Catholic Outlook August 2015

CatholicOutlookCOVolume 18, August 2015 Photo: Alphonsus FokBishop Robert McGuckin ordained Pio Yong Ho Jang and Thomas Thien Hien Bui priests for the Diocese of Parramatta in St Patrick’s Cathedral on 24 June 2015.NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEK: 2-9 AUGUST 2015Is God calling you to Priesthood or Religious Life?Meet men and women of faith who have answered ‘yes’

2 CatholicOutlook August 2015FROM THE DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATORReasonable debate lacking on issue of ‘same-sex marriage’Dear Brothers andSisters in Christ,As you would allbe only too wellaware the matter of‘same-sex marriage’has become themost talked aboutand debated socialissue so far this year.It has been ‘onand off’ the politicalagenda before, andVery Rev Peter G Williams now because ofchanges in Ireland and more recently inthe US it has come back to our nationalconversation propelled by an aggressive,well-resourced lobby group.This group has managed to secure asallies most mainstream media outletsand has enlisted the support of majorcommercial and sporting organisations.As has also become clear, anyone whoopposes and raises questions about such amomentous social change is immediatelylabelled as a bigot or homophobic.It is a sad and somewhat lamentablesituation that in Australia you can nolonger engage in a reasonable debatebecause, ultimately, it is the shrill and sharpvoices that will prevail.One political commentator remarkedrecently on television that the standard ofpolitical and social debate in Australia hasdescended to the level of who can win the24-hour news cycle.As many of you are also aware, recentlyI sent out a pastoral letter from theCatholic Bishops of Australia on thismatter, Don’t Mess with Marriage, whichwas distributed in parishes and schools inour Diocese.Predictably, there were negative reactionsfrom a few people and, surprisingly, whenthe matter was further investigated by thelocal press it dissipated very quickly.Journalists encountered many parentsresponding that of course they weren’ttroubled by the Church sending outinformation about what it believes andstands for, after all, that is what you wouldexpect from a Catholic school.That response is certainly heartening,when the ‘same sex’ lobby group and itssupporters would prefer that everyoneeither agreed with their position or simplyshut up!I don’t intend to rehearse the positionof the Church again here, but alert youto the fact that many who see themselvesIn their Pastoral Letter, ‘Don’t Mess with Marriage’, the bishops emphasise we now face a strugglefor the very soul of marriage.as progressive, ‘liberal’ and leading socialreformers and who advocate ‘equality’ and‘freedom of speech’ really do so with acaveat attached.That caveat is: if you don’t agree withmy (our) position, then there is somethingseriously wrong with you! Certainlysince the 1960s and the increasingsecularisation of Australian society it hasbecome more difficult for organisationslike the Church to be heard in the publicforum on many issues.The recent scandal relating to the sexualabuse of minors and the complicity ofsome Church personnel and leaders hasweakened our standing to speak on moraland social concerns.Those who are anti-Catholic (and makeno mistake there is a considerable numberof them) are now using our currentdilemma as a weapon to further erodepublic trust in the Church and render anyopinions we may have as either irrelevantor lacking credibility.In such a climate, there is always atendency to want to retreat into therealm of the private and to avoid anyconfrontation or hostility.To do so on the matter of ‘same sexmarriage’ or any other contemporarysocial issue would be to betray our fidelityto the Gospel and our determination towitness to the truth that we see and knowin Jesus Christ.For those of us who remember a timewhen the Church (and, in fact, other majorChristian denominations) exercised a fargreater influence on the life of the nation,to find ourselves in the current situation isa seismic shift.But we must prepare ourselves to enterwhere the Church has been before (and stillis in places) as a minority. Christendom isgone and the postmodern world with itsplurality of culture, religion and secularforces is the reality.I encourage you to be courageous andnot to cower before the huge weight ofcurrent fashion. It may not be popular touphold traditional marriage, to respect thevalue of human life, or maintain allegianceto the teaching of the Church.But if our faith sustains us, and ourconsciences propel us to such a position,then we simply have no alternative. As weread the Gospels we know that Jesus andHis teaching was not always accepted bythose who heard Him and, in fact, manywalked away, including some who had atone time been disciples!Reflecting on the current state of publicdiscourse in Australia led me to look up aprayer I used many years ago as an eveningprayer and which has great resonance forthe time we live in:Be present, merciful God, and protectus through the hours of this night: thatwe, who are wearied by the changes andchances of this fleeting world, may rest onyour eternal changelessness, through Christour Lord. Amen.With my prayers,Very Rev Peter G WilliamsDiocesan AdministratorHoly Hour for Vocationson Thursday 20 August from 7pm-8pmEVERYONE is welcome to join the HolyHour for Vocations on the 3 rd Thursdayof each month for an hour of adoration,prayer, music and quiet time in theBlessed Sacrament Chapel inSt Patrick’s Cathedral.To find out more about priesthood in theCatholic Diocese of Parramatta contactthe Director of Priestly Vocations,Fr Warren Edwards:Tel 0409 172 700 or send an email tovocations@parra.catholic.org.auSt Patrick’s Cathedral, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta.Visit www.stpatscathedral.com.auinsideThe Catholic Churchhas long been at theforefront in the pastoralcare of migrants andrefugees. This year theAustralian CatholicMigrant and RefugeeOffice celebrates 20years of mission.P5Catholic schoolsacross the Diocese arebenefitting from a strongfocus on literacy andthe data is beginning toshow that new strategiesare having a strongimpact on results.P12The official publication of the Diocese of Parramatta.Join us onPublisher:Very Rev Peter G WilliamsDiocesan AdministratorTel (02) 8838 3400Fax (02) 9630 4813PO Box 3066, NorthParramatta, NSW, 1750Email:diocese@parra.catholic.org.auWebsite:www.parra.catholic.org.auEditor: Jane FavottoTel (02) 8838 3409editor@parra.catholic.org.auPO Box 3066, NorthParramatta, NSW, 1750Deadlines:Editorial and advertising– 10 th of the monthprior to publicationFilipino Catholics turnedout in force to welcomethe Apostolic Nuncio toAustralia, ArchbishopAdolfo Tito Yllana, inBlacktown last month.Mass in St Michael’sChurch was followed bya celebratory lunch.P4The Dropping off theEdge 2015 report,produced by Jesuit SocialServices and CatholicSocial Services Australia,maps disadvantageacross Australia basedon 22 social indicators.P7National VocationsAwareness Week from 2-9August is an opportunityfor parishes, schools,religious communities,ministries and all thefaithful to focus on the‘call to holiness’ thatarises from our Baptism.P20https://www.facebook.com/catholicoutlookJournalists:Adrian MiddeldorpElizabeth McFarlaneAdvertising:Tel (02) 8838 3409AccountsAlfie RamirezTel (02) 8838 3437ARamirez@parra.catholic.org.auSchool news:Catholic Education OfficeTel (02) 9840 5683news@parra.catholic.edu.auDesign:Chris Murraylimad77@bigpond.net.auPrinting:Rural Press Printing,North Richmond40,500 copies of Catholic Outlook are distributedmonthly through 48 parishes and 86 schools.All material in this publication is copyrightand may not be reproduced without permissionof the editor. Catholic Outlook is a memberof the Australasian Catholic Press Assoc.

An elderly man in Kavre district with household items he has received from Caritas.Photo: Caritas Australia.Caritas moves mountains in NepalThree months ago Nepal was devastatedby one of the largest earthquakes to hitthe country.Caritas Australia thanks andacknowledges the efforts of the Australiancommunity in supporting the CatholicChurch’s emergency relief work in some ofthe hardest hit and most remote areas ofthe country.The Executive Director of Caritas Nepal,Fr Pius Perumana, said in a time of need, theglobal Catholic family listened, prayed andresponded in solidarity.“With the generosity of Catholic schools,parishes and supporters across the globe,the Caritas network helped us overcomethe most challenging situations and reachthe most marginalised and affected women,men and children,” he said.“Our Caritas humanitarian team hasused helicopters, pulley systems and cablecars, swing bridges, porters, and sheerdetermination to help deliver life-saving aid.“Caritas Nepal and local communitieshave moved mountains to reach people inneed. The drivers of our Caritas trucks haveshifted rocks and rubble from hillsides inSindhupalchowk, one of the worst-hit areas,to clear the roads“The dedication of our aid workers hasensured that despite the many challengescaused by landslides and bad weather, aidhas reached the communities where it’sneeded most.“It’s not easy to hold on to hope whenall around you there is destruction, but theNepali people have been very resilient, andthey have shown the spirit of cooperationand compassion between neighbours.“It’s these expressions of charity that bringrenewed hope to shattered lives.”The Caritas network is the secondlargesthumanitarian network in the world.In Nepal, it has reached more than 300,000people with humanitarian assistance,including emergency shelter materials,water and hygiene kits containingaquatabs, soap, washing detergent,toothbrushes and toothpaste.Caritas Australia’s HumanitarianEmergencies Manager, Melville Fernandez,is on the ground in Nepal.“We have so much to celebrate as anagency and community, but we are notyet through the hardest part. We are stillracing to reach some of the country’smost remote communities with life-savingaid before the monsoon rains intensify,”he said.“We are now prioritising the distributionof corrugated iron sheeting so that familieshave as much protection as possible againstthe monsoon rains.“The rains are desperately needed toensure full growth of the crops that Nepalifamilies depend on for food and income,yet we know the downpours will bringfurther landslides, mud and damage tomany who are still recovering.“As we mark the three-monthanniversary, we are already planning for thelonger term. After the emergency phase wewill support people to revive their meansof earning a living, rebuilding and restoringtheir communities so they can withstandfuture disasters.“It is the extraordinary generosity ofour Catholic community in Australia, andthe world over, who ensure we work insolidarity and honour the dignity of Nepal’smost vulnerable people long after the newshas moved on.”CatholicOutlook August 2015 3Project Compassion appeal breaks recordsCaritas Australia, the Catholic Church’sinternational aid and development agency,has thanked thousands of generoussupporters, including Catholic schoolsand parishes.Together they helped to raise a recordbreaking$11.57 million nationally duringProject Compassion 2015, joining insolidarity with the world’s poor.Caritas Australia’s major fundraiser is heldannually for six weeks during Lent. Moneyraised will help thousands of vulnerablecommunities in more than 30 countriesglobally in Asia, Africa, Latin America, thePacific and Australia.The Diocese of Parramatta raised$597,500, almost $100,000 more thanlast year.Together the Archdiocese of Sydneyand the dioceses of Parramatta, BrokenBay, Bathurst, Armidale, Lismore,Maitland-Newcastle, Wilcannia-Forbes,Wollongong and Wagga Wagga raisednearly $4.14 million.This year’s theme for Project Compassionwas Food for Life and focused on CaritasAustralia’s support for the world’s poorestpeople to establish sustainable food sourcesfor life.Caritas walks with them as they freethemselves from the burden of foodinsecurity and develop new, improvedincome streams for a better future.Head of Community Engagement,Helen Forde, said Project Compassionwas an extraordinary, ongoingdemonstration of the faith, love andgenerosity of caring supporters, all in thename of justice and peace.“Pope Francis last year said in responseto the global food crisis that it is trulyscandalous,” she said. “The AustralianCatholic community has responded tothat call, through their overwhelminggenerosity to Project Compassion insolidarity with those facing global injusticeand extreme poverty.NSW-based Global EducationAdviser, Brendan Joyce, said JustLeadership Days held across thestate were attended by more than750 students and demonstratedexceptional student and teacherleadership on global social justice.Just Leadership Days encourage studentsto become leaders for justice, in theirschools and their communities, for bothlocal and global change.More than 350 schools and300 parishes in NSW fundraisedfor Project Compassion.“Schools across NSW held themost extraordinary events duringProject Compassion from cakestalls, to book fairs and sponsoredsolidarity walks,” he said.“The money raised helps us to enablethose communities globally to transformtheir lives. By participating in learningmore about global poverty, the studentsand teachers fundraising or participatingin Just Leadership Days are changed forthe better.”Find out more about Just LeadershipDays or how you, your school or parishcan get involved in Project Compassion in2016 by phoning 1800 024 413 or visitingwww.caritas.org.auSt Pauls Catholic College at Greystanes raised more than $8000 for Project Compassion. As part oftheir social justice initiatives, the Student Representative Council and the college community alsodonated non-perishable food items, blankets and warm clothing to theSt Vincent de Paul Conference in the parish.Saturday 29 AugustOpenNotre DameDayND1022 | CRICOS PROVIDER CODE: 01032FSydney Campus | 9am-3pmArts & Sciences | Business | Education | Law | Medicine * | Nursing | Philosophy & Theology | PathwaysExperience our unique 5 star national Catholic university in the heart of Sydney.Check out courses, meet academic staff and current students, enjoy entertainmentand take a Campus tour!Personalise your Open Day at notredame.edu.au/opendayFremantleBroomeSydney*Applications for the School of Medicine are now closed for 2016

4 CatholicOutlook August 2015Triduum Novena& MassFor theFeast of Our Ladyof PenafranciaLiving Out God’s Mercy andCompassion in theYear of the PoorSaturday 29 August1 st Triduum Novena and Mass11am in St Joseph’s Church12-22 Richmond Road, KingswoodReplica of Our Lady of Penafranciawill stay for one weekSaturday 5 September2 nd Triduum Novena and Mass11am in Holy Trinity Churchcnr Bennalong and Randle Sts,GranvilleReplica of Our Lady of Penafranciawill stay for one weekSaturday 12 September3 rd Triduum Novena and Mass11am in St Andrew’s Church40 Breakfast Road, MarayongReplica of Our Lady of Penafranciawill stay for one weekSaturday 19 SeptemberFeast of Our Lady of PenafranciaNovena at 9am prior toMass at 9.30amSt Nicholas of Myra Church, Penrithcarpark entry thru Higgins StreetFluvial Procession on Nepean RiverBoarding Nepean Belle at 11.45amTench Reserve Wharf, JamisontownLunch program & entertainment1pm-4pm at Factory Rd ReserveJamisontownFor further informationcontact theAustralian Devotees ofOur Lady of Penafranciatel 0419 233 643.Photographs: Alfred Boudib.Nuncio receives a warm welcome from Filipino Catholic communityFilipino Catholics turned out in force to welcomethe Apostolic Nuncio to Australia, ArchbishopAdolfo Tito Yllana, in Blacktown last month.Mass in St Michael’s Church on Sunday 26 Junewas followed by a celebratory lunch.The gathering was an opportunity for membersof the largest migrant community in the Dioceseto greet Archbishop Yllana, who was born inNaga City in the Philippines.The 68-year-old has served in the diplomaticrole of Papal Nuncio for more than 30 years,spending time in at least 15 countries.“A Papal Nuncio is one who represents theHoly Father,” he explained in the June 2015 issueof Catholic Voice. “We serve to strengthen thebond between the Holy Father and the bishops.“We carry out his thoughts and his wishes,communicating them so that we are able toserve the local community and they can see thatthe Holy Father is concerned for them and heloves them.”It is almost three months since ArchbishopYllana arrived in Australia to take up his postin Canberra.Aside from passing through Brisbane andSydney airports, he had never been to Australiaprior to his arrival on 30 April.“It’s a new world for me and a new experience,”he said. “It’s more organised. I’ve never livedanywhere like Australia in all my assignments.“It’s a big challenge, because this is a bigcountry, but there is a well-rooted Christiantradition here.”Archbishop Yllana has a strong devotion tothe patroness of the Philippines, Our Lady ofPeñafrancia, as well as to St Joseph.Our Lady’s feast day will be celebrated inPenrith on Saturday 19 September with aNovena, Mass and Fluvial (water) Procession onthe Nepean River (for details see panel at left).Sat 5 Sept, 8.30am - 2.30pmNorth SydneySat 12 Sept, 8.30am - 4pmStrathfieldwww.acu.edu.au/opendayCRICOS registered provider: 00004G

