with Thomas…he sees his struggles and Many of us are dealing with losses and Dundee or Alloa? Ask for the Easter Grace doubts – and reassures him with his touch griefs that unite our own suffering to the to share your Faith in word or in deed in and presence. Isn’t this precisely our own sufferings of Jesus: caring for elderly or frail the coming times. Allow some of the joy of struggle with the life of faith? We too wait parents; coping with a separation or be- Easter to bring light to your own heart and with Thomas to be convinced before taking reavement; the loss of a job or friendship; mind, and the hearts and minds of others; the leap of faith. When Thomas finally rec- challenge or disappointment can be alter- this could be friends, family, colleagues or ognises the Easter truth he proclaims, “My nating themes in the raising of children strangers you encounter. Simple kindness Lord and my God”. This is now a devotion- as well as those indescribable moments of and patience can have a transforming ef- al prayer uttered by many when the Host is pride and joy. fect. The disciples had heard of this Good raised at the Consecration. Can we make it News but went back to their old jobs which our prayer? Yet here we are, resting in the soft light they laboured at before the call of Jesus. We of early Eastertide in the sure and cer- have all sensed that drift back to old ways in We join with Thomas in that most dif- tain knowledge that Love has conquered our Faith Journey… ficult transition from doubt to faith. And Death, that we are promised peace and Jesus knows how difficult this journey is. joy. Yet there remains a sense of yearning, They fish fruitlessly all night and they see We are weak and lack courage and so we of incompleteness. You might like to ask a figure on the shore of the sea of Galilee. prepare our hearts in the 50 days of East- yourself how your heart is as we enter the He tells them to put out into the deep and ertide for the coming of the Holy Spirit Month of May, traditionally devoted to they haul in so many fish that their nets are who will strengthen us and embolden us; Mary, Mother of Jesus and Mother of The almost breaking. They come ashore and The Holy Spirit will warm and console us Church. This period of Eastertide stretches discover that the Risen Jesus is cooking with God’s power and presence. Like the for 50 days – and during this period we them breakfast. The scent of charcoal was growing Church described in the Acts of read of the growth of the early Church in last mentioned in the Gospels at the time the Apostles, we will receive the Holy Spirit the Acts of the Apostles, volume two of the of Peter’s denial of Jesus. Imagine that dis- afresh, the gifts of wisdom, piety, knowl- Gospel of St Luke. tinctive barbecue smell reminding them of edge, understanding, courage, counsel and their weakness and lack of courage? Yet Je- fear of The Lord. Why this focus on new beginnings and sus sees their exhaustion, discouragement growth? Why this sense of desire for some- and hunger – and he feeds them. Can we Perhaps these days of Eastertide could thing more in our lives? Surely the great let Jesus tend to our needs? Strengthening be spent praying with a deep desire for the Feast of Easter should fulfil all our ex- and forgiving us for our failings so that full gifts of the Spirit that we need most to live pectations and hopes? The wisdom of the of gratitude we can share that experience in our Christian life joyfully, with grace and Church Tradition is that, like the Apostles our daily encounters? generosity. For the Easter story is just the and Disciples, it takes time for the mystery beginning of our journey… of Christ resurrection and call to risen life One of the most memorable encounters to take root in our hearts and minds; for of the Risen Christ is that when he appears A very happy Eastertide to one and all. this radiant truth to transform us… to the disciples in the upper room. He says, Christ is risen as he said, Alleluia, Alleluia! page 4 Learning our Faith Story …

Who do you think you are? Mary O’Duffin reflects on her series of talks for but for you and me – the chance to explore you would like to ‘watch again’ or ‘catch up’ Catholic Teachers, Parish Catechists and others our roots may never arise, at least courtesy on previous sessions, our very own media who are simply seeking to learn more about of the BBC. man, Andrew Mitchell has captured the their Faith Story. sessions and guiding images on video and A similar opportunity has been at work in these can be viewed on the Dunkeld Dio- ne of my favourite programmes our faith formation sessions which we held cese website under NEWS. And it is really to watch is the one where a celeb- for six consecutive weeks before Lent, and GOOD NEWS. rity decides to trace their ances- began again on Monday 13th May 2019. In Otry or family tree and discover the reality these evenings, 7-8pm, we have been ex- Among those able to follow the pro- of their heritage and history. ploring the roots of our Faith, researching grammes online is Bishop Stephen. Having some of the teaching documents and en- joined us for the first two sessions, we hope The recipe is a simple one: a person cyclicals, (a sort of round-robin letter from that, after his convalescence, he will be back may have gathered some facts by word of the Pope sent to all the Church worldwide); among us again. He is delighted by the fi- mouth, listened to stories in childhood and Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. The delity and enthusiasm of all who attended have a rather patchwork and dreamy image aim is that we feel at home in our own skin and continues his prayer for our Diocese of their family story. With research assis- as Catholics, relish the beauty and reason of Dunkeld that we will experience grace tance and often some foreign travel if they behind our Church’s teaching and above all upon grace in our home parishes. are lucky, they begin to weave together the see that Faith is about an encounter with joys and sorrows, challenges and consola- Jesus, the Son of God, through the Word Canon Kevin Golden VG has accompa- tions of a human story. Far off and shad- and Sacraments; and in our encounters in nied us throughout our meetings, sharing owy personalities become familiar as the prayer, liturgy and our relationships to one hospitality, encouragement and comment; archives and registers of births, deaths and another. and we have both felt heartened by the marriages unfold a picture of human striv- openness and joy in the room whenever we ing and flourishing often in unpredictable Much like the “Who do you think you have been exploring the Faith. and fresh understandings of human his- are?” programme, we journeyed together tory. Compassion, pride, joy, sympathy and to establish a shared understanding of our I am sure all of us are more grateful, en- sometimes embarrassment are experienced Catholic family history. People who at- thusiastic and energised now that we un- for figures who somehow enter into closer tended these sessions said how they were derstand a little better “Who we think we relationship and understanding because of delighted to discover the beauty and signif- are as Catholics”! Every blessing on you all this curiosity, desire and searching. icance of their faith. Increased confidence, this Eastertide. The Lord has risen as he gratitude and a deep desire to continue said! Alleluia! Alleluia! My mother hailed from South Uist in the learning about how to live the faith joyfully Hebrides and my father was born in Brook- and invite others to the same discovery. You are very welcome to join this series of talks lyn of Scots and Dutch lineage so I always at the Pastoral Centre, 24-28 Lawside Road, thought there would be some discoveries Why not join us? The nights are getting Dundee DD3 6XY. Final sessions 13/20/27th and interesting research to be done there – lighter and each session can stand alone. If May and 3/10/17 June - all at 7pm. page 5

The fire that destroys and burns can also heal...

