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CatholicOutlookVolume 14April 2011‘Come back to me with allyour heart’ (Joel 2:12)A Pastoral Letter from Bishop Anthony onrediscovering the Sacrament of Reconciliation.Booklet enclosed with this issue.Photography:Alphonsus Fokand Grace Lu

2 CatholicOutlook April 2011An Easter Message from Bishop AnthonyinsideDr Bruno Miteyo,Secretary General ofCaritas Congo, launchedProject Compassion atSt Patrick’s Cathedrallast month.P7It might seem a bit early for me to be talkingabout Easter, but we Christians never tire oftalking about Easter: it’s the turning pointof history, the cause of our salvation, thereason there are Christians at all.There’s another reason to talk aboutEaster right now. In the past few monthswe’ve really been through the wringer inour part of the world. Floods, cyclones andearthquakes have hit us again and again.The pictures of the ruins of the Catholicand Anglican cathedrals in Christchurch areetched on our memories even from the safedistance of Parramatta.And people ask: Where was God in allthis? Where was He in Jesus’ last days – inthe melee in the garden, the conspiracy ofthe priests and politicians, the jeering of thecrowd, the torture on the cross?Where was God at Auschwitz? Wherewas He hiding during the recent natural disasters?Is there any more to this world thandestructive natural forces and survival of thefit and fortunate?At one time or another we all wonderat the problem of evil, whether natural orhuman. Sometimes we find half-satisfyinganswers, until something new guts us. Thenwe feel as the Mother of the Lord musthave felt at the foot of the cross. We gapewith mute incomprehension and impotencebefore the mystery of suffering.Against the backdrop of these recenttragedies St Patrick’s Cathedral inParramatta was full on Ash Wednesdayand I predict it will be full again on GoodFriday. Whether queuing for the ashesor ‘creeping to the cross’, people respondwhen the liturgy speaks so directly aboutevil, suffering and mortality.Dust we are and to dust we shall return.No words, no answers suffice: as in truelove, so too in suffering, body languagespeaks louder than words.We stand by the cross and wonder at evil.But after the grief our gaping mouths and2011April1 April Opening & Blessing,Bishop Anthony Fisher OPMcCarthy Trade Training Centre, Emu Plains.Opening & Blessing,Our Lady of the Way Primary, Emu Plains.Penance Service for candidatesto be received into the Church atEaster, St Patrick’s Cathedral.3 April 11am: Solemn Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral6pm: Installation of Rev Robert BossiniSDB as Parish Priest of Our LadyQueen of Peace Parish, Greystanes.4 April 6pm: Guest Speaker at Theology onTap, PJ Gallagher’s Pub, Parramatta.6 April Wollemi College Mass, Werrington.Parramatta Diocesan Schools Council Meeting.Address CatholicCare Agencies Meeting7 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliationfor Blacktown Deanery, StPatrick’s Church, Blacktown.8 April Bishops Commission for Health andCommunity Services Meeting.7.30pm: Second Rite ReconciliationChrist is risen – Alleluia!As dawn breaks over theGrose Valley in the heartof the Blue Mountains,pilgrims venerate the WorldYouth Day Cross in 2008.Photo: Tony Jacqueshaunted minds, our sickened hearts andparalysed bodies can move on …We try in our little way to make somesense and to find some comfort. We conclude,as Christians must conclude, thatstorms and quakes and other evils are no‘act of God’ whatever the insurers say; thatno innocent person suffers by God’s activewill; that even what God permits so as toallow us freedom costs Him greatly; thatsuffering and death are NOT the last word.Jesus dies upon the cross in solidarity withall suffering humanity. God goes down intotomb with all those we’ve loved and lost.Jesus goes to the land of the dead, to speakthe compassion of God even there. And Heshows them and us the way out. We movewith Him from the numbness, anger anddisgust, to better feelings such as pity andhope. We come to trust creation again, tobe reconciled with our enemies, to believeonce more.We too can know compassion, the compassionin own hearts for others who suffer,the compassion others show us whenService for Parramatta Deanery,Holy Trinity Church, Granville.10 April 10.30am: Installation of Rev Paul Sireh OCarm as Parish Priest of Our Lady of MtCarmel Parish, Wentworthville.5.30pm: Installation of Rev BrendanMurphy SDB as Parish Priest of OurLady of the Rosary Parish, St Marys.11 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliationfor Blue Mountains Deanery, St ThomasAquinas Church, Springwood.12 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliationfor Nepean Deanery, Padre PioChurch, Glenmore Park.13 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliationfor Hawkesbury Deanery, Our Ladyof the Rosary Church, Kellyville.14 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliationfor Holroyd Deanery, St Patrick’sChurch, Guildford.15 April 7.30pm: Second Rite of Reconciliation for HillsDeanery, St Michael’s Church, Baulkham Hills.we are hurting. In the cross of Christ isthe power to conquer sin, suffering anddeath. We find, as Australians and NewZealanders did amidst the recent naturaldisasters, that we can give of ourselves toothers, even to strangers.Where is God amidst these tragedies?With the victims, primarily, but also withthose who respond with divine pity, andcome to rescue and to care. Amidst therubble of Christchurch city or of Christ’schurch wherever it suffers, we see the RisenLord digging desperately amongst the rubble,trying to save whom He can and proclaiminghope once more to all!God bless you and your loved ones in theforthcoming Easter season. Christ is risen,as He said, Alleluia!Yours sincerely in Christ,(Most Rev) Anthony Fisher opBISHOP OF PARRAMATTATHE BISHOP’S DIARY16 April Address ‘Share the Dream’Conference, Melbourne.17 April 11am: Solemn Mass of the Palms,St Patrick’s Cathedral.6pm: Mass and WYD celebration,St Patrick’s Cathedral.20 April Catholic Education Commission Meeting,Sydney.Clergy Conference, St Patrick’s Cathedral.7.30pm: Chrism Mass, St Patrick’s Cathedral.21 April 7.30pm: Mass of the Lord’s Supper,St Patrick’s Cathedral.22 April 10am: Stations of the Cross, St Patrick’sCathedral.3pm: Commemoration of the Lord’sPassion, St Patrick’s Cathedral.23 April 7pm: Easter Vigil, St Patrick’s Cathedral.24 April 11am: Solemn Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral.1 May 11am: Beatification ofPope John Paul, Solemn Mass,St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta.3pm: Divine Mercy Sunday, Our Ladyof the Rosary Parish, Kellyville.Knowing when yourchild is ready for schoolinvolves more thanjust age; each child’sdevelopment is unique.P12On the 1 st Sundayin Lent, BishopAnthony conferred theMinistry of Acolyte onAlfredito Dalogdogand Galbert Albino.P18The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta.Publisher:Bishop Anthony Fisher opTel (02) 9683 6277Fax (02) 9630 4813PO Box 3066, NorthParramatta, NSW, 1750Email:bishop@parra.catholic.org.auWebsite:www.parra.catholic.org.auEditor:Jane FavottoTel (02) 8838 3409Fax (02) 9630 4813editor@parra.catholic.org.auPO Box 3066, NorthParramatta, NSW, 1750Advertising:Tel (02) 8838 3409Fax (02) 9630 4813Deadlines: Editorial andadvertising – 10th of themonth prior to publicationSchool news:Catholic Education OfficeTel (02) 9840 5683news@parra.catholic.edu.auThe 3 rd NationalCatholic FamilyGathering – Sharethe Dream – will takeplace from April 15-17 at Xavier Collegein Melbourne.P16Last chance to registerfor World Youth Day2011 in Madrid!Registrations closeon Friday 15 April:tel (02) 8838 3418.P21Journalist:Virginia KnightDesign:Chris Murraylimad@mac.comWebsite:Andrew EmmersonTel (02) 8838 3407aemmerson@parra.catholic.org.auPeter GresserTel (02) 8838 3406web@parra.catholic.org.auPrinting: Rural PressPrinting, North Richmond40,000 copies of CatholicOutlook are distributedmonthly through 49 parishesand 85 Catholic schools. Allmaterial in this publicationis copyright and may notbe reproduced withoutpermission of the editor.Catholic Outlook is amember of the AustralasianCatholic Press Assoc.and the AustralasianReligious Press Assoc.

Rev Brendan Murphy SDBLast month, the Catholic community ofOur Lady of the Rosary Parish at St Maryswelcomed St John Bosco, founder of theSalesians of Don Bosco, with the arrival of alife-size statue of the Italian saint-educator.The beautiful pilgrim statue, in whicha bone from the saint’s arm had beeninserted, arrived from Melbourne on21 March in the company of Sergio,a Brazilian, and Carlo, an Italian.These men are travelling fromnation to nation with the relic; theirlast port of call before Australia wasEast Timor. Also accompanying DonBosco is an Aboriginal message stick.During the saint’s visit, peoplecame from Newcastle, Melbourne andCanberra. On Wednesday evening abus-load of pilgrims arrived from StJohn Bosco Parish at Engadine for aMass with Bishop Anthony Fisher op.The visit brought many former DonBosco students together. They came fromas far afield as South America, Africa,the Philippines, India, and Sri Lanka.More than 1,000 people attendedthe relic reception, Masses, talks, allnightEucharistic prayer vigil and silentveneration and prayer times, with manyavailing themselves of the opportunitiesfor the Sacrament of Reconciliation.Students from Our Lady of the RosaryPrimary School and Wollemi College atWerrington, together with representationsfrom Emmaus College at Kemps Creek, andSt Dominic’s College at Penrith, came tolearn something of Don Bosco, the ‘fatherand teacher of youth’. St Dominic’s Collegeband provided music for the Mass in honourof Don Bosco’s student, St Dominic Savio.Only God knows all the graces of thevisit, but a time of grace it was; a timeof silent and communal prayer andveneration, of joy, of encouragement, and ofre-visiting Don Bosco’s perennial message.“Absolutely spiritually uplifting – out ofthis world,” commented an Africanpast student.“A once-in-a-lifetime experience,”said a young Filipino Bosconian.On the evening of 23 March, BishopAnthony Fisher op was the principalcelebrant for a Mass in honour of DonBosco. In his homily, Bishop Anthony saidthe saint’s early experience of the strugglesof families in poverty and as a shepherdboy were a premonition of his eventualvocation as a shepherd of poor boys.“As a young priest he was appalledto discover poor children in dreadfulconditions in jail, with little ahead of thembut the gallows. A contemporary of StMary MacKillop and driven by a similarcompassion for poor children, he resolved,as she put it, ‘to never see a need withoutdoing something about it’. He devoted hislife to the rescue of these young outcasts.“In our contemporary world we mighteasily read Don Bosco as an heroic socialworker. He was that, but he was muchmore than that. He was a Christian, afterthe spirituality of St Francis de Sales. Thechildren in his oratories learnt not onlywoodwork but also catechism; not onlyhow to talk civilly to one another but alsohow to talk to God in prayer; not onlyhow to live in charity but also how tobecome apostles of charity themselves.“Tonight Don Bosco is here in Australia,in the land of Our Lady Help of Christians,or at least a major relic is. Relics connectus with the saints. They increase ourdetermination to emulate their virtues.More than any picture or writing,they bring us close because they wereactually part of the saint’s earthly life.“Any ordinary person understands whyyou might want to keep a locket of a lovedone’s hair or a jumper that they wore. Butholy relics are not just mementos of gracespast but also conduits of graces present.”Bishop Anthony’s homily can be readin full at: www.parra.catholic.org.auFollowing the Mass, Don Bosco departedfor Hong Kong and Burma on the next legof his pilgrim journey. And his family arebetter for his visit, having been remindednot only of his achievements, his loveand his very real ongoing presence, butalso for his messages of love for Christ inthe Eucharist, Mary our Helper, the Popeand the Church, and the needy young.A time of grace, and a time ofencouragement and renewal. Thanksbe to God, and to Don Bosco.Pictured far right: (back, from left)Deacon Owen Rogers, Fr Guy Riolo sdb,Br Stan Rossato sdb, Don Bosco,Fr Brendan Murphy sdb; (front, from left):Fr Jeremiah Breen sdb, Fr Shane Reade sdb,Bishop Anthony Fisher op,Fr Joseph Na sdb, Fr John Briffa sdb.CatholicOutlook April 2011 3Our Lady of the Rosary Parish community welcomes St John BoscoHoly Week and Easter Celebrations in St Patrick’s CathedralPalm SundaySaturday – 6pm: Vigil8am, 9.30am, 11am: Solemn Mass of the Palms withBishop Anthony, gather outside Cathedral at 10.45am forprocession of palms6pm: Mass with Bishop Anthony and World Youth Daycelebration, gather in Prince Alfred Park at 5.45pm for processionof palmsMonday 18 and Tuesday 19 April6.45am and 12.30pm: Mass.Wednesday 20 April6.45am and 12.30pm: Mass. 7.30pm: Chrism MassHoly Thursday6.45am: Morning Prayer, no morning or mid-day Masses7.30pm: Mass of the Lord’s SupperPhotography by Alphonsus Fok, Grace Lu, and Raymund MarananGood Friday9.15am: Morning Prayer & Office of Readings (Sung).10am: Stations of the Cross.3pm: Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s PassionHoly Saturday9am: Morning Prayer; 6.30pm: Easter VigilEaster Sunday8am, 9.30am, 11am and 6pm: MassSacrament of Reconciliation in Holy Week18-21 April: 11.30am to 12.20pmGood Friday: 11am to 12.30pm; 4.30pm to 5.30pmHoly Saturday: 11am to 12.30 pm; 4pm to 5pmSt Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. Tel (02) 8839 8400, www.stpatscathedral.com.au