CatholicOutlook August 2015 5AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC MIGRANT AND REFUGEE OFFICECelebrating 20 years of missionFr Maurizio Pettena CSWelcoming the stranger, a characteristicof the early Church, remains a permanentfeature of the Church of God. It is markedby the vocation to be in exile, in diaspora,dispersed among cultures and ethnicgroups without ever identifying itselfcompletely with any of these.Welcoming the stranger is thus intrinsicto the nature of the Church itself andbears witness to its fidelity to the Gospel(Erga Migrantes, 22).The Catholic Church in Australia haslong been at the forefront in the pastoralcare of migrants and refugees.HistoryIn 1944, the Australian EpiscopalConference created a sub-committee onimmigration. The sub-committee, chairedby Bishop McGuire, was appointed to lookafter the interests of Catholics with regardto immigration.Lay committees already formed undertheir respective bishops in NSW andother states came under the direction ofBishop McGuire.The Bishop and the sub-committeewere aware that there was a strongdetermination by powerful influences toincrease the population of Australia bymeans of immigration.It was a matter of waiting for therepatriation of servicemen and clarificationof economic conditions before encouragingmass immigration.In response to a request fromthe Australian Government to havea Catholic body responsible for‘In the “strangers”, theChurch sees Christ who“pitches his tent amongus” and “knocks atour door.”’immigration matters, Bishop McGuirewas granted approval to form the FederalCatholic Migration Committee (FCMC),later the Federal Catholic ImmigrationCommittee (FCIC), by selecting itsmembers and preparing a constitution.In April 1947, the committee wasannounced, although Western Australiaalready had a Catholic body calledthe Episcopal Migration and WelfareAssociation, which was responsible forbringing out Catholic migrant childrenfrom the UK and accommodating them inorphanages in WA.Offices open nationallyCatholic Migration Offices were openedin capital cities and state committees wereformed of archdiocesan and diocesanrepresentatives. The Federal Office openedin Sydney.The opening of these offices in 1947coincided with the commencement offree and assisted migration to Australia.In the early part of the operation, thework centred around British migrantsand displaced persons, many of whomwere Catholics.During 1948, the flow of migrants toAustralia continued to increase. Around thistime, it became obvious that there was aneed for priests from various nationalities tominister to migrants in their own language.The recruitment of overseas priests onan individual basis and need, determinedby the local bishops, commenced in 1948.The Australian Catholic Migrant andRefugee Office (ACMRO) was establishedby the Australian Catholic BishopsConference on 1 July 1995.It took the place of two previous ACBCbodies, the Federal Catholic ImmigrationCommittee and the Australian CatholicRefugee Office, and assumed many oftheir functions.ACMRO reported to the ACBCthrough the Bishops Committee forMigrants and Refugees.New challengesToday, due to the new challenges we face,Two Burmese refugee boys in Ban Mai Nai Soi temporary shelter in Mae Hong Son, Thailand.Photo: Seipoe/Shutterstock.comthere is a greater emphasis about migrantsand refugees than there in the past.Consequently, this has led toanother focus, the emphasis oneducation and awareness risingwithin the Church at all levels.Aware of the challenges that lie ahead,the ACMRO team celebrates with gratitudeto the Lord on this anniversary. TheACMRO remembers with an immense debtof gratitude the leadership of the bishopdelegates; Bishop Patrick Dogherty andBishop Joseph Grech, the hard work of pastACMRO Directors Mons. Crennan andMons. Murphy and the dedication of themany staff who have been companions onthis journey.The latest document issued by thePontifical Council for the Pastoral Care ofMigrants and Itinerant People (Cor Unum)is Welcoming Christ in Refugees and ForciblyDisplaced Persons.Christ ‘knocks at our door’These pastoral guidelines state what shouldbe the way of the Church in consideringand treating the stranger. “In the ‘strangers’,the Church sees Christ who ‘pitches his tentamong us’ and ‘knocks at our door’” (n. 22).It also points out that very often,Migrant andRefugee Sunday30 August 2015This year’s theme:‘Church without frontiers,Mother to all’www.acmro.org.au“through the action inspired by the Gospelof Church-related agencies, or evenindividuals, wrought with great generosityand self-sacrifice, one comes to know thelove of Christ and the transforming powerof its grace in these situations that are, inthemselves, very often hopeless” (n. 3). Inthe ‘strangers’, the Church sees Christ who‘pitches his tent among us’ and that ‘knocksat our door’” (n. 22).In the stranger, the Church hears thevoice of Christ echoing within the verydepth of our Christian identity: “I was astranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35).Fr Maurizio Pettena CS is Director of theAustralian Catholic Migrant andRefugee Office.Proud photography partner of Catholic Outlookcatholicinsurance.org.au1300 655 003Home Contents Car Personal Accident Travel Landlord CaravanCCI CatholicOutlook Sponsorship printAd APR15.indd 116/04/2015 8:16:47 AM5

6 CatholicOutlook August 2015The Diocese is committed to providingoutreach initiatives and support servicesThe Catholic Diocese ofParramatta’s Office forSafeguarding and ProfessionalStandards (the Office) wasestablished on 1 July 2014 toensure that there are robustsystems in place to keep childrenand other vulnerable people safewhen they are involved in theactivities of the Diocese.The Office is committed to theposition taken of ‘no excuses,no cover ups’ and strives towork towards the preventionof abuse through the provisionof education, investigation,research, compliance, andoutreach initiatives.Current outreach initiativeA communication strategyhas been developed to reachout to unknown survivorsof abuse who have beenharmed as a consequenceof their engagement inministries of the Diocese.This outreach campaignis being promoted throughdiocesan communicationchannels to parishes,Catholic schools, ministries,Church agencies and thewider community.The campaign is one ofnumerous initiatives that aimto provide the community withan opportunity to be heard ifthey hold information abouthistorical and/or current abusesuffered at the hands of CatholicChurch personnel in WesternSydney and the Blue Mountains.Advertisements are runningin local newspapers in WesternSydney and the Blue Mountainsand on diocesan online andsocial media channels (see panelon the bottom of this page).Information about thecampaign is available on adedicated website:www.safeguarding.org.auPeople coming forward withcomplaints or information cancall a response line (02 99330233), which will be in operationfor the duration of the campaignfrom 7am to midnight, sevendays a week.This response line will bemanaged by skilled professionalswho are engaged as a first pointof contact for people who wish tocome forward.For all other inquiries aboutthis outreach initiative, peopleare encouraged to phone theOffice for Safeguarding andProfessional Standards tel(02) 8838 3400.About the OfficeThe Office provides educationto all diocesan institutionsabout risk managementstrategies, current issues, andlegislative obligations.This is predominatelyundertaken through thefacilitation of trainingsessions, forums, conferences,and the production ofresource materials.The education is informedthrough ongoing extensiveresearch into current issues andrisk management strategies.The compliance branch ofthe Office serves as a resourcefor diocesan institutions inensuring their understandingand implementation of statutoryrequirements and diocesanpolicies.The Office also undertakesobjective investigationsinto complaints andsafeguarding issues.The Office works under thedirection of Paul Davis. Paul hasbeen engaged with ProfessionalStandards initiatives of theDiocese for more than a decade.He has a background in law,education, and investigations.The Manager, FrancesRush, joined the Office forSafeguarding and ProfessionalStandards team in January thisyear. Frances has worked forthe Royal Commission intoInstitutional Responses to ChildSexual Abuse.She has more than 30 yearsof social work experience inboth the governmental and nongovernmentalsectors.A Training and ComplianceOfficer, Asante Viswasam, joinedthe team in June this year with abackground in human rights, riskassessment, and child protection.Most recently, Asante workedfor the Office of the Children’sGuardian in the OperationsTeam of the Working WithChildren Check.The Office is supported byExecutive Assistant, CorrinaSerrano, who comes to theteam with Royal Commissionand Attorney General’sDepartment experience.The Diocese has been involvedin the processes and inquiriesof the Royal Commission intoInstitutional Responses toChild Sexual Abuse, which wasestablished in January 2013.The purpose of this RoyalCommission is to investigatehow institutions like schools,churches, sports clubs, andgovernment organisations haveresponded to allegations andinstances of child sexual abuse.Through its involvementin the Royal Commission theDiocese has strengthened itscommitment to provide outreachinitiatives and support servicesto the community.PUBLIC FORUM ON PAPAL ENCYCLICALLaudato Si’‘Praise be to you’Saturday 15 August,10am to 4.30pmA forum onLaudato Si’, the new encyclicalfrom Pope Francis, will be held in theDiocese of Parramatta on Saturday 15 August.Everyone is welcome to participate in this forum, which is hostedby the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC) andHoly Family Parish, Mt Druitt.• What is Pope Francis saying in his encyclical on human ecologyand the environment?• What is the scientific explanation for global warming?• What global effects have we seen already and what canwe expect?• What does this mean for us?• Apart from the humanitarian response, what actions can ordinarypeople take to help stop the problem from getting much worse?• How do we live out this aspect of our mission as people of faith?Speakers:Fr Gregory Jacobs SJ,Parish Priest of Holy Family ParishProf Neil Ormerod,Professor of Theology at Australian Catholic UniversityDr Hamish Clarke, Senior Climate & Atmospheric Scientist, NSWOffice of Environment and HeritageThea Ormerod, ARRCC PresidentVenue: Loyola Senior High Hall, 91 North Parade, Mt Druitt.Light lunch and refreshments provided – $10 suggested donationRSVP: Thea tel 0405 293 466,chair@gmail.comDetails:http://www.arrcc.org.au/ news-a-events/event/details/298Further information:The text of the encyclical is available on theVatican website: http://w2.vatican.va/content/vatican/en.htmlA key source of information about the encyclical is the website ofCatholic Earthcare Australia: www.catholicearthcare.org.au

Catholic Diocese of ParramattaNew appointmentsThe Diocesan Administrator,Very Rev Peter G Williams,has confirmed the followingappointment:Rev Fr Romulo Lofranco OFM ConvAssistant PriestOur Lady of the Rosary Parish,KellyvilleHousing Affordability‘Table Talks’Wednesday19 August 2015Join the Family & Life Office andSocial Justice Office for an eveningof ‘Table Talks’ on the topic ofAffordable Housing.This event will highlight the moraland social justice dimensions ofhousing affordability.7pm-8.30pm followed by supperInstitute for Mission (downstairs)1-5 Marion Street, BlacktownRSVPbsmith@parra.catholic.org.aulmckeogh@parra.catholic.org.auCatholicOutlook August 2015 7Landmark report reveals complex, entrenched disadvantageA small number of communitiesacross Australia havedisproportionately high levelsof unemployment, low familyincome and education, housingstress, domestic violence andprison admissions.This results in severely limitedlife opportunities and placessignificant social and economiccosts on the broader community,according to a landmark nationalreport released last month.Dropping off the Edge 2015,produced by Jesuit Social Servicesand Catholic Social ServicesAustralia, maps disadvantageacross the country based on 22social indicators, including longtermunemployment, criminalconvictions and domestic violence.The report is authored by ProfTony Vinson and Assoc ProfMargot Rawsthorne from theUniversity of Sydney. Prof Vinsonauthored locational-based studiesin 1999 and 2004 as well as theground-breaking 2007 reportDropping off the Edge.This report received morethan 284 scholarly citations andsupported the establishment of theAustralian Social Inclusion Board.Jesuit Social Services CEOJulie Edwards said the reportshowed disadvantage wasentrenched in a small number ofcommunities across Australia,most of which have remainedsimilarly disadvantaged for morethan a decade.“The ranking of 10 of the 12most disadvantaged communitiesin Victoria has not improvedsince the 2007 report, likewisenine of the 12 most disadvantagedcommunities in NSW and eightof the 12 most disadvantagedcommunities in South Australia,”she said.“While our social supportstructures work for manyAustralians, the 2015 reportshows clearly that there are asmall but significant number ofcommunities that we have failedand that a new structure and anew approach is needed.”Catholic Social Services CEOMarcelle Mogg said currentpolicies were not working.“People can’t overcome structuraldisadvantage when all theodds are stacked against them.These communities are notfailing – Australia is failing thesecommunities,” she said.“Dropping off the Edge 2015outlines that residents in thesecommunities aren’t just dealingwith one form of disadvantagebut multiple, complex barriersto individual wellbeing andcommunity participation.The report mapped disadvantage based on 22 social indicators, includinglong-term unemployment, criminal convictions and domestic violence.“What we need now is forgovernment, the business andcommunity sectors and thecommunities themselves todevelop and implement tailormade,long-term and sustainablesolutions to build better futures.”In NSW, just 11 postcodes(1.8% of total) account for 21.4%of the most disadvantaged rankpositions. Dominant factors inthese postcodes include criminalconvictions, unemployment, nointernet access, domestic violence,lack of qualifications and youngadults not fully engaged in workor study.Dropping off the Edge 2015 wascompiled using data from theAustralian Bureau of Statistics,NAPLAN, the Australian EarlyDevelopment Index and stateand territory government humanservices agencies.The report calls for a newapproach targeted at reducingthe most severe deep-seateddisadvantage, taking into accountthe unique characteristicsand circumstances ofeach community.Dropping off the Edge 2015is supported by an interactivewebsite that allows users toview colour-coded maps of fivestates and search for a particularlocation to see where it ranks on arange of indicators.To read the report in full visit:www.dote.org.auInsurance thatgives backto the CatholiccommunityWhen you choose CCI Personal Insurance, you not onlyget great insurance at a great price, you’re alsosupporting the Catholic community.Each year we give back via a range of Catholiccommunity programs.We also support worthy initiatives and causes, all with theobjective of making a positive contribution to theCatholic community.So when you choose CCI Personal Insurance, you’re notthe only one who benefits.Visit our website or call us to learn more aboutCCI’s dedication to the Catholic community.catholicinsurance.org.au/community1300 655 003Home Contents Car Personal Accident Travel Landlord CaravanCatholic Church Insurance Limited (CCI) ABN 76 000 005 210, AFS Licence No. 235415 is the promoter of the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (Allianz) ABN 15 000 122 850 AFS, Licence No. 234708. 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8 CatholicOutlook August 201550 TH ANNIVERSARY OF NOSTRA AETATEThe past, present and future of theChristian-Jewish relationshipDr Raymond CanningTowards the very end of the final sessionof the Second Vatican Council, thedocument Nostra Aetate, the ‘Declarationon the Church’s Relation to Non-Christian Religions’, received definitiveapproval from the Council Fathersmeeting in Rome.At the heart of the declaration is therelationship of the Church to the Jewishpeople, “the descendants of Abraham”(NA 4).As the Jewish French historian JulesIsaac had demonstrated in his book TheTeaching of Contempt: Christian Roots ofAnti-Semitism, Christians had, throughouthistory, presented a distorted image of theJews and their religion.So Pope John XXIII’s meeting inaudience with Jules Isaac on 13 June 1960was ground breaking in that it was therethat the Pope agreed to the request toraise the question of the Jews during thecoming Council.As the theologian Yves Congar statedat the time, if 20 years after Auschwitzthe Council had said nothing aboutits relations with the Jews, the moralcredibility of the Church would havebeen compromised.The approved text of the ‘Declarationon the Church’s Relation to Non-ChristianReligions’ promulgated on 28 October1965 was intended to put an end toevery form of anti-Semitism withinChristianity and to express the Church’sacknowledgment of its own Jewish roots.The declaration shows that, on the basisof sound biblical and historical arguments,the Church was able to set aside centuriesof traditional animosity towards the Jews,and also to create a space for genuineinter-religious dialogue more broadly.It was fitting then that the InternationalCouncil of Christians and Jews (ICCJ)should hold its 2015 conference in Rome,from 28 June to 1 July, to celebrate the 50 thanniversary of Nostra Aetate.As the ICCJ President, Philip ACunningham, writes in his introductionto the conference program: “In additionto looking at the remarkable history andcurrent state of the new relationship, wewill also ask: where do we go in the next50 years?“Clearly we … are all enriched by thediverse ways in which Christian-Jewishrelations have unfolded in different partsof the world.“Some people have led the way ingrappling with the horrible legacy ofthe Shoah. Some have stressed formingpersonal friendships as paramount.Dr Raymond Canning, Executive Secretary of the Bishops Commission for Ecumenism andInter-religious Relations, meets Pope Francis at the Vatican.“When sustained conversationoccurs, theological dialoguecan attain a profound depth …Elsewhere trilateral relations withIslam are vigorously pursued.”Key moments of the conference werethe visit to the Rome Synagogue and themeeting with the Chief Rabbi of Rome,Rabbi Riccardo Shemuel De Segni, andthe audience with Pope Francis in theSala Clementina at the Vatican.In his address to the more than 250conference delegates, the Pope remindedthem that the seeds of cooperationbetween the ICCJ and the CatholicChurch had been sown as early as 1947.The ‘Emergency Conference onAntisemitism’, held in the Swiss town ofSeelisberg, formulated basic statementsthat influenced the Second VaticanCouncil in its reflection on Judaism.It was this reflection that foundexpression in the signal 1965 DeclarationNostra Aetate.The Broken Bay InstitutePROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT& CONTINUINGE D U C A T I O NInternational Speaker SeriesChurch Governance andLeadership Courses:Exploring the Opportunities,Issues and RisksDiocesan Development FundCatholic Diocese of ParramattaThis professional development program will run over three days in PennantHills, Sydney and focus on Catholic Church governance, leadership andmanagement with Emeritus Professor Francis Morrisey OMI and leadingChurch canonists, theologians and practitioners.Supporting thegrowing needs of theinstitutions and agencies withinthe Catholic Diocese of Parramattawww.parra.catholic.org.au/ddfBrokenBayInstituteRev Prof GeraldO’Collins SJ AOAdjunct Professor,ACU and HonoraryResearch Fellow,MCDSr ElizabethDodds RSCFormerCongregationalLeader, Sisters ofCharity of AustraliaMary AikenheadMinistriesFr Gerald A.Arbuckle SMCo-director,Refounding andPastoralDevelopment, SydneyDr Jim D’OrsaLecturer - Mission &CultureThe Broken BayInstituteSr HelenDelaney RSMLecturer in CanonLaw, CatholicTheological CollegeMs TeresaBrierleyVice Chancellor ofPastoral MinistriesCatholic Diocese ofMaitland-NewcastleFr Peter SlackParish Priest; VicarGeneral, Diocese ofLismore; AssociateJudicial Vicar, RegionalTribunal of SydneyBr John HenryThornber CFCDiocesan SchoolsConsultantChristian BrothersOceania andEdmund RiceEducation AustraliaTHEwww.bbi.catholic.edu.auBROKEN BAY INSTITUTE P: +61 2 9847 0030 • E: cmartin@bbi.catholic.edu.auhttp://www.bbi.catholic.edu.au/short-courses/Church-Governance-and-Leadership-CoursesSPEAKERS INCLUDEDisclosure StatementThe Diocesan Development Fund Catholic Diocese of Parramatta (DDF) is not subject to the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approvedby the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.Deposits with the DDF are guaranteed by CDPF Limited, a company established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose.We welcome your investment with the DDF rather than with a profit oriented commercial organisation as a conscious commitment 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 are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority;contributions to the DDF do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959; the DDF is designed for investors who wish to promotethe charitable purposes of the DDF.