Bishop Stephen Robson’s Chrism Mass Homily Photo by Kamila Guzowska fter returning from Mgr McInal- and stood tall as Nazis occupied its great However, the mood on Tuesday morning ly’s funeral, I turned on the TV, city — was still yet evangelizing even as she was very different. The fire raging through to see the breaking news that No- burned, like Joan of Arc before her, like the the night had been extinguished. The dam- Atre Dame Cathedral in Paris was on fire. martyrs”. age was devastating. But gone was the in- Flicking to BBC News 24 and glued to the ferno and the tears and the mourning of the screen, in the space of 90 minutes it seems Notre Dame was home to wonderful good people of Paris, especially the Parisian that 850 years of Catholic Church history works of art; bronze statues of saints; a beau- Catholics for whom this magnificent cathe- was all but destroyed. Of all the beauti- tiful oak roof with literally a forest of origi- dral was their Mother Church. ful buildings dedicated to the worship to nal 12th century roof rafters and beams; a God all over the world, Notre Dame, as gothic wooden carved choir; a magnificent And standing still proud in the morn- the archetype of the Gothic style of ar- beautifully shaped soaring chapel dedicat- ing sun after a night of devastation was chitecture, 200 years in the building and ed to Our lady behind the High Altar; the the elegant stone skeleton of the medieval dedicated to our Lady, was consumed by relics of Christ’s passion and the precious Cathedral. The twin Gothic towers, partly fire. How many prayers, Masses, pilgrims, relic of the crown of thorns; the world’s fin- burned but still there. The delicate tracery visitors – have passed through its doors? est 12th century stained glass rose windows of the rose windows with at least some of Whether drawn by curiosity, or by Faith, all created by the exquisite skill of medieval the 12th century medieval glass. The ma- the beauty of Notre Dame is a ‘Feast for glass craftsmen and enclosed in frames of jestic Gothic walls and the flying buttresses the Senses’ drawing visitors and pilgrims lead – ALL created by the hand of man for and broad shape of this beautiful Gothic alike into the Mystery of God. the Glory of God and yet engulfed burned House of God. They were all still there. and melted, shattered and destroyed – all James Day, an American News anchor, in the space of 90 minutes. All seemed lost. The roof and much of the interior was speaking on Tuesday morning commented: Did all this destruction nullify the beauty now gone but the language, the faces of “It took flames to engulf the French soul that man had created to glorify God? the people who had prayed and sang all to remind us that cathedrals remain one night, and the responses on the news bul- of the best evangelizers, and France was A terrible tragedy letins were markedly different, infinitely once hailed as “the most Catholic country.” more hopeful. Our Lady of Paris would rise Yet on Monday of Holy Week, the jewel of French President Emmanuel Macron, on again! Some 800 million euros had been that once deeply Catholic country, Notre- visiting the site of the conflagration said to pledged to restore her beauty: the Phoenix Dame Cathedral — as central a character the Parisians who had gathered: A part of would rise from the ashes. For, far from be- in Victor Hugo as Esmeralda and Quasi- us is burning. For the French, and espe- ing a medieval shell, albeit a beautiful one, modo, as iconic as anything Paris added to cially for Parisians, Notre Dame is an Icon this wonder of the world is still home to a its city scape in the 850 years since it was of national identity. For French Catholics, living Catholic Community. constructed So durable that it stood fast Notre Dame is the mother church in France during Robespierre’s Cult of the Supreme of devotion to the Mother of God. A terri- Yesterday morning on BBC World, I Being ceremonies in the French Revolu- ble tragedy this, for the French and I think caught a news bulletin where some nuns tion, withstood Napoleon’s emperorship, for us too! were being interviewed on the Left Bank page 6 of the River Seine opposite Notre Dame. with the Laws of God. and bishops, highly visible and vulnerable They corrected the comments of the news members of the believing community. reporters on the TV, putting some much The Law of God is a much higher Law, needed Catholic Faith into the story line. the ultimate Law. To rebel against the de- But as we’ve said, the flames that destroy The Church is not dead. She is alive and the sign of the Creator is a grave matter indeed! can also sterilise and purify, they can bring Lord will rise! After all, Notre Dame, beau- low and call to repentance, to change the tiful as she is, is also a monument to Faith The Church too, never exempt from the direction of our hearts and to make us start – Faith in Christ, his Mother, and also in destructive impulses of sinful men is ablaze out again. On the one hand, the laws made the Church, in a sense the common home with wave after wave of scandal, breeding by men can constrain our bodies but they of all of us. instability and further faithlessness. The can never bind our souls, if we refuse to let Church too can never trump God’s Law – them. But the laws of God remain forever. We love our history and our Catholic ever – ‘To she who is given much, much The designs of God remain forever. They past but also with hope. We live in hope our will be expected’. God’s love and mercy, but can be changed by NO man on Earth. Wit- Catholic Future, viewed through the lens of also God’s judgement, excludes no one. No ness the martyrs who would rather die that Faith, not only history. Such a building is, one at all. accept that the laws of God to be trampled however much a monument, an expression on by men: witness St Thomas More. of inspired creativity, art and Faith. For the Our Bishops and Priests often feel over- Church is also made of living stones. And whelmed. They are also often overburdened The conflagration of Notre Dame has the Lord will rise this week. and overwhelmed with the guilt and the been a shock for France and for the French. sins and crimes of those others who have But as President Macron reminded us on A terrible tragedy tarnished the priesthood and the Episco- Monday: ‘When Notre Dame burns we all pate – and yes, even the Papacy. As min- burn’ – the Medieval cathedral consumed Within this observation we can Chris- isters of the Gospel, we are all held guilty by fire seems to me to be an excellent meta- tianise our response, not denying the ter- by association – simply for being priests phor for our time. It embodies all the hopes rible destruction caused by fire. For fire burns and destroys, but it also purifies. So suddenly the fire becomes a metaphor for us:- for our religion, yes; but also for the sickness of our wounded and struggling society; for our broken politics, for the intransigence of our political leaders over the seeming the interminable Brexit ques- tion, and the sclerotic arguments used by our supposed leaders, seemingly made of stone like the gargoyles on the drainage pipes and parapets of Notre Dame.