4 CatholicOutlook April 2011ST PATRICK’CATHEDRAL PRECINTDiocese secures part of old King’s School siteBishop Anthony Fisher op has welcomeda decision by the NSW Governmentto sell part of the old King’s Schoolsite to the Diocese of Parramatta.The parcel of land adjoins St Patrick’sCathedral carpark and is bordered byVictoria Road and O’Connell Street.The Keneally government made theannouncement on 3 March 2011.The sale represents 12% of the totalsite at a market value of $5.5 millionas determined by the independentValuer-General based on the maximumdevelopment rights that may beachieved on the area purchased.The remainder of the site will beplaced in the public reserve system andmanaged in accordance with the CrownLands Act 1989. The government saidproceeds from the sale would be directedto funding an arts and education precinct.Bishop Anthony said the arrangementsas outlined by the government had thepotential to deliver a range of benefits fora broad cross-section of the community.“This is a success story for our Diocese.For many years the Church has soughtto purchase the entire site including theheritage buildings that were derelict. Ourproposals included the option of shareduse with state and local governmentsand the broader community.“While the Government has decidedonly to sell the Church 12% of the site,VICTORIA ROADPURCHASED BY DIOCESEAerial view of the old King’s School site: the Diocese has purchased theparcel of land on the corner of Victoria Road and O’Connell Streetthis still presents us with an excitingnew opportunity to serve the people ofParramatta and beyond even better.“The announcement means thisbeautiful site can now be used forcharitable purposes as well as the arts.”The Diocese will develop a master planfor the site with the Government as currentowners carrying specific responsibilitiesfor its satisfactory completion.Future projections have taken into accountparish, ministry and agency initiatives overthe next 10 years and indicate that therewill be no financial impact on these plans.“With the portion of the site we willpurchase, we will be able to extendour welfare, educational and spiritualservices,” Bishop Anthony said. “This willenable us to assist a broad cross-sectionof the community, not just locally inParramatta, but across western Sydney.“We are grateful both to the StateGovernment and to the Lord Mayorof Parramatta for their willingnessto work with us in this area.”The old King’s School was the firstlarge private boarding school run by theAnglican Church to provide secondaryeducation in the colony of NSW.The school occupied the site almostcontinuously from 1836 to 1964. Afterthe relocation of the King’s School in1968 to Pennant Hills Road, the sitewas sold to the NSW Government.The King’s School and St Patrick’sParramatta versus the O’ConnellsVivienne Keely CHFMaurice O’Connell first arrived in Sydneywith Governor Macquarie on 1 January1810 as commander of the 73 rd Regimentof Foot and Lieutenant Governor.Born a Catholic in Ireland anda relative of Daniel O’Connell,Maurice went to Paris to study for thepriesthood but left without havingbeing ordained. He joined the Irishbrigade, transferred with it into theBritish Army, and embraced the Churchof England to further his career.In Sydney, Maurice aged 35 and abachelor, fell in love with the formerGovernor Bligh’s daughter, Mary, a youngwidow. They were married on 8 May1810 at St Phillip’s Church of England.Governor Macquarie gaveO’Connell a 2500-acre grant whichhe called Riverston, named afterhis birth place in Ireland. It is nowknown as Riverstone and poised forphenomenal grown as part of thenorth-west corridor in our Diocese.One of Macquarie’s priorities wasto create some order in the chaos ofland grants, leased and permissiveoccupancies. In Parramatta he wasgreatly hindered by a grant of land madeby Governor King to Governor Bligh,known as Mount Bethem. In 1819,Macquarie gazetted the resumption ofthe grant and required the heirs of Blighto surrender their title to the land.Mary O’Connell, one of Bligh’s sixdaughters, was an heiress but she hadleft Sydney in 1814 to accompany herhusband to his new posting in SriLanka. The other five heiresses were inEngland. The title was not surrendered.A protracted correspondencebetween governors in NSW, theSecretary for the Colonies in Londonand the Bligh family ensued.In 1838, Maurice O’Connell wasre-appointed to NSW as LieutenantGovernor and arrived in Sydneyfor the second time, in December1838. But before the O’Connells leftEngland, the Bligh heiresses haddecided to sell the Parramatta landand signed a deed of conveyance totwo Trustees, Hallet and Slade.Immediately on their arrival in Sydney,the O’Connells began serving notices ofejectment on some of the occupiers ofthe former Mount Bethem grant. Twoof the ‘occupiers’ were the King’s Schooland St Patrick’s Church. A notice wasserved on Fr Ullathorne and the RevJohn Troughton of the King’s School.In early August 1839 the O’Connellsarrived at the school in an attemptto take possession of the land. Thestudents, who had no idea what washappening, enthusiastically welcomedthe visitors and asked O’Connell totake the school under his protection.The Lieutenant Governor and LadyO’Connell even took tea with Troughton!The Attorney-General, JamesPlunkett, an Irish Catholic, broughtthe case to an end by persuading theO’Connells to surrender their title tothe Parramatta land on the conditionthat the Crown would not challengetheir title to other more valuable landsclose to Sydney. The King’s School, StPatrick’s and private individuals werespared having to give up their land.Vivienne Keely chf is Research Officerfor the Diocese of Parramatta.Governor Lachlan MacquarieEdmund Rice Retreat &Conference Centre“Winbourne”(Conducted by the Christian Brothers)Winbourne is a place of quiet reflection, peace andtranquillity, set on 100 hectares, located in Mulgoa.Our Centre offers a variety of facilities, includingtwo styles of accommodation suitable for adult andschool groups, various sized conference rooms with modern facilities and sporting grounds.Catering is available. The Centre is well equipped for school self run retreats,parish retreats, meetings and picnic days, staff spirituality days, year groupreflection days and sporting groups. We welcome your enquiry.EnquiriesPhone: 02 4773 5555 Fax: 02 4773 5500Email: reception@winbourne.cfc.edu.auWebsite: www.winbourne.cfc.edu.auAddress: 1315 Mulgoa Road, Mulgoa NSW 2745

CatholicOutlook April 2011 5St Patrick’s land grant: who was our neighbour?Vivienne Keely CHFThe grant for St Patrick’s Parramatta,Lot 1, was made in 1846.Why did it take such a long timewhen land had been allocated to theCatholic Church in the early 1820s?The main reason was that thewhole system of grants and leaseswas not well regulated.Some people held land by meansof ‘permissive occupancy’. Gettingsome order into the recording ofgrants and leases was one of thepriorities of Governor Macquarie.A major intervention camein May 1823 when Macquarieannounced, by proclamation, thatthose who held land in towns couldobtain a lease for 21 years.Land holders or occupiers whocould afford to pay 21 years ‘quitrent’ or had spent more than £1,000on improving their land, that isbuilding something on it, were entitledto a grant. The leases expiredin the 1840s.In the meantime, successivesurveyors were busy measuringlots to ensure that the leases andGrant of St Patrick’s site, dated 31 March 1846. Photo: Hamilton Lundgrants were the same in area as thatrecorded in the surveyors’ booksfrom many years earlier.Brownrigg surveyed Parramattaand submitted his survey in1845. When St Patrick’s land wasgranted the following year, JamesPye was the largest individual landowner on the site and held most ofthe site the Diocese is set to purchase,the area bordered by VictoriaRoad, then Pennant Street, and thepresent O’Connell Street.The Cathedral and old King’sSchool land were part of one sitegranted to Governor Bligh andcalled Mount Bethem in honourof Bligh’s wife, Elizabeth, whosemaiden name was Betham.James Pye was a local lad, bornin Toongabbie in 1801. He followedhis father into fruit growing,grew oranges in Seven Hills,gradually adding to holdings byacquiring orchards in the Fieldof Mars, North Rocks, and SevenHills and came to be recognised asan expert orchardist.An early convert to climatechange, in evidence to a governmentcommittee inquiring into diseasein fruit trees, Pye held vehementlythat the outbreak of diseasewas due to a change in climate.In the elections in 1856, Pye waselected to the Legislative Assemblybut was defeated two years later byGeorge Oakes. Pye alleged electionfraud claiming that voters had beenintimidated and that £100 had beenpaid to the credit of the Speaker ofthe House. The subsequent inquiryfound against Pye but averred thathis appeal was not vexatious.Turning his attention to municipalgovernment, Pye served as aldermanat Parramatta from 1862-1884,with a term as Mayor of Parramattain 1866-67. He did much to promoteeducation and to secure awater supply for Parramatta.Just after Christmas 1884, hedied as the result of an accident– an out-of-control horse and cartknocked him from his horse. Hewas buried in St John’s cemetery.Sources: Online AustralianDictionary of Biography, Parliamentof NSW website, St Patrick’sCathedral Revised CMP, 2001Is your school ready for the Challenge?You discover Bill Gates’s wallet lying on the street. It contains$1000 cash. Do you send it back to him? Why? Why not?The 5 th Annual Campion Knowledge Challenge for schoolsin the Parramatta Diocese will take place in May.Philosophical questions like that are part of the challenge. Students from Years10 to 12 answer questions not only on Philosophy, but also on Literature, History,Religion and Science (the Campion core subjects) in the race for CKC supremacy.Last year 23 teams competed.Already applications are rolling in but there’s still time: askyour teacher if your school is entering a team.Record number of studentscommence at CampionA record number of students enrolled in at Campion in 2011. Up 36%on last year, this year’s intake includes students from all Australianstates, Canada, the US and East Timor. Two of our US students areon exchange from the Benedictine College in Atchison, KansasCampion College is a true national and international college, the onlyLiberal Arts college in Australia. Campion’s liberal arts program isgrowing in popularity as students come to understand the prestige, thevalue and the standing of a Bachelor’s degree in the Liberal Arts.Mid-Year IntakeIntending students should contact Campion about enrolmentin the mid-year intake in August 2011. For more informationvisit www.campion.edu.au or phone 9896 9300.“I award you the degree of Bachelor of Artsin the Liberal Arts, in the name of the Fatherand of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”ONLY AT CAMPION!Campion College offersAustralia’s only fully-integratedLiberal Arts degree, thebest basis for any career:• Friendly, supportive lecturers• An active Faith community• Great friendshipsCampion College AustraliaEducation for Eternity8-14 Austin Woodbury PlaceOld Toongabbie, NSW, 2146Ph: (02) 9896 9300, Fax (02) 9631 5611www.campion.edu.au

6 CatholicOutlook April 2011Theology of the body (Part 8) Our bodies are temples of the Holy SpiritAnna KrohnIn previous issues, CatholicOutlook published seven partsof its ‘guided tour’ through thevast terrain of Pope John Paul II’stheology of the body addresses.Last month’s article outlinedthe Pope’s discussion of whatmarks out the authenticChristian approach to love andsexuality and what distinguishesit from attitudes and actionswhich disfigure and devalue thetrue preciousness of the humanbody and the human person.The Pope explains that theChristian teachings on marriage,family and interpersonal love arenot based on lists of ‘policies’or a constructed ideology, asmany people wrongly assume.Rather their foundations liein a global ‘ethos’ built upona confidence that our bodilylife is a God-bestowed gift.We are made this way, saysthe Pope, so that we can alsogive ourselves in love with“the freedom of the gift”.John Paul II finds definitiveauthority for this symbol ofthe ‘gift’ in Christ’s wordsto the Pharisees (discussedin Cycle One of the Pope’stalks) and in Christ’s wordsin the Sermon on the Mount(discussed in Cycle Two).The Pope has to this pointestablished that a true theologyof the body recognises that onone hand our bodies and hearts,intellects and eros, are togetherthe original ‘gift’ of God’s imagein each person, but on theother that our ability to ‘give’ourselves in love is historicallyfractured and disrupted.To realise the ‘ethos of thegift’ we are dependent uponthe life-long reception of thesecond ‘gift’: that of Jesus Christ’sself-giving love and grace: “TheChristian ethos is characterisedby a transformation of thehuman person’s conscienceand attitudes, both the man’sand the woman’s, such as toexpress and realise the value ofthe body and of sex accordingto the Creator’s original plan”(TOB 35, 13 August 1981).In his 50 th audience (10December 1980), Pope JohnPaul II concludes his exegesisof the Sermon on the Mountand delves more deeply into theway our hearts and lives will beshaped by an authentic livingof the theology of the body.The Pope points out thatmany cultures, but particularlythe Jewish tradition, haveattempted to express sexualvirtue, godly response and clarityof mind and vision under theimage of being ‘pure of heart’.The Pope seems to be awarethat the term ‘sexual purity’for many people today soundsincredibly outdated. He thereforeaims to correct and restore thefull biblical and charismatic senseof the word ‘purity’, particularlyas that notion touches on sexualattitudes and behaviour.He points out that authenticpurity of heart is not the resultof muscular self-sufficiency andstoicism; it is the power and loveof God that creates in us a “pureand contrite heart”. Threads ofthe Wisdom literature of the OldTestament and the rich theologyof St Paul illustrate this further.In the Letter to the Galatians(Gal 5:19-23) St Paul spells outthe effects of rejecting ‘purity’.We become ‘fleshly’, we treatour bodies as mere ‘meat’ andour unreformed egos as thecentre of our own universe.The fruit of such rebellion,says St Paul, is in the first placesexual infidelity and abuse:orgies, prostitution and adultery.However, there is also widespreadcommunal and societaldestruction: strife, jealousy, envy– a veritable ‘culture of death’.Purity involves a positivecommitment to sexual integrityand also to wide-ranging issuestouching social justice, personaldignity and charity. It does notend in the avoiding of sexualsins or immodest behaviour,though it involves these.Purity is not fussy, timorous,hypocritical and joyless disgustat bodily life and all that goeswith it. Rather it engages inthe vigorous and yet sensitivebuilding up, healing and loveof all that matters about thedignity of the person.Above all, sexual integrity relieson the love and reverence of God,of ourselves and our neighbour. Italso brings delight and goodness,ferocious courage and gentlehumility and is “a condition offinding Wisdom” (Sirach).In Pope John Paul II’s teaching,purity of heart is the Holy Spirit’sintegrating and healing answerto a one-sided and disjointingculture (such as our own)which in its own confused wayclaims to celebrate the bodywhile it “treats the body (andtherefore persons) more or lesssystematically as an object ofmanipulation” (TOB 59:4).When we are impure wedeny the ‘spousal’ meaning ofour bodies and hearts and fogthe vision that we “belong toGod” (1 Cor 6:9). We knockback the gift of “the indwellingand continuous presence of theHoly Spirit in man – in his souland in his body.” (TOB 56:2).The Holy Father insists withSt Paul that our bodies arenot mere tools to keep cleanand functional (as it were),but temples of the Holy Spirit,places of awe, reverence andhonour, places of living beautyand holiness. “The HolySpirit enters into the humanbody as into his own temple(and) dwells there and workswith his spiritual gifts.”Purity, says Pope John Paul II,is one of the dynamic works ofthe Holy Spirit by which we arespiritualised – which does not atall mean splitting the body fromthe soul. Rather it enables eachperson to become distinctivelyintegrated so that their bodilylove becomes Christ-like and“is the glory of the human bodybefore God” (TOB 57:3).Anna Krohn is a sessional tutorin the Nursing Department atAustralian Catholic Universityand an academic skills adviserat the John Paul II Institutefor Marriage and Family.Anna KrohnWe believe in the resurrection of the bodyPope John Paul II in his Third Cycle of talks brings to thefore and lights up a long-neglected aspect of the traditionalChristian mystery which involves the future of our bodilylives – beyond this life. Our entire person through gracewill be resurrected, body and soul, mind and heart.The same Father of the living and Risen Christ will workin us. This includes, says the Pope the “spousal meaningof the body (which will then) encounter with the mysteryof the living God, the face-to-face vision of him.”