CatholicOutlook August 2015 9Euthanasia ‘a dangerous, radical shift in society’s foundational values’Debra VermeerEuthanasia is not an incremental changeto current end-of-life practices, but aradical and massive shift in our society’sand civilisation’s foundational values, saysinternationally renowned Australian ethicistMargaret Somerville.Dr Somerville, who is a Professor ofLaw, Professor in the Faculty of Medicine,and Founding Director of the Centrefor Medicine, Ethics and Law at McGillUniversity in Montreal, Canada, wasspeaking at The University of Notre Dame(Sydney) as part of a series of public lectureson ethical issues surrounding euthanasiaand assisted suicide during her recent visitto Australia.Her presentation focused on lessons tobe learnt from the debate in Canada, wherethe Supreme Court earlier this year struckdown a ban on doctor-assisted suicide formentally competent Canadian patients withterminal illnesses.She said one of the key argumentsof pro-euthanasia advocates was thateuthanasia is no different to medicaltreatments, such as palliative sedation, thatare already widely practised.“When used correctly as part of palliativecare, palliative sedation is not euthanasia,”she said. “In palliative sedation as part ofstandard palliative care, physicians oftenallow the patient to become conscious fromtime to time and use the lightest possiblesedation consistent with relieving suffering.It’s only used as a last resort, and not often.”Dr Somerville said acting with anintention to kill is “different-in-kind”from allowing a natural death and thatdoctors are one of the groups mostopposed to euthanasia.She said in The Netherlands whereeuthanasia was legal there has been somuch resistance by physicians to carryingit out that the government has had to setup “mobile euthanasia units” to visit homesand attend to euthanasia requests.“Euthanasia is not just an incrementalexpansion of current ethically and legallyaccepted end-of-life decisions, such asrefusal of life-support treatment, as proeuthanasiaadvocates argue,” she said.“It seems that most politicians andmany Canadians do not recognisethe momentousness of a decision tolegalise euthanasia. It’s not incrementalchange, but rather a radical and massiveshift in our society’s and civilisation’sfoundational values.”Dr Somerville said another proeuthanasiastrategy to be resisted wasthe euphemising of euthanasia by callingit “medical treatment” and “medicallyassisted death”.“Euthanasia is not medical treatment.Defining it as such presents serious dangersto patients, the trust-based physicianpatientrelationship, and medicine,” she said.The medicalisation of assisted suicideestablishes suicide as a legitimate responseto suffering, thus endorsing suicide, DrSomerville said. Studies have shown thatmore honest language such as “state-sanctioned suicide” or “physicians killingtheir patients” reduces public support fordeliberately inflicted death.“Words matter,” she said. “Languageaffects emotions and intuitions, includingmoral intuitions, which are important toethical decision making.”Drawing on the Canadian experience,Dr Somerville said the appeal to individualautonomy, to empathy and compassion,and the promotion of the idea that death isactually a benefit to someone whose life isaffected by illness, were all pro-euthanasiaarguments to be vigorously resisted.She said the dangers of legalised killingto society as a whole must outweighindividual circumstances.“Euthanasia is special (among ethicaldebates) because there’s nothing newabout it. We’ve always got old, suffered,become terminally ill, been dying andsomebody could have killed us, and wesaid ‘No, that is wrong. We don’t do that.’“So that’s why euthanasia is soimportant. Because if we change that,we’re changing the very roots of oursociety. I think we’re changing the essenceof what it means to be human if we startkilling each other.”Dr Somerville’s presentation at TheUniversity of Notre Dame was a jointinitiative of the Faculties of Medicineand Law and the University’s Institute forEthics and Society.Margaret Somerville in Sydney. Photo: Gerard Williams, The University of Notre Dame Australia.

10 CatholicOutlook August 2015Preparing for the Church’s Holy Year of MercyVisitors to the scenic Blue Mountains willfind a warm welcome from Fr Ted Tylerand the parish of St Mary of theCross MacKillop.With the Pope’s announcement ofthe Holy Year of Divine Mercy, due tostart on 8 December, the Upper BlueMountains parish is taking stepsto prepare.Prior to the arrival of Fr Ted as parishpriest, the Feast of the Divine Mercyhad been celebrated in St Bonaventure’sChurch at Leura on the afternoon of theSecond Sunday after Easter.About a year after he arrived, Fr Tedsuggested to some parishioners that,in view of the centrality of the divinemercy in revealed religion and thespecial prominence it had been given inthe magisterium of the past few popes,something a little more ambitious bedeveloped. The idea was taken up.To begin with, steps were taken tocelebrate the annual Feast Day of DivineMercy in a more special way. This isnow done with joy and solemnity and iswell publicised, with a novena of MercyA warm welcome awaits visitors to the Upper Blue Mountains parish.leading up to it, and preceded by manyLenten groups.Secondly, in each of the three parishchurches the picture of the Divine Mercywas enshrined in the sanctuary: at StCanice’s at Katoomba, at St Bonaventure’sat Leura and at St Francis Xavier’s atWentworth Falls.Due to the generosity of certain personsthe beautiful image in the sanctuary of theLeura church is of life-sized proportions.Thirdly, the celebration of the DivineMercy became far more frequent, withFr Ted's active encouragement. Gabe andStasia Very lead the music and singing forthe Sunday 5pm Mass at Leura. Togetherwith a small group of parishioners,including Pam Le Breton and others, theydevised and now lead a monthly Sundayafternoon Divine Mercy celebration. Afirst-class relic of St Faustina is oftenpresent. Confessions are available.This beautiful afternoon on the firstSunday of each month involves songs,prayer and Divine Mercy readings fromSt Faustina’s Diary. It begins at 3pm andends at 4.30 pm when preparations beginfor the 5pm Mass. This has been going forabout two years now.As a further initiative, participantsincluding Matalena Ale and a fewothers began a 35-minute Divine Mercycelebration of prayer, readings fromthe Diary and songs with organ everyFriday at 5pm in the Leura church. Likethe monthly Sunday celebration, thiscontinues throughout the year.Each Sunday at 1pm in St Canice’sChurch at Katoomba there is an hourof silent prayer and private personalreflection before the Divine Mercy imagefor any who might wish to come. It iscalled the Divine Mercy Hour and is ledby Geraldine St George andJennifer McPhee.Recently, a copy of Pope Francis'document for the Holy Year, The Face ofMercy, was distributed by Fr Ted to allMass-going parishioners.All of this complements the many otherspiritual activities of the parish, the dailyConfessions and Masses, Exposition threetimes a week, a monthly Scripture session,monthly Stations of the Cross in each of thechurches, special celebrations of feasts suchas Pentecost, the recent two Sunday sessionson marital life and love led by Ben Smith,daily Rosaries in our churches, the busywork of many catechists, instructors forBaptism and the Sacraments, and very manyother parishioners who do such fine workfor God behind the scenes.Father Ted hopes that the parish will beable to participate in its own way in theHoly Year of Mercy and perhaps help makeit available to others.Holy Scripture, St John Paul II’s Encyclicalon God Rich in Mercy (1980), Pope Francis’sdocument for the Holy Year, The Face ofMercy (2015), Saint Faustina’s Diary, allprovide rich resources for appreciating theinfinite mercy of God.Of course, visitors are most welcometo join the parish at any time for Mass,Confession, and especially the Divine Mercycelebration at Leura on the afternoon of thefirst Sunday each month.For more information there is the parishwebsite. Please click on Mass Times &Sacraments then Devotions: http://www.marymackillopupperbluemountains.org.au/HARVEST PILGRIMAGESJOURNEY OF CHRISTfromToll Free: 1800 819 156$4,290 **PLUSAIRFARESA 16 day pilgrimage departing16th October 2015 withFr Ray Chapman SMExperience the very land where Jesus livedand worked His ministry and gain a privilegedinsight into His life as the child of Nazareth,healer of Galilee and our Saviour on Calvary.Featuring: Dead Sea • BethlehemNazareth • Sea of Galilee • JerusalemLic. 2TA 003632*Costs have been based on prices as at 30 September 2014 and must remain subject to change without notice based on currencyexchange rates, departure city and minimum group size contingency. Prices are based on twin share or double rooming.www.harvestpilgrims.comALBERT & MEYERFUNERAL DIRECTORSServing theParramatta Diocesesince 1967Australian Family Owned & Operated301-303 PENNANT HILLS ROAD, THORNLEIGH9484 3992ALL SUBURBS 24 HOURSwww.albertmeyer.com.auRebecca Pincott Michael Bolton

Living with gratitude, hope and passionFor consecrated women and mento live with gratitude and hopeinvolves grounding themselves intheir collective story and seeingthe historical and cultural contextof religious life today.Understanding one’sworldview, the history ofreligious life and new ways ofseeing and thinking about theworld today provide a context todiscern a passionate and radicalresponse to the Gospel throughengagement and relationship.This was the broad message ofDr Carol Zinn CCJ over six talksat the 2015 Catholic ReligiousAustralia (CRA) NationalAssembly held in Brisbane on23-25 JuneThe theme was, ‘Live withGratitude, Hope and Passion:Celebrating the Year ofConsecrated Life.’Sr Carol, a Sister of St Josephfrom Philadelphia and the PastPresident of the LeadershipConference of Women Religious(LCWR), had been on aspeaking tour around Australiasince early June.She offered her insights onreligious life from her leadershiproles within her congregation, theLCWR and as her congregation’srepresentative to the UnitedNations for 13 years.The assembly began with amoving Welcome to Country byAboriginal elder Aunty EstelleSandow, Thomas Coghill, DavidMiller and Ravina Waldren ofMurri Ministry.CRA President Sr BerneiceLoch RSM welcomed to theassembly about 170 congregationleaders, lay partners, and religiousleaders representing Papua NewGuinea/Solomon Islands andthe Congregational Leaders’Conference Aotearoa – NewZealand (CLCANZ).Sr Carol’s sessions were aninvitation to see the worldthe way God sees and loves:as gift, as sacred, whereeverything is connectedand unified by diversity.“God loves the worldunconditionally, with freedomand respect,” she said. “God lovesthe world inclusively, each and all,all the time.”Religious life as a radicalresponse to God’s love, to theGospel is a life. Yet as she pointedout, “It’s not about the ministry;it’s not about the Church. It isa life lived in and through theChurch for the life of the world.Sr Carol posed the question:“What is the radical responseto the Gospel that is needed inAustralia in 2015?”This shared experience ofthe gifts and future direction ofreligious life was discussed overthree days with Sr Jan Barnett RSJas facilitator.The event also includedpresentations from canonistSr Mary Wright IBVM, TruthJustice and Healing CouncilCEO Francis Sullivan andimmediate past CRA president SrAnnette Cunliffe RSC, recentlyappointed Executive Officerof the National Committeeof Professional Standards.The thought-provokingsessions, enriched with SrCarol’s heart-warming andhumorous anecdotes, wereappreciated by participants.“This conference allowedme to see things in a differentway,” said Sr Lucilla Bothaof the Institute of the Sistersof Reparation. “It is alwaysYear of Consecrated Life29 November 2014 – 2 February 2016very encouraging to comehere. We learn from oneanother. When we see eachother and listen to each other,we feel we are not alone.”Dr Tessa Ho, Trustee of MaryAikenhead Ministries, said SrCarol encouraged her to thinkoutside her personal comfortzone and reflect deeply aboutthe meaning and purpose of herrole in ministry.“As a lay person I had workeduntil now in a purely secular butservice-orientated environment,”she said. “Most of all, I felt anSr Carol Zinn SSJ and Sr Berneice Loch RSM at the assembly.overwhelming feeling of lovingconnectedness with the religiousleaders in the room.“I was assured that myvulnerability in all our currentuncertainties about the future iscompatible with living a life welllived: to serve as God wants meto serve.”Catholic Religious Australia(CRA) is the peak body forleaders of Religious Institutesand Societies of ApostolicLife resident in Australia. 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12 CatholicOutlook August 2015Witnesses of lifeand hopeEach year, I have the opportunity to addressbeginning teachers at their commissioningceremony at our annual Education Mass. Thisceremony recognises the commitment made byour teachers to the special ministry ofCatholic education.Teaching in a Catholic school is more than a job, it isa vocation in service of the mission of the Church.A Catholic school teacher is not only asked to bea great teacher – knowledgeable in their subjectareas and in the practice of teaching; we also invitethem to be part of something greater – to sharein the work of Church to proclaim the gospel ofJesus Christ; to support parents and pastors in theformation of our students; and to be witnesses totheir own faith, and to model that with the childrenand young people in their care. This is no meanendeavor. It requires extraordinary commitmentto the needs of each individual learner and theiracademic, spiritual and moral development.As we celebrate National Vocations Week (2-9August), I am reminded of the wonderful religiousand lay people who have provided exceptionalmodels for our young, and not so young, teachers,particularly St Mary MacKillop who was a greatpioneer for Catholic education in Australia and theDiocese of Parramatta. These pioneers have laidgreat foundations for us to build on and have had apowerful influence on the Catholic identity of eachof our schools.Pope Francis, in his address to the Italian CatholicTeachers Union (UCIIM) in March this year, said theduty of a good teacher, especially if he or she isa Christian teacher, is that of “loving with greaterintensity the more difficult, the weaker and themore disadvantaged pupils”.He called on teachers to be witnesses of lifeand hope:“I encourage you to renew your passion for man– one cannot teach without passion! – in hisprocess of formation, and to be witnesses of lifeand of hope. Never, never close a door; open allof them wide, so that students will have hope.”This is the great legacy of Australian Catholiceducation – a total commitment to each individualchild inspired by a single-minded focus on thegospel of hope and life.It is truly a remarkable vocation and one that Iencourage today’s young learners to consider so thatthey may go on to make a difference in the hearts,minds and spirits of future generations.Year 3 students from St Oliver’s Primary, Harris Park, with teacher Alicia Sandersan.Taking a deep dive into literacyBy Kim BrownlieAcross the Diocese of Parramatta, there is a clear focus on our system strategic intent toimprove learning outcomes for each student and to ensure our teachers and staff haveprofessional and rewarding working lives. In this issue, we will focus on the key priority area ofliteracy and, specifically, how programs such as Focus160 and EM4 (English MathematicsStage 4) are achieving real results in the classroom.In 2008, the Australian Government committedto the National Partnership Agreement onLiteracy and Numeracy to improve nationalliteracy and numeracy outcomes across Australia.In response to the National PartnershipAgreement, the NSW Government committed$261 million over five years to the StateLiteracy and Numeracy Action Plan to addressliteracy and numeracy underperformance inAustralian primary schools.Using the funding, the Diocese introduced twokey strategies that work together and are alignedwith the English syllabus:1. Focus 160 (K-6)2. EM4 (Years 7-8)Focus160 – first wave teachingThe Focus160 program requires a minimumof 100 minutes of literacy and 60 minutes ofnumeracy each day in primary schools.Focus160 is a focus on ‘first wave’ teaching.Success criteria guides teachers to deliver soundclassroom practice in the teaching of literacyand numeracy.It defines expected outcomes for studentlearning, teaching and school leadershipsupported by teacher learning.By 2014, most primary schools wereparticipating in the program, resulting in somesignificant improvements in literacy results.In the 2014 Naplan results, more than 55% ofGreg WhitbyExecutive Director of Schools@gregwhitbyBlog: bluyonder.wordpress.comA student from St Oliver’s,Harris Park, reading.Students from St John Paul II Catholic College, Nirimba-Schofields, engage with their English faculty teacher.