Also, the narrative of our social story is alight. Social experiments including the overturning of God’s laws must surely an- ger God. In recent years the up-ending of the truth of marriage, of human sexuality, the weakening of the already weakened bonds of marriage – such that still exist in law; the social deconstruction of gender, and the enshrining of them all as part of the body of the positive law of the land – in which all of us are constrained by this law to follow whether we like it or not.

But there are laws far more powerful for us Catholics, far more powerful than those espoused in Party political agendas and pushed by the vested interests of powerful pressure groups: Natural law, the struc- tures of the human personality built into mankind by God the Creator into the mind and heart of human beings, and the Divine law, the law of Almighty God expressed in the Commandments and in the New Ways of Jesus Christ, illustrated so clearly in the Gospels; Divine and Natural Law which we must always obey and which can never be trumped by the Laws of man, however democratically expressed by Parliament – which ever Parliament – when they clash Photo by David J. O’Brien page 7 and fears, the history and the destiny of all in so many different ways by so many – tianity (CSGC) tells us that Christians are Frenchmen, and somehow by analogy, of within and without – the liturgy asks us to the most persecuted religious group in the all of us – even the people who never go do something radical and powerful: at the world. According to them, 900,000 Chris- near the church or darken her doors. very time of our greatest feeling of weak- tians have been ‘martyred’ in the last dec- ness and vulnerability: to go out to witness ade alone, equating to 90,000 a year and As our Lord in St John’s Gospel reminds and to preach Christ by the way we live our one every six minutes. us: the seed must die in the ground before it lives. The second century Church Father Ter- germinates and rises. And with the greatest tullian once said: The blood of the martyrs Good News of Holy Week, just as the Lord In the context of the evil and treachery is the seed of Christians. And we need the endures his passion and death only to rise, that lies at the heart of Holy Week, we are spirit of martyrdom today for the Church passing through the darkness of death, so being asked to set the world afire with the to be cleansed and to grow. Perhaps not are we called to be an Easter people of hope cleansing power of Christ. In contrast to bloody martyrdom, but martyrdom of a who are destined to the follow in the same the death and decay of a broken world, spiritual type: witnessing to the Faith. path to Resurrection. we’re being asked to set out and refashion it with God’s grace after God’s pattern, in In spite of the mess, the instability, the the image of God and though the power of Despite the negativity and threats, the gathering storm clouds in poli- Christ. At the nadir of our weakness God is tics, in business, in families, in the changing calling us radically to become bolder than instability and the blackness social climate, in the social engineering ex- ever. all around us, we need periments of recent years which show man witnesses to stand up for the wanting to rebel against the Creator and go In this context we come to Mass to bless Church and to stand up for against the Natural Law and the Law and the healing, welcoming and Spirit-filled Christ and the values of our Design of God. All his can and will end. Holy Oils to be used in the Sacraments that faith: – for the truth of the build up the Church, heal the church and The fire that burns and destroys can fill her with the Lord’s spirit. nature of the human also sterilise and purify and heal. Broken personality; for the truth politics can be mended; fractured society They are used not only to anoint us as and nature of human can be re-united; violence and stress and Members of the Body of Christ, but also to sexuality; for Christian contention can be solved and salved; the heal us in the Lord on our Christian jour- marriage; for the uniqueness wounded Church we love so much, de- ney and to fill us with the Spirit to become of our Divine Lord Jesus spite the flaws human sins inflict on her, witnesses to Christ’s Truth. The word wit- can be once again be purified and healed, ness of course comes from the Greek word who is our only Saviour; for the if we have a mind to cooperate with the for a martyr. To lay down, as Christ did, our Church, his Spouse, Lord’s Grace. Some of the old self needs lives for our brethren. which despite being the to die; the dead wood needs stripped out; wounded Bride of Christ the tarnished face of the church needs re- Ironically in this age of unbelief it has because of the sins of her cleansed; and the solution for this healing been the 20th and 21st centuries that have members, but which is yet is to radically turn to God and leave aside been the most prolific period of martyr- the broken promises of the world – at dom (not as popularly thought the 1-3AD). the Sacrament of our Salvation; whatever cost to ourselves. Throughout the world in the Holy Land and for the blood of the martyrs. and Middle East, in Syria, Iraq, among the Those who witness to Christ’s And what does the Liturgy ask of us to- Catholic minorities in atheistic countries, Truth are the seeds of new night? We receive the message to re-awak- in Africa, in Asia, in South America and en us from our torpor. At this most awful in Europe martyrdom proliferates. In fact, Christians! juncture, when the Church is being pulled the Centre for the Study of Global Chris- + Bishop Stephen Robson page 8 Does the universe point to God? I am amazed at the immensity of space, Catholic Education at least one hundred billion galaxies in the observable universe. The reality of this overwhelms me, and my childhood dreams Working out the ‘how’ of clambering aboard some version of the Starship Enterprise and warping off to strange new worlds are just that – childish of the Resurrection imaginings. It isn’t going to happen anytime mutual love and upbuilding. That message soon. Does this fill me with a sense of inad- Canon Tom Shields has not changed in two thousand years. equacy or the ‘irrelevance’ of my ‘happen- Vicar Episcopal for Education Wherever we are and whatever our beliefs, stance existence?’ Or is there something in we humans need purpose, a future, and to the very nature of creation that gives sign of be loved and to give love: faith, hope and the God who is beyond my comprehension s propagandists, the early dis- charity. However, while we might all share and calls me to look at the bigger picture? ciples weren’t up to much. They those common goals, today, more than made outlandish claims, gave Experience, the way to ever, we differ on how to achieve them. Acontradictory accounts, and showed Resurrection themselves up as bunglers and losers. But Today, authenticity is prized almost From varying philosophies and spiritu- above all other virtues or moral concerns. how were they as teachers? Well, in relat- alities to self-help books and life coaches, The first disciples were, if nothing else, au- ing the Resurrection, the disciples were there is no shortage of twenty-first century thentic. not interested in showing how clever they options. Christianity with its parables and had been through it all, or how they had commandments may give some value for They were honest to the point of being a asked searching questions and offered money, but it is seen often as only one way publicist’s nightmare. They did not claim penetrating analysis. among others, and what we often claim as that they were superheroes – quite the op- Christian ideals can easily enough be pack- posite. Nor did they claim that there was Nor did they lead others in a programme aged as courtesy and common sense. Is something in the human psyche or make towards self-improvement. Instead, they there more? up that was just itching to ‘go transcenden- seemed to be interested in only two things: tal’, and just had to be let out. sharing their experience, and showing why What of our personal Jesus had risen from the dead, and the two relationships? Their experience of death and Resurrec- were linked in their own life story. We hear a lot these days about rights and tion was real: their limited lives changed by respect, about the needs of minorities and grace a testimony not to the ‘endurance of What they saw and heard individuals. All of this is as it should be, the human spirit’ but to the mercy of God. The disciples told of their own confusion, but is there something more? The gospels fear, disbelief, and lack of immediate ac- tell us that the one who was judged has be- tion. They struggled to put into words what Catholic Education come the judge. The one who was counted And that is where Catholic education they had seen and heard: the Jesus who as nothing and as a slave has become the comes in. When I attended Catholic was the same, yet different; the facility he gold standard for human endeavour, and schools in the 1960s and 70s, there was had to appear and disappear at will, from the way to liberation. no denial of evolution, nor was there Jerusalem to the Sea of Tiberias; his abil- any lack of science subjects. We were not ity to walk through closed doors, but still The one who was outcast has shown us banned from reading challenging litera- somehow managing to sit down and eat how to include others and build commu- ture, nor from asking awkward questions. with them. nity. It is not just that I must respect others But faith was brought into every aspect; Above all, they talked of how apparent or refrain from stereotyping. I am called to not in opposition to knowledge but, rath- disaster on the Cross, and their timidity, see the transforming power of Christ in the er, as a context and framework for how to all too evident in Jesus’ hour of need, was poor – and the poor are called to see Christ assimilate and make sense of the data we transformed by the Resurrection. in themselves and others! The individual is were all taking in. not just to be respected but challenged as to Despite their lack of clarity in describing how selflessness can help build community. I am not looking back with rose tinted the risen Christ, there was one thing they Having problems does not excuse me from spectacles: there were plenty of mistakes were very clear on: Jesus had risen from the seeing the need in others, or from contrib- made, and we were all too aware of human dead to bring about the forgiveness of sins; uting to the common good. failings, and the shortcomings of a system to reconcile humanity with God; to bring which often favoured the gifted. Again, peace and eternal life. This, they had expe- our faith taught us that we had to first ask rienced firsthand, and they offered this to Personal healing for forgiveness and offer it freely to others; all they met. My desire for healing does not mean that admit our weakness and seek the mercy of I can heal myself. Admitting my brokenness God. The message might be a start, and there may be practical Wherever the Church went in those steps I can take, but I need something more If we have lost sight of this perspective, early days, and whether to Jew or Gentile, if I am to thrive and not just ‘get by’. As a we need to refocus. Catholic education is the message was the same: our hopes and Christian, I am fully cognizant of the power about the how and why of the Resurrec- dreams are fulfilled in the person of Jesus that comes from the glorified Lord that will tion in our lives; how we make sense of life Christ. In other words, we are saved, and in turn glorify me. I am not just ‘getting because of the death and Resurrection of our lives can have meaning and purpose in there’: I know where ‘there’ is. Christ, not despite it. page 9 NEWS AND PICTURES FROM AROUND THE PARISHES St Thomas’, Arbroath St Bride’s Monifieth helps Sea Apostleship Forty Hour Devotion