Pick up a Project Compassion collection box from your parish or school. Photos: Alphonsus Fok and Grace LuA BBQ after Mass helped to raise $500 on the dayDr Bruno Miteyo, Secretary General of Caritas CongoCatholicOutlook April 2011 7Launch of Project CompassionEvan EllisDiocesan Caritas DirectorOn 6 March, Project Compassionhad its diocesan launch at St Patrick’sCathedral in Parramatta. ProjectCompassion is the annual Lentenfundraiser of Caritas Australia, theChurch’s agency for international aidand development.Over the decades and with the supportof parishes, schools and the communityat large, it has grown into thelargest aid and development fundraiserin the country.In the solemn Mass, Bishop AnthonyFisher op used his homily to remindpeople of where their donations goand why they should give generously.“Monies raised ensure Caritas cancontinue to work in partnership withpoor and marginalised communitiesfrom around the world, tackling theroot causes of poverty and injustice,”he said.“This work is part of the Church’smission to bring good news to thepoor, liberty to prisoners, sight to theblind and freedom to the oppressed.”The guest speaker at the launch wasDr Bruno Miteyo, Secretary Generalof Caritas Congo. Since conflict beganin the Democratic Republic of Congoin 1995, some five million people havebeen killed.In many parts of the country statestructures have collapsed leaving theCatholic Church as the only remainingfunctioning institution, of whichCaritas Congo is an important part.Caritas Congo has met this challengeby providing food, shelter, cleanwater and medicine to hundreds ofthousands of people. Most of theUN’s food aid goes through Caritas.Caritas Congo also runs 185 hospitalsnationwide and more than 500 healthcentres, making it the main healthprovider in the country.Dr Bruno spoke of his people’s gratitudefor the generosity shown throughsuccessive Project Compassionappeals. Caritas Congo is just one ofthe many agencies, NGOs and communitygroups which partner withCaritas Australia to create a more justand compassionate world.Dr Bruno pointed out that evena small donation can have a bigimpact in the countries where it isused and he challenged everyonepresent to find ways of living in solidaritywith the people of Congo andthe world’s poor.After Mass, a BBQ was held completewith a 2m tall walking ProjectCompassion Box. Just under $500was raised from donations taken onthe day.You can make a donation throughcollection boxes available from yourparish or school, phone toll free 1800024 413 or go to www.caritas.org.au/projectcompassion

CatholicOutlook April 2011 9During the Australian Bishops’ last ‘Ad Limina Apostolorum’ visit to Rome inMarch 2004, Bishop Kevin Manning met with Pope John Paul IIBeatification initiatives on Facebook and YoutubeOn 1 May this year, tens ofthousands of people will gatherin Rome for the beatificationof Pope John Paul II. The HolyFather, Pope Benedict XVI,will preside at the ceremony,which will begin at 10am (Rometime) in St Peter’s Square.In Parramatta, Bishop AnthonyFisher op will celebrate SolemnMass in St Patrick’s Cathedral at11am. Rev Chris Dixon, ParishPriest of St Madeleine Sophie BaratParish at Kenthurst, will representthe Diocese of Parramatta atthe ceremony in Rome.The beatification will takeplace on Divine Mercy Sunday,which had special significancefor the late pontiff, who madeit a feast day to be celebrated aweek after Easter. Bishop Anthonywill be the principal celebrantfor a 3pm Mass at Our Lady ofthe Rosary Church, Kellyville.The beatification in Rome willbe a major ecclesial event. A vigilat the Circus Maximus on Saturday30 April has been organised bythe Diocese of Rome, which hadPope John Paul II as its bishop.The vigil will be led by CardinalAgostino Vallini, His Holiness’Vicar General for the Dioceseof Rome, while the Holy FatherBenedict XVI will be spirituallypresent through a video link-up.The veneration of the remainsof the new blessed will take placeimmediately after the ceremony.The remains will be exposedfor veneration in front of theAltar of the Confession in theVatican Basilica for as long asthe faithful continue to arrive.A Mass of thanksgiving willtake place in St Peter’s Squareon Monday 2 May, presidedby Cardinal Tarcisio BertoneSDB, Secretary of State.The interment of the remainsof the new blessed in the Chapelof St Sebastian in the VaticanBasilica will take place privately.Vatican Radio and the VaticanTelevision Centre (CTV)have made a wide range ofdocumentary material available.A new page dedicated to JohnPaul II for his beatification hasbeen activated on Youtube.The page is available at:www.youtube.com/giovannipaoloiiThere are video clips on thepontificate year by year, as well asvideo clips with the Pope’s voice invarious languages and situations(on trips and in the Vatican).The audio of the Pope is inthe original language in which itwas pronounced, with Englishlanguagesubtitles indicatingthe place (country), day, monthand year of the event.The dedicated Youtube page,as well as the normal channelthat has existed for sometime in four languages(www.youtube.com/vatican),will be supplied with videoclips of current events andinformation concerning thedays of the beatification.A new page has also beenactivated on Facebook. All thevideo clips uploaded to theYoutube channel will be availableat the same time on this page:www.facebook.com/vatican.johnpaul2The aim is to give this initiativeas great an exposure and as wide acoverage as possible. This initiativecarries the joint signatures ofVatican Radio and of the VaticanTelevision Centre, it has beenagreed with the Pontifical Councilfor Social Communications andis open to all users of Facebook.Shrine of Our Lady of MercyGreat Novena of Coronation 5 th monthFatima Day – April 13Programme: 9.30am Start, 3.00pm ConclusionOur Main Celebrant:Fr. Maurizio Pettena C.S.Director for migrants of the Australian Catholic Bishops’ ConferenceFatima Family Sunday – April 17Programme: 11.00am Holy Mass with Renewal of wedding vows (16 to 20 years) andblessing of families, 1.30pm the Rosary ProcessionThe Easter TriduumGood Friday (April 22): 11am: Re enactment of the Lord’s Passion (starts at theentrance to the property) 3 pm: Liturgy of the Lord’s PassionEaster Vigil (April 23): 6pmEaster Sunday (April 24): 10am Polish, 11am English, 12noon SpanishBeatification of Pope John Paul IIEve of Divine Mercy (April 30): 6pm – 1.30amDevotions: Reconciliation, Adoration, Rosary, Holy MassDivine Mercy Sunday (May 1): Masses as per Sunday, 1.30 Devotions to 3.30pm.Pauline Fathers’ Monastery – 120 Hanging Rock Rd, Berrima NSW 2577 – Open daily from 8 am to 6pmAlthough the address used for mail is Berrima please take care that you DO NOT divert off the Freeway to the village of Berrima as the Shrine is some 18km furthersouth. It is the 3 rd right turn after McDonald’s and Shell Service Station.phone (02) 4878 9192; e-mail paulinefathers@bigpond.com.au; website www.paulinefathers.orgBus contact numbers: Sydney (02) 9823 7763 or (02) 9642 3373; Northern Beaches (May & October only) (02) 9984 8988 Central Coast (02) 4329 3369 or (02) 43966549; Illawarra (02) 4274 1490; Shoalhaven (02) 4423 3330; Canberra/Queanbeyan/Goulburn (02) 6254 6202

10 CatholicOutlook April 2011Christians among Muslims in PakistanRev Herman Roborgh SJDuring the month of February, Iwas in Pakistan giving workshopsfor our Christian people who forma small minority (about 1.5%) ofthe total population. It was a privilegefor me to accompany themin their search for a way to live asChristians in Pakistan.Over the years, some Christiansin Pakistan have preferred to livetogether in suburbs or villageswhich have become almost exclusivelyChristian. Other Christianshave continued to live amongMuslim brothers and sisters.It is impossible for Christiansand Muslims in Pakistan to livetheir lives in total isolation fromone another. In schools, marketplaces and in other areas, Muslimsand Christians are constantly rubbingshoulders.The invitation for both Christiansand Muslims is to live together inharmony by showing respect for oneanother. The Christian people withwhom I have been interacting overthe past few weeks have impressedme by the depth of their desire toremain true to their Christian identityin this Muslim country.Immersed in the Islamic cultureof Pakistan where their ancestorshave always lived, these Christianscontinue to show forth the strengthand beauty of the Gospel messageby remembering the words ofChrist: “You are the salt of the earth,but if salt loses its taste, how can itssaltiness be restored?” (Matt 5.13)In order to remain the “salt of theearth” these Christians know thatthey need constant spiritual nourishment.They are also well awarethat the witness of their Christianfaith would become counterproductiveif they began to proclaimtheir faith in a way that was unacceptableor offensive to the Muslimpeople living around them.During my workshops withPakistani Christians, I was oftenreflecting on my own Christiancommunity in Australia sincewe, in Australia, also often liveamong people who do not shareour convictions.Just like our Christian brothersand sisters in Pakistan, we alsoneed to live together in harmonyby respecting those of differentfaiths and of no faith at all.The invitation for us as Christiansis to show who we are by the waywe relate with those who differfrom us, for Christ said: “If yougreet only your brothers and sisters,what more are you doing thanothers?” (Matt 5.47)Some Christians may feel theneed to assert the superiority ofChristianity over other ways oflife. But our Christian identity isnot nourished by thinking that ourfaith is superior to other religionsor by feeling that we are somehowbetter than others.Only a mature sense of our ownChristian identity will enable usto find a middle path between theimpulse to hide our Christian characterand values on the one handand arrogance or dogmatism onthe other.Our Christian witness consists,not in the repetition of formulas,but in living selflessly like Christ,“who, though he was in the form ofGod, did not regard equality withGod as something to be exploitedbut emptied himself, taking theform of a slave” (Phil 2. 6-7).Besides the witness of our dailylives, we should make an effort tomake the language we use to expressour beliefs intelligible to those ofother faiths or of no faith at all.Being a follower of Christ canmake different demands on usaccording to the environmentin which we live. In Pakistan,Christians cannot avoid engagingwith Muslims in their daily lives.So their Christian love and servicewill have to be expressed throughtheir relationships with Muslimbrothers and sisters.Increasingly in Australia, we willalso need to express our Christianvalues through relationshipsof deep and genuine respect forMuslims, Sikhs, Hindus and so on.Rev Herman Roborgh sj is amember of the Diocesan Ecumenicaland Interfaith CommissionFrom left: Rev Mark Lieschke (Lutheran President, NSW),Phil Shervington (Diocesan Commission), Linda Turton (Blackheath,Uniting Church), and Thais Turner (Glenbrook, Catholic)Coming together in dialogueAbout 40 people attended a variedand interesting seminar organisedby the diocesan Commission forEcumenism and Interfaith Dialogueat the Institute for Mission atBlacktown on 5 March.Rev Mark Lieschke spoke aboutthe reformer Martin Luther, hisgreat love of Scripture and howinvolved the Lutherans andCatholics are today in dialogue.Dr Gideon Goosen outlinedthree models of unity and thenexamined the meaning andcurrent importance of koinonia(communio), which bindsChristians together.Ms Sujatha Natarajan gave anautobiographical sketch of how shedeveloped her spirituality growingup a Hindu in Australia.There were many interestingquestions and after lunch PhilShervington led the participants inan interactive session of processingthe input of the morning.These seminars are held inMarch and September everyyear. For more information visit:www.parra.catholic.org.au/ceidMonaghan& GleesonFUNERAL DIRECTORSR

CatholicOutlook April 2011 11Parramatta Institute for Mission Commissioning MassOn 4 March, the ParramattaInstitute for Mission celebratedthe commissioning of 38 studentsfrom the year-long Certificatein Pastoral Formation course aswell as Beginning Theology, aCertificate III course in ChristianMinistry and Theology.Bishop Anthony Fisher op presidedat the Mass of Commencementand Commissioning, held at StPatrick’s Church, Blacktown. TheMass was concelebrated by priestsfrom the Diocese and beyond.The Certificate in PastoralFormation is a 40-week coursewhich covers Christian spirituality,Sacred Scripture, Theologyand Ministry. The Certificate alsoinvolves spiritual companioninggroups, which introduce studentsto the skills of theological reflectionand personal spiritual directionas a part of the commitment toformation. There are 39 men andwomen undertaking the Certificatein 2011.In his homily, Bishop Anthonyreflected on the meaning of spiritualformation, identifying itsdeepest dimension as an encounterof the Holy Spirit and the receptionof God’s gifts that call for ourresponse in life.He highlighted the need for asound knowledge of the faith, particularlyamong those who ministerto others, and affirmed the needfor Christian formation to be substantialand grounded in the greatmysteries of faith.The Bishop recognised the richnessof the formation that hadbeen offered within an experiencePhotos: Sr Susan Daily IBVMof community, and noted “yourDiocese, parish and family continueto offer such a setting for bothgiving and receiving spiritual gifts.”The liturgy was an opportunityto honour the mentors and assessorswho have contributed theirtime and skills, as well as to welcomecommencing students as theyembark on their own journey offormation in faith in 2011.Following the liturgy, studentsreceived their certificates fromBishop Anthony, alongside SrMaria Bongiorno ibvm, Director ofthe Institute for Mission.The night was a testimony to thegifts, talents and diversity of themen and women of the Diocese,committed to transformative learningfor mission and ministry in theirparish communities and beyond.