CatholicOutlook August 2015 13At parent at Sacred Heart Primary, Mt Druitt, engages in the Home Reading program.St John Paul II Learning Community Facilitator, Anya Meek, with a Year 8 student.Year 3 students were in the top two bandsfor writing, which was above state andnational average.Underpinning the Focus160 programis teacher professional learning and theanalysis of student data.Teachers are learning to use the datathey collect on a daily basis to inform thenext steps in teaching for each studentin their class. Teachers do this using aframework called the ‘gradual releaseof responsibility’.The teacher provides a great deal ofsupport to students when learning a newconcept, skill or strategy and graduallyreleasing responsibility to the student todo the work so that they are capable ofworking independently.The aim is for learners to become selfregulated,taking what they know andapplying it to new learning.A focus on writingIn implementing Focus160, St Oliver’sPrimary, Harris Park, uses a variety ofevidence-based best teaching practices,including learning intentions and successcriteria, regular case managementmeetings for students who are at risk andinstructional walks with school leaders.Year 3 teacher Alicia Sandersanapplies a broad and balanced literacyapproach and a stronger focus on studentprogression in literacy.“We are using the Focus160 structureand ensuring that every student has guidedreading, modelled writing, guided writingand independent writing every day, alongwith shared reading,” Alicia said.“Using learning intentions and successcriteria consistently and then using that aspart of the marking criteria against theirwriting, tracking data and giving feedbackto students, has been really important inprogressing students.”Year 2 teacher Catherine Jean-Louissaid the approach had impacted studentlearning with the success criteria, helpingstudents to understand the work that isrequired of them.“Success criteria and learning intentionshave given students a lot of power in theirwriting because they are very clear aboutwhat it is they need to do,” Catherine said.“We’ve also emphasised the writingprocess so the students are quite motivatedand driven to plan, draft, edit andproofread their writing.”Catherine said there has been a focuson teacher collaboration which ultimatelybenefits the students.“Collaboration is really important so thatour teachers are on the same page and italso means there are many eyes watchingthe students and gleaning informationabout them,” Catherine said.“It also means we look at how we teachwriting following a writing process,”EM4 – high-yield strategies tosupport literacyIn Stage 4 (Years 7-8), the EM4 providesstructured professional learning supportto English and Mathematics teachers andleaders in secondary schools.University of Toronto Ontario Institutefor Studies in Education Associate, Dr LynSharratt, introduced high-yield strategiesfor effective teaching: learning intentions,success criteria, accountable talk,descriptive feedback, case management anddata walls.St John Paul II Catholic College,Nirimba-Schofields CooperatingPrincipal, Philip Smith, said one of thereal learnings they have had workingwith Lyn Sharratt was the ability to havespecific conversations using data about thestudents, their needs, and what has beenhappening in the classroom to supportstudent learning.Teachers have been able to collaborateand talk about what they need to do tomove their students forward.“Schools leaders are giving teachersthe opportunity to meet in front of thedata walls; to have conversations asprofessionals to see what part of theirteaching and learning they need to work onto help with literacy,” Phil said.Accountable talkAt St John Paul II teachers have beenfocused on developing students toconfidently utilise their oral skills in theclassroom to improve their writing skills.Learning Community Facilitator, AnyaMeek, said the key learning for thisyear had been a focus on the high-yieldstrategy of ‘accountable talk’, utilisingdescriptive feedback.“The strategies structure the talk andmake sure students can get the mostout of their conversations to assist indeveloping their ideas when they startwriting,” Anya said.“They can build on each other’sknowledge and understanding, working toimprove their own ideas.”While St John Paul II is still very earlyon in the program, Phil said the data wasshowing that the students were engaged,there had been an improvement in writing,reading and comprehension skills.“The data is showing that the studentsare actually moving northward,” Phil said.Home reading programSacred Heart Primary, Mt Druitt, hasintroduced into its transition program asession supporting families to ‘read’ storiesto their children.The aim of the program is to encourageparents and students to spend sometime each day talking during a sharedexperience with a great book.With more than 90% of studentscoming from an ESL (English as asecond language) background, thechildren’s oral language skills are assessedduring their enrolment interview andthroughout the transition programprior to starting Kindergarten.The program runs for five, two-hoursessions in October to November the yearbefore children begin school.Sacred Heart’s Principal, MoyaMcGuiness, said they had a largepercentage of first phase learners (studentswhose understanding and productionof spoken or written English is limitedin social and educational situations)and the program provided staff with anopportunity to determine the literacylevels among the students.“We encourage parents to use thepictures telling a story using the picturesin the book and we have started to bringparents into the classroom to sit withtheir child and read and that has workedextremely well,” Moya said.All the schools across the Dioceseare benefitting from the strong focuson literacy and the data is beginning toshow that both the Focus 160 and EM4programs are having a strong impact onresults, particularly in the early years.Supporting your child’s learning at home‘Read’ to your child everyday. Spending just 10 minutes talking to your child aboutpictures in a book can help improve their literacy.Get involved at the school. Talk to your child’s teacher about what they are learningand attend literacy workshops to build your knowledge and understanding of theteaching and terminology.Make it fun. Encourage games and reading that are both entertaining andeducational; make up stories using specific words; talk about pictures seen ineveryday life.Be positive. Research shows when children see and hear their parents areinterested and enthusiastic about learning, students are more engaged andachieve better learning outcomes.

14 CatholicOutlook August 2015Students during a drama performance at the CAPTIVATE Showcase.Students leave audience captivated during showcaseHundreds of students from 42 Catholicprimary and secondary schools fromacross the Diocese showcased theircreative talents in a series of music, danceand strings performances throughoutJune, culminating in the ‘Best Of’performance on 19 June at the JoanSutherland Centre, Penrith.The showcase events demonstrated thehigh calibre of choral, drama, music anddance works from Catholic schools, underthe Diocese of Parramatta’s creative andperforming arts initiative, CAPTIVATE.CAPTIVATE Team Leader, MarkHopkins, said the showcase was a hugesuccess, with students able to learnmore than dance, drama and music.Ann D Clark2015 LECTURETuesday 25 August 5.00pm at the Evan TheatrePanthers World of Entertainment, Mulgoa Road Penrith“Studies reveal the power of thearts to inspire, motivate and educatetoday's students,” Mark said.“Research shows that arts educationdevelops learning habits that improveperformance across all subject areas.“Teachers also benefit from studentsparticipating in creative arts programsas they are more engaged in theclassroom and enjoy learning.”The program provides learning andperformance experiences for students,as well as building expertise and a senseof community across the system.The CAPTIVATE Showcase has becomevery popular with seven new schoolsjoining the program since last year.Students performing a dance routine.Young musicians’ talents on show.Time for a Seismic Shiftin Systemic AssessmentsPRESENTED BY Emeritus Professor Patrick Griffin,Melbourne Graduate School of EducationAfter a career spanning more than 40 years in the field of educational assessment Prof Griffin will reflect uponthe changes in assessment during the period and project well into the 21st century in terms of the wayassessment is changing, how it is linking to teaching and changing teaching practice.Email tickets@panthers.com.au Enquiries: events@parra.catholic.edu.auPlease include name, address, contact phone number and total number of ticketsrequired when requesting tickets. Subject line will need to include Ann D Clark Lecture.St Francis of Assisi Primary divides and conquersSt Francis of Assisi Primary,Glendenning, held its firstMaths-a-thon on 12 June.The school’s Lead NumeracyTeacher, Chris Boyer, said allowingstudents to “number bust” usingthe large expanse of the pavedarea of the playground displayeda student's ability to mentallypartition numbers outside theclassroom in a creative, individualand exciting way.“It is valuable for parents to seefirst hand their children implement new strategies in problem solving and support them asit has been proven that student learning is more effective when parents and the school workcollaboratively,” Chris said.Parent Katrina Whyman said she was impressed by the skills gained by the students and thevarious modern strategies they were implementing independently.St John Paul II students recognised for completing uni coursesFrom left: Joe Evans, Jim Fanning, Monique Borg, Katarina Sepping,Keeley Chidgey, Alexandra Garcia, Megan Foong and Phil Smith.On 17 June, five students fromSt John Paul II Catholic College,Nirimba, received awards andscholarship offers from theUniversity of Western Sydney(UWS). The students attendedthe UWS Awards ceremony aftersuccessfully completing universitycourses during their Year 11preliminary study in 2014.Last year, students Monique Borg,Katarina Sepping, AlexandraGarcia, Keeley Chidgey and MeganFoong took on the challenge andbegan university courses at UWS (Nirimba), located within the precinct of the senior campus.Along with their awards for completion, the students also received a $500 grant towards theirstudy for the HSC, as well as a scholarship grant of $5000 a year for a four-year degree coursewithin the university.The 2015 program has commenced with six Year 11 students undertaking their orientationactivities before they commence university study in Terms 3 and 4.St Canice’s Katoomba sculptures at schoolStudents from St Canice’s Primary,Katoomba, have been workinghard to transform their schoolinto a walk-through art gallery forSculptures at School.Inspired by a whole-schoolexcursion to Sculpture at ScenicWorld, each class has beenworking on creating masterpieceson the theme, ‘Animals of War’.Displays throughout the schoolincluded a glow room, aSt Monica’s gets political using project-based learningThe Tree Savers Party (from left): Brooke Emphield, Jordan Crockett,Patrick Newey and Hayley Herder-Beke.Year 1 student Jazlyn uses “number busting” to solvemathematical problems.Year 6 student Mia and Year 3 student Julian sitting on ‘FlandersField’, to which the whole school contributed.recreation of Flanders Field, a maths trail, drawings of poppies, letters home from the warand sculptures of animals of war.Principal Mark Geerligs said that the school used the creative project as a way to involveaspects of the curriculum, including persuasive writing and an ANZAC-themed maths trailaround the school.In Term 2, Years 5 and 6 (Stage 3)students from St Monica’s Primary,North Parramatta, were askedto create a political party anddevelop a campaign to identifyand address the needs of the localcommunity using a project-basedlearning (PBL) approach.On 24 June, parents and peerswere welcomed to the schoolwith students handing out flyersto promote their political partiesand campaigns.After registering their ‘vote’, visitors walked around to each party and asked questions aboutthe campaigns, messages and plans for the future.Stage 3 teacher, Kellee Bagnall, said students were inspired by an excursion they took to StateParliament on 5 June.“The students were given the opportunity to see how real political parties function and thework involved in putting campaigns together,” Kellee said.For more school news visit CatholicEdParra and @CatholicEdParra or www.parra.catholic.edu.au

CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICESDIOCESE OF PARRAMATTA… providing compassionate, professional and relevant support to the people in our diverse communitySERVICESPOTLIGHTCOURSES& EVENTSStrengthen your marriageOn Sunday 23 August the 3rd Annual Marriage Conference willbe held at Our Lady of Mercy College Parramatta. This event ishosted by our Marriage and Enrichment Service in partnershipwith Australian Catholic University.The event is aimed at married couples, engaged couples and anyindividual interested in marriage.This year speakers include Jonathan Doyle founder of “CHOICEZMEDIA” Australia’s largest provider of relationship programs andstudent seminars. Jonathan’s talk is titled ‘How Great MarriagesCan Rescue The 21st Century’. Lara and Tim Kirk will also share theirinsights and perspectives after 25 years of marriage and 5 children.Lara works as a Marriage Relationships Coordinator and amongstother things, Tim was 2013 winemaker of the year!These events offer practical and invaluable strategies for renewingand strengthening marital relationships. Previous speakers haveincluded TV psychologist Jo Lamble and Australian PersonalityRobyn Moore. On site child-minding is available ($30/family) andlunch, morning and afternoon tea are included in the registration($50/couple or $25 per person).A conference about marriage for couples.Sunday 23 August 2015. 9:30am – 3pm. To registercall 02 9933 0222 or email marriage@ccss.org.auWIN!Can you recommend a great family/child friendly app, book or movie?Please email support@ccss.org.au to be eligibleto win 1 x $30 Event Cinema gift voucher.We will announce the winner in the September edition.Our AUGUST winner ...Congratulations to Simone from Toongabbie whorecommended the movie Inside Out, “It is all about emotions andI think this lets us ALL know that it is okay to have all our emotionsin our lives … whether it is joy, sadness, anger, fear or disgust.”• Problem Gambling Saturday SupportGroup – every Saturday 10am – 11.30am.Allawah Street Blacktown.Call 02 8822 2222• Recover Wellbeing comprising REACH(Black Dog Accredited 9 week program)and support groups for peopleexperiencing mental distress and carersupport groups. Call 02 8822 2222 formore info.• Younger Widowed: Bereavement SupportGroup – 3rd Tuesday of each month,7pm – 9pm, 51 – 59 Allawah StreetBlacktown. Fee $5. Call 02 9933 0205 orsoloparentservices@ccss.org.au• Stepping Beyond – Post SeparationSupport – last Tuesday of each month,7.30pm – 9.30pm, 51 – 59 Allawah StreetBlacktown. Fee $5. Call 02 9933 0205 orsoloparentservices@ccss.org.au• Understanding Family Law – Session 2,Wednesday 12 August at DAC Centre,1-5 Marion Street Blacktown.Call 02 9933 0205 orsoloparentservices@ccss.org.au• Keeping Kids in Mind – post separationparenting group (parents attendseparately) Begins 10 August at 6pm for5 weeks. Call 02 9933 0222Parramatta: (02) 9933 0222 Blacktown: (02) 8822 2222 Springwood: (02) 4751 4956Visit www.ccss.org.au www.facebook.com/CCSSParramatta