Photo - Eddie Mahoney The Thursday Morning Tea Group at St Bride’s Monifieth presented a cheque for £50 in aid of the work of the Apostleship of the Sea. Mrs Lorraine Noble is seen handing over the cheque to Jacqueline McGuire, representative of the Apostleship of the Sea. Also in the picture is Mgr Aldo and Deacon Douglas Duncan (2nd left), one of the chaplains to the Apostleship of the Sea. Confirmations at Our Lady of Good Counsel Photo - Eddie Mahoney Mgr Aldo Angelsanto joins Fr Joseph James (Parish Administrator) and the parishioners at St Thomas of Canterbury, Arbroath, for Quarant’ore. Lourdes donation

Photo - Eddie Mahoney Bishop Stephen visited Broughty Ferry to confer the Sacrament of Confirmation on these young people from the parish of Our Lady of Good Counsel. St James’, Kinross, are led on (L-R) Canon Neil Gallagher receives a £100 cheque for the Diocesan Lourdes Fund from Dave Easton, Mike Bruce and Dillon Lawson, a Mission from Ganglands members of the Logie Pool Section, Dundee. to the Promised Land Fr Vella recalled to Malta Earlier this month, parishioners at St John Pridmore has spoken to millions James’ Kinross and St Matthew’s Auchter- of people around the world about his past Fr Edward Vella, St Bride’s, Pitlochry, has muchty, heard from the inspirational Cath- and present life and has inspired thousands been asked by his Bishop in Gozo, Malta, to olic speaker, John Pridmore, as he led them through his powerful talks, conferences take a parish back in his home country. In in a 3 Day Mission. and parish missions. a message to his parishioners he told them that Bishop Stephen has promised to send Once a serious ‘Face’ in London’s East The talks were entitled, ‘God's Love - The a new parish priest to take over in the town. End; his jackets were tailored to hold his amazing story of John Pridmore’; ‘God's Bishop Stephen said, “Please pray for Fr machete and knuckledusters; his drug deals Mercy - A chance to meet Jesus personally’; Edward, that the Lord will always be with netted him thousands; he had a penthouse, and “God's Healing - Healing Service’. him in his new ministry, and also that the sports cars and women and then, at the Lord will send to St Bride’s a priest accord- point when he nearly killed a man outside John also spoke at the morning Masses, ing to His heart and that will He guide us a nightclub, something extraordinary hap- introducing himself to the parishioners of always into His ways.” pened and his life was turned around. the two parishes. page 10 NEWS AND PICTURES FROM AROUND THE PARISHES Polish retreat at Perth A journey through Holy Week into Easter at Cupar Around 150 members took part in Good Friday Ecumenical Walk with the Cross at Cupar, . The group set out from St James the Great’s Episcopal Church, and threaded its way through the burgh’s busy narrow streets stopping at each of Cupar’s Fr Damien, a missionary of the Order five churches to pray a Station of the Cross. of the Most Precious Blood from Czesto- chowa, led a Mission in Polish at St John’s, At St Columba’s, on Easter Sunday, pa- Perth entitled, ‘Come Back Home’ - invit- rishioners arrived to find a beautiful Easter ing all to be open to God’s love. Fr Damien Garden in front of the altar (below) - with also admitted three of the Perth parishion- a scene depicting the rolled back stone, an ers as members of the Community of the empty tomb and neatly folded white gar- Blood of Christ - Irena Maryniak, Helena (Right) Mgr Pat McInally is accompanied by Kmieciak and Miroslav Kruszynski. Rev Roy Anetts (St James’ Episcopal Church) on Cupar’s Walk of Witness Deacon Krys Jablonski said “The rule of life of the Community of the Blood of Christ is summarized in the words of the Gospel: ‘greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends’ (John 15:13). As Jesus, the Son of God, showed his love by shedding his Blood, so we, guided by the Holy Spirit, commit our- selves to love others and to make a sacrifice of our lives to God and for our brothers and sisters ( Lumen Gentium 42). Now that our new Community is established in our par- ish, we will pray for the necessary graces to be given to our priests and all our parish- ioners so that the Blood of Jesus, which in the modern world should be heard more loudly than the blood of Abel (Hebrews 12:24), becomes for us a solace and remedy St Columba’s, Cupar, Easter Garden for our daily worries.” Mass at St Clement’s marks Fr Rogi’s farewell to Scotland Fr Rogi Thomas, of the Congregation of St Therese, came to Dundee in 2008 from India. He served in St Clement’s, Well- burn Home, Ss Peter and Paul’s and has of- fered Masses in most of the parishes in the diocese, over the last 10 years whilst also studying for his MLitt and PhD. Bishop Stephen thanks Fr Rogi for all his work and said, “We wish you every blessing, our prayers and love as you continue serving the Church in Rome and India.”

Also present at the Mass was Professor Photo - Eddie Mahoney Davey and representatives of Dundee Uni- versity where Fr Rogi carried out his post- graduate studies. A Mass of Thanksgiving and celebration buffet reception. Bishop Stephen was joined for the services of Fr Dr Rogi Thomas CTS by many priests of the diocese reflecting the Photo - (L-R) Bernadette Dailly, Mgr Ken was held in St Clement’s church, Charles- warmth of their love and gratitude for Fr McCaffrey, Bishop Steven, Fr Thomas and ton, Dundee on Friday night, followed by a Thomas’ ministry in the diocese. Moira Leck page 11 Fr James Roderick McCruden, RIP

Father Jim McCruden served as priest of was there that he honed the skills of oratory Ss Fillan & Alphonsus, Parish, Doune, for and teaching which served him so well as 26 years. The parish is extensive, covering Parish Priest. 1,000 sq. miles and he celebrated Mass eve- ry Sunday, first at Doune, then St Joseph’s in In 1982 he decided to convert to Catholi- Callander, and finishing up at Killin. cism, two years later, answering a call to the priesthood, he went to The Beda College in Born in 1945 and brought up in St An- Rome to study. After completing his studies drews, he was proud to be descended, on he served at The Friary in Dundee and at St his mother’s side, from the fishing commu- John’s in Perth before being given the par- nity in the town. The middle child of three, ish of St Fillan’s. he spent an idyllic childhood with his head always in a book and singing in the Episco- His sermons were interesting, thought pal Church choir. He was so fond of history provoking and often peppered with his- and reading that his mother had to chase torical references. He didn’t shy away from him out of the house to get some fresh air. controversy and preached honestly, with great integrity and compassion for all. This Young Jimmy’s love of history and old extended to his duties as pastor in the par- architecture was fostered by an aunt and ish, where he visited the elderly, sick and uncle who were in service. He visited them housebound, regardless of their denomina- every Saturday in his teenage years and was tion. People in need were his concern and fascinated by the history of the family who this attitude endeared him to both his pa- employed them and the upstairs/down- rishioners and the wider community. stairs life. He had a strong sense of family and maintained close links with his brother Away from the rigours of parish life, Fa- and sister, nephews and nieces and their ther Jim indulged his love of walking, bird- families. watching and medieval architecture. His fa- vourite haunts were Montrose Basin, Glen After attending Madras College as a pu- Esk, Berwick and the Dales. His love of pil, Jimmy (as he was known to his fam- medieval architecture led to him choosing ily) went on to read Medieval and Modern Careston near Brechin as his final resting History at St Andrew’s University. After place. Father Jim was a quiet and humble University, Jimmy trained as a teacher at man with a wicked sense of humour whose Moray House in Edinburgh and returned guidance and care is sorely missed by all, to Madras College as a History teacher. It especially his congregation.

Carmelites welcome new members as saint relics come to Dunkeld The new Council decided immediately to arrange an Open Evening for everyone interested in learning more about Carmel- ite Spirituality and the Dundee Secular Carmelite group in particular.

The group meet regularly on the first Saturday of each month in St Joseph’s Con- vent, Lawside, from 10am to 1.30pm. For further information please contact Mrs Helen Wylie (Sec.) on 07751542496 or by email at [email protected] .