12 CatholicOutlook April 2011The truth aboutschool fundingThe launch of the My School website version 2.0 in recentweeks has sparked further debate about the funding levelsof non-government schools, including Catholic schools.It is easy to look at the funding levels of different schoolsand conclude that some schools receive more governmentfunding than others.The simple fact is that no two schools are the same, evenwhen those schools appear to be in the same geographicarea or socio economic level. Schools with larger studentpopulations are able to achieve better economies of scale;for example, the cost of a principal’s salary divided by 800students is always going to be much less per student thanthe same salary divided by 500 students.Some schools also attract additional funding for specialeducation, students with backgrounds other than Englishand National Partnerships programs. The costs of buildinga new school are higher, and attract greater governmentfunding, than a well-established school requiring onlyongoing maintenance.These are a few of many variables across schools thatcreate differences in the funding levels of schools.However, when you look at the average funding levelsbetween the different sectors, Catholic schools receiveless funding from all sources than any other sector.This includes the funding received from parents throughschool fees.The national average spent on educating a student in anindependent school is $13,700; in a government school,$11,100; and in a Catholic school, $10,000.Catholic schools keep school fees as low as possible andtherefore aim to do more with less funding.Reduction in Kindergarten feesIn the Diocese of Parramatta, we have reduced ourKindergarten tuition fee by 10% this year to $19per week or $995 per year. This fee will be fixed forKindergarten for the next three years and has been reducedto help relieve some of the financial pressures youngfamilies face with children starting school.There are a range of other initiatives to make Catholicschools more affordable for families, including significantsibling discounts, the Bishop Manning Scholarship Fundand fee arrangements for families facing financial hardship.These initiatives are part of our commitment that no childwill be refused enrolment because of a family’s inabilityto afford school fees.If you wish to enrol in a Catholic school but are concernedby the cost, please speak confidentially with your Catholicschool principal.Gregory B WhitbyExecutive Director of SchoolsTwitter: gregwhitbyBlog: bluyonder.wordpress.comPhoto: Hamilton LundHow do I know if my childis ready for school?Knowing when your child is ready for school involves more than just age; thereare a number of factors including a child’s social, emotional and physicaldevelopment that need to be considered. Each child’s development is uniqueand their readiness for school needs to be determined on an individual basis.Cecilia LimThe NSW Department of Education and Trainingstates that a child can commence Kindergarten at thebeginning of the school year if they turn five on, orbefore, 31 July in that year. By law, all children mustbe enrolled in school by their sixth birthday.However, for many parents, age is not the onlymeasure of a child’s readiness for school. Currenttrends indicate that some parents are holding theirchildren back from starting school, particularly boys.There is some debate in educational circles aboutwhether it is better to hold children back until theyare older, or to allow them to start school as youngas possible.Lecturer in Education at RMIT University, KathyWalker, said it was better to go to school too late thantoo early.‘‘Over the past 10 years, there’s pressure in societythat the earlier children can read and the moreextracurricular activities they do, the better off theywill be,” Kathy said. ‘‘We’re trying to turn them intopseudo-adults, but many are heavily stressed.”In contrast, Monash University’s Senior Lecturer,Anne Kennedy, said there was not a lot of evidence tosupport the belief that ‘young is not good’.‘‘I believe that an extra year at home or preschoolis only beneficial if the child is challenged with newexperiences,” Anne said. ‘‘Family circumstances arealso important. Some parents need to return towork and may not be able to afford another year ofpreschool or child care.‘‘Parents need to be guided by their common senseand talk to preschool teachers and carers. Theyshould also visit schools and ask many questions.”University of Western Sydney Associate Professors,Sue Dockett and Bob Perry, researched the transitionto school interviewing four and five-year-olds,preschool teachers and parents. They found thatparents send children to school for different reasons.‘‘Cultural differences play a part,” Prof Dockettsaid. “Many families from non-English-speakingbackgrounds believe school is an important place tobe and they want their child to be there as soon aspossible,” she said.‘‘It is too simple to say that a younger child willnot cope as well as an older one, or that it’s betterfor boys to wait a year. If we expect boys to bebehind, we tend to treat them that way and that ishow they turn out.‘‘Similarly, holding a child back may not makeadolescence any easier, because children gothrough puberty at different ages.”Frances Sidoruk is a Kindergarten teacher atOur Lady of Rosary Primary, St Marys. She saidthere were signs to indicate a child’s readiness forschool but a supportive school also helps make thattransition for children and parents smoother.‘‘We provide a lot of support for the child intheir transition to school,” Frances said. “We have atransition program involving an interview with thechild and parent, and orientation days so teachers canget to know each child and identify their individuallearning needs.”‘‘If a child is finding it difficult settling in, ormaking friends with other children, we support andteach them social skills often using story books toillustrate these skills.”Parent’s viewParent Alicia Borg whose son Emanuel, agefive, started school this year at St Patrick’sPrimary, Blacktown, said she knew he was readybecause of his love of preschool, ability to makefriends and his naturally inquisitive nature.“Emanuel settled in really well at St Patrick’s,”Alicia said. “We attended an orientation day, andI found the half days during the first week ofschool really helpful to allow Emanuel time tosettle into a new routine and environment.”

CatholicOutlook April 2011 13Here are some of the ways to determineif your child is school-ready:• Language skills – to thrive at schoolyour child needs to be able tocommunicate with teachers and otherstudents and be able to focus ontasks; accept direction and instructionfrom teachers, and understand therules of the classroom and school;• Motor skills and coordination – inthe school environment a child needsthe coordination to perform skillssuch as using a pencil and scissorsand putting on or removing items ofclothing such as a jumper or hat;• Concentration and emotional maturity– your child should be comfortable withthe social aspects of school includingplaying and working with other children;• Independence – children at school needto be able to function with less adultsupervision than preschoolers; they needto perform tasks such as toileting andeating and dressing by themselves; and• Physical wellbeing – children whohave a chronic illness, disability orother special needs may have difficultywith some aspects of school. Thisdoes not mean they are not readyfor school but their physical orlearning requirements will need to beconsidered. Contact the school about12 months prior to starting school todiscuss your child’s specific needs.The Centre for Community ChildHealth at the Royal Children’s Hospital,Melbourne, suggests some simple activitiesHow to prepare for high schoolthat parents can do with their child to helpprepare for school:• Read your child books as an enjoyabledaily activity;• Make everyday things an explorationof language – ask your child questions,listen carefully to their answers, andencourage your child to ask why;• Encourage your child’s natural curiosity –do different things with them, encouragethem to try different ways of doingthings;• Encourage your child to learn to dressand undress independently, and to usethe toilet appropriately;• Make sure your child has crayons andpencils and a supply of paper to draw andwrite on, and always praise their efforts;and• Encourage your child to mix with otherchildren in different supervised activitiesso they learn to socialise with their peers,take turns and share their toys and books.Although there are some generalguidelines to assess whether your childis ready for school, each child is uniquein their development and readiness. Forfurther advice speak with the school, yourchild’s current preschool or care provider,or health professional.Sources:Centre for Community Child Health, The Royal Children’sHospital, Melbourne (2005), School Readiness, CommunityPaediatric Review.Cook, M. (2002), Is your child really ready to start school?The Age, 29 May 2002.NSW Department of Education and Trainingwww.det.nsw.edu.auPatrician Brothers’ College Year Coordinator, Marie Lane, said the transition from primaryschool to high school was easier if parents were actively involved with their child in learningabout the school.“Involve your child in learning about the school they will be attending, read school newsletters,visit the website and speak with other students already attending the school,” Marie said.Here are some other ways to help your child transition to high school:• Be interested and enthusiastic about their move to high school;• Attend orientation days and information nights;• Make sure travel arrangements to and from school are organised;• Discuss the changes your child might experience;• Organise your child’s uniform well before the first day of school;• Learn about school routines and timetables;• Help your child to develop good study habits by finding a quiet place to study and workingout a timetable;• Practise organisational skills;• Discuss safety issues like crossing roads, taking essential medication, etc; and• Keep communication lines open so your child can come to you if they are feeling unsettledor apprehensive.Leaders and beginning teachers commissioned for new rolesOn 3 March, beginning teachers and principalsfrom Catholic schools in the Diocese ofParramatta were commissioned at a specialceremony, followed by the annual EducationMass at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Blacktown.More than 1,000 teachers and staff fromschools across the Diocese and the CatholicEducation Office attended the ceremony andMass, celebrated by Bishop Anthony Fisher OP.In his homily, Bishop Anthony spoke about theBishop Anthony Fisher OP commissionsenergy and passion required in teaching; theprincipal Attila Lendvai‘get up’ for the subject and the students. “In a Catholic school system, (teaching) demands thatsuch ‘get up’ be translated into commitment to the evangelising, catechising and whole-personeducating mission of the Catholic school.” In his address, Executive Director of Schools, GregWhitby, spoke about the importance of continuing to improve student learning and buildingteacher capacity in the year ahead.Support for new school leaders and beginning teachersThe start of the school year has been a richlearning experience for leaders and teacherswithin the Diocese with many professionallearning opportunities being undertaken.On 18 February, a group of newly appointedschool leaders participated in a leadershipinduction day. The day, which is part ofthe newly appointed leaders program,is offered each year to new principals,Beginning teachers at the new scheme teachers program assistant principals and RE coordinators andis the first of a series of workshops the group will attend throughout the year. On 3 March,beginning teachers participated in a new scheme teachers program run by the CatholicEducation Office to provide support and resources as they embark on their new teachingroles. On 1 March, more than 40 principals and assistant principals participated in a breakfastforum to share ideas, principles and practical ideas for good learning space design to supportcontemporary learning. The forum was held at Catholic Education’s Learning Exchange.Catholic students’ HSC artworks to showcase at ARTEXPRESSEleven students from Catholic schools in theDiocese have had their artworks selectedto feature in the prestigious ARTEXPRESSexhibition. Students from Gilroy CatholicCollege, Castle Hill; Caroline ChisholmCollege, Glenmore Park; Catherine McAuleyWestmead; St Patrick’s Marist College, Dundas;and Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown,were chosen from across the state to featuretheir artworks. This year, five CarolineChisholm students’ artworks were selected forARTEXPRESS. Charlene Rahme’s artwork titled,Charlene Rahme’s artwork ‘Arous el Baled’Arous el Baled, which means ‘Bride of the Middle East’ in Lebanese, was chosen to exhibit atThe Rocks Exhibition, Sydney. Charlene used ceramics as her medium of choice and said herartwork was inspired by her family and cultural heritage.Apple recognises ‘distinguished’ Catholic educatorsPrincipal Gary Borg introducingstudents to the i-Pod TouchGary Borg, the principal of Mother TeresaPrimary, Westmead, and Ron VanVliet,Learning Exchange Manager, Catholic EducationOffice, were selected to join the prestigiousApple Distinguished Educator (ADE) program.Gary was selected for the program basedon his innovative use of the iPod Touch,introducing student e-portfolios, and his useof technology to improve parent-teachercommunication. Ron VanVliet was selectedto join the ADE program for his development of multimedia courses and workshops to enhancestudent and teacher learning. Established in 1994, the ADE program involves a select groupof 1,500 education professionals in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions worldwide,who are recognised for their integration of technology to improve learning and teaching.St Patrick’s Kindergarten students get an inside look at the CEOOn 28 February, 56 Kindergarten studentsfrom St Patrick’s Primary, Parramatta, weretaken on a tour of the Catholic EducationOffice (CEO) by Executive Director of Schools,Greg Whitby. Greg invited the students tovisit the CEO when he visited St Patrick’s newschool hall recently. Greg said it was a greatopportunity for office staff to be in touch withthe students and school staff directly and tosee, first hand, the people for whom they St Patrick’s Kindergarten students with Greg Whitbywork. “These children and their teachers are our reason for being, and we need to do the verybest for them. They are the human face of our work.” The students arrived proudly at the CEOaccompanied by St Patrick’s Primary Principal, Gloria Bryant, and their Kindergarten teachersand entertained staff with a number of songs.