16 CatholicOutlook August 2015At the Mass the large congregation included many families.Mass for the feast of St Josemaría EscriváRichard VellaThe need for individuals to forgetheir own personal relationshipwith Jesus Christ and to bringothers closer to Him was thekey message at this year'sMass celebrating the feast of StJosemaría Escrivá at St Nicholas ofMyra Church, Penrith.Rev Fr Inigo Martinez-Echevarria was the principalcelebrant for the Mass for thefounder of Opus Dei.Fr Martinez-Echevarria tolda large congregation, whichincluded many families, thatthroughout His public ministryJesus was surrounded by groupsand individuals.They included those who wouldgo to Him individually, “seekingHis advice, His miracles, Hissmile” and “so many familiesaround Him, with many kids –like many of you now”.“How many times has PopeFrancis stressed this reality sincehe was elected?” Fr Martinez-Echevarria asked. “Each personwas then and is now importantfor Him.“For that reason, you and I arenot just one more among others inthe world attending or celebratinga Mass in honour of St Josemaría.“Our Lord knows the reasonswhy we are here, maybe with yourwhole family: He knows our joysand sorrows, our worries andhopes, everything we are bringingtoday to this Mass.”Fr Martinez-Echevarriapointed out that St Josemaríaused to say that in Heaven hewould like to look down proudlyon his sons and daughters, andall the people participating andcooperating in the means offormation that Opus Dei offersaround the world, “enjoyingseeing them close to Our Lord,close to the Holy Trinity”.He said Jesus was asking allof His followers: “Can I countmore on you to bring me to otherpeople, more people? People whocould reach Heaven, but alsoshare their lives with me here onearth: here, where you are, in yourfamily, among your friends, inyour workplace, in your school.”Acknowledging that manypeople found excuses not tospread the word about Jesus,Fr Martinez-Echevarria saidsometimes they were held back bya lack of enthusiasm due to pastfailures, by not knowing enoughdoctrine or not being ready toaccept the difficulties involved.But all of these difficulties,he said, could be overcome byexercising a stronger faith in Jesus.Fr Martinez-Echevarria pointedout that since St Josemaría’s deathon 26 June 1975, his followers hadwitnessed 40 years of the saint“interceding for us in Heaven,40 years of experience seeing somany people of all ages beinggenerous with Christ”.He was echoing the words ofthe Prelate of Opus Dei, BishopJavier Echevarria, in his monthlypastoral Letter of June this year.“Within a few weeks we will joinso many people throughout thewhole world in celebrating thefeast of St Josemaría,” BishopEchevarria wrote.“Forty years have gone by sinceGod called our founder to the joyof heaven. How many gifts he hasgained for us since then! And hehas certainly fulfilled his promise:‘from heaven I will help you more’.”At the Penrith Mass,Fr Martinez-Echevarria urgedthe congregation to go to theintercession of St Josemaría sothat many more people aroundthe world would become awareof the universal call to holiness indaily life.When experiencecountsOf all life’s celebrations the funeral liturgy cantouch us the most deeply.We prefer to place our trust and reliance onthose whom have the skill and experience toplan a funeral that has meaning and dignity.At least that’s what Sydney families look forwhen they choose WN Bull Funerals.As the funeral liturgy expresses faith, it alsocontextualises the life of the deceased withtraditional and contemporary elements.(02) 9519 5344wnbull@wnbull.comwww.wnbull.com.auAUSTRALIAN OWNED(Conducted by the Christian Brothers)Winbourne is a place of quiet reflection, peace and tranquillity, set on 100 hectares, located in Mulgoa.We welcome:School self run retreatsStaff spirituality daysSchool day groupsChurch groupsProfessional groupsSporting groupsReflective groupsSpecial occasionsHermitage available for single retreatVoices raised in hymns of praise.Edmund Rice Retreat &Conference CentreWinbourneOur Centre offers various sized conference rooms with all AV equipment supplied, including freewifi. Accommodation is available on site along with catering. We welcome your enquiry.EnquiriesPhone: 02 4773 5555 Fax: 02 4773 5500 Email: reception@winbourne.orgWebsite: www.winbourne.org Address: 1315 Mulgoa Road, Mulgoa, NSW, 2745

A historic day for Sr Ailsa Mackinnon RSM and members of theOLMC Parramatta school community.Soil turned for Ailsa Mackinnon CentreMonday 22 June was a landmarkday for the school communityof Our Lady of Mercy CollegeParramatta with the official'Turning of the Soil' for the newAilsa Mackinnon Centre.To mark the commencementof construction, Sr AilsaMackinnon RSM and otherSisters of Mercy joined theCollege Principal, StephenWalsh, former principal KittyGuerin, the College Board, pastExecutive members and Collegestaff for the special ceremony.A blessing was given byFr Walter Fogarty, Parish Priest ofSacred Heart Parish, Westmead.“As we turn the soil forthe foundations of the AlisaMackinnon Centre, we recall thepast generations who have walkedand cared for this land.“May the spirit of CatherineMcAuley, a woman of enterpriseand innovation, guide theconstruction of this building.”Sr Ailsa said that during hertime as Principal of OLMC, herrole was to create a climate thatwould assist the students to reachtheir potential.“OLMC has always strived togive students, no matter theiracademic ability, the chance toreceive a holistic education in acaring merciful environment,”she said.“I saw that my legacy wasto enable staff, students andparents to work together toachieve this aim.“I had no thought that myname would ever be on abuilding. That idea never enteredmy head.“I am pleased, though, thatthe building will contain a largeassembly area. I used to ask thegirls what they liked best aboutthe school. Invariably they wouldreply – going to assembly.“And the reason was it gavethe school an opportunity togather as a community to learnabout what was happeningacross all years.”The College conducts anumber of Open MorningTours throughout the year.Tours commence fromCollege Reception at 9.15amand run for approximatelyone hour and 30 minutes.This is followed by morning teawith the Principal and CollegeLeadership Team. Your daughter,along with children of any age arewelcome to join the tour.The next Open Morning Touris on Monday 31 August. Formore information, please contactthe College Registrar tel (02)9683 3300 or send an email toregistrar@olmc.nsw.edu.au Book atour online at: www.olmc.edu.auCatholicOutlook August 2015 17Change to the Marriage Act ‘not a done deal’About 500 people packed intoCathedral Hall at St Mary'sCathedral on the evening of22 July for an address by theArchbishop of Sydney,Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP,entitled ‘Same-Sex Marriage’ –Evolution or Deconstruction ofMarriage and Family?The evening was hosted by theOrder of Malta (NSW Branch) andwas the fifth lecture in a series onthe Defence of the Faith.With the campaign to redefinemarriage gaining momentumand attention, ArchbishopAnthony was keen to outline thatwith a number of bills beforethe Federal Parliament a changeto the Marriage Act was not a“done deal”.Supporters of classical marriage,between a man and a woman, areoften presumed to have no realarguments to offer.However, Archbishop Anthonysaid he wanted to offer reasons,“not decrees from on high, or fromthe past, not expressions of hatredor prejudice”, but clear reasonspeople can understand and whichcan be helpful in proclaiming andwitnessing to true marriage amongfamilies, friends and colleagues.The redefine marriage campaignhas concentrated on the use of fivecommon slogans and ArchbishopFisher addressed each one, “thatit's all about justice, that sexualdifferences don't matter, that it'sall about love, that it's all aboutthe numbers and that it doesn'taffect me”.“The push to redefine marriagein Australia is not the done dealsome think it is and those whoresist it are not all bigots withoutreasons to offer as some suggest,”he said.“Too much of the supposed'debate' over the issue so farin Australia has been slogans,emotional spin and almostunprecedented public bullyingof opponents.“The real debate has hardlybegun and we should resist beingrailroaded into this social changetoo quickly.“That said, I must confess someadmiration of the highly motivatedand well organised minority whohave so effectively used the media,corporations and law to press thischange on the general public.“I only wish that the 'silentmajority' of Australians, whoenjoy the benefits of realmarriage, would stand up for thatinstitution with a similar passionand effectiveness.“Some think the way to shoreup all friendships is to treat themas marriages. Perhaps this isbecause modernity has forgottenhow to love.“That sounds odd in a culturesaturated with love songs andtalk of ‘making love’. Yet themost common ‘How to?’ and‘What is?’ questions asked ofsearch engines are ‘How to love?’and ‘What is love?’“Modernity struggles with anykind of love that goes beyondfeelings and intimacy: the crossshaped,self-giving, Easter Day sortof loving rather than the heartshaped,self-pleasing, Valentine'sDay sort of loving.“I believe that the ‘same-sexmarriage’ debate highlights thecrucial importance of recoveringhealthy non-marital friendships– self-giving, other-directed,generous and chaste.“We must learn again thearts of loving. These habits ofheart that are no monopolyof the married, but the trulymarried are models for the restof us of persevering in lovingdespite radical differences, ofcommitment and self-sacrificefor the sake not just of personalor even mutual goals but of yetto-be-metchildren and a yetunknownfuture society.“Marriage is a preciouspatrimony of humanity, justtoo important to be treated asanyone's plaything. The furtherdeconstruction of marriageis not inevitable – nothing is,except death and taxes – nor isit desirable.“So do not be afraid to spreadthe good news about marriageand family.”Catholic CommunicationsArchdiocese of SydneyIn his lecture, Archbishop Anthony outlined the reasons for preserving theclassical understanding of marriage.Allan Drew OAM, JPSupporting families in a time of need iswhat Allan from Allan Drew Funeralshas done best for more than 25 years.Tel (02) 9680 1344allandrewfunerals.com.au

MADE FOR EACH OTHERYOUTH DAYWednesday 15 August, RSVP 7 AugustThe Diocese of Parramatta’s Family & Life Officeis hosting a day for youth and young adults aged16 to 35 centred on the complementarity of manand woman. Discover the beauty and mystery ofhow marriage was designed “in the beginning”.Based on six short films that unpack thedifferent dimensions of the complementaritybetween man & woman. The day will include:group discussion and sharing, Q and A, Massfor the Assumption, panel discussion.Rego at 8.30am, starts 9am, ends 4pm. Cost: $10 students, $20 non-students (incl morning tea and lunch).RSVP 7 August at www.trybooking.com/IIMF (credit card required) orfamlife@parra.catholic.org.au (cash payment at event).Inquiries: Family and Life Office (02) 8838 3440 or famlife@parra.catholic.org.auCameroon‘A weekend where realfriendships were made andfaith was fostered! Truly a#LIFTED experience.’Christian Dulawan(Blacktown)‘LIFTED made me proudto be Catholic, knowingthat there are other youngadults out there whoface struggles in theirlife but find comfort infaith, music and prayer.’Maketalena Lolesio(Mt Druitt)‘In that short amount oftime spent on retreat I feltthat all my struggles wereLIFTED and I finally got torest in the hands of God.'Sharmaine Lamusitele(Mt Druitt)A priest in the Andesannointing the sickMonaghan& GleesonFUNERAL DIRECTORSCatholic Outlook18

Spirits raised at Lifted 2015 youth retreatLifted 2015James CamdenA significant action of the DiocesanPastoral Plan, Faith in our Future, was forCatholic Youth Parramatta to provide anannual retreat for young adultsaged 18-35.Last month, after almost six monthsof consultation and preparation, wewelcomed 64 young adults to theBenedict XVI Retreat Centre in GroseVale for a weekend of prayer, formation,reflection and community building.Many ministries had shared with us thestruggle of booking venues that requirea minimum number of participants forcatering and accommodation purposes.Lifted 2015 allowed Catholic YouthParramatta to relieve this financialburden as parishes often had tomeet the shortfall when adequatenumbers weren’t achieved.The retreat was also an opportunityto pool the time, energy and wisdomof some of our best local facilitators,formators and musicians intoone weekend.The theme of the weekend encouragedparticipants to identify and re-affirmtheir source of strength in times of need.Presentations were made by Rev ChrisDe Souza, Delegate of the DiocesanAdministrator, Daniel Ang, Director ofEvangelisation for the Diocese of BrokenBay, Jesse and Briony Mowbray, long-timeyouth formators and various other youngpeople who shared about their vocationon an inspiring and robust panel.Prayer and worship was led throughoutthe weekend by tens of talentedvolunteers, particularly during a night ofReconciliation and adoration when wewere joined by a number of priests on theSaturday evening.Lifted 2016 is scheduled for 1-3 Julynext year.Parra-Matters! Working Togetherwith our PriestsLast month drew an impressive crowd of 60youth leaders to hear six priests share theiropinions, insights and stories on how bestwe can work together in our ministries.A highlight was the dialogue thattook place as questions, comments andconcerns were returned in both directionsproviding lots for everyone to take away totheir local parishes.Ultimately, the evening provided anopportunity to learn of the best youthministry practices our priests had witnessed,and been a part of, while also allowingthem to share honestly on those that hadn’tworked so well.The youth leaders of Our Lady of LourdesParish, Seven Hills, provided wonderfulhospitality, music and backgroundinformation on their local ministry.‘Encounter’ Student LeadershipProgram Commissioning MassAfter three high-energy training days,Catholic Youth Parramatta and CatholicEducation Diocese of Parramatta joined OurLady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes, incommissioning a group of Year 10 studentsfrom Cerdon College, Catherine McAuleyWestmead and St Pauls College, Greystanes.This group took part in a pilot programthat invited, challenged and inspiredstudents to grow in their faith, share it withtheir peers and become leading participantsin their school and parish community.Intentionally they had been reconnectedfrom their time as primary school peers atOLQP Primary School and are now beingre-engaged or further engaged into parishlife through the mentorship of key youthministry leaders.Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.James Camden – DirectorCatholic Youth Parramattajcamden@parra.catholic.org.auYear 10 students from Cerdon College, Catherine McAuley Westmead andSt Pauls College.Participants at Lifted 2015.Encounter Leadership Program.From left: Fathers Peter Strohmayer OSPPE, Wim Hoekstra, Mick O’Callaghan,Jolly Chacko MS, Peter Confeggi and Robert Riedling.Pastoral CareAccredited QualificationsPastoral Care attends in a sustained wayto the emotional and spiritual needs ofpeople through a ministry of presence,companionship and support.Nationally recognised qualifications:CHC41112 Certificate IV in Pastoral Care91561 NSW Diploma of Ageingand Pastoral CareFor further information contact:Holy Family ServicesRegistered Training OrganisationTel (02) 9678 8200email: educator@holyfamilyservices.com.auwww.holyfamilyservices.com.au91448NSWFatima Day: Thursday August 13Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady: Saturday August 15Note: HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION –devotions to Our Lady following the Solemn Mass at 11am.Fatima Family Sunday: August 16August 30: 11am Solemn Mass for Our Lady of Jasna Gora,Anniversary of the Coronation of the Icon of Our Lady of Mercy at Penrose Park.The Main Celebrant for Fatima Day is: Fr Marek Dutkiewicz, osppe,Prior of the Shrine. Homily by Fr Martin Klein FSSP.Thank you!The Pauline Fathers and Brothers of Penrose Park would like to thank all our pilgrims fortheir help and support over the past years. The first section of the building project (i.e.the toilet blocks) is well underway, the work will continue in the next couple of months.We thank you for your continuing financial help and prayers to continue the building ofour Pilgrim Hall, the cost of which is very substantial. May God abundantly bless you all!Pauline Father’s MonasteryAddress: 120 Hanging Rock Road, Berrima, NSW, 2577Phone: 02 4878-9192 Fax: 02 4878-9351 Email: paulinefathers@yahoo.com.au19