The relics of the Carmelite Saint, Therese of Lisieux, are to be on display from 4th to 7th September 2019 in Dunkeld Diocese and the Dundee group will hold an Open Evening shortly after, entitled ‘An Introduc- The Dundee Secular Carmelite Group, Director Fr Tom Stone). Mr David Dow was tion to Carmelite Spirituality’ on Tuesday, ‘San Juan de la Cruz’, held its three-year elected President, Anna Pilley as Treasurer, 17th September 2019 at 7pm, in Lawside. elections last month and a new Council has Helen Wylie as Secretary and Silvia Del- All interested parties are invited to come been formed. (Pictured with their Spiritual nevo as Representative Council Member. along on the night. page 12 Pray for those who serve, and for those in need, and you will be amazed Quietly shining diamonds A personal tribute to the quiet work done by Dundee members of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, supported by local parishes, in Dundee’s Hilltown

“I have always seen the work, indeed had a vision embedded in my heart, of the Catholic Church as a treasure trove of gi- gantic magnitude. Wall to wall goodness (Godness!). Realistically, there are some gaps too. Sadly, these gaps, although small in comparison to similar situations outwith the Church, are often the parts that attract the most attention. Howev- er, quietly shining in this treasure trove are some small, but powerful, diamonds ‘Charity is the cement which binds communities which are held very firmly in place by their clasps - the hands of loving people. to God and persons to one another’ ...St Vincent de Paul One such gem is to be found in the little shop at the ‘bottom o’ the Hilltoon’.” care, love and interest in too many other and for all the other groups who work tire- - writes a Dundee parishioner shops. I am not attempting to comment lessly for others. A decade of the Rosary or on the amazing work carried out by other any other prayer offered daily and we could ‘New 4 U’ was founded by Pat McGol- members of the Society, that would require become part of the cement and be part of drick, Annie Crowe and the late Bunty a book and their works of charity too nu- this loving work. Ward in 2003 with the help of other mem- merous to mention. bers of St Vincent de Paul Society. In the Prayer suggestion - put a container in a last five years Jean Barr, Eleanor Mudie, As I reflected over the Easter period, I place you will see often and then fill it daily Isabelle Bunce and Edith Alexander (who reminded myself to be grateful and thank with your prayers. Very soon you will find is missing from the photo above) have been God for the gentle faithful work of a small that you have a bag of ‘cement’ - the love very faithful and loving hands. band of ladies (and probably some men that binds us to God and to one another!! fetching and carrying in the background). It This oasis of love has been a place of wel- is not always the big splashes which make a Pray for those who serve, and for those come and sharing, providing resources for lasting impact but the many little diamonds who are in need, and offer it to the Lord. all, but in a way that be afforded and ac- which are embedded in Our Catholic Way Give love and you will be amazed at what cessed by all. The shop is beautifully kept, of Life all over the world, with people like happens!! just like a department store, but served by these ladies of St Vincent de Paul giving a the ladies with a measure of love in the bas- continuous sparkle, in a world which is St Vincent de Paul said, “We should ket. They are very busy! People need them desperately in need of it. It would be good spend as much time thanking God for his from all walks of life as they do not get the to pray for these ladies here in our diocese benefits as we do asking for them.”

page 13 The Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) thanks supporters in Dunkeld Diocese for their incredible support for its WEE BOX, BIG CHANGE APPEAL www.sciaf.org.uk/get-involved Members of the diocese have been very their WEE BOXES so the donations can be have put into fund raising this year, but the generous in previous years, and this year used to help more families in poor coun- job isn’t finished yet.” looks set to be no exception. Parishes, tries to live in peace, free themselves from schools and individuals have worked hunger, poverty and injustice, learn new People can send their donations to SCIAF hard holding fund raising events, organ- skills, and to fully recover when disaster by returning their WEE BOX to their local ising collections and giving up a favourite strikes. parish or counting the money from their treat to fill up their WEE BOX. WEE BOX and donating that amount to SCIAF Director, Alistair Dutton, said: SCIAF. Donations can be made at SCIAF’s This year’s Lent appeal told the story of “Thank you to everyone who supported website or sent by cheque to Freepost the charity’s work helping vulnerable young the WEE BOX appeal this year. The mon- SCIAF. But donating is not the only way to people in Uganda to earn a living so they ey raised makes a huge difference to our support SCIAF. There are plenty for fund can support themselves and their families. brothers and sisters in need around the raising and volunteering opportunities on SCIAF is now encouraging people to return world. I’m grateful for all the effort people the charity’s website.

Pupils at St Paul’s RC Academy, Dundee turn their hands to many different fund raising ventures to support the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund as part of their Lenten Alms campaign. Scottish Churches joint statement on church service to mark weapons of mass destruction anniversary Bishop , (President of careful stewards of our world, and the mor- marines sailing out of Faslane, therefore, is Justice and Peace (Scotland), on behalf al questionability of nuclear weapons, we not a moment for celebration but rather a of the Scottish Bishops’ Conference, is- consider it inappropriate to have a church point for lamentation and profound regret. sued a joint statement with Rt. Rev. Su- service celebrating 50 years of Continuous- san Brown, Moderator of the Church of at-Sea-Deterrence of these weapons of “In following Jesus, the Prince of Peace, Scotland, against the decision to mark mass destruction. we continue to oppose the UK govern- the 50th anniversary of the Continuous- ment’s possession of nuclear weapons, at-Sea-Deterrence of the UK’s weapons of “Since 1982 the Bishops’ Conference of which are a daily reality for those of us in mass destruction. Scotland has condemned the use, or threat Scotland who live alongside them. of use of, nuclear weapons as immoral. In “As men and women of faith, and as 2017 His Holiness Pope Francis noted that “We urge the government to take seri- leaders of the Christian communities in the very possession of nuclear weapons is ously its treaty obligations to work for dis- Scotland we offer our thanks and sincere to be firmly condemned. For over thirty armament, and recall the words of Isaiah: gratitude to all the men and women of our years the position of the General Assembly nations’ armed forces for their service, and of the Church of Scotland has been that the “They shall beat their swords into plough- for the families and friends who support possession, threat of use, or use of nuclear shares, and their spears into pruning-hooks; them in that task. However, as Christians, weapons is inherently evil. The 50th anni- nation shall not lift up sword against nation, acknowledging our responsibility to be versary of the UK’s nuclear weapons sub- neither shall they learn war any more.” page 14 Scottish Bishops’ statement on the EU Settlement Scheme “The Catholic Church in Scotland is com- mitted to supporting all EU citizens who have made their home here. The Church has experienced first-hand the extensive contribution that people from across Eu- rope have made to our society. They are an integral and valued part of our parishes, schools and communities.