14 CatholicOutlook April 2011Photo: Hamilton LundA GUIDE TO CATHOLIC EDUCATIONWhy enrol in a Catholic school?Catholic schools enrol about 20% ofAustralia’s school students. Many familieschoose a Catholic school because:Catholic schools are faith basedThe Catholic faith is not just taughtin Religious Education classes but isexperienced within the school’s culture.Catholic schools are Christ centred, andGospel values form part of everydaylife. Catholic schools work with theirlocal parishes to deepen the faith life ofstudents and provide opportunities forprayer and formation.Catholic schools are committed to deliveringa quality educationLearning programs are innovative,personalised and relevant to the needs oftoday’s students. The individual child isthe focus of learning and teaching and abroad curriculum caters for a wide rangeof interests and abilities. Catholic schoolsoffer students access to the latest resourcesand tools necessary for a contemporarylearning experience.Catholic schools are supportive, yetchallenging, placesIn a Catholic school, expectations ofachievement and conduct are high.Students, parents, teachers and pastorswork in partnership to provide asupportive learning environment whilechallenging each student to reach theirfull potential, academically, spiritually,physically and emotionally.What is taught in a Catholic school?Catholic schools teach the Board ofStudies approved curriculum, with theaddition of Religious Education, in waysthat seek to empower, engage and inspirestudents to learn.Secondary schools offer a range ofvocational courses and some Catholicschools are accredited Trade TrainingCentres offering opportunities for studentsto combine the HSC with qualifications intrade areas such as hospitality, hairdressing,construction, engineering, etc.Learning programs in Catholic schoolsare enriched by a variety of co-curricularactivities including languages, sport, music,dance, drama and creative arts, as well aslearning support and specialist programs tocater for the diverse needs of all students.Who can attend a Catholic school?Catholic schools accept enrolments at anytime during the school year. Children whoturn five years old, on or before 31 July,are eligible for enrolment in Kindergartenthat year.Enrolment preference is given to:• children of Catholic families who livein the local parish;• children of Catholic families fromother parishes; and• non-Catholic families.Catholic schools have a strong religiousdimension and people of other faiths whowish to enrol in Catholic schools must bewilling to participate in the religious life ofthe school.Siblings of children already enrolledin the school are considered by the samecriteria above. However, within eachof these categories, a sibling of a childalready enrolled will have preference overan applicant who does not have a siblingenrolled in the school.How much does a Catholic school cost?Catholic schools aim to keep their fees aslow as possible and can provide flexiblepayment arrangements for families.Students who meet the enrolment criteriawill not be refused enrolment because ofa family’s inability to afford school fees.Schools are able to reduce fees for familiessuffering financial hardship. The BishopManning Scholarship Fund has beenestablished to provide scholarships toeligible students. Catholic systemic schoolscholarships will be granted equitablybased on financial need. Diocesan tuitionfees in Catholic schools range from $19 perweek* in Kindergarten to $41 per week* insenior secondary.There are very significant discounts forthe second (25% reduction) and third (50%reduction) child enrolled from the onefamily. There are no fees for the fourth andsubsequent siblings.In addition to Diocesan tuition fees, thereis a school building levy of $570* per familyper year towards building and maintenanceprograms in diocesan systemic schools. Aresource or service fee may also be set byeach school. *2011 feesHow do I enrol my child?Each school has its own enrolmentprocedure, which generally includes aninterview at the school. Contact yourlocal Catholic school to request anenrolment package.For more information contactyour local Catholic school or visitwww.parra.catholic.edu.auPhoto: Hamilton LundLove of reading sets record for summer reading challengeA record 6,455 books were read by 446Catholic school students in the Dioceseduring the summer holidays for the ExecutiveDirector’s summer reading challenge.Congratulations to the three students whoeach won an iPod Touch for their readingefforts. The winners for the three agecategories were:Ages 5-8: Sebastian Ruming (5) – St Canice’sPrimary, Katoomba; Ages 9-13: JenniferSebastian Ruming took up the challengeBardney (9) – John XXIII Catholic Primary,Stanhope Gardens; and Ages 14-18: Jordan Maria (14) – Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown.Executive Director of Schools, Greg Whitby, said he was pleased that the number of studentsparticipating each year keeps increasing. He made a special mention of student Olivia Resman(9) from St Margaret Mary’s Primary, Merrylands, who read more than 100 books during thesummer holidays.New multi-purpose halls opens at St Patrick’s PrimaryOn 11 March, St Patrick’s Primary, Parramatta,held an opening and blessing ceremony toofficially open its new multi-purpose hall.The $3 million project was funded underthe Australian Government’s Building theEducation Revolution (BER) program. Thenew facility was blessed by Bishop AnthonyFisher OP and officially opened by CatholicEducation Office Head of System Performance,Bishop Anthony blesses the new hall Danuta Maka and Federal Member forParramatta, Julie Owens MP. Other special guests included former State Member for Parramatta,Tanya Gadiel MP, and Mayor of Parramatta City Council, John Chedid. Julie Owens said she wasproud of the government’s investment into the Catholic education system. “Ultimately, theproject is about building lives. I congratulate all the staff for making the project happen.”Holy Family Primary marks the beginning of LentStudents, staff and parents from HolyFamily Primary, Emerton, marked thebeginning of Lent with a celebration onShrove Tuesday and a special liturgy on AshWednesday. A ceremony led by AssistantPriest, Fr Pat Mullins SJ, involved burningof the pans; this was followed by parentscooking pancakes for the school, with acoin collection going to the Christchurchearthquake appeal. A liturgy was held on AshWednesday, with readings and distributionHoly Family marks the start of Lentof the ashes. Throughout Lent, Catholic schools in the Diocese support Project Compassion,the Lenten appeal of Caritas, the Catholic Church’s overseas aid and development agency.St Nicholas of Myra Primary starts ‘early bird’ literacy programSt Nicholas of Myra Primary, Penrith, hascommenced its ‘early bird’ literacy programfor the year, under a government-fundedNational Partnership on Literacy initiative.The program was introduced last yearand aims to raise student literacy levelsby increasing the volume of daily readingby students; providing access to suitablebooks; offering support to meet students’‘Early birds’, Logan Rymer and Harrison Gillard literacy needs; and providing appropriatereading lessons and activities. St Nicholas of Myra Primary Principal, Anne Hines, saidthe program was running successfully. “We identify students who may find readingdifficult and buddy them, one on one, with an older student. This helps both thevolunteer students’ reading skills as well as the student being supported.”Catholic Education sponsors East Timorese teacherOn 4 March, teacher and interpreter,Goris Seran, from East Timor made aspecial visit to the Executive Director ofSchools, Greg Whitby, before embarkingon a two-month English course, sponsoredby Catholic Education in the Dioceses ofParramatta and Broken Bay. Goris is oneof the teachers in the East Timor TeacherPlacement program that aims to improvethe teaching of English and MathematicsRetired CEO Education Officer, Pat Foley within schools of the Manufahi District,Goris Seran and Greg Whitby (right)Timor-Leste. The program is a joint partnership between the Dioceses of Parramattaand Broken Bay. Greg Whitby said “we get much more than we give” in supporting thework of teacher training in East Timor. “This initiative shows what can be achieved whenpartnership, collaboration and mutual respect are the basis for supporting this work.”Receive more school news via email or news feeds.To find out how visit www.parra.catholic.edu.au

16 CatholicOutlook April 2011Mamre Project thanks volunteersWe all know that many hands make light work, but withoutthe help of volunteers the Mamre Project, a communitysponsored work of the Sisters of Mercy, Parramatta,would not be able to offer its many programs.These programs providing training and employment servicesto youth at risk, people with a disability, people returningto the workforce, and refugees in Western Sydney.The Management and staff of Mamre House recently hosted aspecial dinner to say “thank you” to all who very generously givetheir time. More than 65 volunteers attended the dinner.Some volunteers come to Mamre several days a week, some once aweek some once a month, some have even been volunteering for thepast 20 years, and the Mamre Project really appreciates the assistance.If you would like to know more about the Mamre Project and itsvolunteer program tel (02) 9670 5321, www.mamre.com.auDon’t walk alone – Share the DreamMatthew MacdonaldAbout 15 years ago, I waspart of a small group of about50 young people who wouldgather in the north transeptof St Stephen’s Cathedral inBrisbane for a Friday eveningMass, once a month. BishopMichael Putney (now Bishopof Townsville) gave a homily atone of those Masses, which hasstuck in my mind ever since.That was the 25 th anniversaryof his ordination to priesthood.His homily centred on whateach of us needed to do toretain our faith and join himat his 50 th anniversary.He identified three things:regular use of the sacraments, atime of dedicated daily personalprayer, and friends who sharedour faith. Neglect any one ofthese, he said, and we wouldstruggle to go the distance.As a well-catechised cradleCatholic, the first two seemedobvious – it was the thirdthat surprised me. Withoutfriends who share my faith Iwill struggle to go the distance.Looking back on my life now, Isee the wisdom of his words.What’s alife for?A discernment weekend forsingle men, 19-40 years.This weekend is offered regularly and beginson a Friday night and includes prayer,meditation, reflection and self discovery.It is designed to help discern life:Married, Single, Religious, Priest …To make a booking or chat furtherplease call: Fr Chris McPhee MSC0419 149 793 or (02) 4630 0217St Mary’s Towers, Douglas Park, NSWMatthew and Julie Macdonald with their young family. Photo: Fiona BasileSome years later, on a muddiedoval at Tor Vergata Universityin Rome, at the closing Mass ofWorld Youth Day 2000, I recalledthe bishop’s words. From the footof the sanctuary where John PaulII was teaching, I looked back ona crowd of more than 2 million– people as far as the eye couldsee – and I knew I was not alone.I had shared the same dream ofraising a family as the Columbiangirl whose cap I still own. I livedthe same struggle to be a virtuousChristian man as the Costa Ricanbrother with whom I swappedshirts. Understanding the idea ofa “Universal” Church is one thing– the experience is quite another!But now I’m married. Wheredo my family and I get that kindof encouragement? When doI meet the other families whowill go the distance with me?The 3 rd National CatholicFamily Gathering – Share theDream – is an opportunity tomeet this need. While it may notbe quite the Tor Vergata of 2000or Sydney’s Randwick Racecourseof 2008, from April 15-17 atXavier College in Melbournehundreds of families will cometogether for just this purpose– to encourage and uplift oneanother by their solidarity.Regardless of our state in life,single, married, old or young, weall need the encouragement of ourbrothers and sisters. Others tooare blessed by what we share withthem. We all have a role to play. Itis true that none of us are perfect.Most of us are all-too-aware ofour painfully imperfect experienceof marriage and family life.In one way or another, we allneed to feel the healing touchof the great physician whocame not to call the righteous,but those of us living theearthly reality (Mk 2:17).I encourage you to step outof the busyness of our 21 stCentury lives for a time. Comeand nurture what is truly mostvaluable to us. Come and Sharethe Dream that, moulded by ourencounter with Christ, we can allbecome the light and the leaventhat can transform our world.For more details on the Sharethe Dream conference visit:www.sharethedream.org.auMatthew Macdonald is theExecutive Director of the Life,Marriage and Family Office inthe Archdiocese of MelbournePut on your best hat anddon’t be late! for thisvery important date!Join Alice, the March Hareand the Mad Hatter in theenchanting surrounds of HistoricMamre House, 181 MamreRd, Orchard Hills, SundayApril 17, 2011: 10.30amnoon,Cost $20 per personFor a delicious morningtea with charm and chatterfollowed by a very egg-citinghunt around the gardensSudanese children say ‘thank you’ to the HondaFoundation for their new playgroundMad Hatter’s Tea Partyand easter egg huntFor further information/bookings tel (02) 9670 5321VOLUNTEER BUS DRIVER: 1 OR 2 DAYS PER MONTHSt Hedwig Village is an aged carefacility located in Blacktown.We are looking for a driver who would beavailable for 1 or 2 days per month to takeour residents on bus outings. Days would be usually be a Tuesday.The person must have a good driving record and acurrent LR (light rigid) or equivalent licence.Bus details: 18 seater Toyota Coaster; manual;hydraulic lift at rear for wheelchairs.For further information please call Kathy Eberl on8822 9903 or email admin@sthedwigvillage.com”Caring for the Aged is our Commitment”

CatholicOutlook April 2011 17Prof Hayden Ramsay, Deputy Vice Chancellor of The University of Notre DameAustralia, with Prof Marie Bashir at the opening of the clinical schoolNew chapter in Australian medical educationThe Governor of NSW, ProfMarie Bashir AC CVO, officiallyopened the Hawkesbury ClinicalSchool of The University ofNotre Dame Australia’s Schoolof Medicine on 25 February.Prof Bashir welcomed thesecond cohort of students fromthe school’s Sydney Campus tothe Hawkesbury Clinical School.“This is a new chapter inAustralian medical education. Aswell as excellent teaching NotreDame will give you a learningmodel of care and compassionthat, I believe, makes the scienceand technology work better. It willonly be a matter of time before wesee the excellence of these studentsand teachers,” Prof Bashir said.The school is part of aninnovative partnership betweenthe university and HawkesburyDistrict Health Service to provideeducation and training for medicalstudents in a clinical setting.Twenty-eight 3 rd and 4 th yearstudents will be completing theclinical stage of the Bachelor ofMedicine/Bachelor of Surgery.They will spend the next 12months at Hawkesbury Hospitalgaining vital clinical experience.All Notre Dame medicalstudents spend the final two yearsof their degree at metropolitan,outer metropolitan and ruralclinical sub-schools. Other sitesinclude Auburn, Werribee,Ballarat, Lithgow, Wagga Waggaand St Vincent’s and MaterHospitals, Sydney. All students arerequired to spend a minimum offour weeks at one of the rural sites.Head of the HawkesburyClinical School, Assoc Prof SachintLal, said part of the school’smission was to prepare doctorsfor different areas of healthcare and provide them with aholistic community experience.“Our students have completedtwo pre-clinical years of thegraduate course at Notre Dame.They are enthusiastic, keen,committed to learning andbeing involved with the localcommunity,” Prof Lal said.Third year student, Gordon Lau,is looking forward to his term atHawkesbury Hospital and gainingfurther practical experiencein dealing with patients.“This year promises to be avery exciting one. Our clinicalplacements offer the kind ofintegrated theory and clinicalpractice approach that theschool has emphasised. It’s sogood to be seeing real patients,instead of just friends pretendingto be patients,” he said.Fr Gerry Iverson: good shepherd retiresDavid FalconTears formed in the eyes ofmany parishioners as Fr GerryIverson celebrated his FarewellMass on 13 February this year.Fr Gerry had officially retiredfrom his role as Parish Priest ofOur Lady Queen of Peace Parishat the end of December 2010.The Mass was concelebratedby our new Parish Priest, Fr BobBossini SDB, and Assistant PriestFr Zakaria Gayed. A baptismwas also celebrated on the day,and it was a joy to see Fr Gerrycarry the newest communitymember into our midst.Fr Bob described Fr Gerry asa great man and the words werelost on no one as they reflectedon the 16 years he had beenour pastor. During that time, hehad been with parish familiesthrough all the significantoccasions of their lives.Fr Gerry gave an emotionalthank you, referring tohis years at Greystanes asamong the most rewardingin his priestly ministry.At the brunch that followed,parishioners greeted Fr Gerry tooffer their thanks for his yearsof service and best wishes fora long and happy retirement.Long queues formed inthe narthex as parishionerswaited to write in a book tobe presented to Fr Gerry.Fr Gerry’s farewell was an emotional occasion. Photo: John McInerneyMarian Nursing HomeMarian Nursing Home is a high-care facility specialising incaring for those with dementia in a friendly, safe environment.Established over 35 years with an excellent reputation.Professionally trained staff, providing exceptionalindividualised care around the clock.For all enquiries contactTherese Petrie – Director of Nursing2a Fleet Street, North Parramatta, NSW, 2151Tel (02) 9849 4700, fax (02) 9890 8242tpetrie@bigpond.net.au