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Joys and challenges of seminary lifeWhen Jack Green entered Holy SpiritSeminary, having his own room was aluxury. It was the first time the 19-year-oldhad lived for an extended period away fromhome, where he was one of five children.Three years later, he is immersed in theroutine and community life of being aseminarian for the Diocese of Parramatta.At present, there are 11 seminarians invarious stages of formation forthe priesthood.“Formation prepares your mind and yourwill for life as a priest,” Jack said. “You areexposed to pastoral activities includingparish placements, working in ministriessuch as CatholicCare Social Services andthe Ephpheta Centre for the Deaf, andteaching Scripture in state schools.“These allow you to participate in thekind of things you will be doing as a priest.“We also have in-house formation withthe Rector, Fr John Hogan, and guestspeakers. These help to inform us ofcurrent policies affecting the priesthood,the workings of the Diocese, and the needfor human formation.”The seminarians undertake tertiary studySeminarian Jack Green.at The University of Notre Dame and theCatholic Institute of Sydney.“I am currently finishing my philosophydegree and have begun my theology degree,”Jack said. “Involvement in campus life issomewhat limited due to other pastoralcommitments, but we have friends at thetwo campuses and meet up with them whenwe can.”Jack is a keen football player and enjoysthe friendly rivalry of inter-seminarycompetitions. “Every couple of years, all theseminaries from the east coast of Australiacome together to play football, pray, eat,laugh, and get to know one another,” he said.“Outside the seminary I play indoorfootball with some boys from Doonsideparish and outdoor football withRydalmere FC.”On Saturdays Jack goes home toGlenbrook to see his family and friends.He said he is inspired by Fr John O’Neill,Parish Priest of St John Vianney’s Parish atDoonside. “Fr John taught me that withoutChrist we are nothing. If we do not have apersonal relationship with Our Lord, thenlife is empty and we are ineffectual.“As a seminarian, the greatest joy hasbeen getting to know Jesus Christ more andmore, and love Him more surely. Withoutthis relationship with Christ my vocation tothe priesthood makes no sense.”Jack said one of the biggest challengeswas to be unafraid and unapologetic. “It’snot easy being Catholic these days and it’snot easy to introduce yourself as someonewanting to live a life of celibate priesthood.“Often people are confused, will want toavoid you, or try to convince you that whatyou’re doing is nonsense. The challenge forme is to be unafraid in the face of this andto not compromise or make excuses simplyto avoid ridicule.“It’s interesting, but I have found thatpeople have more respect for someone whois firmly convinced of their beliefs and triesto live by them rather than by someone whofolds under the pressure of opinion.”For Fr Paul Roberts it a privilege to be invitedto share in the lives of people and to beattentive to their stories.Photo: Elizabeth McFarlane.Priesthood a daily commFor Fr Paul Roberts the calling to thepriesthood was something he did not lookfor, but something that kept ‘niggling’ him.Fr Paul is the Director of the Institute forMission and has been a priest of the Dioceseof Parramatta for 22 years, including a timeas Vocations Director and Parish Priest of afew communities.In 1987, he was part of the first group ofseminarians for the newly founded Dioceseof Parramatta.Now in the third decade since then, hestill finds it a privilege to be invited to sharein the lives of people and to be attentive totheir stories.“I find myself genuinely moved by people’sstories,” he said. “I think there is a powerfor people, me too, when we are enabled toarticulate our stories in trust. Something oftruth, of challenge, of God’s presence, canbe revealed and encouraged in us.”Between facilitating different programsin life and faith formation for the Institutefor Mission, Fr Paul can be found riding hismotorcycle and trying to keep fit.He agreed that priests’ hobbies canlead to interesting conversations inparishes. A number of younger people hadcommented in front of their parents thatthey should be allowed to get a motorcycleif he (Fr Paul) rides!His reply: “Well my mother only gaveup trying to stop me from getting my bikeL’s when I was 37, so you guys will have towait. Sorry!”’Fr Paul also has a strong involvementwith a Nepali family in the lower Himalayasof north India. They do various projectstogether and he said it has challenged hisWestern thinking. “They’re a central andunexpected part of my life and vocation,”he said.Fr Paul is one of four children whoseparents, Graham and Vilma, were activewitnesses to faith and service and who bothpassed away in the past year. In his early20s he became a teacher before making thedecision to join the seminary. There weretwo key mentors who supported the call tohis priestly vocation.Have you ever thoughtGod might be calling youto the priesthood?Vocation Discernment AfternoonSunday 23 August 2015All young men who feel God might be calling them to the priesthood are invitedto the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta’s Vocation Discernment Afternoons. Theafternoon starts at 2pm and concludes with a shared meal at 6pm.Venue: Holy Spirit Seminary, 31-33 Allen Street, Harris ParkTo find out more about priesthood in the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta:Contact Fr Warren Edwards – Director of Priestly Vocationstel 0409 172 700 or email: vocations@parra.catholic.org.auVisit: www.parra.catholic.org.au/vocationswww.parra.catholic.org.au/holyspiritseminary20

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015itment of God’s gracePrior to teaching at Gilroy College,Castle Hill, in the early 1980s he metJan, who continued to be a significantinfluence during his time in theseminary. “She died of cancer just beforeI was ordained, but she remains forme a significant mentor in coming tounderstand the interplay of faith, life,vocation and purpose.”The other mentor was a ChristianBrother, Peter Hancock, who guided hisoverseas immersion trip in his mid-20s.“That became enormously significant tome in terms of trust, courage and tryingto step out a little bit. Ultimately, thatimmersion experience became instrumentalin giving me the impetus to take a step andpursue the priesthood.”Father Paul said that like many people’svocations, his life as a priest had notalways been easy and three times so farhe had needed to seriously contemplateand renew his reasons and commitmentto his vocation.His favourite hymn, Take, Lord, Receive(John Foley), has a line that encapsulatesthe joys and struggles of his vocation, ‘Giveme only Your love and Your grace, that’senough for me’.“I once heard a priest, on being askedwhen he decided to become a priest, reply,‘Oh, this morning.’ And I subscribe tothat. For all of us, our commitments, ourvocations, our living as sacrament, is a dailyreception of God’s grace.”A core part of Fr Paul’s ministry islistening and accompanying people. “Beingpresent to people’s lives, so that the Churchbecomes an agent of hospitality andgenuine accompaniment, is key towardsmany being able to connect with and bemissioned by God through the experienceof sacrament and Church.”His advice for those discerning theirvocation is to think about it less. “Let theMass send you out into the world to takerisks on God’s Grace and then, as youkeep returning to the Eucharist, you willknow what is right for you in your part inGod’s mission.”Silver jubilee a time for reflectionSr Louise McKeogh FMA reflects on 25 years of Salesian religious life“Before I can tell my life and what I want todo with it, I must listen to my life telling mewho I am.”Parker Palmer, the famous Quakerwhose quote appears above, wrote a bookentitled Let Your Life Speak: Listening forthe Voice of Vocation.Let Your Life Speak. For me this has beenthe challenge and the call of the past 25years – a journey of listening to where deeppassion meets the world’s deep need.It is a journey made every step of the waywithin the context of the joys and challengesof living in community with other likemindedwomen who believe so passionatelyin the Salesian charism and the gifts andtalents of young people.This has challenged and calledme to be and do more than Iever could have imagined.A jubilee year for me is a time of gratitudeto and for all that those wonderful womenhave been and continue to be there for me.A biblical jubilee also speaks of returningto the earth from which we came, our placeof origin, and to care for all the earth and allthat nourishes us.So I have great gratitude for the gift of awonderful family who have allowed me tolisten to my life telling me who I am.Parramatta’s Social Justice CoordinatorSr Louise McKeogh FMA (centre) with SJcolleagues from the Diocese of BrokenBay and the Archdiocese of Sydney.Although we are spread around the globewe are truly united and present to each other– not just through the gift of technology!My family’s gift of life and faith is atreasure beyond words of thanks. I amgrateful too for the gift of a wonderfulparish and faith community in which I grewup and was formed.How does one’s life speak?My birthday falls on the feast of St JohnBosco and as soon as I read his story andsaw the film of his life there was an instantconnection and attraction.As a young person I didn’t have to travelfar to find a path to the Salesian Sisterswhen they opened a house of formation inmy home parish.I joined them on camps and at youth club.When the time came to make future lifechoices, I felt called to give Salesian life a go.Needless to say that 25 years later it’s achoice that continues to mean more andmore to me each and every day. Throughall this there have been the challengesand difficulties – an inevitable part ofanyone’s journey.The ‘doing’ along my journey has beenvaried and meaningful – from primaryschool teaching, youth work, and child careto working with Indigenous young peopleand coordinating social justice and Caritas.The 25 years have taught me andchallenged me to see that ‘being’ is just asimportant a part of our Salesian Presenceas the ‘doing’. Working with the Indigenousyoung people in Adelaide, my wise friendTjinkuma used to say ‘Napitji Napitji’; Iteach you, you teach me.There aren’t enough words to say whatyoung people, the Salesian family, theMcKeogh family, colleagues and friendshave taught me and been for me over thepast 25 years.“I thank my God each time I think of you.”This article is republished with permissionof the Australian Salesian Bulletin.Celebrating theYEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFESolemn Mass and Vocations FestSt Patrick’s Cathedral ParramattaCome and join usA family-friendly day to celebrateand thank the Religious Priests,Brothers and Sisters of our Diocese.Catholic Diocese of Parramattawww.parra.catholic.org.au21

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Couple joined in a ministry of serviceFor Joseph Ledang the support ofhis wife, Trish, and their daughtersis integral to his ministry as apermanent deacon. “Without Trishbeside me, I would not have beenable to walk this path,” he said.Born in the village of Ke Vanin central Vietnam in 1958,Joseph’s first vocation was to thepriesthood. However, five years ofseminarian studies ended abruptlywith the end of the Vietnam Warand the fall of Saigon in 1975.He fled to Cambodia wherehe was held captive by theKhmer Rouge for seven monthsuntil he was freed through theintervention of the Red Cross.From a camp in Thailand, heapplied to the UN refugeeprogram for asylum in Australiaand settled in Western Sydney.It was at the suggestion ofpriests who were family friendsthat Joseph first consideredthe ordained ministry of thepermanent deacon.Permanent deacons are ordainedministers of the Catholic Church.In a ministry that extends wellbeyond the walls of the church,the deacon serves as the eyes andears of the bishop and in practicalways as the heart and hands. He isa ‘go-between’ as it were betweenthe secular and the Church.As he discerned God’s calling,Joseph undertook study intheology. He and Trish wereaccepted into the permanentdiaconate program and Josephwas ordained by Bishop KevinManning in 2009.Joseph said the love and supportof Trish and their daughters, Sylviaand Catherine, was crucial. “Mychildren were very helpful andencouraged me a lot, editing myassignments and attending allceremonies during formation.Wives are actively involvedin the diaconate program.Trish studied the Certificateof Formation, which includestheological study, spirituality andgroup meetings. She said this haddeepened her own understandingof the faith.Joseph is deacon assisting atHoly Trinity Parish, Granville,and a member of the Vietnamesecommunity chaplaincy.Trish is an extraordinaryminister of the Eucharist, looksafter the young altar servers,and joins Joseph teaching SRE instate schools.Joseph said the priests wereDeacon Joseph Ledang and his wife, Trish. Photo: Alphonsus Fok.very supportive of his vocation. “Iam given plenty of opportunity toserve,” he said.The heart of the deacon’sministry is to serve others,especially the needy, the poorand the marginalised. Joseph andTrish are involved in charity workin Vietnam.“In Vietnam, there aremany people who need help:abandoned newborn babies,lonely elderly people, orphans,children with disabilities, andlepers,” Joseph said.“Trish and I, and sometimes ourchildren, travel to Vietnam to visitthem. They are like our relativesand friends.”A dentist with a busy practice,Joseph said performing dentalservices required a commitment ofeffort and care. “I am thankful thatTrish works full time with me inthe surgery.”Joseph finds great joy in hisvocation. “As deacons we submitourselves to the transformativepower of the Eucharist, thesacraments, the Word of God,prayer and charitable services. Sowe and our partners and familieschange and change together, andthat is joyful.“I am thankful to have so manygood friends of similar mindand life circumstances; the otherdeacons and their wives and thepriests of our Diocese.“I am often reminded ofsomething Fr Chris de Souza said:‘It's not what we do Joseph, butwho we are as deacons.’ I trust thatGod will make me a better serverin the way He wants me to serve.”If you would like to know moreabout the ordained ministry ofthe permanent deacon pleasecontact Rev Dr Arthur Bridge AMtel 0411 289 954.GOD ISCALLINGYOUYou did not choose me but I chose you.And I appointed you to go and bearfruit, fruit that will last,so that the Father will give you whateveryou ask Him in my name.You are welcome to contactRev Fr Warren Edwards,Director of Priestly Vocations:Tel 0409 172 700vocations@parra.catholic.org.auSr Ailsa Mackinnon RSM:Tel (02) 8838 3400religious@parra.catholic.org.auCatholic Diocese of ParramattaCatholic Diocese of ParramattaTHEPERMANENTDIACONATEA God-given calling to ordained ministry,open to married and single menIn the service of the Liturgy, the Word, and CharityCatholic Diocese of Parramatta | www.parra.catholic.org.auInquiries to Rev Dr Arthur Bridge AM, Director of Vocations to the Permanent DiaconateTel 0411 289 954, arthurbridge@arsmusica.org.au PO Box 23, Toongabbie, NSW, 214622

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Sanctity: the vocation of all the baptisedBen Smith – DirectorFamily & Life OfficeYoung children are often asked: “Whatdo you want to be when you grow up?”Generally they will say something likea fireman, a soldier, a hairdresser or aballet dancer.Some may mention they want to be amother or a father or you may even hearthat they want to be a priest or a nun. Butwhat would your response be if one of yourchildren or grandchildren said they wantedto be a saint?All Christians are called to holinessand to be saints. St Therese of Lisieuxunderstood this call with perfect clarity.Her ‘little way’ sought to achieve holiness inthe ordinary course of her life, trusting inGod’s love and mercy.Historically, this concept has notbeen well understood by the laity inthe Church. However, in the document,Lumen Gentium from Vatican II, theChristian’s “universal call to holiness” isclearly explained. But for most Catholics,a holy person is someone on a holy card,usually a priest or a nun from abygone age.So how can holiness be described asuniversal? How can it be considered asachievable by more than just a few electwith superhero-like spiritual powers?The answer is Baptism. The Sacramentof Baptism does more than just remove thestains from our soul with a supernaturalNapiSan. Through Baptism, everyChristian becomes a “new creation.” Weare reborn and regenerated through grace(Christifideles Laici, 11).Baptism brings us back into relationshipwith God the Father, as His adopted sonsand daughters and into fellowship withChrist as our brother (CL 12). This spiritualadoption enables us to participate in the lifeof the Trinity. Through Baptism we are alsoanointed by the Holy Spirit who transformsus into spiritual temples (CL 13).The sacraments, especially Baptism,change us in ways that are not linear anditerative but exponential and disruptive.Why then don’t we feel these effects moreregularly? How come being a saint is sohard despite the fruits of Baptism and theother sacraments?The answer to these questions stems froman unholy trinity of temptations that confuseus in our daily lives: the world, the flesh andthe devil. These three sources of temptationcorrelate to Jesus’ temptation in the desert.In terms of the world, Jesus was temptedby the devil to jump off the temple andbe saved by His angels before He hit theground. This temptation represents thehuman tendency for self-assertion ratherthan self-surrender to God the Father.Celebrating the JourneyThe flesh is another source of temptation.Jesus was tempted by the devil to makebread out of stones to satisfy His hunger.While there is nothing wrong with eating,our human appetites can become addictionsof one form or another and this weaknessoriginates from the fall of Adam and Eve.The Holy Spirit helps transform ourhearts so that we are truly free to love Godand our neighbour.The devil tempted Jesus to worship himin exchange for wealth and fame. Often wedon’t realise how we can make false godsin our lives. Sometimes we can get overlyattached to things that we know are notgood for us such as sex/pornography, drugsor money.But this can also apply to things thatare not bad in themselves like a career, apossession, a certain status or even our childor spouse. Once we give these priority overGod, we are on the way to idolatry.Being a saint and living out our vocationto holiness is a matter of keeping our eyesand hearts focussed on the Holy Trinity notthe unholy trinity. But we can’t do this onour own.Regular attendance at Mass (evenduring the week) and the Sacrament ofReconciliation are vital for deepening ourrelationship with the Holy Trinity.Prayer and cultivating a spirit of silencebring us into intimate contact with God.A patron of World Youth Day, Blessed PierGiorgio Frassati was dedicated to works ofsocial action, charity, prayer and community.The reading of Sacred Scripture is criticalto enriching our prayer throughout the day.Being part of a faith community in ourfamily, parish or elsewhere is also importantas we need the support and encouragementof like-minded companions to share ourspiritual journey.It is in community that we become awareof the needs and struggles of others so wecan pour out to them the spiritual gifts andmercy we have received from God.So what do you want to be when yougrow up?St Patrick’s Cathedralon Sunday20 Septemberat 11amOpen to all married couples andtheir families but with specialacknowledgement to thosecouples who have significantwedding anniversariesof 25 years and over.The Diocesan Administrator,Very Rev Peter Williams, willbe the Principal Celebrantfor the Mass and willhost lunch afterwards.Couples celebratinganniversaries of 25, 30, 35,40, 45, 50 years and over willreceive a certificate of blessing.Please register by 12 September through your Parish Secretaryor contact CatholicCare Social Servicestel (02) 9933 0222 or email marriage@ccss.org.auFaith in MarriageA Conference about Marriage for CouplesSunday 23rd August 2015 • 9.30am – 3pmThe gifts and graces of marriage give us great hope and strength forourselves and our society. Speakers share their insights, observationsand experiences for building and enriching marriages.Theme: Marriage – A Culture of Love & LifeIncorporating the Ray Reid Memorial Lecture about the blessing and graces of marriage. Thisconference is aimed at married couples, engaged couples and any individual interested in marriage.Jonathan Doyle is founder ofCHOICEZ MEDIA, Australia’s largestprovider of relationship programs andstudent seminars.Lara and Tim Kirk have been marriedfor 25 years with 5 children. Lara worksas a Marriage Relationships Coordinatorand amongst other things, Tim was 2013Australian winemaker of the year!Welcome and Blessing fromVery Rev Peter Williams,Administrator of the CatholicDiocese of Parramatta.Date: Sunday 23rd August 2015 Time: 9.30am – 3pm (Registration from 9am)Venue: Edith Angel Hall at Our Lady of Mercy College, Ross Street, ParramattaCost: $25 per person ($50 per couple) which includes lunch, morning and afternoon tea and is payableprior to the Conference. Mass will be celebrated for the Conference participants at 12 midday.To register for the Conference ring on 9933 0222 or email marriage@ccss.org.auChild minding on site will be available for the children of Conference participants at $30 per family.Bookings and payment prior to the Conference are essential. To book for child minding pleasephone or email as above.www.ccss.org.au www.facebook.com/CCSSParramatta23