As the majority of EU citizens are Catho- lic, raising awareness of the EU Settlement Scheme is a special pastoral responsibility to the Catholic Church. Prayer group’s Divine Mercy

The UK Government has launched the Retreat at St Mary’s Kinnoull EU Settlement Scheme offering EU citizens living here a legal route to remain. EU (Eu- ropean Union), EEA (European Economic Members of the St John Paul II Prayer Chris’ daughter, Charis added, “Through- Area) and Swiss citizens living in the UK Movement, gathered at St Mary’s, Kinnoull, out the weekend there were opportuni- must apply if they are to protect their exist- Perth for their annual Divine Mercy Week- ties for participants to partake in a range ing rights and their place in our society. end Retreat. Bishop Stephen and Fr Ronnie of prayer activities to explore and expand McAinsh were among those who addressed their relationship with God. These includ- (Irish citizens or those with valid indefi- the group during their programme of Sac- ed praising Him through wonderful mu- nite leave do not need to apply.) ramental Celebration, Scripture, Prayer, sic, kindly provided by talented musicians, Adoration and Reflection. There was also a Gary and Ronnie; praying for Our Lady’s It is free to apply, and the scheme will re- showing of Sr Faustina’s film, ‘Divine Mer- intercessions through the rosary; morn- main open until 30 June 2021. We ask all cy in Our Souls’. ing and evening prayer; time for adoration, Catholic parishes, schools and organisa- confession and prayer ministry; praying of tions to bring the settlement scheme to the The St John Paul II Prayer Movement the Divine Mercy Chaplet; and time for fel- attention of all who need to avail of it and meets in parishes across Dunkeld and is in- lowship and sharing experiences with one also to be aware of vulnerable people who spired by the words and works of St Pope another. Overall the weekend was very suc- may not realise they need to apply. John Paul II. Coordinator, Chris McCros- cessful and many left feeling revitalised and son, a trainee Permanent Deacon said: re n e w e d .” In particular we encourage Parish Priests, Headteachers and Catholic Organisations “Our aim is to bring people closer to Currently there are three such ‘Schools to signpost people towards the official web- God, forming a deeper relationship with of Prayer’ across the Dunkeld Diocese in site page on the settlement scheme here: Christ through deeper knowledge of the Scotland. These are groups of people who https://eucitizensrights.campaign.gov.uk/, Catholic faith and understanding of Scrip- aim to expand their knowledge of the Faith and the official helpline for the settlement ture. We aim to grow outward and reach as and understanding of Scripture, as well as scheme 0300 123 7379. many people as possible. It is our aim to re- growing deeper in personal relationship spond to the call for a New Evangelisation with Christ. Weekly meetings take place Finally, we urge the whole Catholic com- by helping to foster the Lay Faithful in dis- at the St Joseph’s Convent, 24-28 Lawside munity to take up Pope Francis’ call to covering new depths of personal relation- Road, Dundee on Thursdays – between welcome, protect, promote and help to in- ship with Christ through prayer, worship 7-9pm and also in St Columba’s, Kirkton, at tegrate everyone who has made their home and the nurturing of a greater openness 7-8pm on Mondays; and at St Fillan’s, Cri- h e r e”. and response to the Holy Spirit.” eff, at 7-8pm on Wednesdays. page 15 NEWS AND PICTURES FROM AROUND OUR SCHOOLS St Stephen’s, Blairgowrie marks its ‘Values Day’ St Stephen’s celebrated their new school school working group who have chosen values on 26th April – ‘Love, Integrity, Faith four excellent values which represent the and Tolerance’. This was the school’s ‘Val- school and its ambitions. ues Day’ a fitting celebration after a year of consultation with its learning community. St Stephen’s Primary headteacher, Mr Si- mon McKell said, “We are grateful to the Each of the four classes took a value and Parent Council which has financed new presented this to their families as part of an posters for us, which are on display in the Open Afternoon which was well attended. school and campus. We were also delight- The school also had a Mass celebrating ed to be awarded our second Eco Schools these values which was led by their parish Scotland green flag now, this week, and our priest, Fr Gregory Umuna, who commend- application to become a ‘Gold Rights Re- ed the children for their work and also the specting School’ has been sent in the post.”

At St Clement’s, Dundee, St Pius X, Dundee dramatise finding history can be fun the Stations of the Cross

P7 Pupils at St Pius X Primary School, The origins of the Stations of the Cross Dundee, were invited to take part in a date back almost 1000 years to the time of dramatisation of the Stations of the Cross the first Crusades to the Holy Land and a The school’s Principal Teacher, Mr Daniel wish by pilgrims to follow the exact Via Browsing through the latest edition Albayati, said, “Along with the traditional Dolorosa or Way of the Cross. of the Evening Telegraph’s Chalk Talk readings and prayers, we found that the - Jaksyn finds an article about last term’s children gained a greater understanding The Stations also form a part of the fa- history topic - the Titanic. through their costumes and in the acting mous annual Passion Play which is enacted out of the scenes.” in the village of Oberammergau, Germany. page 16 www.dunkelddiocese.org.uk @DunkeldDiocese NEWS AND PICTURES FROM AROUND OUR SCHOOLS Kilgraston celebrates Goal of Faith

Maja Kruczynska is the Scholastic Book Girls in the Upper 3rd have been learning Competition winner at Our Lady’s, Perth about the Mass and they worked in their Religious Studies lessons (Photo) Fr Mar- St Fergus Primary Dundee - Mass for Mary tin Pletts, with headteacher Mrs MacGinty and the girls in the Upper 3rd.

Sacred Heart schools in Scotland, Ireland and Malta have been celebrating the goal of Faith. Chaplain, Mr Paul Allaker reports:-

“Girls in the Upper 6th at Kilgraston planned and led a variety of activities for the whole school to enjoy, with the aim of helping everybody to engage with the theme of Faith in God, faith in each other and faith in ourselves.

Primary 2 class who led the pupils and teachers of St Fergus Primary, Dundee, The activities included melting sweets to so beautifully in Mass on the theme of Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Pictured here create stained glass windows; winter walks with the children are Canon Neil and their class teachers Mr Hay and Mr Samson. around the school grounds, with stops for silence and meditation; cooking (and tast- Confirmations at St Clement’s, Dundee ing!) a variety of foods from different reli- gions; and making origami paper cranes, inspired by the Hiroshima Peace Park.”

One of the highlights was iPray24, where the girls transformed the RE classroom into an incredibly cosy set of prayer stations, complete with sheets, cushions, duvets and fairy lights. It was open for 24 hours for girls to come and visit and spend some time in prayer and contemplation.”