18 CatholicOutlook April 2011Alfredito (Red) Dalogdog kneels before Bishop Anthony (left). Bishop Anthonyconfers the Ministry of Acolyte on Galbert Albino (right). Photos: Thomas BuiAcolytes have a ‘special role’At a Mass in St Patrick’s Cathedralon the 1 st Sunday in Lent, BishopAnthony Fisher op conferred theMinistry of Acolyte on AlfreditoDalogdog and Galbert Albino.These young men are seminariansfor the Diocese of Parramatta information at Holy Spirit Seminary,St Marys.Bishop Anthony said that asacolytes they had a special role inthe Church’s ministry. “The sourceand summit of the Church’s lifeis the Eucharist. It is your newresponsibility to assist the bishop,priests and deacons in carryingout their Eucharistic ministry and,as special ministers, to give HolyCommunion to the faithful atMass and outside it to the sick.“Because you are speciallycalled to this ministry, you shouldstrive to live more fully by theLord’s sacrifice and be mouldedmore perfectly to its likeness. TheLenten practices of self-sacrifice,charity and prayer are especiallyapposite for you. You should seekto understand the deep spiritualmeaning of what you do, so thatyou may offer yourselves dailyto God.“In performing your ministry,keep in mind that, as you sharethe One Bread with your brothersand sisters, so you form onebody with them. Show a sincerelove for Christ’s Mystical Body,the Church, and especially for theweak and the sick. Be obedientto the commandment which theLord gave to His apostles at theLast Supper: love one another as Ialso have loved you.”If you feel that God may becalling you to priesthood, theDiocese of Parramatta welcomesthe opportunity to help you withyour discernment.The Diocesan Vocation Director,Fr Paul Roberts, is your first pointof contact. Fr Paul is always availableto listen, offer guidanceand talk you through the fourstepadmissions process: Inquiry,Discernment, Aspirancy, Recommendationand Acceptance.For a confidential chat, contactFr Paul tel 0419 219 819,vocations@parra.catholic.org.au orvisit parra.catholic.org.au/vocationsFor more information about HolySpirit Seminary visit: www.parra.catholic.org.au/holyspiritseminaryMass was concelebrated by Fr John Hogan, Rector of Holy SpiritSeminary, with Fr Andrew Bass, MC, assisted by Deacon Robertus KimInstitute for Mission Blackheath Reflection MorningParramatta Diocesan Centre for Catholic Adult Faith FormationAPRIL 16TH 2011 FROM 10AM TO 1PMThe Catholic ChurchPresenter: Mr Daniel Ang• What does it mean to belong to the Catholic Church?• What are the theological foundations of the Church?• What are the implications of our Catholic faith for our dialogue with other Christians and our engagementwith contemporary society?This course is for anyone wishing to learn and engage in dialogue about aspects of the Catholic Church.It will survey major themes in ecclesiology, including the meaning and implications of the Second VaticanCouncil, the mission of the Church, and the Church’s historical development with a view to an appreciation ofa developing ecumenical theology.Dates: Saturdays 14 May, 4 June, 2 July & 6 Aug 2011Time: 9.30am-3pm. Cost: $30 per session or $90 if you pay in full at the first sessionVenue: Institute for Mission, 1-5 Marion St, Blacktown (next to Patrician Brothers’ College)Booking essential: tel (02) 9831 4911 or mh@instituteformission.com.auIf you would like more information about our activities and events in 2011 contact:Institute for Mission tel (02) 9831 4911; ifm@tpg.com.auwww.instituteformission.com.auOne of the best ways we can engage with the new texts is by singing them. Photo: Alphonsus Fok and Grace LuIMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW MISSALDealing with changeVery Rev Peter Williams VGDespite the fact that many peoplegive the impression they are alwayslooking for new adventures andexcitement in life, the fact is mostof us are resistant to change.We become comfortable withroutine and with what we know.For many people the “unknown”poses risk and disruption to theirlives and can be destabilising.If this is true about the ordinarythings of life, then it can also betrue when we come to the formalact of worship. Worship is predicable.We belong to a liturgicalChurch and the priest and thepeople don’t have to make up weekby week what they pray when theygather for the Eucharist.In fact, one of the great strengthsof a liturgical Church is the fact thatwe don’t have to invest our energyin wondering what to pray – wecan simply pray the texts that theChurch has mediated to us overcenturies of praying, and pray themfor ourselves today as we face thecircumstances of our own time.From Pentecost Sunday we willbegin to use new responses andsome new forms of prayer at Mass.Some of the texts are almost identicalwith what we have been usingfor the past 40 years.With that, of course, comes achallenge. We often tend to go on‘remote pilot’ and when we heara familiar greeting like “The Lordbe with you” we are just as likely tospontaneously respond with “Andalso with you” rather than “Andwith your spirit.”It will be tricky and there will beslip-ups by both priest and people.We will all need to concentrateand use the Mass cards or watchthe screen. If we attempt to rely onmemory at the early stage of implementationit will become disruptiveand quite likely disagreeable.It is likely that many people willmiss the familiarity of the old texts– that is to be expected. As onepriest said: “They have helped us topray over the past 40 years.”The use of a new translation willalso have the benefit of making usthink about what it is that we arepraying. It is an opportunity to thinkabout the content of our prayers.From 1 January this year, manyparishes have taken up the optionof introducing the new musicalsettings to the Mass. Again, whilstthere has been little change tothe Holy, Holy (Sanctus) and nochange to the Lamb of God (AgnusDei) there is a substantial change tothe Glory to God (Gloria) and theMemorial Acclamations.One of the best ways we canengage with the new texts is bysinging them. The Office forWorship is conducting workshopsthroughout the Diocese to assistparish musicians in this task.The Bishops Commission forLiturgy recommended six settingsby Australian composers and eachparish will no doubt choose settingsthat will best meet the needsof their community and are withinthe range of the musical skillsof the parish musicians.By using one of these settingsit is hoped that a standard repertoirewill be established so thatwhen we have large diocesan celebrationspeople will be familiarwith the music of the Mass.The liturgical documentsremind us that it is these parts ofthe Mass, the responses and acclamations,which should always besung. They are, in fact, far moreimportant than the hymns orsongs we might also sing.Pentecost Sunday is not faraway as we are in midst of Lent.Let us be mindful that change ison the way (if it has not alreadystarted in your parish) and beprepared for the new responses ofthe people.Rev Peter G. Williams,Director – Office for Worship.Laurie Woods:The Spirituality of theGospel of MarkCome and enjoy the reflection, silenceand solitude in peaceful surrounds.The Blackheath Reflection Mornings are a joint ventureof Aquinas Academy and Catalyst for Renewal.You are warmly welcome, entry by donation.Morning tea provided, no need for bookings.Venue: Sacred Heart Parish Hall. Time: 10am-1pmcnr Sturt and Wentworth Streets, BlackheathFor more information tel Carmel (02) 4787 8706

CatholicOutlook April 2011 19Bishop Anthony Fisher’s Homily for the Rite of ElectionFirst Sunday of Lent (Year A), St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, 13 March 2011My dear brother priests, RCIA sponsorsand team members, relatives and friendsof our catechumens and, especially,dear catechumens:What a day of joy it is for the entireDiocese of Parramatta as we enrol those whohave been elected by God and their Catholiccommunity, and have elected themselves, tobe baptised this forthcoming Easter.Today you enter the final straight of yourjourney. Today we contemplate together thegreatest day of your life which is ahead, whenyou will be initiated into the family of Godand become a new creation and a member ofChrist’s body the Church.On behalf of the catechumens and theDiocese I thank all those who have contributedto bringing you to this next stage: thosewho have inspired you, taught and formedyou, led and accompanied you. They surroundyou excitedly today, excited that youare soon to be their brother or sister in anew way.Bishop Anthony’s HomilyLast Tuesday was Shrove Tuesday. Thename refers to being ‘shriven’ or absolved inConfession. In Francophone places it’s calledMardi Gras, which means the last day foreating fat. In others Carnival, which meansfarewell to meat.Here in Australia many call it PancakeTuesday which, like Mardi Gras and Carnevale,points to the ancient custom of usingup the last of our meat, butter, eggs and sweetthings so we can begin a strict fast for the 40days that follow.Why 40 days? Obviously, our 40 days mimicthose we heard of in today’s Gospel (Mt 4:1-11). We join Jesus in fasting, prayer andalmsgiving, and so face up to our demons asHe did. He in turn was mimicking Moses,who spent 40 days with God on Mount Sinai– a good length of time for a retreat withGod. Jonah, too, gave Nineveh 40 days torepent and so that seems a good length oftime to be tested. And we know that Godmade the rain last 40 days and nights inNoah’s time (rather like this last few monthsin northern Australia!) and so that’s a goodlength of time to spend contemplating thewaters of Baptism.The reason we spend 40 days Lentingis that from ancient times the catechumens,who were in the final straight in theirpreparation for Baptism at Easter, prayedfor 40 days and kept a strict fast. Like theNinevites they repented, like Moses theyspent their days with God, like those inNoah’s day they contemplated the water,and like Christ they prepared for their ‘publiclife’ beyond Baptism.In due course this practice was extendedto all Christians, not just those preparingfor Baptism and those accompanying them.It gives us all a chance to prepare better forEaster. But, dear catechumens, Lent beginswith you and is first and foremost your time.It is sometimes said that Christians areEaster People. Certainly the Resurrection isthe central event of our lives and identity.But without the cross and the tomb, withoutacknowledging the sin and death that leadsto the cross and the tomb, without walkingthe 40-day Lenten journey with Christ to thegrave and beyond, the Resurrection wouldjust be divine fireworks, a spectacular withlittle relevance to our ordinary lives. The factis: we are not an Easter People so much as aLent and Easter People.The first sin, the story of which is told inour First Reading this morning (Gen 2:7-9, 3:1-7), was certainly original. No humanbeing had tried that before! Sadly it was farfrom the last time we sinned. Adam and Eve’ssin left us all damaged and it was the prototypefor all sin.It had three essential dimensions. Like allsins ever since, it was an offence against God:Adam and Eve knew what God wanted forthem and they did the opposite. Sin is also,always, an attack on our neighbour, oftendirectly when there is a clear victim of ourviolence or infidelity or theft; but even themost ‘private’ sins damage the communion ofthe Church.Sin always has a social or relational aspectand so today we saw how Adam and Eve dreweach other into it and then blamed each otherfor it and its consequences. Lastly, by sinning,we always damage ourselves, we makeourselves less than we could be and shouldbe. We degrade the image of God in us. LikeAdan and Eve we are rightly ashamed.Sin damages our relationship with God, ourneighbours and ourselves. Its fullest cure isBaptism and you look forward to the washingaway of your sins, both original or inheritedand personal or chosen. Should you ever sinagain – and I hope you will not – then thereare further sacraments of healing for you,especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist.But because sin has three particukar effects– wounding our relationships to God, ourfellows and ourselves, God has given us threeLenten antidotes. Fasting is about seekingreconciliation with ourselves; almsgiving isabout reconciliation with each other; andprayer about reconciliation with God. Threebalms for three messes in the human heart.By fasting we seek to cooperate with Godin getting a handle on our passions. We faceup to our self-indulgence and obsession withcomfort, the sin or mess in our relationshipto ourselves. We come to terms with our ownweakness and our internal division of theheart. We try by some token of self-denial tocooperate with God in His project of healingour hearts.I trust that in your journey as catechumensyou have grown in self-knowledge and so areaware of the wounds in yourself and the needfor healing and for the ongoing project ofgrowing in virtue.By almsgiving we seek to work with Godin facing up to our selfishness, our unwillingnessto share our comfort with others. Weseek to come to terms with the injustice andthe unlovingness of a world in which so manystarve or are otherwise neglected. We aimto deal with the sin or mess in our relationshipsnot just to ourselves, but to others. Wetry to turn a little generosity into the beginningof a whole new way of sharing and tocooperate with God’s project of healing ourrelationships. Once again, in your time ascatechumens you will have experienced theimportance of the community of faith andthe need for each one of us to contribute toits holiness and unity.Photography by Alphonsus Fok and Grace LuFinally, by prayer we cooperate with Godin addressing the neglect of the spiritualelement in our lives, our unwillingness toshare our time and space and minds andwills with God. We come to terms with thespiritual indifference and practical agnosticismof so much of our daily life – the factthat while we say we believe, we often live asif we did not.God helps us to deal with the sin or messin our relationships, not just to ourselves andto each other but to God Himself. We try toturn a little prayerfulness into a whole newway of communicating better with the Onewho loves us most and who wants to heal ourrelationship with Him, even if it costs Himdeath on a cross. In your catechumenate youhave been participants in a school of prayerand you must continue to develop habits anddepths of prayer in the years ahead.As you now enter the final straight ofyour preparation for your Easter union withChrist, my hope for you is that you willalways remember how close Christ wants tobe to you, how much He is interested in you,how much He loves you, and so you will longcontinue to deepen your knowledge and lovefor Him and His Church.My prayer is also that you will conquersin by all the aids Christ gives us, especiallythe sacraments of Reconciliation and HolyCommunion, but also the gifts of self-sacrifice,charity and prayer. These are the waysGod offers for you to be the saints that theDiocese of Parramatta needs in its silverjubilee year and in the years to come!