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015What shall we say to the Lord for the wondersHe has done for us?A short reflection from the temporary professed Sisters of St Paul de Chartres who madetheir First Vows on 2 February 2015.All we could say is that our heartsare filled with awe and immensejoy and gratitude that God hadcalled and chosen us, and wehave responded by following Himwith faith, love and joyful hope inthe Congregation of the Sisters ofSt Paul de Chartres.Looking back throughoutthe early years of formation, werecognised that our mission is notours but God’s. Time went by, wehave come to know before our FirstProfession how precious we are inGod’s eyes; that it is only throughexperiencing His unconditionalmercy and love can we then be ableto return love for love and have thestrength to say “Fiat” to Him in theCongregation of the Sisters of StPaul of Chartres where we live andserve Him with exclusive love.Like Mary, we had signed ablank cheque without knowingwhat lies ahead, yet we believe inHis enduring faithfulness that ourlives will be filled with graces andbeyond surprises!Because of God’s grace, theconstant guidance and supportin countless ways of the Sistersin Australia and His manyrepresentatives, we were able toprofess our first religious vowspublicly in faith and joy.We were glad to know that ourcommitment had left a specialimpact in the hearts of manyattendants and that we hadrevised the spirit of love in manyothers, too.Besides, our professionday occurred in the Year ofConsecrated Life, which helps toenhance in us the awareness ofdeep concern for the Church, aconviction that our vocation is alsothe Church’s treasure and vocation.Therefore, we pray and aredetermined to practise and livewhat we had professed to God andto His Church.We know that our BridegroomJesus knows our minds and heartsand how much we love Him anddesire to be faithful to the Fatherforever in the power of Holy Spirit.We want to tell all people thatwe love Him above all things, thatour consecration has its meaningwhen we unite the offering ofour lives to his sacrifice of praisefor the Kingdom of God and theservice of mankind.We thank God for choosingunworthy servants like us to beHis witnesses of faith, love andhope in this secular world. We areforever grateful for what our SPCSisters have done for us and haveaccepted us as we are.Yes, our lives must shine and beconsumed as the candle we held onthe very day of our First Profession.Lord, we believe in yourpromise that anyone who had leftfather, mother … shall receive ahundredfold, and shall inheriteternal life.Indeed, we have more than ahundredfold return because ourfamily is now extended to all theearth where we embrace all whomwe serve and love … From nowon, dear Jesus, help us to say eachday with St Paul, “life to me, isChrist!” (Phil 1:21)The Sisters make their First Profession.Sisters of St Paul de Chartres Sr Rosaria and Sr Anna.Yes!You too!I WANT YOUto be my joyful witnessof the Gospel !FIND OUT MORE FROMSISTERS OF ST PAUL DE CHARTRESVOCATIONS DISCERNMENT WEEKENDSaturday 22 nd August 10:00 a.m. to Sunday 23 rd August 1:00 p.m.at: St. Paul’s Convent, 28 Boronia Heights, Brisbane, QLD, 4124for booking, please contact:Sister Mary Joseph Sze spc28 Fedrick Street, Boronia HeightsBrisbane, QLD, 4124Phone: (07) 3800 6338, 0405 700 308 Email 6mj4sze7spc@gmail.comWebsite: www.srspcaustralia.org.au and www.stpaulrome.com24

The path to priesthood: ‘God writes straight with crooked lines’Tru Nguyen MSCTru Nguyen was born in Vietnamand lived there until he was nineyears old. For the next four yearshe and his mother and sisterwere refugees.They travelled from Vietnam toAustralia via Cambodia, Thailandand Malaysia. On arrival inAustralia in 1991 they settledin Adelaide. Tru has embracedAdelaide as his home townnow and is a supporter of theAdelaide Crows.At the end of 2007 Truembarked on a retreat at DouglasPark with the Missionaries of theSacred Heart (MSC). “At that timemy spiritual director guided meto listen attentively with my heart.mNATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKThen draw all my strength tofollow that desire,” he said.“I did that and I found what Iwanted most was to be loved byGod and loved by the people Ilove and be able to love others asI am loved.“Reflecting on this, I find myresponse to my vocation is alsobased on the faith that God islove. It is a faith decision becauseI am called to leave my familiarlife and enter into a new lifewithout knowing how the new lifewill be.”During that retreat Tru wrotea letter to the Missionaries ofthe Sacred Heart expressinghis interest in joining them. Hejoined the MSCs in 2008. As thisFrom left: Br Kimi Vunivesilevu MSC, James Maher MSC,Tru's Mother Lac Nguyen, Fr Tru Nguyen MSC, Fr Peter Hendriks MSCand Br Phillip Reilly MSC.Sunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015issue of Catholic Outlook went topress Tru was preparing for hisordination to the priesthood on24 July.“Each of us has a vocation,” Trusaid. “That is, we are all calledto live life to the full. We are allcalled to live as God’s beloved asJesus lived. For me to live fullyand to live as God’s beloved is ‘tobe on earth the heart of God’.”Fr Peter Hendriks MSCPeter jests, “My life proves thatGod writes straight with crookedlines!” He knows this reveals thetruth that his heart was difficult tosettle, “I was inherently restless.”After university Peter joinedthe Jesuits and was with them forfive years where he spent a lot oftime discerning if priesthood wasfor him.For the next 12 years Peterwandered through differentcareer paths: teaching, studyingTheology, completing a SocialWork degree and working asa Probation/Parole Officer. Hecontinued to attend retreats tohelp discern his vocation and life.“One day on retreat Iwas expressing my absolutefrustration with God that HeFr Peter Hendriks: “Keep walking with God, talking with God andlistening to God.”was not being clear about what Ishould do,” he said.“God’s response to my prayerwas wonderful: ‘Peter if youwant to be a layperson and getmarried then do so. If you wantto be a priest then do so. My onlyvocation for you is to know that Ilove you.’“God has a habit of being right!To know oneself as deeply loved byGod is the root of any vocation.”After Peter was accepted intothe MSCs, he was still restless.“One moment when I foundmyself struggling, God said, ‘Theonly way out is through.’”Peter experienced strongfeelings of fear and anxietybut once those emotions wereaddressed he found he was able tosettle into a life commitment.Six years after ordination asan MSC he feels grateful to livethe charism, ‘To be on Earth theHeart of God’.“God has a vocation for you thatno one else can fulfil. The answerlies in knowing that God lovesyou,” he said. “I love the saying,‘The one who walks with Godalways gets to their destination.Keep walking with God, talkingwith God and listening to God.God will reveal the best path totake, it will be a path of love.’”25

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Holiday tutorials give students the opportunity to bring all their questions to the table andreceive study advice to prepare for the HSC trial exams.Students benefit from holiday tutorialsService beyond the call of duty distinguishesthe many teachers who approach their workas vocation.The school holiday tutorials that teachersfrom St John Paul II Catholic College(StJPII), Nirimba-Schofields have beenrunning since 2010 are a fine example of thisextraordinary dedication.Year 12 students are now only monthsaway from sitting their Higher SchoolCertificate (HSC) exams.During the Term 2 school holidays thisyear, these outstanding teachers offered 18tutorials to support Year 12 students withtheir preparations.Since 2010, students have benefited fromthe additional assistance and time that StJPIIteachers have offered as these tutorials givestudents the opportunity to bring all theirquestions to the table and receive studyadvice to prepare for the HSC trial exams.Year 12 student Samantha Basnett saidthe tutorials gave her time to ask specificquestions and helped her to focus on thetopics she needed assistance with.HSC food technology teacher, MelissaScott, said the holiday tutorials were a greatopportunity for students.“We want them to be confident andprepared when it comes to their HSC andthis is something additional that we offer ontop of everyday learning,” Melissa said.Aussie Capuchins in US for Novitiate YearTwenty-four young men have just beguntheir Interprovincial Postulancy Program(IPP) in St Louis in the US. By the timethis issue goes to press, they will havebeen invested with the brown CapuchinFranciscan habit and have begun theirNovitiate year.The 24 include our own AustralianCapuchin postulants, Christopher Maherand Matthew Timonera, who both hailfrom Sydney’s inner west.Christopher and Matthew joined theCapuchins last year and completed theirnine-month Postulancy Program in ourCapuchin community in Brisbane.They have now gone to the next stagein the US to join a rather large group – 24altogether! They will undertake a twomonthprogram in preparation for enteringtheir canonical Novitiate year, which takesplace in San Ynez, California.It is called an InterprovincialPostulancy Program because the 24 youngmen come from a number of Capuchinprovinces throughout the US, Canada,Guam and Australia.This period is always a great moment ofcollaboration between Capuchin provincesand enables the young men to profit fromspecialised formators and to walk thejourney with other young men at the samestage of formation. It certainly is a fruitfuland memorable formation experience.By the end of July they will havemoved across to San Ynez where theywill complete their 12-month Novitiate.Christopher and Matthew will return toAustralia in mid-2016 to profess theirTemporary Vows and continue theirformation in Sydney.Please keep Christopher andMatthew and the whole IPPcommunity in your prayers!To find out more about the CapuchinFranciscan way of life visithttps://capuchinfriars.org.au.We’re also providing a chance todiscern your vocation with a DiscernmentWeekend in Leichhardt on 21-23 August –not to be missed!Contact Fr Thomas 0432 362 052 orvocations@capuchinfriars.org.auChristopher Maher (top right) with membersof the IPP community.Never ever close the door, open allof them wide so that students willhave hope POPE FRANCISTeach in aCatholic School@CatholicEdParracatholicedparrawww.parra.catholic.edu.au26

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Celebrating the Journey annual gatheringEach year, the Diocese of Parramatta hostsCelebrating the Journey, a gathering formarried couples and their families withspecial acknowledgement to those coupleswho have significant wedding anniversariesof 25 years and over.On Sunday 20 September, the DiocesanAdministrator, Very Rev Peter Williams,will be the Principal Celebrant for Mass at11am in St Patrick’s Cathedral, which willbe followed by a light lunch.Couples celebrating anniversaries of 25,30, 35, 40, 45, 50 years and over will receivea certificate of blessing.Ouida and Henry Lewis, who havebeen married for more than 52 years,appreciated last year’s Celebrating theJourney, organised by CatholicCareSocial Services with St Patrick’sCathedral Parish.“This was an unforgettable day in theyear,” Ouida said. “Congratulations toCatholicCare Parramatta for their fantasticwork on this popular annual event.“More than 100 couples and their familiesparticipated in a special Mass withBishop Anthony Fisher OP, now Archbishopof Sydney, and lunch in the Cathedral hall.“We treasure the certificate ofblessing and the photo with theBishop taken afterwards.“CatholicCare’s members are wonderful,caring people who volunteer their servicesto help make others happy.“May the infant Jesus bless all of you withgood health and happiness to carry on yourfantastic work.“We thank all of you for your good work.Please pray for us in a special way.”To participate in this year’s Celebratingthe Journey, please register by 12 Septemberthrough your Parish Secretary or contactCatholicCare Social Services tel (02) 99330222 or email marriage@ccss.org.auCalled to be a missionary priestIs God calling you to be a missionarypriest? Are you being called to leave yourown people and nation in order to followJesus across boundaries of race, religion,culture, language and social class. This is thecharism of Columban missionary priests.Deacon Kurt Zion is one young man whohas answered the missionary call from God.He was ordained a deacon on 15 March2015 in his home parish in the Philippines.Kurt will be ordained a priest later thisyear. As a Columban seminarian, Kurtspent many years of spiritual formationand prayer, academic study and pastoralformation in preparation of his futuremissionary priestly ministry in anotherculture and land, different from his own.One important part of the formationof Columban seminarians is a two-yearoverseas mission experience among peopledifferent from one’s own. For Kurt, this firstmission experience as a seminarian involveda two-year immersion among the Indo-Fijian people of Fiji.Living in Fiji, Kurt soon discovered, likeall Columban missionaries, that God waswaiting for him there. God was presentin the beauty of creation in Fiji. God waspresent in the ministry of the Fijian Churchto its people. God was present, of course, inthe hospitality and friendship of the Fijianpeople. He was also present in their strugglefor a more just and equitable society.During Kurt’s two years in Fiji, he realisedthat God was calling him to work with theFijian Church and people in bringing theKingdom of God to those beautiful islands.If you believe you have heard thatsame call from God to live your life as amissionary priest, please make contact with:Fr Dan Harding, Columban VocationsDirector, at: dharding@columban.org.auDeacon Kurt Zion amongst his friends.Lord, are youreally calling ME …To live in community, focused on God’s lovethrough the example of the Holy FamilyTo undertake challenging tasks to spreadYour Love to families and people in needTo make prayer the source of personal spiritualityTo pray and act in the service of Your ChurchTo Faithfully follow You asSisters of theHoly Family of Nazareth?To learn more about us, visit our website atwww.csfn.org.auContact Sr Margaret: margaretcsfn@gmail.comPh: (02) 9626 1847 or M: 0420 754 72727

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Dominicans celebrate 800 year JubileeDominicans around the world are gearingup to celebrate the 800 year Jubilee of theOrder. Their story can be traced back to theearly 13 th Century when their Founder, StDominic, sought to establish a worldwideOrder which would dedicate itself topreaching Veritas – the Truth – at theservice of Christ and His Church.On 22 December 1216 Pope HonoriusIII gave approval to the Order of FriarsPreachers. In 2016, Friars, Sisters andLay members around the world willhold celebrations.As the Order was founded to preachagainst a heresy which taught that thematerial world was evil, it is only rightthe Order will celebrate in various wayswhich reflect the goodness of its Creator,a goodness which shines through men andwomen created in the image and likeness ofGod for truth, love and perpetual happiness!The Province of the Assumption ofthe Blessed Virgin Mary will be holdingevents across the territory of its province –Australia, NZ, Solomon Islands and PNG.These events include a Jubilee Mass forthe feast of St Dominic on 3 August 2016celebrated by the Archbishop of Sydney,Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP.A Pilgrimage is also planned to visitRome, Spain and France in conjunctionwith World Youth Day 2016 in Poland. ADominican Family Gathering is planned forthe second half of 2016 for all associatedwith the Dominican Family to discuss wherethe Dominicans have come from and wherewe are going in the future.Vocational discernment days will also takeplace for those who think they may have acalling to the Dominican way of life.For further information please contact FrKarl Emerick OP, Jubilee Coordinator (karl.emerick@op.org.au), or Fr Thomas Azzi OP,Vocations Promoter (thomas.azzi@op.org.au).Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma“It’s hard to know what to do!” is acommon statement of frustration fromthose discerning their vocation. We mayeasily forget that God doesn’t hide His willfrom us.Part of our “Call to Holiness” is toremove the obstacles in our human naturethat keep us from recognising whatHe wants of us. Most of us have fears,inadequacies and frailties, all of whichGod’s assistance will overcome.Although Adam and Eve first walkedcalmly with God in the Garden ofEden, after Adam had eaten theforbidden fruit, his first words toGod were that he “was afraid”.It’s not surprising, then, that the mostrepeatedphrase in the Bible is “do not beafraid”. It’s there more than 300 times!God is with us, even when we may not feelhim near.Similar to the experience of having acuppa with a close friend that changesour outlook for the rest of the day, ourencounters with the Lord are meant to giveus spiritual effects.One of the ways we encounter the Lordis in the celebration of the sacraments.We are given spiritual strength from thoseencounters. For example, in Baptism wereceive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and thevirtues of faith, hope and love. We neverlose those gifts and virtues.It depends on us, though, how much weexercise the gifts and virtues, so that theyare developed and useful in our life.Confirmation is another encounter withGod that spiritually strengthens us to beable to answer that question, “What doesthe Lord want of me?” The new incrementof the gifts of the Holy Spirit that comes inConfirmation helps us to look out on theworld with more spiritual attentiveness.The events in our lives and thepeople placed in our path reveal thepath best meant for us. Then, as theLord said to Joshua when he was giventhe vocation to lead God’s peopleafter Moses, He says to you “Be strongand courageous!” (Joshua 1:9).Visit www.rsmofalma.orgSr Mary Rachel Nerbun, a medical doctor, inour apostolate.ReligiousSisters of Mercyof AlmaWhere the Mercyof God Meetsthe Misery ofMankindAstrong prayer and common lifeallows us to extend the Mercyof God through the Spiritual and CorporalWorks of Mercy in professional disciplinesthat include the fields of educationand health care and wherever we can beof service to the Church.“Those who have been given the pricelessgift of following the Lord Jesus moreclosely consider it obvious that he canand must be loved with an undividedheart, that one can devote to him one’swhole life and not merely certain actionsor occasional moments or activities.”– Vita Consecrata 104We invite you to visit us at ourconvent in Camperdown.(near the University of Sydney)• 02.9557.2398 •• 0447.381.439 •• stjoseph@rsmofalma.org •To learn more about us, please visitour website:www.rsmofalma.orgor email: vocation@rsmofalma.org28