“During Goals Week, Kilgraston also cel- ebrated Red Hand Day with an assembly by the girls and the opportunity to make red hand prints to send to the United Nations. Photo by Eddie Mahoney They even managed to find time to learn Children from St Clement’s Primary, Dundee pictured with Bishop Stephen Robson, a song about the Sacred Heart Goals that along with St Clement’s parish priest Fr Johney Raphael parish priest the Upper 6th had composed! All in all, a and Fr Rogi Thomas, after receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. hugely enjoyable and faith-filled week!” page 17 Dunkeld Youth Service

Photo by Eddie Mahoney Members of the Dunkeld Youth Service at a Retreat led by Fr Samuel during Lent

Fr Samuel Alabi - Youth Director

[email protected]

Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage

Sunday 9th June 2019 10am-8.30pm 12-30 years What? A weeklong retreat for teens. Run by the Life Teen staff, it promises a Join Bishop Stephen and the Dunkeld Youth Service for a fun-filled, week of fun, faith and fellowship with teens from across Europe! educational journey around some of Dunkeld Diocese’s spiritual landmarks and beautiful scenery. Where? When? Emmaus Retreat Centre 4th 11th Depart Helvoirt August 2019 The Netherlands Visit to the Cathedral Who? Arrive in How Much? Teens 1419 years Dunkeld Lunch Estimated between Visit to Mass in Aberfeldy £300£350 Get In Touch! Loch Tay For any queries or to (Kenmore) Includes all travel, register, please email: Visit to accommodation and Crieff catering for the trip youth[email protected]

Visit to Loch Earn Return (Lochearnhead)

Cost for the day: £10 (lunch not included) To register or for more information please contact the youth For more information about the camp, visit their website www.lifeteen.nl service via email or social media. For testimonies from previous years see www.dunkeldyouth.co.uk [email protected] @RCDunkeld_Youth Registration forms can also be found on our website @dunkeldyouthservice www.facebook.com/DunkeldYouthService

Please Note: The camp has very limited spaces so we will operate (Please note under 18s will require a parental consent form on a firstcomefirstserved basis, and a waiting list thereafter to be completed and returned by Friday 7th June 2019. These can be obtained online or via the youth office.)

page 18 Justice and Peace Scotland NEWS EXTRA! to hold a Day of Reflection Laudato Si’ encyclical

On Saturday 21st September 2019 - 10am to 4.30pm; Blythswood Hall, Renfield St Stephen’s Centre, Bath St, Glasgow

Speakers include: * Lorna Gold – Divestment from fossil fuels * Stephen Curran – Eco-Congregation Scotland * Dr Pete Walton – Climate Science P2 pupils at St Serf’s Primary, High Valleyfield on a visit to their local library * Will Dickson – Ethical Finance

Four expert speakers will explore im- portant topics on the environment rang- ing from divestment from fossil fuels to ethical finance. There will be time for discussion and questions to each speak- er and there will also be a plenary ses- sion involving all 4 speakers, giving an opportunity to ask questions directly to the panel of experts.

The day will start at 10am with regis- tration and coffee. At 10.30am Bishop Nolan, President of Justice and Peace Scotland, will welcome everyone and open the conference. Lunch, including vegetarian and vegan options, will also be provided.

St Ninian’s Primary, Dundee, set up a newspaper group and their first edition was a sell out At St Joseph’s, netting a profit of over £60! Part of it was reproduced in the Evening Telegraph’s Lawside... Chalk Talk supplement - featuring news from local schools. Well worth celebrating!

..in the early stages of her Noviciate!

St Joseph’s Primary, Dundee, are the winners of the 2019 Meikleham Cup - well done! page 19 Canon Steven Mulholland (back right) joins parishioners at St John the Baptist’s, Perth to thank Mary O’Duffin for the series of Lenten Retreat talks she led in the parish during Lent, entitled ‘Walking Together with Christ’.

SPECIAL Ss Peter & Paul’s Primary Helps Sea Mission COLLECTIONS 2019

Apostolate of Communications 2nd June Peter’s Pence 30th June - Solemnity of Ss Peter & Paul

Apostleship of the Sea 7th July - 14th Sunday of the Year

Day for Life 16th July - 16th Sunday of the Year

Mensal Fund 4th August - 18th Sunday of the Year

Ecclesiastical Students Fund 15th September - 24th Sunday of the Year postleship of the Sea was de- Denise Derby, Acting Head Teacher, said: lighted to return to Ss Peter and “We are very happy to support this excel- Mission Sunday Paul’s Primary School, Dundee, lent charity. As they approach their cente- Awhere they were humble recipients of a nary in 2020, we should keep the impor- 20th October - 29th Sunday of the Year £111 cheque. Bishop Stephen is the char- tance of seafarers in our prayers remember Scottish Catholic Education Service ity’s Bishop Promoter for Scotland, and them our own everyday lives. It’s always 17th November - 33rd Sunday of the Year he was delighted to learn the news that nice to finish up on such a high ahead of the children had raised such a generous our two-week Easter break.” amount through the sale of raffle tickets in recent weeks throughout the various Euan McArthur, Scottish Development DUNKELD NEWS years. Officer, expressed his sincere thanks for the school’s on-going support for AoS. He Coming editions Evie Dempster, of Primary 5, was the said: “We are once more very appreciative 25th August 2019 winner of a signed Dundee United football of everything Ss Peter and Paul does to help which the pupils had eagerly competed to our charity and it’s great to know we have a 1st December 2019 win. future generation of supporters.” 1st March 2020 Led by Canon Kevin Golden Email your stories the popular adult formation series Wednesdays at 7.30pm, and photos at the Pastoral Centre, 24-28 Lawside Road, Photos need to be high resolution .jpg Dundee, DD3 6XY [email protected] All are welcome - especially those who are joining the Church at Easter - indeed everyone on Twitter @DunkeldNews who is searching to gain a deeper insight into scriptures and the liturgy. The talks will often Editor - Andrew Mitchell draw on Scripture readings for Sunday Masses and so will be helpful to readers and cantors wishing to enrich their ministry CALL or TEXT 07806 789791 Contact Canon Kevin (01382 225228) page 20