20 CatholicOutlook April 2011WORLD YOUTH DAY MADRIDThe spirit of pilgrimageThe following article is an edited version of the address given by Daniel Ang,Coordinator of Parish Services at the Institute for Mission, as part of the diocesanformation program for WYD2011. The session was held at St Nicholas of MyraParish, Penrith, with more 100 pilgrims in attendance on 22 February 2011.16-21 AUGUST 2011Share in the WYD spirit at Catholic Youth ParramattaThe months and experiences ahead promiseWorld Youth Day pilgrims the true freedomand spirituality that they desire, promising toconfirm young Catholics in their faith as wellas to take them ‘where they have never been’in their discipleship.The pilgrimage to WYD2011 in Madridis, at depth, a journey towards God. In thisway, Madrid is not only a destination for usbut also a point of departure, an opportunityfor us to enter into new possibilities in ourlife of faith.Tradition of pilgrimagePilgrimage has been a tradition of theChurch since its very beginnings. Among thefirst pilgrims were the disciples, those whojourneyed with Jesus of Galilee and who, inHim, came to experience God in a new way.Jesus transformed their understanding ofthemselves, the world, and the purpose oftheir lives.Before the disciples, however, was Mary,who carried within her the very life of Jesus.Mary emerges as the maternal pilgrim, theone whose faith responds ‘Yes’ to God whohad come to dwell within her flesh.In her own journey as mother, fromemptiness to fullness, from barenness todivine fruitfulness, Mary invites us, also,to ‘give birth’ to Jesus in the womb of ourown spirit. In this way, Mary embodies thepromise of Christian pilgrimage in which,as the Letter to the Galatians expresses it,‘It is no longer I who lives, but Christ wholives in me’ (Gal 2:20).Then came the pilgrims of the earlyChurch. Once the persecution of Christianssubsided in the 4 th Century, followers ofChrist enjoyed a new freedom to worship inpublic. This new-found freedom also saw theflourishing of Christian theology, Christianart, and believers were able to express andnourish their faith in all sorts of ways.One expression of this freedom was theability to embark on pilgrimage. Christianstravelled near and far to venerate or honourthe relics of the Christian saints and martyrswho had died in the generations before them.Rome became a popular site as the placeof martyrdom for St Peter and St Paul. Ofcourse, Jerusalem arose as the most significantsite to which Christians travelled.Pilgrimage todayToday the tradition continues and Catholicsembark on pilgrimages across Europe andaround the world. Some embark on theirown, others in groups, and for all sorts ofreasons including for healing, to strengthentheir own faith, and to pray for the healthand wellbeing of their loved ones. Some ofthe major sites for Catholics include Lourdesin France, Fatima in Portugal, Assisi in Italyand, of course, Spain.Spain has produced some of the greatChristian mystics and saints of our Church,including St Ignatius of Loyola, founder ofthe Jesuits, St Teresa of Avila, and St John ofthe Cross.Pilgrims travel there for the Holy Weekcelebrations in Seville (the Semana Santade Sevilla) where they watch processionsof large wooden life-like sculptures fromthe scenes of Christ’s Passion. Participantswear cone-shaped hoods representing theirrepentance and grief at the crucifixion ofJesus. Such events well reflect the physicaland emotive quality of Spanish spirituality,especially in its focus on the experience andsuffering of love.The cathedral at Santiago de Compostela,in the north-west corner of Spain, is anothermajor destination with the walk or ‘Way ofSt James’ as it is called being a traditionalpilgrimage walk since the 9 th Century.The cathedral holds the relics of St Jamesand some 100,000 pilgrims visit the cathedralon the Feast of St James on 25 July.The cathedral at Burgos, in the north, isalso a stopping point for pilgrims and holdsa festival on the Feast of Corpus Christi thatattracts large crowds. This cathedral alsocontains an unusual figure of Christ on thecross which is venerated because of miraclesattributed to it. Made from calf skin, the figureis reputedly extremely ‘life like’ with hairand teeth.WYD pilgrims carry the Icon of Our Lady in front of Pope Benedict XVI in the PopemobileWhy pilgrimage?In understanding what is at the heartof pilgrimage we are guided by someadvice from medieval Ireland and it isadvice that holds true, whether our destinationis Rome or Madrid. It reads:‘Going to Rome? Going to Rome?/It willbring much trouble, little gain/Your longjourney could be in vain/The King youseek will only appear/If in your heart youbrought him here.’It suggests for us that pilgrimage is notabout a physical destination but about arelationship. In other words, pilgrimage isnot about a practice but a person. This iswhat sets the Christian pilgrim apart fromthe tourist.It is not necessarily the activity of travelwhich is different for the bags at theairport look the same and the jetlag isjust as bad. What separates the touristfrom the pilgrim is the intentionality oftheir journey, the person or relationshipthat the pilgrim is seeking to grow in bythis experience.The point of travelling through differentenvironments, moving through sacredplaces, remembering sacred events, meetingdifferent people, even putting up with someof the discomfort of travel, is to deepen ourlives in Christ as the One who, paradoxically,journeys in and through us.Pilgrimage is not about travelling geographicaldistances but undertaking aninterior journey towards the One who iscalling us to life. It is to walk the geographyof our inner life, a life that cannot becharted by maps or reached by plane. Ourphysical journey becomes a means of aninterior pilgrimage, an opportunity to workout and form our identity in relationshipwith God.To make the point, the person who directstheir heart towards Christ, even in theirarmchair at home, travels further than theone who wanders the streets of Madridwithout Him.Pilgrimage is about breaking boundariesin a sense, about leaving behind the ordinarycircumstances of our lives, but it isnot to remain there. It is to leave the ordinarybehind only to come home and enterinto our daily experience in a transformedway. It is to come home to our daily experienceof Church, our normal relationships,our routines and personal concerns with anew heart.It is to come home, and like Christ Himself,commit ourselves to the possibility of life insituations of death, of hope in circumstancesof despair and sorrow, to live love in themidst of violence and fear, to nurture communionin the midst of isolation and division,whether that is in the school, at home,or in the workplace.This is the new way of living that pilgrimagepromises but only if we have the courageto enter into the full gift and demand of theexperience in Madrid.We might pray for each other in our journeyto Madrid this August, that our destinationwill be so much more than the city ofMadrid, that our ultimate destination willbe a deeper love for, and friendship with,Christ who offers us a new experience ofGod and ourselves.The Holy Father’s image lit up the Harbour Bridge during WYD08Joyful young people carried the WYD Cross through the streets of Sydney

CatholicOutlook April 2011 21www. parra.catholic.org.au/youthCatholic Youth ParramattaLast chance to register for WYD MadridOn 12 March, more than 100 youngpeople converged on St Nicholas ofMyra Parish at Penrith to participate ina WYD2011 Formation Retreat Day.Hearing from Fr Chris de Souza aboutour baptismal call to be priests, prophetsand kings was exciting and informative.Following Mass and a BBQ lunch, Fr JohnWatkins spoke about the sacraments.Linking in with Fr John’s talk, MichelleWilson from St Thomas Aquinas Parishat Springwood gave a moving testimonyabout her experience of the sacraments.This afternoon session was full oflaughs but also deep insights into how thesacraments are central to our pilgrimage.For the WYD pilgrims unable to attendon the day, two evening sessions wereoffered. On 8 March, Bethany Lenternled the session on sacraments beforeleading the pilgrims in Taize prayer.On 23 March, Fr Warren Edwardsspoke about our baptismal call before FrFernando Montano mg led the pilgrims inAdoration of the Blessed Sacrament. At thistime pilgrims also had the opportunity toreceive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.These smaller evening sessions werea wonderful opportunity to learn, prayand to know our fellow pilgrims better.As many pilgrims begin to gathertheir bags, sleeping mats and clotheswe are reminded of how close weTHEOLOGYON TAPBishop Anthony Fisher OPMonday 4 th AprilGetting to know fellow WYD Pilgrimsare to WYD. With only 140 days togo, the Diocese is issuing its finalregistration and payment call.Registrations close on Friday 15 Aprilwith final payments due on the sameday. Anyone wanting more informationabout WYD should contact CatholicYouth Parramatta: (02) 8838 3418,youth@parra.catholic.org.auRegistrations and payments can be madeat: www.wydtours.com.au/parramattaReflection on talk given by Daniel Ang along with learning a little Espanol!Bishop Anthony will speak about ‘Rediscovering the Sacramentof Reconciliation’ at this month’s Theology on Tap.Theology on Tap is a casual and relaxed forum where friends from all walksof life gather for straight talk, hard facts and real answers on our faith andhow it applies to daily life. Come for a listen (and maybe a drink!).Invite your friends, especially those wanting to learn more (or debate) about theCatholic faith. Fire off the questions you have never had the opportunity to ask.Live music from 6pm at PJ Gallagher’s Irish Pub74 Church Street, Parramatta.TOT is for young adults 18-35. Details: www.theologyontap.com.auPalm Sunday & WYD CelebrationLast year on Palm Sunday the Diocese of Parramatta witnessed one of thelargest gatherings of youth in St Patrick’s Cathedral. Bishop Anthony, priestsand the young faithful lit up the city with their presence by telling the worldthat they are prepared to line up to welcome Jesus as their King.The procession of palms from Prince Alfred Park, which culminated in theCathedral with the Holy Eucharist, spoke volumes of their conviction. It was anamazing experience to walk with multinational flags and the blessed palms.Jesus is our master and hero and we are all His children. Though weare unique and special, yet we are all one … So join us for this specialevent and for the get-together with Bishop Anthony afterwards.When: Sunday 17 April. Principal Celebrant: Bishop Anthony Fisher OP.Where: St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta.Time: Meet in Prince Alfred Park opposite the Cathedralat 5.45pm for the procession of palms.RSVP: 11 April for catering purposes. Gold coin donation. Downloadflyer from www.parra.catholic.org.au/youth Inquiries to Catholic YouthParramatta: tel (02) 8838 3418, youth@parra.catholic.org.auGood Friday WalkWALK and TALK with the LORD!Young people of the Diocese are invited to join an all-night GoodFriday Walk from Blacktown to St Patrick’s Cathedral.When: Good Friday 22 April. At 11pm leave St Patrick’s Church,59 Allawah Street, Blacktown, for St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 MaristPlace, Parramatta, visiting parishes along the way …RSVP: 10 April. Download flyer from www.parra.catholic.org.au/youth Inquiriesto Catholic Youth Parramatta: tel (02) 8838 3418, youth@parra.catholic.org.au‘theology of the body’ catechesisDIOCESAN EVENTSJason Evert lives in the US and he’ll be travelling to Sydney to speak aboutPope John Paull II’s theology of the body. (See P6 of this issue for the latestarticle in a series on TOB by Anna Krohn). This catechesis is being sponsoredby the Dioceses of Parramatta and Broken Bay and the Archdiocese of Sydney.Jason and his wife, Chrystalina, speak widely about TOB to youth & youngadults at seminars in the US and internationally. They are frequent guests onradio and TV programs like EWTN and were presenters at WYD2008.Jason is the author of several books such as Theology of the body for teens,Pure Love and If You Really Loved Me. Visit their website: www.chastity.comWhen: Sunday 15 May. Speaker: Jason Evert.Where: Epping Bowling Club, 45-47 Rawson Street, Epping.Time: Afternoon – more details and flyer available soon.We encourage you to participate and invite others to these events!Inquiries about any of these events?Contact Catholic Youth ParramattaTel (02) 8838 3418, youth@parra.catholic.org.auPrayer for Our Livesand PurposeThursday 7 April at 7pmAdorationInspirationA shared life storywith youth/young adults and othersShare a café meal with others at8pm or go on your waySt Patrick’s Cathedral, Marist Place, ParramattaFor more details contact:Fr Paul – Vocations Directortel 0419 219 819Fr Suresh – Diocesan YouthDirector tel 8838 3419Annabelle – Youth Officetel 8838 3418

22 CatholicOutlook April 2011www. parra.catholic.org.au/youthThe Human Experience: Sydney screeningMost people, young or older, have askedthemselves at least once in their life: Who amI? Why am I here? What is the meaning of life?Often our experiences will evolve theanswers. But they were the questions agroup of film-makers in New York asked– then set out to find some answers.Grassroots Films of Brooklyn has producedThe Human Experience, an award-winningdocumentary about a band of brotherswho travel the world in search of theanswers to those burning questions.Their quest takes them to the streets of NewYork where they sleep with the homeless; toPeru where they comfort orphaned children;and to Africa where they seek out theabandoned lepers in the jungle of Ghana.As you can imagine, what these youngmen saw and experienced changed themforever. The love and joy they encountercaptivates them and they are awakenedto the beauty of the human person andthe resilience of the human spirit.The Human Experience weaves bothcommentary and drama into asuperbly crafted and filmed reflectionon what it means to be human.It has been described as hauntinglybeautifully and visually stunning.It has been viewed by more than60,000 people including politicians,academics, scientists and even youngpeople in detention centres. And ithas won more than 30 awards.One of the associate producers of TheHuman Experience, Michael Campo, andone of the main characters, Jeff Azize, arebeing brought to Australia by AustralianCatholic University for special screenings.On Thursday 7 April, the Archdiocese ofSydney is having a special public screeningat the Event Cinema in George Streetin the city. Both Jeff and Michael willbe there for a 30-minute Q&A sessionimmediately following the screening.Along with the Archdiocese, Harvest WYDTours and the Life, Marriage and FamilyCentre will be sponsoring the night.Tickets are available online for just $12 butbe quick, they are going fast:www.sydneycatholic.org/thehumanexperienceMany young people as well as youngprofessionals and film-makers are keento see a fast-paced journey aroundthe globe that follows two brothersin search of the meaning of life.Catholic CommunicationsSydney ArchdioceseCatholic Youth ParramattaYouth leaders’ retreat an inspirationBy Annabelle CauchiYouth leaders and potential youth leaderscame together for a retreat on 26 Februaryat Mt Schoenstatt Retreat Centre in Mulgoa.The theme of the day was ‘Here I am Lord’.The retreat was a great success and a wonderfulway for the youth leaders to start theyear in the presence of God and each other.After a fun icebreaker, Ian Smith, Head ofEvangelisation and Religious Education inthe Catholic Education Office Parramatta,gave a talk on ‘Vocation: Called to be ayouth leader’.He shared some of his experiences ofattending youth group and the impact thatthe group and the youth leaders had on himto shape him up to be the person that he is.He then gave us a blueprint to follow whichincludes the Sacraments, Mary, Mass andhow important it is to be formed in our faith,conviction and love of God.The participants reflected and sharedwithin a group setting the joys, challengesand dreams for their youth groups.Fr Suresh Kumar msfs, Diocesan YouthDirector, showed the DVD Indescribable byLouie Giglio, which really drove home therealisation of how much God loves us. Theprayer of the Angelus was prayed at theShrine of Our Lady Thrice Admirable.The retreat was an opportunity to learn,pray and to know our fellow pilgrims betterSean Finucane, Director of Catholic YouthServices in the Archdiocese of Sydney,shared his experiences and tips from hismany years in youth ministry and involvementin LifeTeen.The day finished with the Holy Sacrificeof Mass. Catholic Youth Parramatta (CYP)would like to thank Ian Smith, Sean Finucane,the Tehillah Prayer Community who providedthe music and singing for the Mass, all thehelpers and the retreat participants.Annabelle Cauchi is DiocesanYouth Worker with CYP.MassSaturday:Sunday:Daily:Public Hols:Vigil 6pm8am, 9.30am, 11am, 6pmMon-Fri 6.45am, 12.30pm; Sat 8am;8amReconciliationMonday-Friday: 11.45am-12.20pmSaturday: 8.30-9.30am; 5.15-5.45pmAnointing of the Sick within Mass3rd Friday: 10am (every month except Jan.)Filipino Mass: 2nd Sunday 12.30pmDevotionsAngelus: Mon-Fri noonRosary: Mon-Thurs 12.05pmEucharistic Devotion:Mon-Fri 11.30-12.20pmMorning Prayer Mon-Fri 6.30am;of the Church: Sat & Sun 7.30amNovena – 3rd Friday: 7.30pm• Baptism by appointment. • Marriages by appointment •Contact the Parish Secratary tel (02) 8839 8400 or (02) 9630 1115 admin@stpatscathedral.com.au