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015Faith brings Angel and Rowena closer to God and each otherRowena and Angel Penano are parents to Anwen, Owenand Gwen. The couple renewed their wedding vows ontheir 10 th anniversary.Angel and Rowena PenanoMore than 12 years ago, we willinglyentered into matrimony with littlecertainty about what would unfold.All we really knew was that we lovedeach other deeply, we had fun together,we complemented each other’spersonalities and we had a tiny inklingthat God had plans for us.We continued to mature anddevelop in many aspects of life – as anindividuals, as a couple, in our careersand in life experiences.We considered ourselves fortunatethat our spiritual life also continued togrow, even if it may not have kept pacewith the other aspects of life.We credit our involvement toan ecclesial community calledVerbum Dei, whose members haveaccompanied us in our journey toseek a more meaningful life, theexistential aspects of life – faith,truth, God and purpose.Our faith became more ‘real’ in ourlives; it became bigger than conceptsand ideology and took on a deepermeaning and significance.Our relationship with our TrinitarianGod and Mother Mary has becomedeeper through prayer and the Bible.As we each became closer to God,we found ourselves being closer to eachother too. This is a testament of whatfaith can do.Our marriage continues to evolveand we try to create more space forGod to be part of it, to try and listenmore for His will and to discern Hisplan for us.On our 10 th wedding anniversarywe decided to renew our weddingvows; to celebrate the love thatcontinues. The same words, the samehearts but somehow wiser, the samevows, the same faith but somehowprofoundly deeper.We are slowly realising some of thetruths of what a Catholic marriagemeans, and the potential and idealsthat Jesus intended for married couplesas a true union where we continue tostrive to be ‘one’ with each other.We are firm believers in the graceGod gives to married couples. Wehave used it many times to survivegridlocks and serious challengesthroughout our marriage!This grace enables us to go beyondwhat we’re capable of individuallyand allows us to look beyond ourdifferences and see the dignity in eachother and in our children.We feel our marriage is similarto when Jesus sends His followersin pairs (Luke 10:1-2).Together we have been forging abond to love each other as Christloves His Church and raising our threebeautiful children in faith.Our hope is to be able to serve theLord and give testimony to all theblessings He has given us, togetherwith our children, in our ordinaryeveryday life.For us, being pre-marriage educatorswith CatholicCare Parramatta isone concrete way to respond to theexperiences of God’s love in our lives.When we see or hear about brokenrelationships, or broken families,whether in the media or people weencounter, we feel a call to action – itdoesn’t have to be so.Pre-marriage education presents uswith an avenue to share the good newsof hope, love and joy that Jesus revealedin the Bible and our Catholic tradition,as well as to continually enrich our ownfaith and marriage as we journey andlearn from other couples.* Angel and Rowena Penano havebeen married for 12 years. They areparents to Anwen, Owen and Gwen andare parishioners at Our Lady Queen ofPeace Parish, Greystanes.They are involved with VerbumDei Community, St Vincent de PaulSociety, CatholicCare Social ServicesDiocese of Parramatta and theInstitute for Mission.Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Sisters of MaryOUR MISSION: To imitate Mary who is the perfect feminine embodiment of Christ and the responseto the anthropological challenges of our times. Like her, we wish to help Christ in His redemptivemission and lead all people to the heart of the Eternal Father.OUR DAILY LIFE: Our lifestyle encompasses a balance of prayer, work & community life. We may workin any professional sphere appropriate for women or in the formation of girls, women and families.SCHOENSTATT means 'beautiful place' and refers to our place of origin in Germany. It also challengesus to conquer true beauty and regain the likeness of God. There are over 200 Schoenstatt shrines in5 continents and around 2,000 sisters around the world from 39 countries.For more information contact Sr.M.Julie Brcar juliebrcar@gmail.comwww.schoenstatt.org.au | www.s-ms.org29

NATIONAL VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEKSunday 2 August – Sunday 9 August 2015ar ienea’s reamwas to el te oor …Dare to dream and live for others!anne.taylor@rscoffice.comContact Sr Anne Taylor rscJoin us onwww.sistersofcharity.org.auSisters of Charity AustraliaMissioNaRy SisteRs of B.V. MaryQueen of the WorldA Life of PrayeR and WitNess to God’s Love.Do you feel called to work in the community in• Education • Pastoral Care• Welfare • Hospitaland at the same time be enriched by a Prayer Lifewhich guides and strengthens you as you work andbe a Witness to God’s Love?If you would like to find more about the life of aMissionary Sister of Mary, Queen, please contactSr Miriam Lanh Hai96 Woodville Road, Granville NSW 2142Tel (02) 9637 1827Catholic Religious AustraliaCatholic Religious Australia (CRA) is the peak body for leaders of ReligiousInstitutes and Societies of Apostolic Life resident in Australia. Ourmembership comprises more than 180 congregations of Sisters, Brothersand Religious Priests living and working in all states and territories.CRA’s mission is to promote and support the contemplative andprophetic service of Religious in Australian society. Our valuesare being attentive to the Spirit, inclusive and prophetic.Join CRA onFollow CRA onhttps://twitter.com/Cath_Religioushttps://www.facebook.com/CatholicReligiousAustralia30 CatholicOutlook August 2015AUGUST8 St Philomena Association Holy Mass:St JohnVianney was very devoted to St Philomena.Pope Gregory XVI called her “the great wonderworker”. Mass at noon with Confessionfrom 11.30am. St John Vianney's Church,17 Cameron St, Doonside (a short walknorth from Doonside station, the one afterBlacktown). Please bring a snack to share.RSVP Elizabeth tel or text 0423 15 44 63 orepeoples9@gmail.com9 Year of Consecrated Life Solemn Mass andVocations Fest:To celebrate the Year ofConsecrated Life there will be a Mass at 11amin St Patrick's Cathedral, Parramatta, followedby a Vocations Fest. The program includeslunch, religious sharing their stories, Q&Aand entertainment for all the family. Theafternoon will conclude with a Holy Hour forVocations at 3pm. Everyone is welcome.9 Choral Music of John Rutter:In this sparklingconcert the music of John Rutter bringstraditional folk songs in the delightful suiteThe Sprig of Thyme and a musical walk in thewild wood through The Wind in the Willows.Hear the story told through instrumentalists,narrator and three choral groups. A trulyenchanting afternoon’s entertainment.Starts 3pm in St Finbar’s Church, 46 Levy St,Glenbrook, Tickets: Adults $25, concession$20, school-age children $10, family $60.Children under 5 free.Inquiries tel (02) 4754 1780.11 Women Spirituality Night:Speaker: Sr LeonePallisier OSU. Reflection topic: Mary a JewishPeasant Woman. Starts 7.30pm in St Patrick’sCathedral Hall, 1 Marist Place, Parramatta. Alight supper will be served. RSVP by 7 Augustto admin@stpatscathedral.com.au15 Public Forum on Laudato Si’:A forum on thenew encyclical from Pope Francis, LaudatoSi’ – ‘Praise be to you’, will be hosted by theAustralian Religious Response to ClimateChange (ARRCC) and Holy Family Parish,Mt Druitt. Speakers: Fr Gregory Jacobs SJ,Parish Priest of Holy Family Parish; ProfNeil Ormerod, Professor of Theology atAustralian Catholic University; Dr HamishClarke, Senior Climate & Atmospheric Scientist,NSW Office of Environment and Heritage;and Thea Ormerod, ARRCC President. From10am-4.30pm at Loyola Senior High Hall, 91North Pde, Mt Druitt. RSVP: Thea tel0405 293 466, chair@gmail.com15 Made for Each Other Youth Day:The diocesanFamily & Life Office is hosting a day for youthand young adults aged 16 to 35 centred onthe complementarity of man and woman.Discover the beauty and mystery of howmarriage was designed “in the beginning”.Based on six short films that unpack thedifferent dimensions of the complementaritybetween man & woman. The day will include:group discussion and sharing, Q and A, Massfor the Assumption, panel discussion. Regoat 8.30am, starts 9am, ends 4pm. Cost: $10students, $20 non-students (incl morningtea and lunch). RSVP 7 August at www.trybooking.com/IIMF (credit card required) orfamlife@parra.catholic.org.au (cash paymentat event). Inquiries: Family and Life Office (02)8838 3440 or famlife@parra.catholic.org.au16 Christian Meditation Day:This ChristianMeditation Introduction & Renewal Day at StBenedict's Monastery includes presentations,Introduction to Christian Meditation, twoperiods of meditation, Eucharistic Celebrationand information exchange. BYO picnic lunch.Tea & coffee provided. Books & CDs for sale.All welcome. Monastery is at 121 ArcadiaRd, Arcadia, tel (02) 9653 1159. Self-cateringaccommodation may be available in themonastery guest house. Contact Br Terry 0438282 318. Inquiries: Ann Bergman (02) 94982625, anniebergman@hotmail.com or AnnLomas (02) 9456 4775, atlomas@bigpond.com19 Diocesan Housing Affordability ‘Table Talks’Session:Join the diocesan Family & LifeOffice and Social Justice Office for an eveningof ‘Table Talks’ on the topic of AffordableHousing. This event will highlight the moraland social justice dimensions of housingaffordability. Wednesday 19 August from7pm-8.30pm followed by supper. Institute for2015Mission (downstairs), 1-5 Marion St, Blacktown.RSVP to bsmith@parra.catholic.org.au orlmckeogh@parra.catholic.org.au20 Holy Hour for Vocations:Everyone iswelcome to join the Holy Hour for Vocationsfrom 7pm-8pm on the 3 rd Thursday ofeach month for an hour of adoration,prayer, music and quiet time in the BlessedSacrament Chapel in St Patrick’s Cathedral, 1Marist Place, Parramatta. To find out moreabout priesthood in the Catholic Diocese ofParramatta contact the Director of PriestlyVocations, Fr Warren Edwards:tel 0409 172 700 or send an email tovocations@parra.catholic.org.au21 SRE Mass and Presentation:The DiocesanAdministrator, Very Rev Peter Williams, will bethe Principal Celebrant for the annual Massfor the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine,which will be concelebrated by priests of theDiocese, followed by presentations. At 11amin St Paul the Apostle Parish, 40 Buckleys Rd,Winston Hills. A light lunch will be served. RSVP10 August to Maree Collis tel (02) 9890 4731,mcollis@ccdparramatta.com.au23 3 rd Annual Faith in Marriage Conference:Thisyear’s conference has the theme: Marriage – ACulture of Love & Life. Incorporating the RayReid Memorial Lecture about the blessing andgraces of marriage. This conference is aimedat married couples, engaged couples andindividuals interested in marriage. Speakersinclude the Diocesan Administrator, VeryRev Fr Peter G Williams, Jonathan Doyle andLara & Tim Kirk. From 9am-3pm at EdithAngel Hall, Our Lady of Mercy College, RossSt, Parramatta. Cost: $25 per person ($50 percouple) includes lunch, morning & afternoontea. On-site child minding for participantsavailable for $30 per family must be bookedprior to the conference. Registration:CatholicCare Parramatta (02) 9933 0222,marriage@ccss.org.au Join us on Facebook:www.facebook.com/CCSSParramatta23 Vocation Discernment Afternoon:All youngmen who feel God might be calling them tothe priesthood are invited to the CatholicDiocese of Parramatta’s Vocation DiscernmentAfternoon. The afternoon starts at 2pm andconcludes with a shared meal at 6pm. HolySpirit Seminary is at 31-33 Allen Street, HarrisPark. To find out more about priesthoodin the Diocese of Parramatta contact theDirector of Priestly Vocations, Fr WarrenEdwards, tel 0409 172 700 or send an emailto: vocations@parra.catholic.org.au28-30 ‘Go Make Disciples’ RCIA State Conference:An opportunity for clergy and lay RCIA teamsto come together to discuss and explorevarious ways to make the journey for thosewanting to join the Catholic Church deeplypersonal and exciting. Keynote addressby Bishop Peter A Comensoli. Venue:Diocese of Broken Bay, Caroline ChisholmCentre, Pennant Hills. Cost: $150. Furtherinformation: Carole Gan tel (02) 9847 0504 orvisit www.dbb.org.au/liturgy Register by 15August with http://www.trybooking.com/HTGT22-23 & Vinnies Winter Doorknock Appeal:29-30 Funds raised from this annual appeal overtwo weekends will support much-neededservices including the Vinnies Van andoutreach to young people.Please give generously.29 Notre Dame Open Day:Experience this5 star national Catholic university in theheart of Sydney. Check out The University ofNotre Dame’s courses, meet academic staffand current students, enjoy entertainmentand take a tour of the Broadway Campus.Saturday 29 August from 9am-3pm.Personalise your Open Day at:www.notredame.edu.au/openday30 Migrant & Refugee Sunday:This year marksthe 101st anniversary of the World Dayof Migrants and Refugees. The theme is‘Church without frontiers, Mother to all’ asoutlined by Pope Francis in his message forMigrant and Refugee Day. It also coincideswith Migrant and Refugee Week, which runsfrom 24-30 August. The Australian CatholicMigrant and Refugee Office has prepared aresource kit that is available for downloadat: www.acmro.org.au

Faith in MarriageA Conference about Marriage for CouplesSunday 23rd August 2015 • 9.30am – 3pmThe gifts and graces of marriage give us great hope and strength forourselves and our society. Speakers share their insights, observationsand experiences for building and enriching marriages.Theme: Marriage – A Culture of Love & LifeIncorporating the Ray Reid Memorial Lecture about the blessing and graces of marriage. Thisconference is aimed at married couples, engaged couples and any individual interested in marriage.Jonathan Doyle is founder ofCHOICEZ MEDIA, Australia’s largestprovider of relationship programs andstudent seminars.Lara and Tim Kirk have been marriedfor 25 years with 5 children. Lara worksas a Marriage Relationships Coordinatorand amongst other things, Tim was2013 Australian winemaker of the year!Welcome and Blessing fromVery Rev Peter Williams,Administrator of the CatholicDiocese of Parramatta.Date: Sunday 23rd August 2015 Time: 9.30am – 3pm (Registration from 9am)Venue: Edith Angel Hall at Our Lady of Mercy College, Ross Street, ParramattaCost: $25 per person ($50 per couple) which includes lunch, morning and afternoontea and is payable prior to the Conference. Mass will be celebrated for the Conferenceparticipants at 12 midday.To register for the Conference ring on 9933 0222 or email marriage@ccss.org.auChild minding on site will be available for the children of Conference participantsat $30 per family. Bookings and payment prior to the Conference are essential.To book for child minding please phone or email as above.www.ccss.org.auwww.facebook.com/CCSSParramatta

Mamre FestivalSunday 25 October9am – 3pmat Mamre House & Farm181 Mamre Road, Orchard HillsFace painting for kids – coin donation!Free art exhibition “SHARING THE SEEDS”Teacup rides & jumping castleSummer slush puppiesSausage sizzle AND bacon & egg rollsMusic & entertainmentPlants and seedsEntry is gold coin donation withkids under 12 free!A service provided byAmple parking available!