CatholicOutlook April 2011 23www. parra.catholic.org.au/youthCatholic Youth ParramattaMore than 160 youth and young adults enjoyed breakfast togetherDoes Catholic Teaching on Sex Make Sense?2011 Youth Breakfast with Bishop AnthonyLisa Garland, CYPOne would think that rain, cold and miserableweather would keep the youth andyoung adults in bed on a Saturday morning,but not in our Diocese!On 19 March, the first Youth Breakfastwith the Bishop for 2011 was held. Morethan 160 youth and young adults floodedinto St Patrick’s Cathedral hall in Parramattato hear Bishop Anthony Fisher op. Amongthis crowd were youth leaders, teachers andWorld Youth Day pilgrims.Greeting people as they walked throughthe door was the remarkable music andsinging of ‘Revive’ Music Group – theyouth band at Blessed John XXIII Parishat Glenwood-Stanhope Gardens. AnnabelleCauchi, Diocesan Youth Worker, welcomedeveryone before a delicious breakfast wasserved by Amadeus caterers.The topic of the morning was ‘DoesCatholic Teaching on Sex Make Sense?’Bishop Anthony explained the problemsthat Christians were faced with in the waycontemporary society viewed the humanperson, sex and relationships.Bishop Anthony Fisher OPThe first was ‘Individualism’. Our veryindividualistic society tells us that to behappy we have to have no restrictions. Manypeople see restrictions from freedom tobe marriage, having children, etc, and theenemy of society.Also influencing the way we think aboutsexuality is ‘Consumer Mentality’. With this,the body, sexuality and children are designedand controlled.Sex is both overestimated, thinking onecannot be happy if they aren’t having sexconstantly, and underestimated, wheresex is no more significant than humanbodily functions.The third was the ‘Reluctance to Engagein Self Sacrifice’ where many people don’tcommit to long-terms obligations to Godand their partners.Fewer people choose to marry and ourculture advises us to ‘try out’ other people, toexperiment and test with numerous peopleand with different kinds of sex.The fourth was in respect to children.Bishop Anthony explained that safe sex is theprevention of babies, about how in today’ssociety our fertility is seen as something tobe feared, leading to a sterile civilisation.The two inseparable dimensions are lifeand making love. “Full expression of sexuallove is when a married couple give themselvesto each other honestly and completely,”he said.The talk was followed by a Q and A session,which gave people the opportunityto share their thanks for Bishop Anthony’swords of wisdom and to say what was ontheir mind.Notices for World Youth Day and upcomingDiocesan Events were announced andthe morning concluded with our thanks toBishop Anthony and to all the youth andyoung adults who came to the breakfast.Compeer: What a difference a friend makesCan you spare just an hour a week tohelp someone who is lonely?Compeer is a Special Work of the St Vincent de PaulSociety that matches volunteers in one-on-onefriendship with people living with a mental illness,making a real difference to their quality of life.We are currently seeking friendly, accepting andemotionally mature male and female volunteers aged 25+ to be matchedwith friends on our waiting list in western Sydney and north-west Sydney.For more information about this volunteering opportunity please phoneVanessa Julien on (02) 9622 2411 or email compeer.blacktown@vinnies.org.auAPRIL4 Theology on Tap: Bishop Anthony Fisher OPwill speak about ‘Rediscovering the Sacramentof Reconciliation’. Where: PJ Gallagher’sIrish Pub, 74 Church St, Parramatta. Time:6.30pm. Details: www.theologyontap.com.au7 Second Rite of Reconciliation: for BlacktownDeanery at St Patrick’s Church, 51-59Allawah St, Blacktown. Time: 7.30pm.8 Creation of the Diocese: 25 th anniversary of thecreation of the Diocese of Parramatta in 1986.8 Second Rite of Reconciliation: forParramatta Deanery at Holy Trinity Church,Randle St, Granville. Time: 7.30pm.10 Australian Catholic Historical Society:Speaker – Alison Healey; writes on religious,cultural and historical topics including “50years of religious broadcasting on ABC radio”and has also held various roles in The Grail.Topic: The Grail – 75 years in Australia: aninternational women’s movement and theAustralian Church. Time: 2.30 pm in the foyerof St Mary’s Cathedral College hall, Sydney.Inquiries: secretaryachs @gmail.com11 Second Rite of Reconciliation: forBlue Mountains Deanery at St ThomasAquinas Church, 168 HawkesburyRd, Springwood. Time: 7.30pm.12 Second Rite of Reconciliation: for NepeanDeanery at Padre Pio Church, 34-38 WilliamHowell Dve, Glenmore Park. Time: 7.30pm.13 Second Rite of Reconciliation: for HawkesburyDeanery, Our Lady of the Rosary Church,8 Diana Ave, Kellyville. Time: 7.30pm.14 Second Rite of Reconciliation: forHolroyd Deanery, St Patrick’s Church,30 Calliope St, Guildford. Time: 7.30pm.15 Second Rite of Reconciliation: for HillsDeanery, St Michael’s Church, 1-3 ChapelLane, Baulkham Hills. Time: 7.30pm.15-17 Share the Dream Conference: The NationalFamily Gathering ‘Share the Dream’ will beheld at Xavier College in Kew, Victoria. Keynotespeakers include: Bishop Jean Laffitte, Secretaryto the Pontifical Council for the Family;Bishop Anthony Fisher OP; Melinda TankardReist; Byron and Francine Pirola; Dr BrigidMcKenna and Dr Adam Cooper. The conferenceis designed to be affordable for families– the same price whether you have one childor 10. Early bird family registration is just$250. Details: www.sharethedream.org.au16 Blackheath Reflection Morning: TheSpirituality of the Gospel of Mark. Presenter:Laurie Woods. Entry by donation. No need tobook. Time: 10am-1pm. Where: Sacred HeartParish Hall, cnr Sturt & Wentworth Streets,Blackheath. Details: Carmel (02) 4787 870616 Retreat for Zimbabwean Community:Zimbabwean Catholics are invited tocome together for a retreat. Speaker: FrPat Mullins SJ. Time: 9.20am-5pm. At theconclusion, retreatants are invited to joinwith the Our Lady of Mt Carmel parishcommunity for Mass at 6pm. Where: OurLady of Mt Carmel Parish, 4 Bennett St,Wentworthville. Details: Batsirai 0450 23 4550.17 Palm Sunday.20 Chrism Mass: You are invited to celebrate theChrism Mass with Bishop Anthony Fisher OP,the priests, deacons and people of the Dioceseof Parramatta. During the Mass, the Oil ofthe Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick areblessed and the Oil of Chrism is consecrated.These holy oils are then given to the parishesfor use during the year. Bishop Anthony andthe priests also renew their commitment topriestly service. Where: St Patrick’s Cathedral,Marist Place, Parramatta. Time: 7.30pm.21 Holy Thursday.22 Good Friday.22 Music of JS Bach & Sacred Readings: Thisannual service features several of the wonderfulchorale settings from Bach’s Passion2011and quiet, candle light meditation. BlueMountains Chamber Choir, Robert Ampt,conductor and organist, Amy Johansen,organist. Time: 7.30pm. Where: St Finbar’sChurch, 46 Levy St, Glenbrook. There will bea Retiring Collection. Details: (02) 4758 606723 Holy Saturday.24 Easter Sunday.25 Anzac Day.26 Easter Monday holiday.27-29 Divine Mercy: a series of talks by Br LouisOFM Conv. Time: 7pm. Where: Our Lady ofthe Rosary Church, 8 Diana Ave, Kellyville.Inquiries: Steve Boland 0405 206 695.MAY1 Beatification of John Paul II: Bishop AnthonyFisher OP will celebrate Solemn Mass at StPatrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, at 11am.1 Divine Mercy Sunday: Prayers start 1pm withstreet procession with the relic of St Faustinato be followed by Exposition of the BlessedSacrament, Divine Mercy Novena, Divine MercyChaplet, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.Bishop Anthony Fisher OP will celebrate HolyMass at 3pm with veneration of the relic to follow.Religious items for sale. Where: Our Ladyof the Rosary Church, 8 Diana Ave, Kellyville.Inquiries: Steve Boland 0405 206 695.13-15 Sisterhood Catholic Women’s Conference:The Sisterhood conference seeks to drawwomen together for a weekend of prayerand praise, sisterhood time and formationin what it means to be and live as a Catholicwoman in the 21 st Century. Keynote speakers:Sr Mary Rachel OP, Anna Krohn from thePontifical Institute for Studies on Marriageand the Family; Karen Doyle, author and cofounderof Catholic media business ChoicezMedia. Numbers limited – book soon:$195pp. Details: www.sisterhood.org.au15 World Day of Prayer for Vocations.15 Christian Meditation Introduction andRenewal Days: Arrival from 10am for 10.30am.Program includes: presentations, periods ofmeditation and Mass, conclusion around 3pm.BYO picnic lunch. Tea and coffee provided.Books and other material available. Where: StBenedict’s Monastery, 121 Arcadia Rd, Arcadia.Transport inquiries: Ann Bergman (02) 94982625, anniebergman@hotmail.com or AnnLomas (02) 9456 4775, atlomas@bigpond.com19 5 th National eConference: The Holy Spirit,Giver of Life. Keynote educators: Fr DenisEdwards and Sr Janette Grey RSM. A jointproject of the Australian Catholic BishopsConference and The Broken Bay Institute. Time:10.30am-3.15pm. Free registration. eConferencelink at http://holyspirit.vividas.com19 Silver Jubilee Mass: Bishop Anthony Fisher OPwill celebrate the Silver Jubilee Mass forthe 25 th anniversary of the creation of theDiocese of Parramatta. Where: St Patrick’sCathedral, Parramatta. Details: TBA.24 Our Lady Help of Christians.JUNE5-12 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: Thisyear’s theme is ‘One in the Apostles’Teaching, Fellowship, Breaking of Breadand Prayer’ (Acts 2:42). A variety of resourcesand links will be available in late Februaryto assist Australians to look at the experiencesof the Churches in Jerusalem. Details:National Council of Churches Australiatel (02) 9299 2215, www.ncca.org.au12 Pentecost.13 Queen’s Birthday.24 Patrician Brothers’ Blacktown Old Boys’Reunion: Reunion for classes 1952-2002 – ‘50Years of Pat’s Boys!’ Time: 7pm-11:30pm.Where: Blacktown Workers’ Club Auditorium.Tickets: $50 (incl. 3-course meal). Single ticketsor organise a table of 10. Bookings: PaulineField at the school tel (02) 9671 3000.

YOU’RE 5.75%PER ANNUMBETTER OFFShe’s 100% better offThe idea behind any investment is to put your money to work.That’s all very good, but have you ever thought about what itcould do in its spare time?At the Diocesan Development Fund Parramatta, we have. When youinvest with us you have a chance to give a little back to the pastoralwork of the Church. While your money is earning a fi nancial returnvery close to the market rate, a small fraction of your return helps theBishop to run programs in your parish and throughout the Diocese.Like any managed fund, the DDF is able to increase earningsby pooling the resources of its investors. But there is oneimportant difference; the DDF directs all surplus earningsto the Bishop of Parramatta to be used for the works of theDiocese, such as counseling programs, adult education,youth development, pastoral and liturgical activities.The DDF investment policy is built around traditionallystable investment products and every one of ourinvestments is guaranteed by the Diocese.You have the security of knowing not only that your moneyis well invested, but that it’s doing some good as well.To find out more call ourfriendly staff on (02) 9683 6077or visit our web site atwww.parra.catholic.org.au/ddfDIOCESAN DEVELOPMENT FUND PARRAMATTADisclosure StatementThe Diocesan Development Fund Catholic Diocese of Parramatta (DDF) is not subject to the provisionsof the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved by the Australian Securitiesand Investments Commission. Deposits with the DDF are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a companyestablished by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. We welcome yourinvestment with the DDF rather than with a profi t oriented commercial organisation as a consciouscommitment by you to support the Charitable, Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church.Neither the DDF nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Parramatta areprudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority; contributions to the DDFdo not obtain the benefi t of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; the DDF isdesigned for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the DDF.